Global Special Situations M&A ("GSSM&A" or the "Alliance"), a global alliance of investment banking firms which focus on special situations transactions, announced that Thoreau Capital Partners ("TCP"), a Sao Paulo, Brazil-based restructuring firm, has become a member. The expansion provides member firms with access to strategic partners in Europe, Asia, Latin America and North America. In addition to TCP, partners include U.S.-based SSG Capital Advisors, LLC; Germany-based Saxenhammer & Co.; and Asian-based Teak Capital Corporation.

Brazil is the seventh largest economy in the world and a global leader in the agribusiness, paper and pulp, steel and automotive industries. According to Wilbert Sanchez M. de O., founder of TCP, "The Brazilian economy has stagnated in recent years, the cost of capital has increased and the exchange rate has deteriorated. There is a significant amount of corporate debt within the banking system that has been rolled over various times and has no real repayment horizon. As a result, there are many opportunities for patient buyers and investors, including foreign companies that have been waiting on the sidelines for the last few years. We are excited to play a role in the restructuring of the Brazilian economy and are pleased that the expansion of our global capabilities through joining GSSM&A will help us do so."

TCP, founded in 2008, has primarily focused on the middle-market segment, leading financial and operational restructurings, and capital raising for distressed and special situations. TCP has led turnarounds of distressed situations of well-known brands such as Churrascaria Porcao and Daslu, and has deep experience with industries such as retail, food production, manufacturing and agribusiness, among others.

"We are excited to add a member of the caliber and experience of TCP. Having a partner in Latin America was a top priority of GSSM&A," said Christian Saxenhammer of Saxenhammer & Co.

The Alliance was established in 2014 to enhance each member firm's cross border deal execution capabilities by providing their clients access to a global network of special situations investment banking professionals as well as their respective in-region buyer, investor and lender networks. In addition, the alliance allows GSSM&A member firms to better market their services globally through cross-referrals and joint pitches and engagements. Services provided by member firms include mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, capital raising, valuation, financial restructuring and bankruptcy/insolvency advisory.

GSSM&A is in active discussions with potential members covering other major economic centers across the world. "Through GSSM&A membership, firms are better equipped to serve clients with international footprints while still offering the culture and personal touch of a boutique firm," said Michael Goodman of SSG Capital Advisors, LLC.