Policastro Joins Merchant as Managing Director
Company - People | Jun 04, 2025 | EIN
Merchant Investment Management, a New York-based partnership that invests in financial services firms, has hired Rich Policastro as a managing director. Policastro, who previously led mergers and acquisitions at Hightower, will focus on expanding Merchant's network of service providers. Merchant is known for investing in RIA-adjacent businesses alongside its stakes in several prominent firms. The investment firm is distinct from traditional private equity in its commitment to long-term partnerships and providing resources for firms to navigate market cycles. Looking ahead, Merchant aims to enhance its trust services and valuation capabilities to better support its partners.
Sectors
- Financial Services
- Investment Management
- Mergers and Acquisitions
Geography
- United States – The companies and primary activities discussed, including Merchant Investment Management and Hightower, are based in the United States.
Industry
- Financial Services – The article discusses Merchant Investment Management and its operations in providing growth capital to independent financial services firms.
- Investment Management – Merchant Investment Management is involved in investment management activities, particularly focusing on RIA-adjacent businesses and offering long-term capital.
- Mergers and Acquisitions – The hiring of Rich Policastro, an expert in M&A, indicates Merchant's focus on growing through strategic acquisitions and partnerships.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merchant Investment Management | Hiring Company | Company | A New York-based private partnership providing growth capital and support to independent financial services firms. |
| Rich Policastro | Personnel | Person | Recently hired as Managing Director at Merchant Investment Management, previously executive director of M&A at Hightower. |
| Hightower | Previous Employer | Company | A financial services company, where Rich Policastro served as executive director of mergers and acquisitions. |
| Round Table Wealth Management | Past Employment | Company | A registered investment advisor (RIA) where Rich Policastro served as president. |
| AdvisorAssist LLC | Partner Company | Company | A regulatory, compliance, and risk management consulting firm partnered with Merchant. |
| Fin.Link | Partner Company | Company | A matchmaking service for RIAs, partly owned by Merchant. |