Press Releases

Armor Capital Celebrates 15 Years in M&A Advisory and Appoints 3 New INEDs

November 1, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hong Kong — November 1, 2024 — Guillaume Caillet, Founder and Managing Partner of Armor Capital, a Hong Kong based M&A Advisory firm that operates in Asian and European markets, proudly announces its 15th anniversary and the appointment of three new Independent Non-Executive Directors (INED) to its Board. This strategic move aims to enhance the firm&aposs expertise in driving growth initiatives, particularly its "Project Upskill" in Asia, repositioning Armor Capital as the cross-border M&A advisor of choice for mid-market businesses in Asia.

Guillaume de la Borde Caumont has been appointed as Chairman of the Board. With extensive experience in European and Swiss private banking, Guillaume&aposs background in international trading and private equity will bolster Armor Capital's position within the financial sector.

Alain Vincent Fontaine brings a wealth of knowledge in private equity and venture fund management. His previous roles include Chairman at Finquest (Singapore), Vice-chairman of the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association, and Managing Director of CDPQ’s TMT PE fund management for Asia. Alain&aposs expertise in corporate governance and fundraising will be invaluable to Armor Capital’s development.

Andy Walti joins the Board with 30 years of international experience in the manufacturing and chemicals industry. His leadership positions at Clariant in various regions, along with his strategic insights, will support the firm in executing its growth plans.

"These appointments reflect our commitment to strengthening our leadership with seasoned professionals who bring invaluable experience," said Guillaume Caillet, Managing Partner. "We are confident that their expertise will significantly contribute to our growth and the success of our clients."

Armor Capital strives to become a durable M&A bridge connecting Asian and European business opportunities and a trustworthy cross-border strategic advisor tailor-making innovative and practical solutions for our clients.

About Armor Capital

Founded in 2009, Armor Capital specializes in cross-border M&A advisory, corporate finance valuations, and capital financing. With a diverse team focused on Asian and European markets, the firm is well-equipped to handle complex transactions across various industries. Armor Capital has been a member of Corporate Finance Associates Worldwide (CFAW) since 2021. For more information, please visit www.armor-capital.com or contact:

Media Contact:

Ren Tupaz
Financial Controller
Armor Capital
+852 3689 9528
ren@armor-capital.com
END

Detailed Biographies

Guillaume Caillet - Founder and Managing Director

Guillaume Caillet is responsible for the overall management and operations of Armor Capital. He brings 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship and corporate finance in the United States, Europe and Asia. Prior to founding Armor Capital, Guillaume led the North American and Asian divisions of Natixis Pramex International, growing the firm to a team of 25 consultants and advised over 300 companies.

Guillaume holds an Executive MBA from Columbia Business School, London Business School and Hong Kong University with a focus on Finance. He is fluent in English and French.

Alain Vincent Fontaine - Board of Director

Alain Vincent Fontaine is an accomplished professional with extensive expertise in private equity and venture fund management. Over the years, he has built a robust portfolio of leadership roles across various industries, emphasizing fundraising and strategic growth initiatives.

  • Chairman of the Board, Finquest (Singapore)
    Since April 2023, Alain has been leading Finquest in its mission to facilitate data and AI-based deal sourcing (M&A, bolt-on, growth, etc.) for its PE/VC and corporate clients on a worldwide basis.
  • Partner, Beyond Traditions (Hong Kong)
    Alain has been a partner since October 2012, focusing on investment strategies and advisory services for private equity funds.
  • Vice-chairman, Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (HKVCA)
    Serving since June 2012, he plays a pivotal role in advocating for the interests of private equity and venture capital firms in Hong Kong.
  • Non-Executive Director, Tsaker Chemical (HKSE:1986)
    Alain has been on the board since July 2015, providing strategic oversight and guidance in the chemical industry.
  • Non-Executive Director, D&G Technology (HKSE:1301)
    He has served in this role since August 2016, helping to steer the company’s strategic direction.
  • Independent Non-Executive Director, China Lending Corporation (NASDAQ:CLDC)
    Alain served from July 2016 to December 2017, contributing his expertise in financial strategies.
  • CEO, Investel Asia Ltd. (Hong Kong)
    From 1995 to 2010, he led Investel, focusing on investment management and strategic growth initiatives.
  • Bell Canada Enterprises (BCE) (Montreal)
    From 1979 to 1995, various engineering and management positions including President of Bell Ardis and Chief Engineer – Tool Network.

Educational Background:
Alain holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Sherbrooke, in Canada. He spent the first 17 years of his career as a telecom engineer with Bell Canada before moving to Asia as the Managing Director of the CDPQ TMT practice in Asia.

Professional Skills:

  • Fundraising (debt, equity, and quasi-equity)
  • Strategic advisory and governance
  • Extensive network in private equity and venture capital
  • Deep understanding of Asian markets and investment landscapes

Alain's commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the investment sector aligns perfectly with Armor Capital’s mission to provide strategic advisory services in cross-border M&A transactions.

Andy Walti - Board of Director

Andy Walti brings a wealth of experience and a strategic vision to Armor Capital after a 30-year career within the manufacturing and chemicals industry on regional and global level with a focus on Asia and Middle East & Africa. With his Finance and Business background he was involved in several M&A transactions on the sell and the buy side. With a focus on driving growth and executing the firm’s strategic plan, “Upskill,” Andy plays a crucial role in advising partners and guiding the firm's expansion efforts.

  • Advisor Bain Advisor Network
    Since January 2024 Andy is a member of the Bain Advisor Network where he helps Bain consultants and their clients by adding value through his insights, expertise and connections.
  • Cross-functional Leadership Roles
    With a background in finance, Andy has moved up the corporate ladder by managing various functions, businesses and corporate regions , providing strategic insights and fostering relationships with key stakeholders.
  • International Experience
    With a career of more than 29 years outside his native Switzerland, Andy is an international executive with a proven track record in maneuvering challenging business environments coupled with a deep understanding of cross-cultural issues, always putting people at the center of his attention.
  • Industry Expertise
    His experience spans multiple businesses in the pharma, agro, chemicals and manufacturing sectors, making him adept at navigating diverse market landscapes.
  • Focus on Growth Strategies
    Andy is passionate about developing innovative strategies that enhance organizational performance and drive sustainable growth.

Educational Background:
Andy holds a Master's Degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Finance from the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland, which has provided him with a solid foundation in finance and business management.

Professional Skills:

  • Strategic planning and execution
  • Change management
  • Business and team building
  • Stakeholder engagement

Andy has proven management, leadership, business and finance expertise gained through roles spanning numerous countries, levels, functions and businesses. This will enable Armor Capital to remain at the forefront of the M&A landscape, by enabling its clients to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the international market.

Guillaume de la Borde Caumont - Chairman of the Board

Guillaume de la Borde Caumont is a seasoned financial professional with extensive experience in banking and investment management. As the Chairman of the Board at Armor Capital, he brings a wealth of expertise in international finance, strategic leadership, and investment strategies, particularly across European and Asian markets.

  • CEO, SBP Banque S.A.
    Directed the operations of SBP Banque, focusing on private banking and wealth management.
  • Executive Director, Faisal Private Bank (Switzerland) S.A.
    Head of Business Development, responsible for expanding the bank’s client base and service offerings.
  • External Advisor, Amas Bank (Switzerland) Limited
    Provided strategic insights and advisory services to enhance the bank's market position.
  • CFO, Arab African Energy/Dayn Resources Group
    Prior to his banking career, Guillaume served as CFO for an oil trading firm, gaining valuable insights into the energy sector.
  • International Trading Experience
    Worked for a decade at Group Denis Frères, managing business development in Southeast Asia and subsequently in Europe and the USA, which enriched his understanding of global markets.

Investment Interests:

Guillaume is an active investor in private equity projects across various sectors, including real estate, manufacturing, and commodities trading. His investment acumen enables him to identify and capitalize on emerging market opportunities.

Professional Skills:

  • Strategic leadership in banking and finance
  • Expertise in commodities and private banking
  • Strong background in investment management and advisory
  • Extensive network in European and Asian markets

Guillaume's leadership at Armor Capital is pivotal for the firm as it continues to expand its presence and enhance its service offerings in the cross-border M&A landscape.