Corporate finance plays a pivotal role in the success of organisations navigating complex financial decisions whether that’s raising capital, planning strategic growth, selling a business or managing mergers and acquisitions. In a global financial hub such as London, corporate finance firms bring deep expertise, rigorous analysis and trusted advice to bear on transactions that can determine a company’s future. This guide explains what corporate finance involves, why it matters to UK businesses, how top firms are evaluated, and profiles the leading advisers active in London today.
What Is Corporate Finance and How Does It Support UK Businesses?
Corporate finance refers to the financial activities associated with running a company, with a primary focus on maximizing shareholder value through long‑term and short‑term financial planning and investment decisions.
At its core, corporate finance seeks to determine how a business can optimally fund its operations and growth, manage risks and make strategic choices that enhance value. Advisers in this field support organisations by analysing financial data, structuring deals, identifying funding opportunities and guiding clients through transactions such as acquisitions, divestments or restructuring.
In the UK context, where both domestic and international capital flows converge, corporate finance firms help businesses understand market dynamics, regulatory frameworks and the implications of strategic decisions in an ever‑changing economic environment.
They serve as intermediaries between companies and investors, provide valuations based on rigorous financial modelling, and negotiate terms that align with clients’ goals.
How Can Corporate Finance Advisory Help Organisations in London?
For companies based in London or operating across the UK, corporate finance advisory offers a range of benefits that extend beyond number‑crunching. Strategic advisers bring experience from past deals across sectors and are equipped to uncover insights that internal teams might overlook.
For example, a firm planning a sale can benefit from a thorough valuation and a defined marketing strategy to attract the right buyers; a growth‑oriented company can gain access to the appropriate sources of capital or partners to accelerate strategy; and a business in distress can benefit from restructuring advice that protects value and stakeholder interests.
Advisers also provide comfort to boards and investors by conducting due diligence the systematic examination of financial, legal and commercial aspects of a transaction which de‑risks outcomes and supports confident decision‑making. In addition, corporate finance professionals often manage the negotiation process with counterparties and financiers, ensuring that their clients’ interests are effectively represented.
How Are the Top Corporate Finance Firms in London Evaluated?
Identifying the leading corporate finance companies involves looking at several qualitative and quantitative criteria. Experience and track record are foundational firms that have consistently closed deals of significance in the UK and internationally are generally regarded as more reliable.
Firms offering a wide range of services from M&A and capital raising to valuations and strategic guidance are often better positioned to deliver comprehensive financial advice.
Recognition by industry analysts, inclusion in deal‑making league tables and a strong reputation among clients and intermediaries further validate a firm’s standing.
Additionally, the depth of client relationships, sector specialisation and the ability to navigate complex regulatory and commercial environments contribute to a firm’s perceived competence. Membership in professional bodies, transparent credentials and ongoing engagement with UK corporate finance practice networks signal credibility and trustworthiness.
Top 10 Corporate Finance Companies in London
1. Rothschild & Co
Rothschild & Co is one of the most prestigious independent financial advisory groups in the world. With a history spanning over 200 years, it provides strategic advice on mergers and acquisitions, financing and restructuring to governments, corporations and wealthy families globally.
The firm’s London office serves as a key hub for corporate finance advisory, leveraging deep market insight and a global network to deliver tailored solutions. Its long‑standing reputation and expertise help clients navigate complex transactions with confidence. Rothschild & Co’s multidisciplinary team brings a balance of analytical rigour and strategic perspective to high‑stakes deals.
- Website: https://www.rothschildandco.com/
- Phone: +44 20 7280 5000
- Address: New Court, St Swithin’s Lane, London EC4N 8AL, United Kingdom
- Email: Contact Form
2. PwC Corporate Finance
PwC, part of one of the world’s largest professional services networks, offers corporate finance advisory as part of its Deals practice. The firm works with clients on strategy, transaction execution and value enhancement across sectors such as financial services, technology and industrial markets.
PwC’s corporate finance professionals bring multidisciplinary expertise including tax, risk and operational insight to help businesses maximise outcomes in M&A, divestments and capital transactions. Its global presence combined with local UK market experience enables seamless cross‑border support. PwC continually invests in talent and broadening its deals advisory capabilities.
- Website: https://www.pwc.com/
- Address: Embankment Place, London, WC2N 6RH
3. Deloitte Corporate Finance
Deloitte’s corporate finance advisory services help businesses at all stages of the transaction lifecycle, from strategic evaluation to execution. The firm advises on mergers and acquisitions, divestments, capital raising and financial due diligence with a focus on creating sustainable value.
Deloitte’s UK practice draws on its global insights, analytics tools and industry specialists to support complex deals in the London market and beyond.
It serves clients ranging from private businesses to multinational corporations, helping them navigate regulatory, financial and commercial challenges. Deloitte’s broad capabilities and cross‑disciplinary approach are designed to align corporate finance strategies with long‑term objectives.
- Website: https://www.deloitte.com/uk/
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7936 3000
- Address: 1 New Street Square London, EC4A 3HQ
4. Houlihan Lokey
Houlihan Lokey is a leading global investment bank renowned for its expertise in mergers and acquisitions, capital solutions and financial restructuring. It consistently ranks among the most active advisers in M&A worldwide, reflecting deep experience and a strong track record.
The firm’s London office connects clients with international markets and specialised teams focused on delivering independent strategic advice. Its services include sell‑side and buy‑side advisory, valuation, fairness opinions and capital markets advisory.
Houlihan Lokey’s focus on objective, data‑driven guidance helps clients make confident decisions in complex financial environments.
- Website: https://hl.com/
- Phone: 020 7839 3355
- Address: One Curzon St, London W1J 5HD
5. Cavendish
Cavendish is a UK‑based corporate finance advisory firm and investment bank with a strong focus on mid‑market transactions. It helps clients across sectors with equity raising, mergers and acquisitions, debt advisory and private growth capital.
Cavendish combines hands‑on transaction expertise with accessible client service, supporting privately owned companies through every stage of the deal process. Its London headquarters acts as a strategic base for deal execution and investor engagement.
The firm’s personalised approach and experienced dealmakers make it a trusted adviser for ambitious businesses seeking value optimisation.
- Website: https://www.finncap.com/
- Phone: 020 7930 2111
- Address: 81 Jermyn St, London SW1Y 6JF
- Email: contact@cavendish.com
6. BDO LLP
BDO LLP is a leading professional services and advisory firm that provides a wide range of corporate finance services including transaction advisory, valuations and due diligence. With a prominent London office at Baker Street, BDO supports UK and international clients with strategy, deal execution and business growth goals.
The firm leverages the global BDO network to provide insights across markets and sectors, helping clients navigate financial complexities and regulatory environments. BDO’s emphasis on close client relationships and practical solutions makes it a strong partner for mid‑market businesses and larger corporations alike.
- Website: https://www.bdo.co.uk/en-gb/
- Phone: +44 20 7486 5888
- Address: 55 Baker Street, London W1U 7EU, United Kingdom
- Email: Contact Form
7. Grant Thornton UK LLP
Grant Thornton UK is part of a major global professional services network offering corporate finance advisory, including M&A strategy, capital raising and restructuring advice. With a headquarters at 8 Finsbury Circus in London, the firm helps businesses maximise value and navigate complex transactions.
Its corporate finance teams work closely with clients throughout the advisory process, offering strategic guidance tailored to goals and market conditions. Grant Thornton combines local UK knowledge with international reach, supporting deals across sectors and transaction types. Its emphasis on long‑term partnerships and accessible expert guidance underpins its reputation.
- Website: https://www.grantthornton.co.uk/
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7383 5100
- Address: 8 Finsbury Circus, London EC2M 7EA, United Kingdom
8. RSM UK Corporate Finance LLP
RSM UK Corporate Finance is part of the broader RSM professional services network, offering specialist advisory services to middle‑market businesses. Its London office on Farringdon Street provides corporate finance support including transaction due diligence, valuations and strategic advisory.
RSM combines local insight with global resources to assist companies with growth planning, deal execution and financial strategy. Its focus on middle market opportunities helps companies at a pivotal stage of their development. The firm’s understanding of UK business conditions and international reach ensures clients receive context‑aware advice.
- Website: https://www.rsmuk.com/
- Phone: +44 20 3201 8000
- Address: 25 Farringdon Street, London EC4A 4AB, United Kingdom
- Email: via site enquiry form
9. Corbett Keeling
Corbett Keeling is an independent London‑based corporate finance firm that specialises in advising owners of privately owned UK companies, particularly in the £10m–£150m value range. It offers tailored, hands‑on advisory services through all stages of the transaction process.
Known for its personalised approach, Corbett Keeling guides clients from initial strategy through to deal completion. Its focus on mid‑market deals and long‑term client partnerships helps businesses achieve successful outcomes in sales, acquisitions and capital raising.
- Website: https://www.corbettkeeling.com/
- Phone: 020 7626 6266
- Address: 8 Angel Ct, London EC2R 7HP
- Email: expertadvice@corbettkeeling.com
10. Verdier & Co
Verdier & Co is a London‑based independent corporate finance advisory firm known for supporting corporates, private equity houses and venture capital investors with strategic M&A advisory across Europe and the UK. Established in 2016, the firm emphasises long‑term client relationships, deep industry insights and a client‑centric culture focused on delivering tailored solutions.
Verdier & Co stands out for its multicultural team and cross‑border deal expertise, working with a variety of sectors to achieve strategic growth and value creation. The firm is also recognised for its commitment to environmental and social governance (ESG), having achieved B Corp certification which reflects its broader commitment to sustainability and responsible business practice.
- Website: https://www.verdierandco.com/
- Address: Bentinck House, 3-8 Bolsover Street London, W1W 6AB, United Kingdom
- Email: contact@verdierandco.com
What Services Do These Corporate Finance Firms Typically Provide?
While each firm has its own strengths and market positioning, corporate finance companies generally offer services that span the key stages of financial transactions and strategic planning. This includes advising on mergers and acquisitions, where advisers help identify opportunities, prepare management presentations and facilitate negotiations. Capital raising is another core area, involving the structuring of equity or debt funding from investors or financial institutions.
Valuations and financial modelling underpin many advisory engagements, providing clients with independent assessments of business worth and projections that inform deal terms. Due diligence plays a critical role in verifying assumptions and uncovering risks, while restructuring advisory becomes essential when businesses face financial stress or seek to optimise their capital structure.
These services require not only analytical rigour but also a deep understanding of market sentiment, regulatory requirements and the competitive landscape in the UK and beyond.
How Do Corporate Finance Companies Build Trust and Compliance in the UK?
Trust is a cornerstone of effective corporate finance advisory. In the UK, firms operate within a regulated framework that emphasises transparency, client protection and ethical conduct. Many leading firms are part of larger professional services networks or maintain memberships in recognised industry bodies, which reinforce standards of practice and ongoing learning.
Demonstrating up‑to‑date credentials, publishing thought leadership and maintaining transparent communication with clients all contribute to building confidence in advisory relationships.
Because corporate finance often involves handling sensitive information and high‑stakes negotiations, advisers are expected to uphold strict confidentiality and conduct robust conflict checks. Firms that clearly articulate their governance practices and regulatory compliance also position themselves as trustworthy partners to UK companies.
What Should Organisations Consider When Choosing a Corporate Finance Advisor in London?
Choosing the right corporate finance partner involves more than selecting from a list of reputable names. Organisations should consider the adviser’s experience within their specific industry, the scale of transactions they typically handle and their track record in similar engagements. It is important to assess how advisers approach communication and collaboration, as clients benefit most when they are actively engaged in the process.
Understanding the adviser’s perspective on strategy and value creation, and seeking references or case examples where possible, supports informed decision‑making. A firm’s ability to offer bespoke solutions and its network of contacts with investors, private equity houses and legal professionals further enhance its effectiveness in delivering outcomes aligned with the client’s objectives.
What Are the Key Trends Shaping Corporate Finance in London?
London’s corporate finance landscape continues to evolve, influenced by global economic trends, regulatory shifts and investor priorities. Mid‑market transactions remain a vibrant segment of deal activity, with both domestic and international buyers showing interest in UK companies. Environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors are increasingly incorporated into investment decisions and valuations, prompting advisers to integrate sustainability considerations into strategy.
Digital tools are transforming aspects of deal execution, from enhanced data analytics used in diligence to platforms that streamline due‑diligence workflows. Additionally, cross‑border activity persists, reflecting London’s role as a gateway for international capital and corporate structures.
Conclusion
For UK businesses and investors, understanding the corporate finance landscape is essential to making strategic financial decisions with confidence. From mergers and acquisitions to capital raising and restructuring, the right advisory partner can clarify options, reduce uncertainty and unlock value. The firms profiled here represent a blend of scale, expertise and specialist focus operating in London’s dynamic market.
By evaluating advisers based on experience, service breadth, market reputation and alignment with your business needs, you can make informed choices that support long‑term success in an increasingly competitive environment.
FAQs About Corporate Finance Companies in London
What is the difference between a corporate finance advisor and an investment banker?
Corporate finance advisors often serve mid-market clients, while investment bankers handle larger, institutional transactions.
Do I need a corporate finance advisor if I’m selling a small business in London?
Yes, they help maximise value, manage the process, and identify the right buyers.
Are corporate finance services regulated in the UK?
Yes, many are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
How long does a typical M&A transaction take in the UK?
Most M&A deals take between 3 to 9 months from start to completion.
What sectors do London corporate finance firms commonly work with?
They operate across sectors like tech, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and consumer goods.
Can a corporate finance company help with business restructuring?
Yes, many offer expert support in restructuring and turnaround strategies.
How do corporate finance firms charge for their services?
Most charge a retainer and success fee based on the transaction value