(HedgeCo.Net) BTIG, LLC announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to receive a strategic investment from funds managed by Blackstone Tactical Opportunities. BTIG plans to leverage this investment to further expand its capabilities and accelerate the firm’s global growth. Post investment, BTIG and its affiliates in Europe, Asia and Australia will continue to operate as fully independent entities. Financial terms of the private transaction were not disclosed.

“Since we started twelve years ago, BTIG has been one of the fastest-growing institutional brokerage firms in the US. Partnering with Blackstone Tactical Opportunities will further enhance our offerings and allow us to advance key strategic initiatives,” said Scott Kovalik, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BTIG. “We view their investment as a vote of confidence in our growth prospects, and we look forward to working together as we continue to build out our business.”

BTIG has expertise across institutional trading, investment banking, equity research and related brokerage services. The firm delivers solutions for both institutional and corporate clients. For more than a decade, its entrepreneurial team has applied their experience, insight and global relationships to offer clients support and advice in today’s complex market environment.

“We are excited to welcome the Blackstone Tactical Opportunities team as a valuable strategic partner, dedicated to our vision for the firm’s continued growth,” said Steven Starker, Co-Founder of BTIG. “Strategically aligning with another industry leader will help to strengthen our brand, and amplify our ability to identify valuable client opportunities.”

David Blitzer, Senior Managing Director at Blackstone, said, “We look forward to working with the experienced team at BTIG to help grow the business and build upon their already strong franchise.”