Cantor Fitzgerald announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire UBS’s O’Connor alternatives investment platform, which includes hedge funds, private credit, and commodities, with approximately $11 billion in invested assets. This deal will significantly support Cantor Fitzgerald’s Asset Management (CFAM) capabilities and support the company’s broader growth efforts across its core businesses, including Cantor, its global investment bank.
Upon the closing of the deal, the investment and support teams will move to Cantor Fitzgerald, and O’Connor will operate as a distinct alternatives business within CFAM. O’Connor will report to William (Bill) Ferri, Global Head of CFAM, who was a 25-year veteran of UBS and a founding member of its O’Connor business. And as part of the agreement, CFAM and UBS AM will establish a long-term commercial arrangement.
O’Connor’s capabilities are also continued to be offered to UBS Global Wealth Management clients, subject to customary due diligence and monitoring, as well as to institutional and high-net-worth clients globally.
The initial close of the deal is expected during the fourth quarter of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. And Cantor Fitzgerald and UBS will work closely together to ensure a seamless transition for O’Connor professionals and clients.
KEY QUOTES:
“The acquisition of O’Connor is transformational for our asset management business and demonstrates our commitment to investing in attractive growth businesses. With our leadership team’s deep familiarity with O’Connor, we are well-positioned to build upon the business’s strong foundation and drive its next phase of growth.”
Brandon Lutnick, Chairman of Cantor Fitzgerald
“We see this as a high-conviction investment in our future—a bold step forward as we expand our reach and double down on delivering meaningful impact and services to our clients.”
Kyle Lutnick, Executive Vice Chairman of Cantor Fitzgerald
“Acquiring the O’Connor business is a transformative opportunity for CFAM to deliver world-class hedge fund, private credit, and commodities investments to clients globally. We believe our knowledge of and experience with O’Connor uniquely positions us to grow this business, focusing on attracting and retaining investment talent, investing in a flexible, unconstrained operating platform, and delivering attractive risk adjusted outcomes and best-in-class client service.”
Bill Ferri, Head of Cantor Fitzgerald Asset Management
“Our priority has been to select a buyer with complementary capabilities, culture and leadership team. We believe that Cantor Fitzgerald is strongly placed to take the O’Connor business forward.”
Aleksandar Ivanovic, President UBS Asset Management
“This marks a pivotal new chapter for our business. As a cornerstone of Cantor Fitzgerald’s alternative investment platform, the O’Connor team is excited about the opportunity to invest in and expand our capabilities while staying true to our roots as fundamental investors.”
Blake Hiltabrand, Global Head of O’Connor
