#United States #Chicago #Financial Services #Mesirow #GMO Payment Gateway

Strategic Partnership Announcement

On March 26, 2026, Mesirow, an independent and employee-owned financial services firm, officially announced a significant strategic partnership with GMO Payment Gateway, a leading online payment service provider from Japan. This collaboration is tailored to enhance credit capabilities while expanding Mesirow's global investor network, particularly in Asia.

Overview of the Partnership

This partnership combines the strengths of both firms to advance their positions in the financial services landscape. Mesirow Alternative Credit, the asset-backed specialty finance team at Mesirow, aims to leverage GMO's extensive resources in credit investment to provide innovative financing solutions. GMO, known for its robust structured finance capabilities, will supply investment capital for specialty finance transactions originated by Mesirow.

“Partnering with Mesirow enables GMO to further its strategic priority in the evolving credit markets,” stated Taka Kamahara, Head of Credit Investments at GMO-Z.com PAYMENT GATEWAY USA, Inc. According to Kamahara, the firm has been keen on asset-backed structured finance solutions to aid specialty finance companies, and this partnership will support that objective.

Strengthening Global Presence

For Mesirow Alternative Credit, this partnership represents a significant milestone in its mission to collaborate with industry-leading investors. Jay Braden, CEO and Co-CIO of Mesirow Alternative Credit, emphasized the company’s dedication to expanding its geographic reach, particularly in Asia. “Working with GMO aligns us with a proven leader in credit investing,” Braden commented. With their extensive portfolio, which includes over 300 fintech companies and more than 30 successful IPOs, GMO brings invaluable expertise that will enhance Mesirow’s offerings.

Achievements of Mesirow Alternative Credit

Mesirow's Alternative Credit team has made impressive strides since its acquisition of Bastion Management in December 2024. They achieved significant milestones including:

• - Holding the first closing of Fund VII with over $130 million in committed capital.
• - Launching two new separately managed account vehicles, totaling over $50 million in committed capital.
• - Growing total assets under management to $572 million by December 31, 2025.

These accomplishments solidify Mesirow's commitment to expanding its investor base and advancing its alternative investment platform in 2026 and beyond.

About Mesirow

Founded in 1937, Mesirow is recognized for its personalized approach to financial services, serving clients through various sectors including Private Capital, Capital Markets, and Advisory Services. With a mission to drive social good, Mesirow has been consistently named one of the Best Places to Work in Chicago by Crain's Chicago Business and is listed among Barron’s Top 100 RIA firms.

About GMO Payment Gateway

GMO Payment Gateway, Inc. leads the payment industry in providing comprehensive payment solutions, facilitating a seamless transition to digital and cashless services. The firm has a remarkable annual transaction value exceeding 22 trillion yen and serves over 150,000 merchants, including well-known public institutions. Through its services, GMO continues to innovate and drive the financial tech landscape forward.

Conclusion

The partnership between Mesirow Alternative Credit and GMO Payment Gateway is expected to create comprehensive solutions in specialty finance, reinforcing both companies' positions in the global credit markets. As they move forward, the financial world watches with great anticipation for the opportunities that this collaboration will present.