Manulife | Comvest Credit Partners Recognized as Top Specialty Finance Lender in the Americas

Manulife | Comvest Credit Partners Achieves Prestigious Award

Manulife | Comvest Credit Partners, the private credit division of Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, has been honored with the title of Specialty Finance Lender of the Year by Private Debt Investor (PDI). This prestigious recognition underscores the firm’s strong performance and innovative approach in the asset-backed credit market across the Americas.

On March 17, 2026, Jason Gelberd, Partner, Chief Operating Officer, and Co-Head of Direct Lending at Manulife | Comvest Credit Partners, expressed gratitude for the accolade, reflecting on the firm's 15 years of commitment to establishing itself as a frontrunner in the direct lending sector. Gelberd articulated that this recognition is a testament to their team's dedication and an affirmation of their strategic efforts within this specialized finance domain.

The award highlights Manulife | Comvest Credit Partners’ remarkable achievements in deploying over $3.5 billion across 49 specialty finance investments by June 2025, resulting in consistent double-digit returns for investors. This significant financial activity illustrates the firm’s capacity to manage risk while delivering robust returns, further establishing its reputation as a leader in the specialty finance landscape.

Tim Kim, Partner and Head of Specialty Finance, noted the importance of the award in reinforcing their commitment to providing flexible capital solutions tailored to the asset-backed finance arena. He expressed excitement for the opportunities ahead, emphasizing their intent to broaden their reach and offer innovative financial solutions.

Private Debt Investor, a well-respected independent publication based in London, focuses on the private debt and equity industries, recognizing outstanding industry participants through annual awards. Their esteemed judging panel comprised editors and industry experts who evaluated candidates based on several criteria, including innovation, market impact, and financial performance.

This recognition did not involve compensation from Manulife | Comvest Credit Partners, ensuring the integrity of the award’s selection process. The award was officially presented on March 2, 2026, and pertains to achievements from the previous year, allowing the firm to reflect on its successes while striving for future growth.

About Manulife | Comvest Credit Partners

Manulife | Comvest Credit Partners, with a substantial asset management figure of $20.3 billion as of December 31, 2025, is dedicated to providing creative financing solutions for both sponsored and non-sponsored firms. It harmonizes the expertise of Manulife Investment Management with the specialty capabilities of Comvest Credit Partners, offering a broad range of investment solutions.

Focusing on competitive and diverse financing channels, the platform leverages its strengths in origination, disciplined underwriting practices, and the financial backing of one of the largest global insurance companies. Together with Manulife Investment Management’s $24 billion private equity program, this platform ensures that clients receive comprehensive and tailored investment solutions that align with their goals.

Manulife Wealth & Asset Management’s Vision

Manulife Wealth & Asset Management aims to facilitate easier and more confident decision-making for its clients, improving their financial futures. The organization prides itself on its diverse global asset management skills and its ability to offer various investment products, advice, and retirement plans to a diverse audience worldwide. The principles of partnership, transparency, and intellectual curiosity form the foundation of their approach, nurturing long-term relationships and inclusive strategies.

As they continue to advance in the competitive asset management field, Manulife | Comvest Credit Partners remains a pivotal player in shaping innovative financial solutions and empowering clients to achieve meaningful outcomes in their financial journeys.