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Perella Weinberg Partners (PWP) is accelerating its European technology advisory push in response to the surging momentum in artificial intelligence (AI) and financial technology (fintech) transactions. Since launching its European tech team in 2021, the firm has rapidly built a presence, now boasting 30 dealmakers, and plans to expand further in the coming months.
As part of this growth, PWP has made a series of senior hires aimed at deepening its expertise across key technology verticals. Mathijn Queis, previously a managing director at Evercore, joins as Partner with a focus on European software advisory. Will Forbes, also from Evercore, will spearhead the firm’s insurtech and fintech coverage. Christopher Frost, who joins from the Raine Group, will head advisory services in the video games and media technology sectors. In addition, Holger Schmidt has been promoted internally to partner level, reflecting his contributions to the firm’s expansion in the region.
M&A Market Momentum and Strategic Positioning
The firm’s latest moves come amid a buoyant global mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market, particularly within the technology sector. According to Timm Schipporeit, Partner at PWP, global M&A activity has risen 28% in 2025, reaching $2.6 trillion. Technology has been a standout driver, accounting for $602 billion in deals — a 44% increase compared to last year.
Within the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region, PWP’s technology sector has generated $16.3 million in M&A revenue so far this year, making it the most active segment for the firm. This robust performance underscores both the market opportunity and the strategic importance of scaling the advisory team.
The appointment of Queis was first reported earlier this month, with his official start date on August 11. PWP’s broader strategy includes bringing on six additional partners and six managing directors during 2025, reflecting the firm’s confidence in sustained dealmaking momentum. Beyond M&A advisory, the acquisition of Devon Park Advisors will enable PWP to launch a private funds advisory division, diversifying its service offerings and expanding its footprint in capital markets.
By targeting specific technology sub-sectors such as software, fintech, insurtech, and gaming, PWP is positioning itself to offer specialist, high-value advice in areas where deal activity is particularly intense. The firm’s increased headcount and sector coverage are intended to strengthen relationships with corporate clients, private equity firms, and venture capital investors navigating a fast-evolving market.
Capitalising on a Competitive Landscape
PWP’s expansion reflects a broader trend among investment banks seeking to capitalise on Europe’s burgeoning technology ecosystem. With AI and fintech driving an unprecedented wave of innovation and consolidation, competition for advisory mandates is intensifying. By bolstering its senior leadership and deepening sector expertise, PWP aims to cement its position as a leading adviser in high-growth technology markets.
As M&A volumes continue to rise and deal complexity increases, the firm’s enhanced European tech advisory team is expected to play a pivotal role in advising on transformative transactions across the region.
