Centerbridge Partners Completes Acquisition of MeridianLink to Accelerate Digital Lending Innovation
Centerbridge Partners, L.P. (“Centerbridge”), a globally recognized investment firm with extensive expertise in financial services and technology investments, today announced the successful completion of its acquisition of MeridianLink, Inc. (“MeridianLink” or the “Company”), a leading provider of modern software solutions for financial institutions and consumer reporting agencies. The transaction, which represents a strategic milestone for both firms, also includes a minority investment from Silversmith Capital Partners, further supporting the Company’s continued growth and innovation initiatives.
Under the terms of the agreement, MeridianLink shareholders received $20.00 in cash for each share of common stock held. Following the completion of the transaction, MeridianLink’s common stock ceased trading and will be formally delisted from the New York Stock Exchange, marking the next phase in the Company’s evolution as a private, innovation-focused enterprise.
A Legacy of Digital Lending Leadership
MeridianLink has steadily established itself as a transformative force in the financial technology sector, evolving from its early role as a pioneer in digital lending to a comprehensive provider of end-to-end technology platforms for credit unions, community banks, and other financial institutions. Its software suite supports a wide array of lending and consumer reporting processes, enabling financial institutions to streamline operations, increase efficiency, and enhance customer engagement.
“MeridianLink has grown from a pioneer in digital lending to a market leader helping credit unions and community banks build and foster lasting relationships with consumers,” said Larry Katz, President and CEO of MeridianLink. “We are excited to accelerate our digital lending trajectory with Centerbridge and Silversmith. Together, we will unlock the potential of our trusted, mission-critical, and scalable platform by accelerating automation, harnessing the power of AI and data, and improving customer experiences.”
Katz emphasized that the Company’s strategic focus under Centerbridge’s ownership will center on driving platform enhancements, improving operational efficiency for clients, and advancing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern financial institutions.
Strategic Support from Centerbridge and Silversmith
Centerbridge, known for its deep investment experience across financial services and technology sectors, will leverage its expertise to support MeridianLink in scaling its platform, expanding market reach, and introducing new product innovations. Jared Hendricks, Senior Managing Director at Centerbridge, and Ben Jaffe, Managing Director at Centerbridge, highlighted the Company’s strong market position and potential for continued growth.
“MeridianLink is uniquely positioned to meet the digital lending needs of financial institutions of all sizes through its leading end-to-end platform of innovative and trusted technology solutions,” said Hendricks and Jaffe. “We look forward to working with Larry and the MeridianLink team to support the Company’s next phase of innovation and growth as it continues to enhance the capabilities of its powerful platform, delivers even greater value to new and existing customers, and contributes to shaping a vibrant modern banking system.”
Silversmith Capital Partners, a private investment firm with a long track record of investing in technology solutions for banks and credit unions, also joined the transaction with a minority stake. Todd MacLean, Managing Partner at Silversmith, highlighted the firm’s enthusiasm for partnering with Centerbridge and MeridianLink.
“At Silversmith, we’ve invested in technology providers to banks and credit unions for years, and we see significant opportunity in the space,” MacLean said. “What excites us most about MeridianLink is the opportunity to partner with Centerbridge in backing Larry and his team as they capitalize on their market leadership and push forward to expand the platform and drive continued innovation.”
Driving Growth Through Innovation
MeridianLink’s platform is widely recognized for its ability to simplify complex financial processes through automation and digital transformation. By integrating advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and streamlined user experiences, the Company has enabled thousands of financial institutions to enhance loan origination, risk assessment, and compliance workflows. The partnership with Centerbridge and Silversmith is expected to accelerate these initiatives, enabling MeridianLink to invest further in technology development and broaden the capabilities of its software ecosystem.
The transaction marks a pivotal moment for MeridianLink’s long-term growth strategy. By operating as a private company under Centerbridge’s ownership, MeridianLink gains the strategic flexibility to invest aggressively in product development, expand into new markets, and enhance service offerings without the reporting constraints associated with being publicly traded. The minority investment by Silversmith provides additional capital to fuel innovation, further positioning MeridianLink as a leading provider of technology solutions for financial institutions.
Financial and Strategic Advisory Support
The transaction was supported by a team of advisors representing both MeridianLink and Centerbridge. Centerview Partners LLC served as the lead financial advisor to MeridianLink, with J.P. Morgan Securities LLC also providing financial advisory support. Goodwin Procter LLP acted as legal counsel to MeridianLink, while Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher served as the strategic communications advisor, guiding messaging and stakeholder communications throughout the process.
Centerbridge was advised by Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC on financial matters, with Kirkland & Ellis providing legal counsel. Kekst CNC acted as the strategic communications advisor for Centerbridge, ensuring effective communication of the transaction to the market, clients, and stakeholders.
