
Generational Equity Secures Major Wins at the 16th Annual Americas M&A Atlas Awards
Generational Group, a distinguished investment banking firm specializing in advisory services for privately held businesses, proudly announced its impressive achievements at the 2024 Global M&A Network Americas Atlas Awards. The firm has been honored with multiple prestigious awards, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in middle-market mergers and acquisitions. The Global M&A Network annually recognizes the accomplishments of top dealmakers, firms, and transactions that drive significant value in the financial sector. At the 16th Annual Americas M&A Atlas Awards gala, Generational Group was prominently acknowledged for its outstanding contributions to the investment banking industry.
Among the accolades received by Generational Equity, a subsidiary of Generational Group, were the following:
- U.S.A. Investment Bank of the Year
- Americas Private Equity Deal of the Year: RP Foods recap investment by Benford Capital Partners
- Americas HR & Services Deal of the Year: Canadian Payroll Services (CPS) sale to Vensure Employer Solutions
These honors were presented during a grand ceremony hosted by the Global M&A Network on February 6, 2025, at the prestigious Metropolitan Club in New York City. The event celebrated excellence in deal-making, recognizing firms and professionals who have demonstrated unparalleled expertise and innovation in the field of mergers and acquisitions.
Recognizing Excellence in Private Equity and HR Transactions
Generational Equity’s significant achievement in the private equity sector was underscored by its role as the exclusive financial advisor to RP Foods. RP Foods, a renowned provider of branded, private label, and B2B Hispanic food and beverage products, serves a wide array of retail and consumer packaged goods (CPG) customers across the United States and international markets. The transaction, which secured Benford Capital Partners as an investment partner, was led by Generational’s Senior Managing Director, M&A Don Ho. The deal was recognized as the Americas Private Equity Deal of the Year, reflecting its strategic importance and high-value impact.
Mr. Ho shared insights into the transaction, stating, “We firmly believe that Benford Capital Partners’ extensive knowledge, resources, and strategic synergy with RP Foods will drive the company’s growth trajectory even further. Our meticulous M&A process attracted a substantial number of investors eager to partner with RP Foods, but we knew Benford Capital was the perfect match due to their alignment with RP Foods’ core values, ethical principles, and corporate culture.”
Another major milestone for Generational Equity was its pivotal role in facilitating the sale of Canadian Payroll Services (CPS) to Vensure Employer Solutions, an achievement Equity that earned the firm the Americas HR & Services Deal of the Year award. Led by Senior Managing Director, M&A Mike Hammer, this transaction underscores Generational Equity’s expertise in cross-border deals and its ability to guide companies through complex international mergers and acquisitions.
Vensure Employer Solutions, a premier provider of HR services and technology for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), has consistently Equity expanded its global footprint through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. With the addition of Canadian Payroll Services, Vensure is poised to enhance its capabilities and service offerings across North America. The transaction solidifies Vensure’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge workforce management solutions, aligning with its long-term vision of providing seamless HR services across multiple jurisdictions.
“It’s both exciting and deeply gratifying to see these exceptional dealmakers recognized by the Global M&A Network,” remarked Brenen Hofstadter, Chief M&A Officer of Generational Group. “The leadership demonstrated by Don and Mike, along with their unwavering commitment to our clients, sets a high standard in the industry. Their dedication, expertise, and ability to execute deals of this caliber make a significant difference and exemplify what makes our team truly remarkable.”
Industry Leadership and Commitment to Excellence

Generational Group’s recognition as U.S.A. Investment Bank of the Year is a testament to the firm’s dedication to delivering superior investment banking services. With a proven track record of facilitating successful transactions across diverse industries, the firm continues to stand out as a trusted advisor for privately held businesses seeking strategic growth opportunities, investment partnerships, and M&A solutions.
Ryan Binkley, President and CEO of Generational Group, expressed his pride in the firm’s accomplishments, stating, “Don and Mike exemplify the commitment and expertise that define our team at Generational. Their relentless dedication to our Core Values and their pursuit of excellence in serving clients is truly inspiring. I am immensely proud of all the associates who played a role in these successful transactions.”
Binkley further emphasized the significance of the firm’s achievements, adding, “Being recognized as the USA Investment Bank of the Year is Equity an incredible honor. It reflects the unwavering commitment and diligence of our teams, who work tirelessly to create value for our clients. In an industry as competitive as ours, receiving such a distinguished accolade is a testament to the hard work, strategic vision, and client-first approach that define Generational Group.”
A Legacy of Success in Investment Banking
Generational Group’s continued success in the investment banking sector is driven by its comprehensive approach to mergers and acquisitions. The firm provides a full spectrum of advisory services, including business valuation, strategic growth planning, exit strategies, and deal execution. By leveraging deep industry expertise and a client-centric approach, Generational Group has built a reputation for delivering exceptional results for privately held businesses.
The firm’s ability to structure and close high-impact transactions is evident in its recent successes. The RP Foods and Canadian Payroll Services deals are prime examples of Generational Group’s strategic advisory capabilities, demonstrating its ability to navigate complex negotiations and secure favorable outcomes for clients.
Beyond transaction execution, Generational Group prioritizes long-term value creation. Its team of experienced professionals works closely with business owners to understand their unique objectives, craft tailored strategies, and execute deals that align with their long-term vision. The firm’s client-first philosophy, combined with its data-driven approach, ensures that each transaction is structured to maximize value and achieve sustainable growth.
Continued Growth and Innovation
As Generational Group looks toward the future, it remains committed to maintaining its leadership in the investment banking industry. The firm continues to expand its reach, strengthen its expertise, and enhance its service offerings to better serve the evolving needs of middle-market businesses. With a strong foundation built on integrity, innovation, and excellence, Generational Group is well-positioned to continue delivering outstanding results for clients across various sectors.
The accolades received at the 2024 Global M&A Network Americas Atlas Awards serve as a powerful affirmation of the firm’s impact and influence in the investment banking landscape. By consistently achieving excellence in deal-making, Generational Group has solidified its status as a premier advisory firm, trusted by business owners and investors alike.
As the industry continues to evolve, Generational Group remains dedicated to providing best-in-class advisory services, fostering strategic partnerships, and driving transformative transactions that create lasting value. The recognition at the 16th Annual Americas M&A Atlas Awards marks yet another milestone in the firm’s journey of success, setting the stage for even greater achievements in the years to come.