Ardent is a strategy and corporate finance advisory firm focused on the converging technology, media and telecommunications markets. Within its areas of focus, Ardent works with companies and investors to develop and execute value-enhancing strategies. Ardent is regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

Ardent is committed to the development of highly informed strategies for its clients and the successful execution of these strategies to ensure the crystallisation of value. In particular, we are committed to the following: — Building and constantly refining a detailed understanding of the market segments in which we operate. — Providing objective, independent advice. Objectivity that stands the test of time provides the basis on which our reputation is built. — Delivering the highest levels of professionalism, technical competence, tailored service and team commitment to maximise the probability of project success and client satisfaction

Corporate Advisory Ardent provides advice to executive and non-executive management on a range of issues including corporate strategy, business execution, acquisition strategy and disposal planning. Mergers, Acquisitions and Disposals Ardent provides lead-advisory transaction execution services to both acquirors and vendors. Execution advice is given with the benefit of Ardent’s deep understanding of its clients’ corporate strategies and the clearly defined objectives for which the transaction is being undertaken. Raising Finance Ardent works with growth businesses to raise new capital from venture capital and private equity investors. As part of this process we develop a compelling investment story to maximise the chances of securing the appropriate terms for both equity and debt finance.

Ardent focuses on markets in which the adoption of progressive technologies can create significant shareholder value for those businesses that drive market change. Ardent has expertise in the following technology areas: — Application Service Providers/ Software as a Service — Digital media distribution — Cinema and associated services and technologies — Internet advertising and marketing — Communications infrastructure software — Natural speech recognition technologies — Call centre technologies — IT services

The team benefits from a range of investment banking, strategic, operational, legal and accounting skills. Gareth Williams Director Jonathan Pfitzner Director Rolf Cederstrom Associate Director Nicolai Andresen Associate Director