Columbia West Capital, LLC announced today the opening of its new office in Los Angeles, CA. This office will expand the firm's presence and reach into both the Southern and Northern California markets. CWC is a boutique investment bank headquartered in Scottsdale, AZ. The firm has a strong presence throughout the Western United States and in particular throughout California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. The L.A. office will be led by Leo Fernandez, Managing Director. Leo brings a wealth of major-market investment banking experience, most recently as Co-Head of CIBC World Markets West Coast Leveraged Finance and Gaming, Lodging and Leisure practices.

Mr. Fernandez will be building out the L.A. office with the addition of experienced investment banking professionals and will also be responsible for client development throughout the West Coast region. The L.A. office will follow CWC's successful model, focused on providing major-market investment banking experience and expertise to middle market companies. CWC strives to deliver the very highest level of professional financial advisory expertise on transactions, generally ranging from $10 million to $100 million, and has a wealth of experience in mergers and acquisitions and raising both debt and equity capital.

"We are building on our successful platform, and are exciting about building a team on the ground in L.A. to better serve clients throughout California" said Guy Downing, Co-Founder and Managing Director. "To our knowledge, it is the first time an Arizona-headquartered investment bank has opened an office in L.A. I think it speaks to the depth and capabilities of the team we have assembled at CWC, and our ability to provide top-tier financial advisory services resulting in successful transactions and highly satisfied clients."

Leo Fernandez can be reached at lfernandez@columbiawestcap.com, or (310) 991-0214.