Mint Bridging brings in Mark Abrahams to launch specialist lender

MB Syndicates (MBS) will run alongside the existing Mint Bridging operation but will focus on higher value, lower loan-to-value (LTV) first charge loans; low risk development loans; second charge loans; and commercial property.

The new lender will be centred on London and funded by experienced investors to the short-term property lending market on a syndicated basis – it has already funded several million pounds in loans since it was piloted in January 2016.

Mint’s managing director, Andrew Lazare, said partnering with Abrahams, who left West One after it was bought by Enterprise in 2014, “firmly places Mint Bridging on the map”.

“The syndication division enables us to increase funding lines, loan sizes and expand on our already rapidly growing Greater London presence,” he said.

Abrahams also previously worked as a corporate bond trader with Salomon Brothers and JP Morgan and sat on the ASTL executive committee board.

Mint intends to grow the MBS loan book to over £100,000, focusing on geographical diversification and areas of high liquidity, it said.

“Since West One’s acquisition, many business opportunities have ventured my way,” said Abrahams.

“But what struck me is how fast Mint has grown and Andrew’s passion, determination and dedication.

“They have strong routes to market and together we have a solid platform of experienced funders wanting to invest in bridging finance with an experienced team.”