STL Trustees unveils Holding Group, consolidates Trusteeship, Asset Management, Advisory Businesses

STL Trustees Limited (STL) unveiled its new group structure, combining its trusteeship, asset management, and capital & advisory businesses into one entity as it aims to enhance its presence in Nigeria's capital market. Managing Director Funmi Ekundayo explained that the restructuring would provide a broader platform to serve clients more effectively by consolidating the company's diverse capabilities under a single platform.

The new STL Capital Group was approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and allows the businesses to operate within a Capital Market Holding Company framework, while still retaining the regulatory boundaries of each subsidiary. Ekundayo noted that the move was driven by opportunities in Nigeria's capital market, as businesses increasingly seek funding for expansion, working capital, and new investment opportunities.

Established over three decades ago, STL Trustees has leveraged its transactional experience and reputation as a top-tier Trustee Company to drive its expansion. The asset management business, established to capitalize on investment management opportunities, has shown significant growth within four years. Additionally, STL Capital & Advisory, which has been active for about three years, has executed impactful transactions.

Ekundayo emphasized the group's objectives extend beyond simply consolidating the businesses under one structure. The focus is on making it easier for clients to access the various capabilities within the group, including corporate trusteeship, wealth preservation, estate and succession planning, investment management, capital raising, and financial advisory services.

In particular, asset management is a key area of growth potential for the group, given economic growth's need for better mechanisms to build, preserve, and transfer wealth. STL Asset Management Limited's Ahmed Olaitan Banu underscored the importance of asset management in the capital-raising process, as wealth managers ultimately deploy funds for individuals, organizations, and entities seeking capital.

He also highlighted the role of asset management in preserving and transferring wealth across generations, noting that clients establishing trusts require structures that can manage those assets over time.

Ekundayo highlighted that STL Trustees' ability to adapt to market changes and maintain its top three position in the trusteeship industry for over a decade contributed to the group's longevity and relevance. The new group structure positions STL as a preferred partner for clients seeking wealth preservation, succession planning, fund investment, and capital raising. Ekundayo aims to position STL Capital Group among Nigeria's top 10 players in the capital market and financial services ecosystem.