The M&A Advisor announced Cody McPherson and Ben Stenson, of Objective Investment Banking and Valuation have been named winners of the 17th Annual Emerging Leaders Awards. This marks the first Emerging Leaders Award for Cody McPherson and the second consecutive recognition for Ben Stenson, underscoring his continued leadership and impact within the M&A and corporate finance community.
The M&A Advisor, an internationally recognized organization that honors excellence in mergers and acquisitions, financing, and restructuring, created the Emerging Leaders Awards program to recognize outstanding professionals who are shaping the future of the dealmaking industry through innovation, leadership, and service.
Cody and Ben were selected from a highly competitive group of nominees for their exceptional contributions to clients, colleagues, and the broader business community. Final award recipients were chosen by an independent panel of judges following a comprehensive evaluation process.
“As our industry continues to evolve, the next generation of leaders is redefining what excellence looks like in dealmaking and corporate finance,” said Roger Aguinaldo, Founder and CEO of The M&A Advisor. “The 2026 Emerging Leaders Award recipients demonstrate exceptional vision, resilience, and leadership. They are not only driving successful transactions — they are helping shape the future of our global
business community.”
“Cody’s recognition is incredibly well deserved,” said Trever Acers, Founder and Managing Director of Objective Investment Banking & Valuation. “What sets Cody apart is the genuine care he brings to every client relationship. Having worked closely with him on multiple sell-side transactions, including Production Elements’ sale to Arena Americas, a Modon company and 360 Destination Group’s strategic investment from H.I.G. Capital supporting its merger with CSI DMC, I’ve seen firsthand how he approaches each engagement with a client-first mentality, pairing thoughtful guidance with sophisticated deal execution. Clients trust him not only for his technical expertise, but because they know he is fully invested in helping them achieve the best possible outcome for their businesses, employees, and families. We are proud to see him recognized for the impact he continues to make within the sell-side advisory landscape and the aerospace and defense sector.”
“Ben’s passion for combining analytical rigor with meaningful client impact is evident in everything he does,” said Channing Hamlet, Co-founder and Managing Director at Objective Investment Banking & Valuation. “He is deeply committed to helping business owners navigate some of the most important moments in their businesses and lives, serving as both a strategic advisor and trusted partner. Through transactions such as ANA Global’s sale to Gainline, Ben has demonstrated an ability to help clients unlock strategic growth opportunities while navigating complex business challenges. In addition to his transaction work, his thought leadership and industry perspective, including his insights on emerging trends within the food & beverage sector shared in Objective’s Winter Fancy Food Show recap, reflect his commitment to staying ahead of evolving market dynamics. Ben’s ability to build lasting relationships while delivering thoughtful, personalized guidance is what sets him apart, and we are proud to see him continue to earn recognition for his contributions.”
For a complete list of the 2026 Emerging Leaders Award Winners Click Here.
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Disclosure
This news release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer, invitation or recommendation to buy, sell, subscribe for or issue any securities. While the information provided herein is believed to be accurate and reliable, Objective Capital Partners and BA Securities, LLC make no representations or warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of such information. All information contained herein is preliminary, limited and subject to completion, correction or amendment. It should not be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice and may not be reproduced or distributed to any person. Securities and investment banking services are offered through BA Securities, LLCMember FINRA, SIPC. Principals of Objective Capital are Registered Representatives of BA Securities. Objective Capital Partners and BA Securities are separate and unaffiliated entities.
