A team of veteran leasing industry executives has formed Panthera Leasing, opening its first office in the San Francisco financial district. Panthera has secured commitments for major transaction funding and will acquire operating leasing and equipment rental companies engaged in capital equipment leasing or rental. In addition, Panthera’s access to capital allows it to act as an equity partner supporting the operations of leasing companies, particularly with respect to residual value based equipment finance.

Panthera’s founding principals bring more than 50 years of experience in equipment leasing. Paul Weiss has led transactions representing a broad range of leased equipment in the U.S. and internationally. As a major shareholder in a leveraged buyout, Paul helped grow ICON Capital, then a small player in the industry, into one of the most successful leasing fund managers in history. Sean Hoel has extensive experience in structuring leasing and debt facilities, most recently in the marine, aviation and infrastructure sectors. Panthera’s other shareholders include Tiger Group Investments, a major owner of large ticket assets historically focused on the maritime sector. Additional shareholders are founders of several asset-owning companies, including listed entities with market capitalization in excess $1 billion.

Weiss stated, “We generally expect our transactions to be in the $2 million to $50 million range, although like any new entity there will be exceptions.” Hoel added, “I think Panthera has assembled an extraordinary blend of expertise in several markets, as well as flexible funding capabilities. Our interests extend to all kinds of lasting value equipment where the business could be scaled with fresh capital.”