Epiris Fund III acquires WBS
02 June 2026 UK
Image: Yingyaipumi/stock.adobe.com
WBS, a provider of trading, custody, and technology solutions to the UK investment industry, has completed its acquisition by Epiris Fund III, advised by Epiris LLP, from Marex Group.
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The completion of the deal marks a new phase for WBS, which said it will use Epiris’ backing to build on its existing business and continue investing in service, innovation, and client partnerships.
As part of the transaction, a new board has been appointed.
Former Evelyn Partners CEO Chris Woodhouse will serve as chair, while former Evelyn Partners chief financial officer Andrew Baddeley has been appointed non-executive director and chair of the risk and audit committee.
WBS will continue to be led by CEO Alex Kerry and its existing management team.
Commenting on the acquisition, Kerry says: “We’re delighted to embark on this new chapter for WBS and our clients. Throughout our history, our priority has always been to support our clients in delivering good customer outcomes and to help facilitate growth and long-term success. Our commitment to this remains unchanged.
“We’re particularly excited that as a stand-alone company, we’ll be able to really accelerate our growth, backed by investment from a partner who understands the business and its objectives. This will enable us to continue delivering market leading solutions, innovation, and partnership our clients' value and trust.”
Woodhouse adds: “I’m thrilled to be joining WBS at this significant milestone in their story. Alex and the team have built a strong market position, underpinned by talented people, a clear strategic focus, and a culture of delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients.”
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The completion of the deal marks a new phase for WBS, which said it will use Epiris’ backing to build on its existing business and continue investing in service, innovation, and client partnerships.
As part of the transaction, a new board has been appointed.
Former Evelyn Partners CEO Chris Woodhouse will serve as chair, while former Evelyn Partners chief financial officer Andrew Baddeley has been appointed non-executive director and chair of the risk and audit committee.
WBS will continue to be led by CEO Alex Kerry and its existing management team.
Commenting on the acquisition, Kerry says: “We’re delighted to embark on this new chapter for WBS and our clients. Throughout our history, our priority has always been to support our clients in delivering good customer outcomes and to help facilitate growth and long-term success. Our commitment to this remains unchanged.
“We’re particularly excited that as a stand-alone company, we’ll be able to really accelerate our growth, backed by investment from a partner who understands the business and its objectives. This will enable us to continue delivering market leading solutions, innovation, and partnership our clients' value and trust.”
Woodhouse adds: “I’m thrilled to be joining WBS at this significant milestone in their story. Alex and the team have built a strong market position, underpinned by talented people, a clear strategic focus, and a culture of delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients.”
NO FEE, NO RISK
100% ON RETURNS If you invest in only one asset servicing news source this year, make sure it is your free subscription to Asset Servicing Times
100% ON RETURNS If you invest in only one asset servicing news source this year, make sure it is your free subscription to Asset Servicing Times
