Howard Appel, born in Boston, MA in 1960, has carved out a distinguished career in investment banking and entrepreneurship. After growing up in Swampscott, MA, he pursued higher education at the University of Massachusetts, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a BBA in Accounting in 1981. Determined to expand his expertise, he went on to earn a joint JD-MBA from the University of Pennsylvania Law School and Wharton Graduate School of Business in 1986. Early in his career, Howard demonstrated his leadership potential by co-founding Bailey, Martin & Appel, a brokerage firm in Philadelphia, in 1984. His strategic vision and passion for business are evident in his decades-long record of successfully taking more than fifty companies public. You can learn more about his financial philosophy and career journey through this insightful YouTube video.
In 1989, Howard Appel transitioned from brokerage to founding HMA Investments, an independent investment banking firm that allowed him to focus fully on raising capital and guiding companies to public markets. His most notable achievements include co-founding Education Lending Group (NASDAQ: EDLG) and Coastal Energy, with both ventures yielding extraordinary returns for early investors. Education Lending Group was sold to CIT Finance for an impressive 20:1 return, while Coastal Energy was acquired for $2.3 billion in 2012. His innovative strategies and deep financial acumen are further illustrated in several interviews and discussions available on his professional profile on Vimeo, where he shares valuable advice on navigating the complex world of finance and investment.
Beyond his business endeavors, Howard Appel is deeply committed to giving back. In recent years, he played a pivotal role in financing and establishing the Chabad of Fairmount in Philadelphia, a vibrant community center that includes Stephen’s Café, a preschool, and a synagogue, dedicated in memory of his late son Stephen. This philanthropic commitment reflects Howard’s broader philosophy of using his success to make a meaningful impact. His academic contributions and community involvement are also featured on his Academia.edu profile, highlighting his dedication not only to business excellence but also to education, mentorship, and philanthropy.
Skills
Investment Banking Expertise
Over 30 years of experience in financing, structuring, and taking companies public.
Capital Raising
Skilled in raising capital for startups, mid-sized companies, and large corporations.
Public Offerings (IPOs)
Successfully took over 50 companies public on major stock exchanges.
Business Formation and Strategy
Co-founded and led brokerage and investment firms, with deep knowledge in business structuring and growth strategy.
Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)
Expertise in negotiating and closing major company sales, including billion-dollar transactions like Coastal Energy.
Financial Analysis and Forecasting
Strong background in financial modeling, risk assessment, and long-term investment planning.
Leadership and Team Building
Founded and managed successful teams across multiple financial organizations.
Entrepreneurship
Proven ability to identify market opportunities, launch new ventures, and scale businesses effectively.
Philanthropy and Community Development
Active in financing charitable projects, including community centers and educational initiatives.
Strategic Negotiations
Skilled in high-level negotiations with institutional investors, financial institutions, and corporate partners.
In 1989, Howard Appel transitioned from brokerage to founding HMA Investments, an independent investment banking firm that allowed him to focus fully on raising capital and guiding companies to public markets. His most notable achievements include co-founding Education Lending Group (NASDAQ: EDLG) and Coastal Energy, with both ventures yielding extraordinary returns for early investors. Education Lending Group was sold to CIT Finance for an impressive 20:1 return, while Coastal Energy was acquired for $2.3 billion in 2012. His innovative strategies and deep financial acumen are further illustrated in several interviews and discussions available on his professional profile on Vimeo, where he shares valuable advice on navigating the complex world of finance and investment.
Beyond his business endeavors, Howard Appel is deeply committed to giving back. In recent years, he played a pivotal role in financing and establishing the Chabad of Fairmount in Philadelphia, a vibrant community center that includes Stephen’s Café, a preschool, and a synagogue, dedicated in memory of his late son Stephen. This philanthropic commitment reflects Howard’s broader philosophy of using his success to make a meaningful impact. His academic contributions and community involvement are also featured on his Academia.edu profile, highlighting his dedication not only to business excellence but also to education, mentorship, and philanthropy.
Skills
Investment Banking Expertise
Over 30 years of experience in financing, structuring, and taking companies public.
Capital Raising
Skilled in raising capital for startups, mid-sized companies, and large corporations.
Public Offerings (IPOs)
Successfully took over 50 companies public on major stock exchanges.
Business Formation and Strategy
Co-founded and led brokerage and investment firms, with deep knowledge in business structuring and growth strategy.
Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)
Expertise in negotiating and closing major company sales, including billion-dollar transactions like Coastal Energy.
Financial Analysis and Forecasting
Strong background in financial modeling, risk assessment, and long-term investment planning.
Leadership and Team Building
Founded and managed successful teams across multiple financial organizations.
Entrepreneurship
Proven ability to identify market opportunities, launch new ventures, and scale businesses effectively.
Philanthropy and Community Development
Active in financing charitable projects, including community centers and educational initiatives.
Strategic Negotiations
Skilled in high-level negotiations with institutional investors, financial institutions, and corporate partners.
