Stifel Financial announced that it entered into a strategic relationship whereby Stifel and Carlyle GMS Finance, a business development company, will mutually refer middle-market opportunities to each other. As part of the strategic relationship, Stifel has made an investment in Carlyle GMS Finance.

“We are excited to enter into this relationship with Carlyle GMS Finance, given our middle-market client focus. Our relationship will enhance deal flow opportunities for both parties,” said Ronald J. Kruszewski, chairman, president and CEO of Stifel Financial Corp.

Ken Kencel, managing director and president of Carlyle GMS Finance, commented, “Our relationship with Stifel will greatly enhance our deal sourcing capabilities by providing us with access to proprietary investment opportunities.”

Stifel Financial is a financial services holding company headquartered in St. Louis, MO that conducts its banking, securities and financial services business through several wholly owned subsidiaries.