Tech Analyst Dan Ives to Exit Wedbush to Launch 'Modern Merchant Bank'

Dan Ives, one of Wall Street’s most recognizable and influential technology analysts, is departing Wedbush Securities to launch a new financial venture. Ives, who has spent years as a managing director and senior equity research analyst at the Los Angeles-based firm, announced that his next venture will focus on building what he describes as a "modern merchant bank." The high-profile exit marks a significant transition for Ives, moving him from the public equity research arena into the hands-on world of private advisory, capital raising, and strategic investments.

During his tenure at Wedbush, which began in 2018, Ives established himself as a ubiquitous voice in the financial media, frequently appearing on networks like CNBC, Bloomberg, and Fox Business. He became widely known for his ultra-bullish coverage of mega-cap tech giants, most notably Apple, Microsoft, and Tesla. His research notes, often characterized by colorful metaphors regarding the "AI Gold Rush" and the "Fourth Industrial Revolution," frequently moved market sentiments and made him a favorite source for both institutional clients and retail investors tracking the tech sector.

While specific operational details of the new firm remain under wraps, the concept of a "modern merchant bank" suggests a pivot toward a hybrid financial model. Unlike traditional investment banks that focus heavily on underwriting public offerings, a modern merchant bank typically combines bespoke corporate advisory services with direct private equity investments, venture capital, and structured debt. By targeting high-growth technology, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity firms, Ives' new venture is poised to bridge the gap between emerging private enterprises and institutional capital at a time when private market valuations are undergoing rapid shifts.

The departure of Ives leaves a noticeable void in Wedbush's research department, where he served as the crown jewel of their technology coverage. However, his transition reflects a broader trend of top-tier Wall Street analysts leveraging their personal brands and extensive corporate networks to transition into more lucrative, entrepreneurial roles in private markets. As the artificial intelligence boom continues to reshape the global economy, the demand for specialized advisory firms capable of navigating complex tech valuations remains at an all-time high.