BDO Nederland Acquires Avaxa Debt Advisors for Strategic Growth

BDO Nederland has announced the acquisition of Avaxa Debt Advisors, a leading boutique firm specializing in debt advisory and financial restructuring. The agreement, signed on February 25, 2026, marks a significant step for BDO as it seeks to enhance its corporate finance practice with Avaxa’s expertise in complex refinancing issues.

Avaxa Debt Advisors has a proven track record, having successfully completed over 120 financing transactions with a total value exceeding €11 billion. The firm serves a diverse clientele, including international family businesses, corporates, and private equity firms, and is actively involved in financing the energy transition.

With this acquisition, BDO aims to expand its debt advisory services, which are crucial for the growth of its overall deal advisory practice. Sander Holster, partner at BDO and head of the deal advisory practice, stated, “The financing landscape has changed significantly in recent years. Our clients are finding it increasingly complex to secure appropriate financing. By acquiring Avaxa, BDO is responding to the growing demand for advisory services in navigating this landscape and strengthening our position as a comprehensive advisor.”

The integration of Avaxa’s specialized knowledge in refinancing and financial restructuring will complement BDO’s existing corporate finance capabilities. Clients of Avaxa will also gain access to BDO’s broader range of services, including transaction services and due diligence focused on refinancing and independent business reviews related to financial restructurings.

Lonneke Arntz, co-founder and partner at Avaxa, emphasized the benefits of the merger, stating, “Together with BDO, we create a powerful proposition for clients: in-depth debt advisory and financial restructuring expertise, execution strength, a wide service offering, and international reach. This step enhances our capacity and flexibility while providing our employees with greater career prospects and development opportunities.”

Following the acquisition, BDO’s deal advisory practice will expand to 100 employees and 12 partners. In addition to debt advisory and financial restructuring, BDO Deal Advisory offers various transaction-related services, including value creation services, operational restructuring, valuations, and M&A advisory.

The acquisition is set to take effect on February 25, 2026, with the Avaxa brand remaining in use temporarily to leverage its existing recognition in the market. As BDO integrates Avaxa’s operations, the firm anticipates a seamless transition that will enhance service delivery and client satisfaction.