Securitized Products Research and Strategy

Academy’s Securitized Products Research and Strategy is led by Stav Gaon, Ph.D. The research and data analytics department aims to provide unique insights across securitized products and serve as a trusted advisor to Academy’s institutional clients. Academy’s data-driven securitized research publications are widely considered by the market as thought provoking, routinely highlighting “under the radar” value and opportunities. The department specializes in bottom-up deep fundamental analysis, collateral-specific underwriting, and structural, legal, and valuation nuances of structured finance investing.

Dr. Gaon draws on 20+ years of experience in securitization research. He joined Academy in early 2022 after a 16-year career at Citigroup where he worked as Co-Head of Global Securitized Products’ CMBS and CRE Strategy. Throughout his career he cultivated deep relationships with institutional investors and market participants across the industry. Dr. Gaon and his team were ranked #1 or Top-3 “CMBS research team” in 2017-2021 in the Institutional Investor All-America Fixed-Income Research Survey. Dr. Gaon holds a Ph.D. in Finance and Economics from Columbia Business School where his academic research focused on securitization and structured finance. Dr. Gaon also holds a BA in Economics and Business from the Hebrew University and an LL.B. from the Faculty of Law. He is a veteran of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), where he served as a combat medic.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

Although certain information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, we do not guarantee its accuracy, completeness or fairness. We have relied upon and assumed without independent verification, the accuracy and completeness of all information available from public sources.

Views and opinions expressed are for informational purposes only and do not constitute a recommendation by Academy Securities to buy, sell, or hold any security. Views and opinions are current as of the date of this presentation and may be subject to change, they should not be construed as investment advice.

This information discusses general market activity, industry or sector trends, or other broad-based economic, market or political conditions and should not be construed as research or investment advice. This material has been prepared by Academy Securities and is not financial research nor a product of Academy Securities. It was not prepared in compliance with applicable provisions of law designed to promote the independence of financial analysis and is not subject to a prohibition on trading following the distribution of financial research. The views and opinions expressed may differ from those of Academy Securities. Investors are urged to consult with their financial advisors before buying or selling any securities. This information may not be current and Academy Securities has no obligation to provide any updates or changes.

Economic and market forecasts presented herein reflect a series of assumptions and judgments as of the date of this presentation and are subject to change without notice. These forecasts do not take into account the specific investment objectives, restrictions, tax and financial situation or other needs of any specific client. Actual data will vary and may not be reflected here. These forecasts are subject to high levels of uncertainty that may affect actual performance. Accordingly, these forecasts should be viewed as merely representative of a broad range of possible outcomes. These forecasts are estimated, based on assumptions, and are subject to significant revision and may change materially as economic and market conditions change. Academy Securities has no obligation to provide updates or changes to these forecasts. Case studies and examples are for illustrative purposes only.

INDEX BENCHMARKS

Indices are unmanaged. The figures for the index reflect the reinvestment of all income or dividends, as applicable, but do not reflect the deduction of any fees or expenses which would reduce returns. Investors cannot invest directly in indices.

The indices referenced herein have been selected because they are well known, easily recognized by investors, and reflect those indices that the Investment Manager believes, in part based on industry practice, provide a suitable benchmark against which to evaluate the investment or broader market described herein. The exclusion of “failed” or closed hedge funds may mean that each index overstates the performance of hedge funds generally.

THIS MATERIAL DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OR SOLICITATION IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE OR TO ANY PERSON TO WHOM IT WOULD BE UNAUTHORIZED OR UNLAWFUL TO DO SO.