New York, Munich | June 26th, 2026 – The M&A Advisor announced the winners of the 17th Annual International M&A Awards and Drake Star was honored in the category Telecommunication Deal of the Year for advising on the sale of Anuvu to Platinum Equity.
Anuvu is a leading provider of global entertainment and high-speed connectivity solutions for airlines, VIP/VVIP aircraft, cruise lines and other mobility end-markets. Headquartered in Lombard, IL, Anuvu serves more than 150 airline and 30 cruise-line customers worldwide.
James Turino, Managing Partner at Drake Star: "Winning Telecommunication Deal of the Year for our work on Anuvu is a tremendous honor, and a testament to the strength of a truly exceptional management team and Board who brought skill and conviction to every stage of the process. Anuvu is now positioned for accelerated growth under Platinum Equity's ownership, and we couldn't be prouder of the outcome we achieved together."
Gregory Bedrosian, Managing Partner & CEO at Drake Star: "This recognition reflects what happens when great clients and a dedicated advisory team operate in lockstep. The Anuvu management team and Board were outstanding throughout, their strategic clarity and unwavering commitment made this landmark partnership with Platinum Equity possible. We are grateful for the trust they placed in Drake Star and proud to see this deal recognized on the global stage."
Mohit Pareek, Partner at Drake Star: "Advising Anuvu on this transformative transaction was a privilege, and this award is a tribute to the leadership of the Anuvu management team and Board. Their dedication throughout the process, from mandate to close, was extraordinary. This deal validates Anuvu's global leadership in entertainment and connectivity, and we are proud to have played a role in securing such a powerful outcome."
"The International M&A Awards recognizes the firms and professionals whose transactions and leadership continue to shape the future of global dealmaking," said Roger Aguinaldo, Founder and CEO of The M&A Advisor. "This year’s recipients exemplify excellence, innovation, and resilience in an increasingly competitive and evolving market environment."
The winners will be formally recognized during the 2026 Leadership in Dealmaking Summit, taking place September 14 & 15, 2026 in New York City. The summit will bring together influential executives, advisors, investors, and industry leaders for two days of networking, thought leadership, and celebration of achievement across the global M&A community.
About The M&A Advisor
Founded in 1998, The M&A Advisor is the premier global organization dedicated to connecting, recognizing, and informing professionals in mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, and corporate finance. Through its industry-leading events, awards programs, and digital platforms, The M&A Advisor provides insights and networking opportunities that empower professionals at every stage of their careers.
This award was granted by The M&A Advisor on June 15, 2026, in New York, recognizing transactions, financings, or restructurings completed between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. The M&A Advisor is an independent third-party organization. Participation in the nomination process required a submission fee. Additionally, Drake Star Partners paid a minimum promotional spend to license the award logo and promote this recognition.
For more information on how winners are chosen, visit: www.maadvisor.com.
About Drake Star
Drake Star is an award-winning global tech investment bank that has completed over 500 transactions since 2003. The Drake Star global team of experienced professionals and senior advisors across offices in New York, Munich, London, Paris, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Berlin, West Palm Beach and Dubai* focuses on mergers & acquisitions and corporate finance services worldwide in Software/SaaS, Artificial Intelligence, HR Tech, Digital Services, FinTech, Digital Media, Industrial Tech, Consumer & Retail Tech and Mobility & Sustainability.
Drake Star is the marketing name for the global investment bank Drake Star Partners Limited and its subsidiaries and affiliates. In the USA, all securities are transacted through Drake Star Securities LLC. In the USA, Drake Star Securities LLC is regulated by FINRA and is a member of SIPC. Drake Star UK Limited (FRN 942020) is an appointed representative of Razlin Ltd (FRN 730805), which is authorized and regulated by the FCA.
© 2026 Drake Star Partners Limited.
*Partner Office