Antonios Achilleoudis on founding AXIA and the investment banking landscape in the US and Europe

Antonios Achilleoudis’ career began on Wall Street, New York, before he co-founded AXIA Ventures, licensed in Cyprus, with branches in Athens, Milan and elsewhere.

From Greece, he aims to provide value by facilitating access to global opportunities and mentoring for highly motivated Cypriot professionals looking to build a career in investment banking.

You studied at Stern Business School at NYU and later founded AXIA Ventures in the US. What led you to expand AXIA into Europe?

My studies at NYU Stern and exposure to its courses and professors inspired me to pursue a career in finance. After a few years with Wall Street firms, I co-founded AXIA Ventures and some of our clients saw us as a trusted resource, particularly for transactions in Greece. Recognising this demand, we decided to establish a regulated presence in Europe through a licensed entity in Cyprus, with branches in Athens and, eventually, other key Southern European financial hubs such as Milan. The European sovereign debt crisis that followed the global financial crisis, placed countries like Greece and Cyprus at the centre of global investor attention. Many international clients sought to understand how the EU would address these challenges, which created a unique opportunity for us. As several global investment banks retreated from the region, we stepped in to bridge the gap, helping channel global capital into the compelling investment opportunities that emerged.

You have worked in investment banks in both the US and Europe. What are the main differences that you have observed between the two continents?

The US market is highly efficient and uniform – there is a common language across all 50 states, a consistent legal and regulatory framework governing capital markets and bankruptcies, and national-level advisors across legal, financial and tax matters. In Europe, particularly in peripheral countries, this uniformity is lacking. Each country has its own language, legal framework and market dynamics, making cross-border transactions more complex. Sourcing opportunities often remains within national borders and executing deals can be significantly more challenging. In smaller peripheral markets like Greece, Cyprus and Portugal, these complexities are even more pronounced. Even Italy – the third largest economy in the EU – has its own peculiarities. For many investors, navigating these jurisdictions is a considerable hurdle. This is where we have been able to add substantial value – our investment banking expertise and local market knowledge help global capital access opportunities in regions where such specialised advisory services are harder to find.

US investment banks dominate the scene so what can their European counterparts do to become more competitive?

The investment banking landscape in the US is largely shaped by two types of players: global bulge bracket firms and boutique M&A-focused advisory firms. While bulge bracket banks are the most prominent and dominant players worldwide, they often lack the local expertise needed in peripheral European markets, creating an opportunity for more agile, regional firms to offer better-tailored services and results. Similarly, while regional US boutique investment banks bring specialised expertise, they often lack the resources or incentive to focus on peripheral European markets in a sustained manner. Instead, they tend to engage opportunistically when specific deals arise. At AXIA, our competitive edge stems from a deep commitment to the local markets in which we operate. By maintaining a sharp regional focus, we deliver exceptional value to both local and global clients while remaining open to strategic collaborations with bulge bracket banks and boutique specialists when appropriate.

Do you foresee the current political climate in the US and the global geopolitical climate affecting investments?

Political developments in the US and geopolitical dynamics significantly influence market sentiment and investment flows. These factors can create either positive momentum or heightened uncertainty, which markets typically dislike. Unfortunately, we are currently experiencing a period of both uncertainty and unpredictability. If geopolitical tensions in Europe and other key regions are resolved swiftly, it could stabilise markets and help ease inflationary pressures.

Cyprus has been performing well economically and financially, attracting many finance companies. What, in your opinion, does the country need to do if it is to continue on this growth trajectory?

Cyprus has successfully established itself as an attractive hub for financial services, investment funds and international businesses, thanks to its strategic location, favourable business environment and strong regulatory framework. One of its greatest strengths is its agility as a small economy, combined with a highly educated and professional labour force. However, to sustain and accelerate this growth, Cyprus must encourage successful businesses to expand beyond its limited borders. Many Cypriot companies offer competitive products and services, yet their impact remains constrained by the limited size of the domestic market. By targeting international markets, these firms can scale, create larger corporate entities and enhance Cyprus’ reputation as a global player. At the same time, maintaining a stable and transparent regulatory environment, as well as diversifying into sectors like fintech, technology and renewable energy, will be crucial for attracting long-term institutional investors and businesses.

Investment banking is an extremely competitive industry. What personal traits have driven your success?

Investment banking is, indeed, an intensely competitive industry and, from the very beginning, our priority was to establish ourselves as a highly valuable resource and trusted partner for our clients. Our approach has always been centred on looking out for our clients’ best interests, focusing on value creation and delivering tangible results. This required a deep understanding of the regions where significant global capital was flowing and helping local companies position themselves to transact effectively. What set us apart was our ability to add meaningful value to both global investors and local businesses while ensuring that every engagement was results-driven. However, beyond strategy and execution, what has truly sustained our success is our unwavering commitment to our principles and ethical standards. Trust is the foundation of any long-term business relationship and we have always prioritised integrity, transparency and professionalism in every deal.

What led you to pursue a career abroad rather than in Cyprus? How can the so-called ‘brain drain’ be reversed?

Although I have spent nearly 37 years operating abroad, my Cypriot heritage and background have always influenced my professional path. From the outset, I have looked for ways to contribute to Cyprus and support my fellow Cypriots in meaningful ways. AXIA is headquartered and regulated in Cyprus, with its licences passported to other European jurisdictions. This structure allows us to help Cypriot corporations access capital, employ local talent and engage local service providers, ensuring that the benefits of our work extend to Cyprus, even if I am not based there full-time. Rather than simply being physically located in Cyprus, I believe I can provide greater value by facilitating access to global opportunities and mentoring highly motivated Cypriot professionals looking to build a career in investment banking. Developing and retaining talent is key to reversing the brain drain, and one way to achieve this is by creating an environment where ambitious young professionals see opportunities for growth and success within Cyprus itself. Ultimately, I would love to spend more time in Cyprus, both professionally and personally. I am always looking for ways to stay connected and contribute and I remain committed to finding ways to bring my expertise and experience closer to home.

What advice do you have for young Cypriots and others seeking a career in finance?

While Cyprus offers excellent education and professional training, the reality is that global exposure is invaluable when it comes to investment banking and finance. Gaining international experience, whether through studies, internships or work abroad, can provide a broader perspective, access to larger markets and a deeper understanding of global financial dynamics. The financial industry is constantly evolving and success requires a strong work ethic, intellectual curiosity and the ability to navigate complex and dynamic markets. Seek challenges, surround yourself with people who push you to grow, and never stop learning. Embrace risks, as the most rewarding opportunities often come from stepping outside your comfort zone, and welcome challenges with confidence and resilience.

This article was first published in the March edition of GOLD magazine. To view it click here