Unicapital, Inc., one of the Philippines’ leading independent investment houses, has appointed Karen Singson as its new Managing Director. With over two decades of distinguished experience spanning global finance, government service, and fintech, Singson is set to strengthen Unicapital’s regional competitiveness while staying deeply connected to the local market.
“Unicapital has a legacy of trusted execution,” said Singson. “Our opportunity now is to broaden our origination pipeline by using technology to help more companies scale their vision.”
Singson believes that as Philippine businesses expand internationally, they need partners who can bridge local dynamics with global capital markets—a space where Unicapital is uniquely positioned to deliver.
Global Perspective, Local Impact
A CFA charterholder and Harvard Business School graduate, Singson’s career spans New York’s financial hubs and high-profile roles in the Philippines. She began in investment banking at Swiss Re and equity research at Morgan Stanley, later covering Global Financials at The Boston Company Asset Management. This global foundation informs her strategic approach in local and regional finance.
In public service, Singson served as Chief Privatization Officer and Undersecretary of Finance, advising on landmark restructuring and privatization deals, including the recapitalization of United Coconut Planters Bank and the $300 million restructuring of Hanjin Shipyard with Cerberus Capital. She also led capital markets and M&A advisory as Vice President for Philippine coverage at Macquarie Capital.
“I am bringing an integrated view of how capital, governance, and innovation can accelerate growth,” Singson said. “My focus is on bringing institutional-grade advisory and access to capital to the entrepreneurs and companies that power the Philippine economy.”
Strategic Vision for Unicapital’s Next Chapter
Singson’s leadership will focus on three key pillars:
- Expanding Market Access: Strengthening Unicapital’s engagement with international investors to open new capital pathways for Philippine businesses.
- Modernizing Processes: Integrating digital tools and data-driven solutions throughout the deal cycle to improve transparency, accelerate turnaround times, and enhance client experience.
- Elevating Advisory Capabilities: Providing high-value guidance in deal structuring, valuation, governance, and long-term exit planning to ensure clients grow with confidence.
In addition, Singson emphasizes talent development, aiming to cultivate teams that “think analytically, independently, and execute decisively.”
As Unicapital enters a new phase of growth, Singson’s appointment underscores the firm’s commitment to becoming a more agile, tech-forward, and globally attuned investment house—positioning it to navigate market shifts, seize new opportunities, and deliver sophisticated solutions to its clients.
