BIRMINGHAM, AL – September 28, 2026 – The M&A Advisor announced Michael Stone, a Managing Director in Porter White’s Investment Banking practice, as one of the recipients of the 17th Annual Emerging Leaders’ Awards.
Michael’s work spans buy-side and sell-side M&A, capital raising, municipal advisory, strategic consulting, business valuations, and distressed situation engagements across a wide range of industries including manufacturing, business/industrial services, technology, government, agribusiness, financial services, and healthcare. With over 15 years of investment banking experience, he brings deep expertise to the PW&Co team and leads our corporate practice areas in M&A, capital raising, and valuations. In addition to client work, Michael is actively involved in community initiatives in the greater Birmingham area and serves as the president of the Alabama Symphony Endowment Board and the board of the Rotary Club of Birmingham.
The M&A Advisor, globally recognized for connecting, recognizing, and informing professionals in mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, and corporate finance, established the Emerging Leaders Awards to recognize outstanding young professionals who are shaping the future of dealmaking and corporate leadership through innovation, leadership, and community impact.
An independent panel of judges selected, from a highly competitive pool of nominees based on professional accomplishments, leadership achievements, and meaningful contributions to the community. The recognition reflects a continued commitment to excellence, innovation, and industry leadership.
“The 2026 Emerging Leaders Award recipients represent the next generation of influential professionals in corporate finance and dealmaking,” said Roger Aguinaldo, Founder and CEO of The M&A Advisor. “Their accomplishments, leadership, and dedication to making an impact within their organizations and communities truly distinguish them among their peers.” The winners were formally recognized at the 2026 Leadership in Dealmaking Summit, which took place September 14 & 15, 2026 in New York City.
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.
Click through their website for the list of this year’s winners—17th Annual Emerging Leaders Award Winners.
ABOUT PW&CO INVESTMENT BANKING
Porter White’s M&A practice area helps business owners navigate the complexities of the transaction process by providing structure, market knowledge, and disciplined execution to the process to facilitate value-maximizing transactions that align with their long-term objectives. Whether you are actively considering a sale or simply beginning to explore your options, understanding potential deal risks before going to market can significantly improve both transaction efficiency and value. If you are interested in selling your business, acquiring a business, or learning more about what your business is worth, please contact Michael Stone, Zac Venos or visit us online to learn more.
