Moelis restructuring co-heads discuss the evolution of distress, LMEs and Chapter 11 filings

In this episode of Debtwired!, Madalina Iacob speaks with Zul Jamal and Barak Klein, co-heads of U.S. Capital Structure Advisory at Moelis, about how restructuring has evolved over their 25-plus years in investment banking.They discuss the shift from lighter, less-secured capital structures to today’s heavily secured debt stacks, alongside the rising cost of Chapter 11, and how those developments have reshaped restructuring strategies and have made liability management exercises increasingly important. They underscore the importance of engaging early, often two to three years before a maturity wall or liquidity event, to preserve flexibility and improve outcomes. The conversation also covers the changing creditor base and current disruption in the software sector.Jamal and Klein share lessons from notable deals, including Carvana, while highlighting the role of culture, trust and flexibility in successful restructurings. They also address common mistakes, negotiation strategy, and advice for junior bankers entering the field.