Fridson Investment Advisors debuts

Fridson Investment Advisors, an investment management firm focused on corporate credit opportunities, was launched today by BNP Paribas Investment Partners, Richard S. Hollander and Martin Fridson. Mr. Hollander, who founded Metropolitan West Financial, will serve as chairman; Mr. Fridson — the founder of FridsonVision, an independent research firm focused on high-yield strategy — will be the firm’s CEO and CIO. In a telephone interview, Mr. Fridson said the firm will rely on research to take advantage of opportunities in areas such as speculative-grade bonds, loans, mezzanine debt and distressed situations. Tom Shandell, a co-founder of GoldenTree Asset Management, will serve as chief portfolio manager. The firm will be able to rely on BNP Paribas’ global distribution platform. BNP Paribas spokeswoman Edwina Frawley-Gangahar wasn’t immediately available for comment.