Hatfield Philips' 'CSS2' Special Servicer Rating And 'CPS2' Primary Servicer Rating Affirmed By Fitch Ratings

- Strong succession planning, special servicing capabilities and risk management framework cited -

LONDON, Sept. 19, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Hatfield Philips International ("HPI"), a leading NPL and debt advisory firm with best-in-class loan servicing capabilities, today announced that Fitch Ratings affirmed its special and primary servicer ratings at 'CSS2' and 'CPS2,' respectively. With the affirmation, HPI remains one of the highest rated special servicers in the United Kingdom.

"Fitch's affirmation of our capabilities as a loan servicer acknowledges the depth of our highly experienced workforce, our strong internal processes and the significant progress we have made to create a stronger, more efficient enterprise," said Blair Lewis, Chief Executive Officer of Hatfield Philips. "As a firm, we will continue to evolve so that we are well positioned to capitalize on market opportunities and best serve our valued clients."

In its report, Fitch credits HPI for having a sound succession plan, highlighting the January appointment of structured finance veteran Mr. Lewis as the firm's Chief Executive Officer and the promotion of two internal employees to the senior management team. Since taking the helm at HPI, Mr. Lewis has implemented a strategic plan to diversify the firm's revenue streams by establishing a complementary debt advisory and transaction management platform led by former bank executive Rupert Gill.

In examining HPI's special servicing capabilities, Fitch notes that the firm's workout approach continues to benefit from a highly experienced team of in-house real estate professionals who understand the underlying collateral. Fitch also acknowledges the close collaboration between HPI real estate and loan asset management team members as a key strength, enabling the firm to devise various workout strategies to maximise returns for noteholders. In addition, Fitch notes the local market expertise HPI's real estate team in Frankfurt provides when it comes to servicing loans outside the United Kingdom.

Furthermore, Fitch credits HPI for its solid risk management framework, which is anchored by systematic internal audits conducted in coordination with its counterparts in the United States. Fitch goes on to highlight that HPI, as a subsidiary of Starwood Property Trust Inc. (NYSE: STWD), also benefits from the support of an external audit firm to ensure full compliance with the laws and requirements placed upon its publicly traded parent company. The review of responsibilities of corporate functions and the implementation of leaner decision making processes strengthen local ownership and accountability within the UK/HPI's operations.

Fitch employed its global servicer rating criteria in analysing HPI's operations and financial condition.

About Hatfield Philips International Ltd.
Hatfield Philips International ("HPI"), together with LNR Europe, is a leading NPL and debt advisory firm with best-in-class loan servicing capabilities. From NPL underwriting to co-investing to helping lenders execute on debt strategies, HPI is uniquely positioned to deliver multiple layers of value to a wide range of debt market participants. HPI accomplishes this by leveraging a highly seasoned team of real estate finance, workout, debt servicing, and client service specialists. Founded in 1997 on the principles of trust, integrity and providing the highest levels of customer service, HPI has the experience and capabilities to partner with clients to achieve their business and investment objectives. HPI is a subsidiary of LNR Property, a United States-based real estate investment, finance, management and development firm, which was acquired by Starwood Property Trust in April 2013. For more information please visit us at http://www.hatfieldphilips.com/.

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