In connection with the integration of Westwind, Thomas Weisel Partners will more closely align the compensation practices of the two firms with one another and with industry practice by discontinuing the payment of mid-year retention bonuses.

Thomas Weisel, CEO and chairman of the group, said: I am pleased to announce the completion of our acquisition of Westwind and the appointment of Lionel Conacher, formerly Westwind’s CEO and president, as president of Thomas Weisel Partners. The completion of this acquisition establishes Thomas Weisel Partners’ presence in the energy and mining sectors, expands our presence in Canada and Europe and represents a significant milestone in the building of the premier, global growth-focused investment bank.