Overview
Merian Research is an independent strategic research and advisory firm established in 2009. It provides specialist intelligence, analysis and due diligence to support decision-making in complex and high-risk contexts. The organisation’s work is grounded in rigorous open-source research and a focus on evidence-based assessment of risk.
The firm operates globally, serving clients across multiple sectors where reputational, political and operational risks are material to business and investment outcomes.
Mission and focus areas
Merian Research focuses on identifying, analysing and contextualising risks that may affect corporate strategy, investments and stakeholder relationships. Its core activities include risk assessment, integrity due diligence, reputational analysis and media intelligence.
While not an advocacy or sustainability-focused organisation, its work is relevant to ESG and sustainable finance where governance, social risk, political exposure and controversy analysis influence capital allocation and risk management. The firm’s research supports clients in understanding non-financial risks that can have financial and long-term value implications.
Structure and governance
Merian Research operates as a privately owned firm with a central leadership team and a network of analysts and researchers. It was founded by experienced professionals with backgrounds in research, intelligence and advisory services.
The organisation follows a project-based operating model, assembling tailored research teams depending on client needs and geographic scope. Governance is typical of a private consultancy, with oversight exercised through senior leadership rather than a formal public board structure.
Programs and offerings
Merian Research delivers bespoke research and advisory services rather than standardised public products. Its offerings include due diligence investigations, political and regulatory risk analysis, reputational and media monitoring, and strategic intelligence reporting.
Outputs are primarily confidential client reports, supported by systematic methodologies and open-source verification. These services are designed to inform investment decisions, corporate transactions, compliance processes and risk frameworks, making them particularly relevant for finance professionals, investors and sustainability practitioners concerned with governance, integrity and exposure to ESG-related risks.