The Dutch Tulip Crisis: the birth of a speculative bubble and foundational lessons for finance
The tulip crisis, which occurred in the United Provinces in the 17th century, is often considered the first documented speculative bubble in economic history. Although it took place a long time ago, it remains an essential reference for understanding the mechanisms of financial euphoria, excessive speculation and sudden price collapses.
Finance careers in the face of artificial intelligence: which roles will truly evolve?
Artificial intelligence is playing an increasingly important role in debates about the future of finance professions. Between alarmist predictions of the disappearance of certain roles and promises of increased productivity, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between real change and hype.
Sector-focused funds: a sustainable competitive advantage in an increasingly specialized market
The investment industry has undergone a profound transformation in recent years. Faced with increasingly complex markets, accelerating innovation and sophisticated business models, many funds have opted for sector specialisation. Long dominated by generalist approaches, private equity and asset management are now seeing the emergence of funds focused on specific sectors, capable of developing a sustainable competitive advantage.
Why private equity funds are increasingly focusing on carve-outs
For several years now, private equity funds have shown growing interest in carve-out transactions. Long considered complex and risky, these transactions are now at the heart of many investment strategies, particularly in a context of increased competition for traditional buyout assets.
Should You Start Your Career in a Big Four Firm Before Moving into Finance?
For many business school and university students, the question of their first job is crucial. In an extremely competitive environment, joining one of the Big Four is often seen as a safe, even strategic, route before pursuing a career in corporate finance, M&A, private equity or transaction auditing. However, this choice is neither automatic nor universal.
Paul Singer (Elliott Management): Portrait of a Feared and Strategic Investor
Paul Singer, founder of Elliott Management, is one of the most influential and often feared figures in global finance. Known for his aggressive stances, analytical rigor, and ability to identify weaknesses in publicly traded companies, he has embodied the archetype of the activist investor for more than forty years.
Activist Funds: How They Influence the Strategy of Large Corporations
Long considered marginal or disruptive players, activist funds now occupy a central place in the global financial landscape. Their influence on the strategy of large companies has grown over the past two decades, driven by increasingly sophisticated markets, greater demands for transparency, and investors' strong interest in value creation.
How the M&A Analyst Role Has Evolved Over the Past Ten Years
The role of M&A analyst has long been seen as one of the most prestigious careers in corporate finance: a demanding environment, intense working hours, a strong results-oriented culture, and significant responsibility from the outset. While these characteristics remain true to some extent, the role of the analyst has changed considerably over the last decade.
