IROs talk about the non-financial fringe benefits of their favourite investors, from truffles to rooms with a view
Refreshments
‘I am extremely fond of Julius Baer in New York. First of all, you have to go to floor 12A as it is too superstitious to have a floor 13. Then, instead of biscuits, everyone gets an individual box of chocolate truffles.’
‘Julius Baer AM has good coffee – and I mean espresso coffee: hot, strong and tasty, as opposed to brown water – and great Swiss chocolate. These are both pleasant little goodies to revive you after a day of one-on-ones.’
‘Off the top of my head, UBS always does a very good breakfast. I can think of one or two good-looking hedge fund managers there, too, but I think they already know that…’
Friendly welcome
‘Capital in Washington, Fidelity in Boston and Viking in New York have nice staff – something often overlooked by busy executives. Administrative assistants are easily reachable and quick to respond. A warm welcome and a nice smile when the roadshow team enters the office set a nice tone before the meeting even starts.’
Panoramic views
‘Pictet Asset Management’s new building in Geneva is very plush and extremely discreet, complete with flat screens, espresso coffee and Swiss chocolate. You feel like a billionaire visiting your own private banker.’
‘The offices of Capital in London and TPG-Axon and Bleichroeder in New York have a lovely view. It is a nice change on a roadshow to actually see where you are and get a glimpse of those things people envy you for.’
‘Highfields Capital in Boston recently took over the top floor of the John Hancock Tower, with gorgeous offices and the most stunning view over Boston, toward Logan. This is the most pleasing view in the US from a fund manager’s office, perhaps matched only by Dodge & Cox in San Francisco.’
Freebies
‘For me it isn’t important how big the office is, or how tasty the lunch... I’m a collector of pens, matches and other giveaways. I also like the hotels where you have all those little shower gels and soaps. Currently I’m writing with a pen provided by GAM.’
Friendship
‘In all my visits to meet with investors, I like JPMorgan the best. Its lunches are so good! And it knows how to party, and sure likes mojitos. We have had so many nights out, which usually last until 7 am. I have built up friendships with a few of the team, and this has led to invitations to birthday parties and lunches or dinners whenever one of us is in town.’
