Despite the major role played by large financial institutions in France, a significant number of hedge fund firms, both multi-manager and single manager, have established impressive businesses since the 1980s. Given the relative size of the industry, many funds have also won a disproportionate number of EuroHedge and InvestHedge awards in recent years.
Although France is often criticised for not doing enough to nourish an entrepreneurial environment, talented and determined managers have nevertheless correctly identified the right products to meet the needs of both French and international clients. Even within the broader European context, a number of firms have also gained a reputation as precursors of the hedge fund industry - both for their timing and their innovative skills.
HDF Finance has always valued its independence. Founded in 1986 by Gilles du Fretay, the firm continues to remain entirely owned by du Fretay and his co-chief investment officer, Christophe Jaubert. "Since...