The sounds of summer

Traditionally, the structured products markets start to take a siesta in July, though the European summer came a little early this year, according to our market statistics (p. 32). Headhunters we spoke to for our people moves roundup (p. 20) confirm that confidence was dented towards the end of the first quarter and beyond following bullish sentiment at the start of the year. Other than small pockets, hiring is opportunistic, rather than strategic, they say. This is an environment in one has to make one’s role pay, whether by carving out a new niche, as Steve Goldin has done at Parala Capital (p.18), or by finding new solutions to old problems like Chris Lee, who is charged with building Deutsche’s Asia business (p.28). Whatever kind of first half you have had, it‘s time to reward yourself with a good long break. SRPMagazine will be taking August off, but we’ll be back in September with a look at women’s contribution to the structured products industry, plus the usual news, reviews and market statistics. In the meantime, enjoy the sunshine wherever you are.