In many French cities during the reign of Louis XVI, King of France and Navarre from 1774 to 1792, prominent financier families like the Mallets, Davilliers, and Hottinguers played significant roles in the kingdomโs grand โhaute bankingโ.
The first half of the 19th century marked the establishment of banking in France, led by prominent Parisian and provincial โhousesโ such as the Rothschilds, Mirabauds, Hentschs, Odiers, Lombards, and Pรฉriers.
The concept of โhaute bankingโ is steeped in history, with its poetic expression likely originating from the restoration period. However, the roots of most institutions that qualify as โhaute banksโ extend well beyond the Ancien Rรฉgime.
Their close association with political power is well-documented, positioning haute banking as the financial backbone for princes and governments historically. Importantly, its active participation in financing the industrial revolution, particularly in sectors like mining and railways, played a significant role. These factors have collectively contributed to making French banking a fascinating subject in the annals of history.
Source: LinkedIn
