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 kingdom’s grand “haute banking”.
The first half of the 19th century marked the establishment of banking in France, led by prominent Parisian and provincial “houses” such as the Rothschilds, Mirabauds, Hentschs, Odiers, Lombards, and Périers.
The concept of “haute banking” is steeped in history, with its poetic expression likely originating from the restoration period. However, the roots of most institutions that qualify as “haute banks” extend well beyond the Ancien Régime.
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
