Can Rothschild reinvent itself?

The House of Rothschild doesn't look as solid as it used to. In a world of supermarket banks, the days of the corner shop may be numbered ­ even if it has the best name in the business. But Rothschild is fighting the trends with a major reorganization. Brian Caplen analyzes the plan and looks at the vexed issue of succession

Towards professional excellence

Baron David’s survival strategy

Rothschild, one of the UK’s most traditional banks, is in the mood for change. Having survived war, depression and bitter family struggles, this ancient empire faces new challenges to its might ­ those of global markets and financial volatility.

Prompted by customer demands and the Baring crash, Rothschild is taking a long hard look at itself. And what it sees is a bank crying out for reform ­ a sprawling collection of companies without logical structure; businesses duplicated around the world in a way that defies modern management; and a name that still opens doors at the highest levels but lacks the mystique it used to have.

Access intelligence that drives action

To unlock this research, enter your email to log in or enquire about access