The annual Consumer Group of Europe conference is one of the opportunities to get a view on the issues impacting many of the companies we invest in. We have put together some of our analysts’ insights from the conference in this month’s piece. It provides some insight into our thoughts and raises important questions.
Steven Butler is a Senior Director at J. Stern & Co. responsible for business development and client service in North America. He has over 30 years of experience working with institutional investors around the world.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co. in 2024, Steve served in various sales, consultant relations and client service roles at First Eagle Investments, Aravt Global, Artisan Partners and AllianceBernstein among others. He started his investment career at Sanford C. Bernstein & Co.
Steve earned his BA in Marketing from Santa Clara University.
Soumyanshu (Som) Bhattacharya has recently joined J.Stern & Co as a senior director in the EM corporate business. Prior to this, Som worked in Bluebay Asset Management covering Emerging Market debt in the capacity of an Institutional portfolio manager since 2015. Before that, Som was an Executive Director in JPMorgan Asset Management from 2008 to 2015, also primarily covering Emerging market debt strategies. Prior to JPMorgan, Som held a variety of roles in Deutsche Bank (Debt capital market) and Fidelity investments (Fixed income quantitative analysis).
He brings nearly 19yrs of financial industry experience and around 15 yrs of experience covering Emerging market debt. He is a Mechanical Engineer by education and also holds an MBA from Indian institute of Management, Calcutta. He is a CFA charterholder and passed CFA examinations in 2012.
Elena is a Senior Director and Investment Advisor at J. Stern & Co representing the Firm’s Advisory business.
Leveraging her expertise in investment management and strong background across diverse asset classes, Elena is dedicated to guiding her clients towards the attainment of their investment objectives, taking into account their specific complex requirements.
Elena has been working in London since 2004. She has over 20 years of financial services experience at JP Morgan, Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley. Over the past decade, Elena has been focused on advisory multi-asset portfolio management for Ultra High Net Worth clients and Single Family Offices at Coutts and more recently at UBS.
Elena holds an MBA from INSEAD and a DEA / Masters in Finance from the University of Paris I Pantheon-Sorbonne. She is also qualified as a Charted Fellow at Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI), having completed CISI Level 6 PICAM. Elena speaks English, Russian and French.
Nicole heads the J. Stern & Co (Switzerland) AG since 2023.
She has more than 25 years of professional experience in the financial sector in the areas of private banking, asset management, insurance, institutional and property. Started in Diplomatic Service and later moved into management and senior positions within VIG Group, UBS, Credit Suisse, Lombard Odier and HFS.
As a passionate and gifted networker, she is developing our presence in Switzerland and supports our activities in Europe.
Nicole holds a master’s degree from the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Vienna and absolved further training in banking, finance and insurance,
She is fluent in German, Italian, English, Czech and Slovak and has working knowledge in Russian and Hungarian.
Elena is a Senior Director and Investment Advisor at J. Stern & Co representing the Firm’s Advisory business.
Leveraging her expertise in investment management and strong background across diverse asset classes, Elena is dedicated to guiding her clients towards the attainment of their investment objectives, taking into account their specific complex requirements.
Elena has been working in London since 2004. She has over 20 years of financial services experience at JP Morgan, Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley. Over the past decade, Elena has been focused on advisory multi-asset portfolio management for Ultra High Net Worth clients and Single Family Offices at Coutts and more recently at UBS.
Elena holds an MBA from INSEAD and a DEA / Masters in Finance from the University of Paris I Pantheon-Sorbonne. She is also qualified as a Charted Fellow at Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI), having completed CISI Level 6 PICAM. Elena speaks English, Russian and French.
Denisse is an Investment Associate with J. Stern & Co.’s equity team. She provides research, portfolio and risk analytics, and trading support to the investment team.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co., Denisse worked at Raymond James Ltd.’s operations department in Vancouver, Canada. She passed all three levels of the CFA program.
A Mexican and Canadian national, Denisse graduated from British Columbia Institute of Technology with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance diploma.
Felicity is the Executive Assistant to the CIO.
Felicity builds on 20 years of experience in the Financial, Sovereign Wealth and Private Family Offices industries.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co., Felicity was an executive assistant at Lazard Asset Management. She has also worked at MUFG Securities, ADIA and Bank of America Merrill Lynch in the UK, UAE and Australia.
Felicity is an Australian national living in London.
Carlos is the Operations Associate at J. Stern & Co.
He joined the firm in November 2022 and works within the operations team. He takes charge of responsibilities such as middle/back office, corporate actions, intranet development and client reporting.
A Spanish national, Carlos holds a MSc in International Business from the University Pompeu Fabra and a BSc in Economics from the Public University of Navarre.
Anoop is a Client Associate at J. Stern & Co. She provides analytical support to the client and marketing management team, ensuring effective communication with the firm’s clients.
Anoop holds an MA in Classics from the University of St Andrews, where she also studied Italian, Russian, Psychology and Social Anthropology
Ron is the co-head of the firm’s North American business with more than 25 years of senior level financial, operating, and investment management experience.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co. in 2023, Ron was the Chief Operating Officer and CFO of boutique equity asset manager Stewart Asset Management, were he led the management committee and was responsible for all financial and operating aspects of the business. Ron has also held senior level positions in consulting whilst working with Alvarez & Marsal and in corporate and investment banking with Scotia Capital. He has extensive experience leading teams of professionals through complex restructuring and M&A transactions and executing on performance improvement initiatives.
Ron is a Canadian national living in New York City since 1997. He holds an MBA from Wake Forest University and a BSc. in finance from the University of Montana.
Elise is a Client Associate at J. Stern & Co. She provides analytical support to the client and marketing management team, ensuring effective communication with the firm’s clients.
Elise previously worked within the charity sector and prior to that graduated from Royal Holloway University of London with a BA in Politics and International Relations, where she specialised in Counter-Terrorism and Foreign Policy.
Jack is an Investment Associate with J.Stern & Co.’s credit team.
Jack joined the Firm in May 2021 and has been working with the investment team, providing support on analysis, reporting and investment risk. Jack also assists with the Firm’s football financing strategy.
Prior to joining J.Stern & Co., Jack was a Performance and Risk Analyst at Close Brothers Asset Management where he provided performance and risk analytics to fund and portfolio managers.
A British and Dutch national, Jack has a BSc in Physics from the University of Surrey. Jack is currently working towards the CFA exams.
Jack
Raymond is a Client Associate at J. Stern & Co. He provides analytical support to the client and marketing management team, ensuring effective communication with the firm’s clients.
Raymond previously worked in the real estate sector and holds an MSc in Entrepreneurship from Bayes Business School, where he cultivated a passion for strategic thinking and innovative problem-solving.
Nicole heads the J. Stern & Co (Switzerland) AG since 2023.
She has more than 25 years of professional experience in the financial sector in the areas of private banking, asset management, insurance, institutional and property. Started in Diplomatic Service and later moved into management and senior positions within VIG Group, UBS, Credit Suisse, Lombard Odier and HFS.
As a passionate and gifted networker, she is developing our presence in Switzerland and supports our activities in Europe.
Nicole holds a master’s degree from the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Vienna and absolved further training in banking, finance and insurance,
She is fluent in German, Italian, English, Czech and Slovak and has working knowledge in Russian and Hungarian.
Neil is a Senior Adviser at J Stern & Co. and supports the Firm with its HR requirements. He has over 30 years’ HR experience gained in financial services, luxury and high street retail, property services and development, IT, logistics and airline contact centres. He specialises in helping organisations build their HR infrastructure and supporting their growth through the acquisition and development of key talent.
Neil has a Postgraduate Diploma in Personnel Management from South Bank University and is a chartered member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.
Garry is a Senior Director at J. Stern & Co.
Garry spent 14 years at Goldman Sachs as an executive director within the Investment Management Division, co-heading one of the largest teams in London that advised some of the UK & Europe’s most successful entrepreneurs, private equity principles, family offices and charities. His business also included working with clients in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Brazil.
Prior to Goldman Sachs Garry practiced as a barrister and was a founding member of a leading London chambers with a primary focus on civil and commercial litigation as well as sport, media and entertainment dispute resolution, acting for a number of leading sports personalities and governing bodies.
Garry represented Great Britain at the 1992 and 1996 Olympic Games, winning gold at the former in the Men’s Coxed Pair and in 1993 was awarded an MBE for services to sport. Since 1997 Garry has been the BBC’s lead international rowing commentator and Tokyo 2020 was his 6th Olympic Games in the seat. Garry is a member of BAFTA’s commercial committee, an advisory board member for Producers Without Borders and a patron of the Veterans Orthopaedic Service at the Robert Jones & Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital.
Sophia is the Head of Trading and Operations at J. Stern & Co., Malta.
She is responsible for day to day operations of the Firm’s funds. She also assists senior management with the administrative and operational functions as well as with risk management and business development of the Maltese-based activities of the Firm.
Sophia builds on over 20 years of banking experience at various positions. Prior to joining the Firm, she worked for FIMBank plc, Malta, focusing on relationship and operational management of structured and commodity finance customers, primarily located in Europe and the MENA region. She was also overseeing the syndicated loans portfolio of the bank. Sophia also gained vast knowledge in fund structures during her tenure at the bank.
A Bulgarian citizen, Sophia has a Master’s degree in International Business Relations from the University of Economics, Bulgaria. She is fluent in Bulgarian, English, French and has working knowledge of Russian.
Felipe is a Senior Advisor of J. Stern & Co.
As a senior client coverage, Felipe concentrates primarily on Iberian and Latin American accounts ranging from high net-worth individuals and family offices to wealth managers and institutions leveraging off his 25 years in Investment Banking.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co., Felipe worked over 15 years in Equity Capital Markets at Goldman Sachs, Lehman Brothers and Mediobanca. He also led corporate coverage for Spain at Nomura. He started his career in Fixed Income and Commodities derivatives at Societe Generale in the mid 90’s.
As a Spanish and Argentinian national, Felipe has lived in Madrid, London, Paris and Caracas. He speaks Spanish, English, French, Italian, Portuguese and German. He holds a Masters Degree from Ecole Supérieure des Sciences Economique et Commerciale (ESSEC) in Paris.
Conny is Head of Operations at J. Stern & Co (Switzerland) AG in Zurich.
Conny builds on more than 15 years of experience within international law firms in Zurich. Prior to joining J. Stern & Co., Conny was working mainly as a Paralegal responsible for mandate and coordination work in connection with US tax cases as well as setting up and managing foreign trust structures at a boutique law firm/family office in Zurich. Conny has also worked at Baker McKenzie Zurich.
She is fluent in German, English and French and holds a Certificate of Advanced Paralegal Studies from ZHAW School of Management and Law.
Mr. Picot is a Senior Advisor at J. Stern & Co responsible for the Firm’s strategic business development initiatives in North America. He has over 35 years of investment experience in public securities.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co. in 2023, Christian Picot served on the management committee of Stewart Asset Management, a concentrated long-only equity manager. From 2004 to 2018, Christian was a Portfolio Manager with alternative fund managers Alexandra and Odyssey. Prior to his experience in the investment fund industry, he held key global management positions in the investment banking activities of Credit Lyonnais and Paribas.
Mr. Picot earned his MBA from NYU Stern and his Agricultural Economics degree from Purdue University. His free time is dedicated to serving as Trustee of the Rogers Memorial library and Southampton’s Planning Commission on Long Island, as well as many outdoor activities.
Kirn is a Senior Compliance Associate for the firm, she is responsible for the day to day running of the compliance programme within J. Stern & Co LLP and Star Fund Managers LLP.
With over 10 years’ experience, Kirn has worked as a compliance analyst within both Wealth and Asset Management Firms in London and has previously worked at the Financial Conduct Authority in the Authorisations Division.
She holds a BA Hons in Business with Economics from the University of Greenwich.
The World Stars Global Equity Fund (the “Fund”) is a company organised as a société d’investissement à capital variable and is registered under Part I of the 2010 Act relating to undertakings for collective investment. The Fund is regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier and registered under the number B 161924.
You understand that it is your responsibility as the investor, or your advisor, to ensure that the offering and sale of Fund shares complies with the relevant national and/or local law. You should inform yourself as to the applicable legal requirements, exchange control regulations and taxes in the countries of citizenship, residence or domicile. If you are in doubt about the suitability of this Fund you should seek advice from your investment advisor.
The Fund is not registered nor does it intend to register under the US Investment Company Act 1940, nor has its shares been registered under the US Securities Act 1933 and may therefore not be offered, sold, transferred or delivered directly or indirectly in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of or directed to persons who are residents or citizens of the United States (including persons who are “US Persons” under US federal income tax or securities laws) or who are located in any country, state or jurisdiction where the Fund is not authorised for distribution or in which the dissemination of information regarding the Fund on the internet is not permitted.
Investing in the Fund involves risk, including without limitation risk of total investment loss and other risks noted in the Fund’s Prospectus and applicable KIID document(s). Investors should be aware that past performance is no guarantee of future performance and returns.
Applications to invest in the Fund referred to on this website, should be based solely upon the information contained in the Prospectus and applicable KIID document(s). By accepting the terms of this website, you acknowledge that you will have read the relevant documentation prior to investing, as well as consulted with your advisors before making a decision. You should inform yourself as to the applicable legal requirements, exchange control regulations and taxes in the countries of citizenship, residence or domicile. To the extent the language of this disclaimer may be inconsistent with the language of the Fund’s prospectus or KIID, the language of the Fund’s prospectus shall supersede this disclaimer.
You understand that the information on this website does not constitute an offer or solicitation to subscribe for or acquire any shares in the Fund in any jurisdiction, nor does this information constitute as advice, a recommendation or an expression of our view as to whether any particular investment is suitable for any investor accessing the website or meets your financial or any other objectives. The value of the shares may fall as well as rise and an investor may not get back the amount initially invested in the Fund. Any income that is derived from the investment contemplated herein may fluctuate. If you are considering investing in this Fund, make sure you read all the available information on this website and related Fund documentation for specific risks, ensuring you understand and accept the risk that you may lose some or all of your investments. If you are in any doubt, please speak to your investment advisor to ensure you fully understand the nature of the investment and the risks involved. You may not have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service and Financial Services Compensation Scheme if you have a complaint and should speak to your advisor if you are concerned.
Charles is a Senior Credit Analyst and Co-Portfolio Manager of the Emerging Market Debt Stars fund at J. Stern & Co.
Charles uses his investment experience in Emerging and Developed Markets to help drive our efforts for the Firm’s credit strategies.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co, Charles was a Credit Investment Analyst at GIB Asset Management where he focussed on Emerging Markets corporate credit opportunities. During his time there, he worked on both long/short and long-only credit strategies.
He has also worked at Investec Bank as a Leveraged Finance Analyst where he focused on fundamental bottom-up analysis on companies in a broad range of industries across Europe.
A British National, Charles holds a BEng in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Bristol and a Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting and Finance from the London School of Economics. Charles is a CFA Charterholder and also holds the CFA Certificate in ESG Investing.
Jonas is an Investment Associate with J. Stern & Co.’s equity team. He provides research, portfolio and risk analytics and trading support to the investment team.
A Norwegian National, Jonas holds an MSc Finance from Bayes Business School (formerly Cass) and a Bachelor of Business Administration from BI Norwegian Business School.
Prior to his academic education, Jonas worked in the Norwegian Armed Forces for two years, where he was a Sergeant.
Rian is a ESG Analyst at J. Stern & Co.
He joined the firm in January 2022 and works within the investment team to guide the implementation of our ESG framework.
A British national, Rian holds a MSc in Carbon Finance and a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Resource Management from the University of Edinburgh.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co, he completed an internship with Planet Tracker, a non-profit financial think tank, working to align capital markets with planetary boundaries.
Holly is a Director on the Client and Marketing team working with institutional and high net-worth clients as well as leading the junior client services team.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co., Holly worked in retail banking and wealth management at HSBC.
She holds an MA Hons in Chinese Studies from the University of Edinburgh and has studied further Mandarin at Tsinghua University in Beijing.
Alex is an investment specialist and client adviser at J. Stern & Co.
Alex works with our clients to define and achieve their investment objectives with particular focus on active equities, fixed income and illiquid investments.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co., Alex spent 14 years as a Client Portfolio Manager at JPMorgan and two years as a Senior Relationship Manager at Sarasin & Partners. His expertise lies in Global Equities and multi-asset investing having been responsible for managing the portfolios of a number of institutional clients in Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
Alex holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Newcastle University and the Investment Management Certificate (IMC).
Josh is a Credit Analyst at J. Stern & Co.
He joined the firm in July 2022 and works within the investment team to help drive our research efforts with a focus on the firm’s Emerging Markets credit strategy.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co, Josh worked at Alcentra Limited where he gained exposure to various alternative credit strategies such as Leveraged Loans, High Yield Bonds and Special Situations.
A British National, Josh holds a BSc (Hons) in Mathematics, Operational Research, Statistics and Economics from the University of Warwick. Josh is also a CFA Charterholder.
Tracy is J. Stern & Co.’s Office Coordinator and senior receptionist. She builds on 20 years of experience in the financial services industry.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co., Tracy was Senior Receptionist and team assistant at Lazard Asset Management.
She has also worked at Watson, Farley & Williams Law Firm.
The Star Investment Fund (the “Fund”).
The Fund is a Luxembourg reserved alternative investment fund (fonds d’investissement alternatif réservé) organised as an investment company with variable capital (société d’investissement à capital variable) and formed as a public limited company (société anonyme) in accordance with the law of 23 July 2016 on Reserved Alternative Investment Funds (“RAIF”). The Company is an Alternative Investment Fund within the meaning of Article 1 of the Law of 12 July 2013 on alternative investment fund managers. The Fund’s alternative investment fund manager is MDO Management Company S.A (the “AIFM”). The AIFM is authorised and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier.
Shares in the Fund are not available to be marketed to the general public and for the avoidance of doubt excludes retail investors. This section of the website is only directed at investors that are Well-Informed Investors within the meaning of Article 2 of the RAIF, i.e. any professional investor (as defined in the AIFM Directive 2011/61/EU). In addition, if you are in the United Kingdom, the Fund is only being promoted to professional investors who fall within COBS 3.5 of the FCA Handbook (as may be amended from time to time). By accessing this part of the website, you confirm that you are such an investor. If you are unsure of your categorisation, you should seek professional advice.
The information in respect of the Fund available on this website (the “Information”) is intended for professional investors only as described above and is not intended for distribution to or use by any person or entity who are located in any country, state or jurisdiction where the Fund is not authorised for distribution or in which the dissemination of information regarding the Fund on the internet is not permitted. As such, distribution to other jurisdictions of the Information may be restricted by law, and persons into whose possession the Information comes into should inform themselves about, and observe, any such restrictions.
You understand that the information on this website does not constitute an offer or solicitation to subscribe for or acquire any shares in the Fund in any jurisdiction, nor does this information constitute as advice, a recommendation or an expression of our view as to whether a particular security or financial instrument is suitable for any investor accessing the website or meets their financial or any other objectives.
The value of the shares of the Fund may fall as well as rise and an investor may not get back the amount initially invested in the Fund. Any income that is derived from the investment contemplated herein may fluctuate. If you are considering investing in this Fund, ensure you read all the available Information and related Fund documentation for specific risks, ensuring you understand and accept the risk that you may lose some or all of your investments. Before making any investment decision, you should seek independent investment, legal, tax, accounting or other professional advice as appropriate. You may not have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service and Financial Services Compensation Scheme if you have a complaint and should speak to your professional advisor if you are concerned.
The World Stars Global Equity Fund (the “Fund”) is a company organised as a société d’investissement à capital variable and is registered under Part I of the 2010 Act relating to undertakings for collective investment. The Fund is regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier and registered under the number B 161924.
You understand that it is your responsibility as the investor, or your advisor, to ensure that the offering and sale of Fund shares complies with the relevant national and/or local law. You should inform yourself as to the applicable legal requirements, exchange control regulations and taxes in the countries of citizenship, residence or domicile. If you are in doubt about the suitability of this Fund you should seek advice from your investment advisor.
The Fund is not registered nor does it intend to register under the US Investment Company Act 1940, nor has its shares been registered under the US Securities Act 1933 and may therefore not be offered, sold, transferred or delivered directly or indirectly in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of or directed to persons who are residents or citizens of the United States (including persons who are “US Persons” under US federal income tax or securities laws) or who are located in any country, state or jurisdiction where the Fund is not authorised for distribution or in which the dissemination of information regarding the Fund on the internet is not permitted.
Investing in the Fund involves risk, including without limitation risk of total investment loss and other risks noted in the Fund’s Prospectus and applicable KIID document(s). Investors should be aware that past performance is no guarantee of future performance and returns.
Applications to invest in the Fund referred to on this website, should be based solely upon the information contained in the Prospectus and applicable KIID document(s). By accepting the terms of this website, you acknowledge that you will have read the relevant documentation prior to investing, as well as consulted with your advisors before making a decision. You should inform yourself as to the applicable legal requirements, exchange control regulations and taxes in the countries of citizenship, residence or domicile. To the extent the language of this disclaimer may be inconsistent with the language of the Fund’s prospectus or KIID, the language of the Fund’s prospectus shall supersede this disclaimer.
You understand that the information on this website does not constitute an offer or solicitation to subscribe for or acquire any shares in the Fund in any jurisdiction, nor does this information constitute as advice, a recommendation or an expression of our view as to whether any particular investment is suitable for any investor accessing the website or meets your financial or any other objectives. The value of the shares may fall as well as rise and an investor may not get back the amount initially invested in the Fund. Any income that is derived from the investment contemplated herein may fluctuate. If you are considering investing in this Fund, make sure you read all the available information on this website and related Fund documentation for specific risks, ensuring you understand and accept the risk that you may lose some or all of your investments. If you are in any doubt, please speak to your investment advisor to ensure you fully understand the nature of the investment and the risks involved. You may not have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service and Financial Services Compensation Scheme if you have a complaint and should speak to your advisor if you are concerned.
Elizabeth is a Non-Executive Director of VPC Specialty Lending Investments PLC, a former Member of Court of The University of Greenwich and past Member of the Board of the National Lottery Community Fund. She is Chairman of the Board of the Wye & Usk Foundation, Vice President & Member of Council of The Zoological Society of London, and Programme Committee member of WWF-UK. She is also a Senior Adviser to J Stern & Company Private Bank. Elizabeth is a steering Committee member of The 30% Club and Co-Chair of The 30% Club Higher Education Initiative. Elizabeth is a Freeman of the Goldsmiths’ Company. She graduated with a First Class Honours degree from The University of Glasgow.
Zhixin is a Partner and senior investment analyst at J. Stern & Co.
Zhixin uses her far-reaching investment experience in Emerging and Developed Markets to help drive our research efforts, identifying and analysing investment opportunities for client’s portfolios.
Prior to joining J Stern & Co., Zhixin was a Portfolio Manager at State Street Global Advisors/Rexiter running Global Emerging Market Equities and Asia ex Japan Equities portfolios, specialising in Greater China equities. She has 16 years equity investment experience of which two at Morgan Stanley managing the European Core portfolio, and eight at Newton Investment Management as a sector analyst specialising in oil and gas, chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Prior to her financial career, Zhixin worked as a scientist in Canada on subjects ranging from development of an artificial heart to advanced materials for batteries, an area in which she has been awarded three US patents.
A British national, Zhixin speaks English and Mandarin. She obtained her BSc (first class honours) and PhD from Imperial College London and her MBA from the University of Ottawa. She is a CFA Charterholder and a member of CFA Society of the UK.
Steve is the Director of Operations at J. Stern & Co.
Having joined the Firm in 2015, Steve spends his time in between London and Malta where he leads the operations of the Firm, with particular responsibility for Client Onboarding, middle/back office, risk and IT.
Previously, Steve was the Head of Operations of Halkin Investments, a London-based Multi Family Office. Before that Steve has 30 years of experience in senior operational roles at RIT Capital Partners, finnCap, City Credit Capital, El Oro Investment, Bryan Garnier & Co., Societe Generale and Hambros Bank Ltd.
Sarah is a portfolio manager at the firm. Sarah uses her extensive private client experience to assist our clients define and achieve their investment objectives.
Sarah builds on 10 years of financial services and consulting experience with Accenture and Salomon Smith Barney in London and Chicago. Sarah has vast experience in private client matters, focused on service offering, delivery and performance.
A French national, Sarah speaks French, English, German and Italian. She holds a MSc in Political Philosophy (First Class Honours) from the London School of Economics together with a BA in Philosophy (summa cum laude) and a BA in English (cum laude) from the Université de Paris X.
Sandy is an investment specialist within our client services and marketing team. He has a broad remit across substantial families, consultants, charities and endowments.
He joined the firm in 2016 following four years of client advisory work at Barclays Private Bank.
Previously he spent over 20 years on the ‘sell side’ with leading broking firms in London advising institutions in Europe and North America. He specialised in global beverages, food, leisure and consumer products and was a Managing Director in pan-European equity research at JP Morgan Cazenove.
He is qualified with both the CISI (PCIAM) and CII, holds an MSc in Leadership & Strategy from the London Business School, and earlier in his career completed a Short Service Commission in the Household Cavalry.
Katerina is a Partner of the Firm and a senior investment analyst. Katerina is also deputy portfolio manager for the Firm’s World Stars investment strategy.
Katerina draws on her extensive analysis skills to drive our research efforts, meeting with companies, management teams and analysing investment opportunities.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co. in 2012, Katerina was a Senior Equities Fund Manager at RCM, Allianz Global Investors in London, Frankfurt and Munich, where she led the Firm’s core stock-picking strategies based on a fundamental bottom-up driven approach. She has 12 years of equity investment experience and has previously covered the Global Consumer Discretionary and Staples, Energy as well as the Industrials and Materials sectors.
Katerina is a Greek national and is fluent in English, Greek, German and French. She holds a BSc from the University of Bath and a MSc in International Securities from the University of Reading.Katerina is a CFA Charterholder and a member of the Board of Directors of the CFA Society of the UK.
Jean-Yves is a Partner of J. Stern & Co. and the portfolio manager for the Firm’s multi-asset investment strategy as well as for the Firm’s football financing strategy.
Jean-Yves is an experienced investor working with our global clients to advise them on preserving and investing their wealth over time, taking into account their specific, multi-jurisdictional and often complex requirements.
Jean-Yves draws on 25 years of financial services experience focused on asset management, strategic advisory, equity research and trading with Goldman Sachs, Prudential of America, Nomura, Satellite Asset Management and Millenium Partners. For the four years before joining he was a co-founder and Chief Investment Officer of Halkin Investments, a London based multi-family office.
A French national, Jean-Yves speaks English and French. Jean-Yves has a PhD BD (all but dissertation) in Corporate Tax and Corporate Law from the University of Paris II Pantheon-Sorbonne.
Clay is a senior advisor at J. Stern & Co as a director of new business development. Prior to joining J. Stern & co., he acted in the same capacity at Stewart Asset Management in New York.
From 1982-2007, Clay was a member of the New York Futures Exchange, trading stock index futures proprietarily, and a member of the New York Stock Exchange, where he was one of a small cadre of members allowed to trade for their own account on the floor.
Clay is a graduate of the University of Virginia, B.A.
Giles is a Partner and Portfolio Manager at J. Stern & Co.
Giles is the Porfolio Manager for the US Stars strategy and is a Senior Analyst for the World Stars Global Equity strategy. His focus is in the Technology, Internet and Media sectors. His deep knowledge, understanding of the industries and rigorous analysis drives our research and delivers value to our client’s portfolios. He is a stock-picker with a fundamental bottom-up driven approach.
Prior to joining J. Stern & Co, Giles was an Investment Analyst at Henderson Global Investors where he specialised for many years in the Technology sector. During his time there, he also worked on the Henderson Global Growth fund with a focus on the Consumer sector.
He has also worked at Credit Suisse and HSBC in their investment banking divisions.
A British National, Giles read Law at the University of Edinburgh (including an exchange year at the Universite Paul Cezanne Aix-Marseille III) where he graduated with an LLB Hons (2:1). He also has an Masters in Intellectual Property Law LLM (Merit) from University College London.
Felicity helped us establish the firm’s efforts in Switzerland and managed our Swiss presence for ten years.
Now as a Senior Advisor she is a Holding Board Director and a Non-Executive Director of a number of the Group’s companies. She also helps with a number of other Group functions.
She draws on over 30 years of top managerial and senior executive experience within key institutions such as Credit Suisse Private Banking, Pictet & Cie, ABN AMRO and others, dealing with cross-border and regulatory issues. She also brings to us her far-reaching private client, family office, and trust related expertise to the benefit of the firm’s client
Felicity was Co-Founder and Chair of the Swiss & Liechtenstein STEP Federation and of the STEP Alpine Conference which debuted in 2017. She has been Chair of STEP Verein Zurich Centre and the STEP Verein and has acted as an expert to the Judges of the STEP Private Client Awards. In 2016 she received a STEP Founders Award for outstanding achievement. Currently she is a STEP Worldwide Council Member representing Switzerland.
A Swiss and British national, Felicity speaks English and French and has a working knowledge of German. She holds an LLB (Hons) from University College London and is a qualified non-practising Barrister. She is a certified TEP (Trusts and Estate Practitioner), and a certified Mediator.
Elizabeth (Lizzie) is a Senior Director on the Client team. She works primarily with our Private Clients and Intermediaries throughout the UK and Europe. Elizabeth has been with J. Stern & Co since 2014. Prior to this she was at Troy Asset Management. Elizabeth holds a BA from Newcastle University.
Ebru is a Senior Adviser of J. Stern & Co. and is responsible for managing some of the Firm’s relationships with clients and football clubs.
Ebru began her professional career in New York in Corporate Finance at Morgan Stanley. In 1992, she returned to Turkey as a senior manager at Citibank. In 1999 she joined AIG’s private equity fund as a VP.
AIG PE chose to invest in Galatasaray, a major Istanbul-based football club , of which Ebru has been a life-long fan. Since she was brought on in 2001, she has served as Galatasaray’s General Marketing Manager, the Marketing and Finance Group Head, and the Stadium General Manager. Following the merger of football, stadium, and marketing companies in 2010, Ebru was tasked with leading the merged entity, Galatasaray Sports Club, as the General Manager. She was named Executive of the Year by Stadium Business Awards in 2011.
In 2010, she became the first and, to date, only woman to be elected to the Executive Board of the European Club Association, and she served as the vice chairwoman of ECA’s Institutional Relations Working Group. A year later, she became the first and only female General Secretary of Turkish Football Federation. Ebru is passionate about leadership and gender equality, and, of course, the beautiful game. She is Chair of Women in Football, a network of professional women working in and around the football industry, and received the Making a Difference award by HBS Executive Education in 2018
Derek is a Senior Advisor at J Stern & Co. and assists the Firm with its business development activities.
He is Chairman of the Foundation Board for Lucy Cavendish College, Cambridge, as well as the College’s North American Committee and also works closely with the Pro Vice Chancellor for Business and Enterprise for Peterhouse College, Cambridge.
Derek is an active Honorary fellow of Cambridge University and a visiting Professor of Government, Media, and Political Science Studies at London South Bank University.
He is actively involved with several higher education initiatives including one on Diversity and Inclusion.
Catherine is a portfolio manager at J. Stern & Co. managing the Firm’s Emerging Market Bond capability as well as working with key clients of the Firm.
She has been an Emerging Market specialist since 1996 and has experience in Investment Banking on the Sales side covering European fund managers and Private Banks. In 2001, she made the transition to Wealth Management, and has worked for HSCB Group, Barclays Wealth and other investment boutiques, developing Emerging Market strategies for her clients.
Catherine graduated in 1990 from Hautes Etudes Commerciales (HEC) Paris with a Major in Finance.
Alexander is a Partner and Senior Relationship Manager at J. Stern & Co.
As an adviser and client relationship manager he builds on his extensive experience in wealth management and proprietary trading, including emerging markets foreign exchange and fixed income strategies, for corporates, entrepreneurs, private individuals and families.
Alexander started his career in 1992 with International Moscow Bank and has over 25 years of investment management experience as an Executive Director at UBS Wealth Management UK, Senior Vice President at Lombard Odier Darier Hentch UK Ltd., First Vice President at Merrill Lynch International Bank as well as a Director at Credit Suisse UK Ltd and Deputy Head of Treasury at ING Moscow.
As a UK/Russian National, Alexander speaks Russian, English, and Chinese and also has some understanding of French.
Alexander holds the equivalent of a MBA (in International Banking and Finance) from the Moscow State Institute of International Relations and had completed the Citibank Asset Management “Investment Management” program.
Abbey is a Client Associate. She works within the client team to support the client management and marketing efforts at J. Stern & Co., ensuring effective communication with the firm’s clients.
Abbey builds on 10 years of financial services experience in London. Prior to joining J. Stern & Co., Abbey was the Investor Relations Assistant at Och Ziff Capital Management, a leading global alternative Asset Manager. Abbey has also worked at Nomura and RBS.
She holds a BSC Hons in Zoology from the University of Nottingham.
Tom is a Managing Partner of J. Stern & Co., building on his extensive experience in wealth management and the Law to ensure the professional delivery of our services. Tom helps our clients achieve their objectives by running the firm’s legal, compliance and operations functions.
Tom builds on 20 years of experience in financial services, most recently as a Partner and Chief Operating Officer at Stanhope Capital, a London-based wealth manager. He has extensive experience in private investments, debt financing, derivatives and investment products, including from Morgan Stanley, and has been chairman of a listed investment company. He started his career as a lawyer, working at Freshfields, before setting up and building financial services practice groups at Shearman & Sterling and Dechert.
A British national, Tom speaks English and German. He has an MA from Worcester College, Oxford University and MBA (with distinction) from INSEAD.
Chris is a Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of the Firm. Chris is also the portfolio manager of the Firm’s World Stars investment strategy.
Chris delivers long-term investments for the Stern family and for the firm’s clients based on the same principles he has successfully implemented over his investment career. As a Managing Partner, Chris leads the firm’s investment practice to deliver value to our clients.
Chris has 23 years of financial services experience of which 19 years investing in stocks based on a fundamental value approach with Merian Capital, Magnetar, Lansdowne Partners and Perry Capital. Prior to that he was in investment banking with Lazard Frères in New York.
Chris speaks German, English, French and Spanish. He holds a BA from Yale University and a MBA from Harvard Business School. Chris also chairs and is a trustee of the Warburg Charitable Trust.
The World Stars Global Equity Fund (the “Fund”) is a company organised as a société d’investissement à capital variable and is registered under Part I of the 2010 Act relating to undertakings for collective investment. The Fund is regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier and registered under the number B 161924.
You understand that it is your responsibility as the investor, or your advisor, to ensure that the offering and sale of Fund shares complies with the relevant national and/or local law. You should inform yourself as to the applicable legal requirements, exchange control regulations and taxes in the countries of citizenship, residence or domicile. If you are in doubt about the suitability of this Fund you should seek advice from your investment advisor.
The Fund is not registered nor does it intend to register under the US Investment Company Act 1940, nor has its shares been registered under the US Securities Act 1933 and may therefore not be offered, sold, transferred or delivered directly or indirectly in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of or directed to persons who are residents or citizens of the United States (including persons who are “US Persons” under US federal income tax or securities laws) or who are located in any country, state or jurisdiction where the Fund is not authorised for distribution or in which the dissemination of information regarding the Fund on the internet is not permitted.
Investing in the Fund involves risk, including without limitation risk of total investment loss and other risks noted in the Fund’s Prospectus and applicable KIID document(s). Investors should be aware that past performance is no guarantee of future performance and returns.
Applications to invest in the Fund referred to on this website, should be based solely upon the information contained in the Prospectus and applicable KIID document(s). By accepting the terms of this website, you acknowledge that you will have read the relevant documentation prior to investing, as well as consulted with your advisors before making a decision. You should inform yourself as to the applicable legal requirements, exchange control regulations and taxes in the countries of citizenship, residence or domicile. To the extent the language of this disclaimer may be inconsistent with the language of the Fund’s prospectus or KIID, the language of the Fund’s prospectus shall supersede this disclaimer.
You understand that the information on this website does not constitute an offer or solicitation to subscribe for or acquire any shares in the Fund in any jurisdiction, nor does this information constitute as advice, a recommendation or an expression of our view as to whether any particular investment is suitable for any investor accessing the website or meets your financial or any other objectives. The value of the shares may fall as well as rise and an investor may not get back the amount initially invested in the Fund. Any income that is derived from the investment contemplated herein may fluctuate. If you are considering investing in this Fund, make sure you read all the available information on this website and related Fund documentation for specific risks, ensuring you understand and accept the risk that you may lose some or all of your investments. If you are in any doubt, please speak to your investment advisor to ensure you fully understand the nature of the investment and the risks involved. You may not have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service and Financial Services Compensation Scheme if you have a complaint and should speak to your advisor if you are concerned.
The Star Investment Fund (the “Fund”).
The Fund is a Luxembourg reserved alternative investment fund (fonds d’investissement alternatif réservé) organised as an investment company with variable capital (société d’investissement à capital variable) and formed as a public limited company (société anonyme) in accordance with the law of 23 July 2016 on Reserved Alternative Investment Funds (“RAIF”). The Company is an Alternative Investment Fund within the meaning of Article 1 of the Law of 12 July 2013 on alternative investment fund managers. The Fund’s alternative investment fund manager is Waystone Management Company S.A (the “AIFM”). The AIFM is authorised and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier.
Shares in the Fund are not available to be marketed to the general public and for the avoidance of doubt excludes retail. This section of the website is only directed at investors that are Well-Informed Investors within the meaning of Article 2 of the RAIF, i.e. any professional investor (as defined in the AIFM Directive 2011/61/EU). In addition, if you are in the United Kingdom, the Fund is only being promoted to investors who fall within COBS 4.12 of the FCA Handbook (as may be amended from time to time). By accessing this part of the website you confirm that you are such an investor. If you are unsure of your categorisation, you should seek professional advice.
The Fund is not registered nor does it intend to register under the US Investment Company Act 1940, nor has its shares been registered under the US Securities Act 1933 and may therefore not be offered, sold, transferred or delivered directly or indirectly in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of or directed to persons who are residents or citizens of the United States (including persons who are “US Persons” under US federal income tax or securities laws) or who are located in any country, state or jurisdiction where the Fund is not authorised for distribution or in which the dissemination of information regarding the Fund on the internet is not permitted.
You understand that it is your responsibility as the investor, or your advisor, to ensure that the offering and sale of Fund shares complies with the relevant national and/or local law. You should inform yourself as to the applicable legal requirements, exchange control regulations and taxes in the countries of citizenship, residence or domicile. If you are in doubt about the suitability of this Fund you should seek advice from your investment advisor.
You understand that the information on this website does not constitute an offer or solicitation to subscribe for or acquire any shares in the Fund in any jurisdiction, nor does this information constitute as advice, a recommendation or an expression of our view as to whether a particular security or financial instrument is suitable for any investor accessing the website or meets their financial or any other objectives.
The value of the shares of the Fund may fall as well as rise and an investor may not get back the amount initially invested in the Fund. Any income that is derived from the investment contemplated herein may fluctuate. If you are considering investing in this Fund, make sure you read all the available information on this website and related Fund documentation for specific risks, ensuring you understand and accept the risk that you may lose some or all of your investments. If you are in any doubt, please speak to your investment advisor to ensure you fully understand the nature of the investment and the risks involved. You may not have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service and Financial Services Compensation Scheme if you have a complaint and should speak to your advisor if you are concerned.
Jérôme is a Managing Partner of J. Stern & Co.
As a Managing Partner, he provides overall guidance to the Firm and represents the Stern family’s long-standing investment approach and integrity. Jérôme works with the Firm’s clients to define their investment objectives as well as how we can help them achieve those objectives over the long-term.
Jérôme draws on 28 years of investment banking and financial services experience with Nomura, Lehman Brothers, Credit Suisse and Salomon Brothers in London, Zurich and New York. He has long-standing experience focused on family offices, wealth management and asset management.
A Swiss and French national, Jérôme speaks French, English, German and Italian. He holds a Lic Oec HSG from the University of St. Gallen, a CEMS degree in International Management and an MBA from the University of Chicago’s Graduate School of Business. Jérôme is also a trustee and Chair of the Development Committee of the Strawberry Hill Trust.
