lts time for us to fully
realise the potential
of our position
within F&A
(M ki l4\^l IJT Xiport
r. nr i>-:- niw
Sipko Schat:
increasing concern about our climate, bio-fuels,
although carefully monitored, are still an option and
commodities and agricultural resources are more and
more considered as asset classes. It is time for us to fully
realisethe potential of our position within F&A.
Rabobank wishes to be a top 5 F&A bank in each region it
operates in. To achieve these goals, concrete actions need
to be implemented to create optimum alignment across
the organisation. And a lot is already in progress. However,
it is not only about re-shaping our focus. An important part
of being a true F&A leader also lies in our ability to offer
innovative products to this particular sector. Launched in
November 2008, Rabo FARM is such an initiative. As a joint
venture between Rl and Bouwfonds Asset Management,
Rabo FARM arranges long-term investment funds for
inverstors worldwide in rural resources and primary
production. By doing this, Rabo FARM tries to provide
equity support to local farmers by either purchasing
majority stakes in their existing land, or investing to acquire
additional farmland, with the farmer taking a minority share
whenever possible. But there is more. Aligned to our roots
as a farmers' bank, and extensive F&A advisory expertise, we
started a joint-venture with Rothschild. 'This co-operation
will be instrumental in further developing our food and
agribusiness advisory franchise globally," says Sipko Schat.
"It's a great opportunity to create relationships with new
customers that are high on our target list. Under the
agreement, both fïrms will pool their respective industry
knowledge, resources and relationships while expanding
their respective geographic reach and cliënt base through
an enhanced breadth of services. This agreement represents
a step foward in the successful food and drink franchise of
both Rabobank and Rothschild."
ISSUE 19 APRIL '00 THE WORD 9