Goldman, Exane and Schroders cut ties with Odey Asset Management after assault claims
Goldman Sachs, Exane, and Schroders have all cut ties with Odey Asset Management following allegations of sexual assault against its founder, Crispin Odey. The hedge fund manager has been accused of harassment and abuse by 13 women, which has led to a number of investors severing their relationships with the firm.
Schroders had been selling down its exposure to Odey Swan over the past couple of months, but completely offloaded the position after the allegations came to light. Canada Life also announced that it would be cutting ties with Odey Asset Management.
This move follows similar actions taken by JP Morgan and Morgan Stanley, who have also reviewed their prime broking ties with Odey Asset Management. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is currently investigating the firm over the allegations.
Odey was one of the highest-earning hedge fund managers in 2018 when his company returned 53%, but has since suffered three years of losses due to short-driven bets. Forbes estimated Odey earned $200 million in 2017.
The allegations against Odey have raised questions about the culture of the hedge fund industry and the treatment of women in the workplace. The case highlights the importance of companies taking allegations of harassment and abuse seriously and taking appropriate action to address them.