SKEMA Forms a New Partnership with Groupe Crystal and Launches a New Chair

The chair will focus on three key areas: education and teaching, research perspectives, and knowledge transfer, aiming to:

• Spread best practices in wealth management to young professionals and the sector through joint actions.
• Support research that explores ESG-related challenges and makes the profession more impactful.
• Encourage sustainable and responsible investment.

Florencio Lopez de Silanes, renowned finance professor at SKEMA and director of the new chair, commented: “The Crystal x SKEMA Chair in Responsible Wealth Management and Sustainable Finance aims to deepen academic work to enhance our understanding of the challenges faced by business leaders, wealth managers supporting them, and investors. The chair will also help students strengthen their knowledge and practices regarding ESG and finance.”

Benoist Lombard, Deputy CEO of Groupe Crystal, added: “The launch of this new chair in partnership with SKEMA Business School reflects Groupe Crystal's ongoing commitment to responsible financial education. Contributing to the promotion of best practices for the benefit of our ecosystem is part of our group’s DNA, and we are delighted to collaborate with SKEMA’s researchers.”

Shaping the Future of Wealth Management and Sustainable Finance

Led by Professor Lopez de Silanes, the chair will engage in numerous activities, from lectures and research on European business transfers to exploring the link between private equity and ESG criteria. Additionally, a white paper will be published to raise awareness, alongside conferences and webinars bringing together practitioners and academics. This initiative strengthens SKEMA’s commitment to fostering responsible financial education and developing forward-thinking professionals, while deepening its ties with Groupe Crystal to shape the future of wealth management and sustainable finance.