Mikael Ericson was appointed head of Handelsbanken Capital Markets in 2003.

His task was to create a true investment bank.

   He notes, "We decided that we would not be satisfied in just creating one of the leading Nordic investment banks. Instead, our goal was to be the very best investment bank."

     The following year, Capital Markets became the largest Nordic player in significant areas within corporate finance. In 2005, Capital Markets also became the largest player in IPOs and was awarded the title "Best Nordic equity analysis". This year, it won recognition as best Nordic foreign exchange bank.

     Michael adds, "We are also the leading player in syndicated loans and structured products - we have over half of the Nordic warrant market. According to Reuters, we are ranked number three in the world in currency forecasts. And there is much more."

     Mikael Ericson finds that the successes have arrived almost quicker than expected, saying,

     "However, being the best Nordic investment bank is a constantly changing goal. We must make the right decisions every day. At the same time, we work under unique conditions with the support of one of the world's strongest banks. Handelsbanken and its branch office operations represent a key factor in our success. There is much in our operations that can be copied, but none of our competitors has 600 equally dedicated branch managers, who represent a well-developed collaboration that generates so much fine business.

     Handelsbanken Capital Markets will have its own board, with Kjell Ormegard as chairman.

     Handelsbanken Capital Markets currently has about 500 employees in seven countries. Offices are located in Stockholm, Oslo, Copenhagen, Helsinki, Singapore, London and New York.

 

 

 

Mikael Ericson, Handelsbanken Capital Markets	+46 8 701 4356
Kjell Ormegard, Handelsbanken Capital Markets	+46 8 701 1736
Pär Boman, President and group chief executive	+46 8  22 92 20