Florence Tournier is Head of Europe for the Strategic Equity division at Churchill Capital, where she has been working for 20 years in the equity markets sector, particularly with hedge funds. Her professional career has been accompanied by a strong philanthropic commitment: she is co-chair of the Sohn Monaco Investment Conference, an event that combines financial excellence with support for pediatric cancer research. After attending the London edition of the conference in 2016, she decided, together with her colleague Justin Hilbert, to create the Monegasque branch of the Sohn Conference, which held its first edition in 2017.
What particularly appealed to you about the Sohn conference format, and why did you propose it to Monaco?
We were immediately attracted by the analytical depth of the format. In around ten minutes, each manager presents an investment idea with such precision that you feel you are entering their mind, like an instant analysis engine. This is rare and valuable in this field. And then, the strong philanthropic focus made us want to bring this model to Monaco, with its active financial ecosystem and strategic location between Milan, Paris, and London.
When is the next conference?
Yes, it's the fifth edition in Monaco and will take place all day at the Yacht Club des Monaco.
How do you select the financial speakers? What qualities do you look for in the investment ideas presented?
We invite renowned managers, both men and women, from all over Europe. Recognized in the world of finance for their expertise and the relevance of their analysis, they bring valuable insight through their investment ideas on the economic, social, and environmental developments and challenges shaping our societies.
Is there a common theme running through the strategies presented this year?
There is no set theme, although trends can sometimes be identified. This year in New York, for example, the desire for diversification – particularly in favor of emerging markets – and the impact of US foreign trade policies were recurring themes. The unique feature of the Sohn Conferences, and therefore also of the Monaco event, is that the ideas presented and topics discussed are only revealed on the day of the event. These presentations – broadcast live by Bloomberg – can sometimes cause share prices to rise or fall, depending on the ideas presented!
In your opinion, how can these investment ideas inspire or guide the strategies of financial players in Europe and beyond?
It is rare to see managers of this caliber speak publicly about a specific idea in such detail, allowing us to understand their approach and methodology. It is a privilege that they are willing to share. These ideas can provide a new angle of analysis, reinforce a line of thinking or, conversely, refute an idea. The opportunity to meet these managers and engage in further discussion during various highlights of the day is an added bonus of the conference.
Can you remind us of the philanthropic objectives of the conference and the amounts raised since its inception in Monaco?
Sohn Monaco embodies the meeting of finance and philanthropy, for a concrete and lasting impact. This conference appeals to a sense of community, brought together here around a cause that affects us all, to advance research. We have already raised over €345,000 thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, donors, and participants.
Do you have any specific examples of medical or scientific projects that have been funded thanks to previous conferences?
All funds raised at the conference are donated to pediatric cancer research projects. Over the years, Sohn Monaco has supported the work of INSERM/C3M at Nice University Hospital on lymphomagenesis and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the ITCC consortium of researchers in Paris, and the Scientific Center of Monaco.
How do you manage to maintain a balance between a highly technical event on finance and a deep humanitarian commitment?
We make sure that the conference incorporates both dimensions throughout the day: this year, for example, 10 fund managers will present their investment ideas. These presentations will be interspersed with contributions from several special guests, who will talk about their inspiring careers, their experiences and their commitment, providing a personal reminder of the Sohn Foundation's primary mission.
In your opinion, what is the specific role of the Principality in promoting this event?
We are delighted to receive the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II every year, who will honor us with his presence at this 5th edition. The Minister of Finance is also part of our panel of speakers. This mark of confidence allows us to continue this wonderful adventure.
There are currently nine Sohn Conferences on five continents, and we are proud that Monaco has joined the list of these major cities. Its geographical location and growing financial center make it a destination of choice that we are happy to promote.
What connection have you established with the AMAF (Monegasque Financial Activities Association)? Does this collaboration have a direct impact on the organization or positioning of the conference?
The AMAF has supported Sohn Monaco since its first edition, demonstrating that finance can and must serve the common good. By communicating with its members, the AMAF enables us to place Sohn Monaco on the agenda of financial institutions as an event not to be missed.
Do you plan to strengthen synergies with local medical or financial institutions to further increase the conference's impact in Monaco?
It is indeed our desire to develop these synergies and build bridges between members of Monegasque society. We also attach great importance to welcoming a key player from the Principality to the stage before each of our financial speakers: medical institutions (CHPG), economic institutions (AMAF, AMFiD, MEB, MWFI), social institutions (Think Tank, SheCanHeCan, Pink Ribbon) and educational institutions (IUM, ISM).
