4 minAsset management and golf: discipline, purpose and passion
Golf and asset management are closely connected by the need to pursue a course with perseverance, long-term vision and a keen interest in strategy. Nicolas Vendredi, Private Banking Adviser at Banque de Luxembourg Belgium, illustrates a unique synergy between the sport and the profession which is also his passion. In this interview with Golf de Sept Fontaines, we learn how he combines financial expertise with a long-standing love for golf.
Golf 7 Fontaines: Nicolas, you’re both a golf enthusiast and a Private Banking Adviser. Are there any similarities between the two fields?
Nicolas Vendredi: Definitely! Golf and asset management share many fundamental values, including the essential qualities of perseverance, discipline and long-term vision. When playing golf, you have to identify and plan your course, prepare for challenges and take a strategic approach in order to win. Similarly, asset management is about making well-considered decisions, setting clear objectives and preparing strategically for the future, while being able to adapt to unforeseen circumstances. Success doesn't come instantly in either case; it requires consistent effort and long-term commitment.
Golf 7 Fontaines: You started your golf career at a very young age. Did this passion influence your approach to wealth management?
Nicolas Vendredi: I started playing golf in Falnuée (a golf course south of Brussels) when I was nine, and from my first experiences on the greens, I knew that it was much more than a sport. Golf has taught me to be patient, to analyse every situation in detail and to strive for excellence at all times, while remaining humble in the face of challenges. I have applied these same values to my banking career. For example, in private banking you need to take the time to listen to clients, understand their needs and aspirations, and build a wealth management strategy that is tailored for each individual’s situation. Through golf, I also learned the importance of setting realistic goals and measuring progress on a regular basis.
Golf 7 Fontaines: You are also a top-level competitor with several titles to your name. How did your sporting experiences prepare you for managing complex financial situations?
Nicolas Vendredi : Sport, especially golf, taught me how to handle pressure and stay focused, even in critical moments. When you’re playing in a major competition, every stroke counts and you have to be mentally prepared for the unexpected. Asset management can also be stressful, especially when helping a client to make decisions that will affect the future of their family or business. The ability to make clear-headed decisions under pressure and face challenges calmly is a valuable asset. Golf has also taught me the importance of preparation. Before each competition, you need to understand the course, assess the conditions and plan for every situation. It’s exactly the same in wealth management, where every client’s situation is unique and every decision must be carefully considered.
Golf 7 Fontaines: You have been with Banque de Luxembourg Belgium for a few years now. Which of the Bank’s values and commitments stand out for you, especially in relation to the partnership with Golf de Sept Fontaines?
Nicolas Vendredi: The partnership is a perfect reflection of the values we uphold at Banque de Luxembourg Belgium: attentiveness, agility and consideration. Just like golf, asset management requires thorough understanding of a client's needs and an ability to offer personalised solutions. Banque de Luxembourg Belgium stays true to its heritage, and long-term relationships with our clients are the cornerstone of our approach. As a patron of Golf de Sept Fontaines (near Brussels), the Bank is both supporting a sport that we cherish and contributing to high-quality events that strengthen ties between our clients and build a real community. The annual tournament organised by the Bank and sponsored events such as Ladies’ Day and the season’s Closing Prize are good opportunities to highlight the social connections and team spirit that underpin both asset management and sport.
Golf 7 Fontaines: Do you have any advice for people who wish to enhance their wealth, particularly with a view to passing it on?
Nicolas Vendredi: Inheritance is a complex subject that needs special attention. Firstly, I would advise them not to wait too long before starting to plan. As in golf, you must have a clear vision of your goal from the outset and take a strategic approach. You need to take stock of your assets, define your expectations and, above all, call on the right experts to tailor the strategy to each situation. Estate planning is a continuous process and needs to be re-evaluated regularly to accommodate life’s changes. By being proactive and making informed decisions, you can avoid many pitfalls in the future.
Golf 7 Fontaines: Finally, what role does passion play in your career?
Nicolas Vendredi: Passion is what drives my daily commitment. Whether it’s for golf or private banking, it is passion that drives me to exceed my clients’ expectations and provide them with excellent service and tailor-made solutions. Without passion, it’s hard to reach the highest level in any field. It’s what makes the difference in professional life, just as in sport.
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