The Ranger learnt some fascinating facts about Jon Abando at the JP Morgan press drinks last week. The loans aficionado is a keen chef and can whip up a mean black squid risotto, we have seen the photographic evidence!
Abando is also a fan of the Spanish tipple of coca cola and red wine. The Ranger has sampled this odd concoction — native to the Basque region in northern Spain where it is called kalimotxo — and is also a fan.
Although the event was a corporate press drinks (which are typically quite stiff) it was an unexpectedly jovial affair. Ben Thompson was spotted giggling in one corner of the room, having a jolly old time and getting in the festive spirit.
The upbeat tone of the JP event was countered by the LMA’s final seminar of the year on Wednesday night.
Lloyd’s Stuart Moon, who was chairing the panel, opened the discussion saying: “it may not be that cold outside but I am sure we can make you feel a wintry chill by the end of this session!”
The conversation did have a chill to it, especially when the panellists counted up the headwinds for 2017 such as the elections across Europe and the uncertain future of a new US president, among others.
Santander’s Itziar Letamendi was bullish about 2017 but HSBC’s Tim Spray could only muster a “cautiously optimistic” outlook.
The Ranger will be wrapping up warm for the expected winter of 2017.
Congratulations also are in order for Nick Voisey and Amelia Slocombe of the Loan Market Association, for putting together a veritable encyclopedia to mark the LMA’s 20th anniversary. Some 352 pages of thrilling loan market facts. Consider your Christmas quiz covered!