Three titans of the European financial industry appeared in a rare on-stage interview at the Financial News’ 20th Anniversary Awards for Excellence in European Finance on May 26. An edited version of the transcript shows how they are optimistic about the future of finance, see opportunities in asset management and do not fear the battle for talent.

Chair:Gren Manuel, editor, Financial News
Panellists:Samir Assaf, chief executive, global banking and markets, HSBC; Alan Howard, co-founder, Brevan Howard Asset Management; Xavier Rolet, chief executive, London Stock Exchange