Serious allegations of sexual misconduct have emerged against Crispin Odey, the founder and proprietor of Odey Asset Management (OAM), spanning a troubling 25-year period. Thirteen women have come forward, accusing Odey of sexual assault or harassment. The accused has vehemently denied all charges.
Following the shocking revelations, OAM’s executive committee has taken decisive action, announcing that Crispin Odey will no longer be associated with the firm financially or personally. While he continues to maintain his innocence, the partnership is moving forward without him, and management responsibilities will be assumed by his partners.
The impact of these allegations has also rippled through the company’s external relationships. OAM’s prime brokers, including reputable Wall Street firms Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, and Morgan Stanley, have initiated a review of their connections with the asset management firm. Some have already severed ties in response to the allegations.
Notably, this is not the first time Crispin Odey has faced legal scrutiny. In 2021, he was acquitted of indecent assault charges by a British court, a fact he pointedly mentioned in response to the recent report. Odey dismissed the publication as a mere “rehash of an old article” and expressed frustration at what he considers unsubstantiated claims.
Crispin Odey’s prominence in the financial world is underscored by his strong political affiliations. As a well-known supporter of Brexit and a political donor to the Conservative Party, his actions and reputation have been subject to public scrutiny for years.
The repercussions of these allegations are not limited to Odey himself but extend to the firm he established back in 1991. In light of the tarnished reputation, OAM has reportedly made plans to change its name, signaling a determined effort to distance itself from the controversy.
The departure of Crispin Odey and the ongoing investigations into the allegations are likely to shape the future trajectory of Odey Asset Management. As the firm navigates through this challenging period, stakeholders and the broader financial community will closely monitor its response to the allegations and its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful work environment.