Baillie Gifford

Did Baillie Gifford always call Edinburgh home? Absolutely. Right here in Edinburgh, at Calton Square on Greenside Row, stands Baillie Gifford. This investment management firm, wholly owned by its partners, has deep roots in this city. Founded in 1908 by Colonel Augustus Baillie and Carlyle Gifford, Baillie Gifford’s first office, with its five clerks, was located on Hill Street. The firm quickly transitioned from law to investment, laying the foundation for the global company it is today. Baillie Gifford’s century-long history is entwined with Edinburgh’s own story. In 1909, just a year after its founding, Baillie Gifford established the Straits Mortgage and Trust Company Limited. This venture, initially focused on lending to rubber planters in Malaya and Ceylon, reflects the firm’s early global reach. It was later renamed The Scottish Mortgage and Trust Limited in 1913. The two World Wars tested the firm’s resilience, but Baillie Gifford persevered. Even the challenging economic conditions of the 1970s couldn’t halt the company’s growth. By its centenary in 2008, Baillie Gifford had expanded to New York and London, managing over £50 billion in assets for a diverse international clientele. The firm’s commitment to its birthplace is undeniable. Its headquarters remains in Edinburgh, even as it operates offices in cities like Amsterdam, Dublin, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, London, New York, Shanghai, Toronto, and Zurich. Baillie Gifford’s success is built on its unique structure and long-term vision. As a partnership, it can prioritize client needs without the pressure of external shareholders. This focus has allowed Baillie Gifford to not only thrive but also contribute to the development of impactful companies. More than just an investment firm, Baillie Gifford is a patron of the arts and a supporter of literary festivals. This dedication reflects the company’s deep curiosity and commitment to intellectual exploration. It’s this very curiosity that drives their investment strategies. They read widely and seek out new ideas. Baillie Gifford even sponsors the prestigious Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction. While controversies have arisen regarding their sponsorships, their dedication to nurturing intellectual curiosity remains evident.