Our History
A long-term commitment to execution excellence
Originally established by the British Crown, we can trace our roots back to 1749, and have provided financial services from our London base since 1833. This long history of commitment to excellence means we have an extensive network of global partners and the expertise to deliver strong and consistent returns and enhanced client experience.
The first joint agents general for crown colonies were appointed by the British government to manage grants, raise capital and provide procurement services
Began raising capital by floating loan bonds on the London securities market.
By 1930 Crown Agents had raised £450m for its clients through more than 200 loans.
The rules governing Crown Agents’ client base were relaxed, allowing relationships with fully independent countries – Iraq becoming the first.
Managed the world’s first sovereign wealth fund.
Crown Agents appointed by DFID to provide management, administration and banking services for disbursement of UK Aid.
Crown Agents Financial Services Limited was established to act as a banker to Crown Agents and its clients.
Crown Agents Financial Services Limited changes name to Crown Agents Bank.
Crown Agents Asset Management changes name to Crown Agents Investment Management Limited.
Crown Agents Bank appointed to panel of 20 banks authorised to arrange and administer loans under UK Export Finance’s £3billion Direct Lending Facility.
Acquired by funds advised by Helios Investment Partners
Launch of Crown Agents Bank’s FX trading platform, EMpowerFX.