The Association Française de la Finance (AFFI), or the French Finance Association, is a leading academic organization dedicated to the advancement of financial research and education in France. Founded several decades ago, AFFI serves as a vital platform for academics, practitioners, and policymakers to connect, share knowledge, and contribute to the development of the field of finance.
AFFI’s primary mission revolves around fostering high-quality research in all areas of finance, including asset pricing, corporate finance, financial econometrics, market microstructure, and behavioral finance. It achieves this through several key initiatives. A central element is the organization of an annual international conference, typically held in a different French city each year. This conference draws hundreds of researchers from around the world, providing a forum for the presentation and discussion of cutting-edge research papers. The conference also features keynote addresses from prominent figures in finance, as well as workshops and tutorials on specific topics.
Beyond the annual conference, AFFI also supports research through various awards and grants. These awards recognize outstanding contributions to the field of finance, and the grants provide funding for researchers to pursue innovative projects. Furthermore, AFFI publishes a highly regarded academic journal, the *Finance*, which publishes original research articles in both French and English. This journal serves as an important outlet for researchers to disseminate their findings to a wider audience. The *Finance* journal is vital to providing local research and supporting french academics.
AFFI actively promotes the exchange of ideas between academia and the financial industry. It achieves this by organizing workshops and seminars that bring together researchers and practitioners to discuss current issues and challenges in the financial markets. These events provide a valuable opportunity for academics to gain insights into the practical realities of the industry, and for practitioners to benefit from the latest academic research. This interaction improves both practice and theory.
AFFI plays a critical role in shaping financial education in France. The association works closely with universities and business schools to promote the development of high-quality finance programs. It also provides resources and support for students pursuing careers in finance. By fostering excellence in financial education, AFFI contributes to the development of a skilled workforce that can drive innovation and growth in the financial sector.
In summary, the Association Française de la Finance is a cornerstone of the French finance community. Its commitment to research, education, and collaboration makes it an indispensable resource for academics, practitioners, and policymakers alike. Through its various activities, AFFI contributes significantly to the advancement of the field of finance and the development of the French financial sector.