Institute for Law and Finance (ILF) – Goethe University Frankfurt

Background

The Institute for Law and Finance (ILF) was established in 2002 as a non-profit foundation by Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, with support from prominent institutions including leading commercial banks, international law firms, the Frankfurt Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the City of Frankfurt, the State of Hesse, the European Central Bank, and the Deutsche Bundesbank.

Located in Frankfurt, a major European financial hub, the ILF provides interdisciplinary training to lawyers, senior management, and executives worldwide. It serves as a policy center in the legislative process by offering forums for discussions and exchanges between academia and practitioners.

Key Strategic Focus

The ILF's strategic focus encompasses:

Interdisciplinary Education: Offering programs that integrate law and finance to equip professionals with comprehensive knowledge in both fields.

International Orientation: Attracting a diverse student body and faculty from over 22 countries, fostering a global learning environment.

Practical Training: Incorporating internships with leading international institutions to provide real-world experience.

Policy Engagement: Serving as a platform for dialogue between academia, policymakers, and the financial industry to influence legislative processes.

Financials and Funding

As a non-profit foundation, the ILF operates with support from Goethe University Frankfurt and various prominent institutions. Specific financial details are not publicly disclosed.

Academic Programs

LL.M. Finance Program

The ILF offers a one-year postgraduate program leading to an LL.M. in Finance, designed for graduates with degrees in law, business, or economics. The program features:

Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Courses covering international financial law with emphasis on the EU and the United States.

Practical Training: A seven to eight-week internship with public and private institutions, including international law firms, banks, and central banks.

International Exchange: Student exchange programs with institutions such as Columbia Law School, FGV Direito Rio, and Amsterdam Business School.

LL.M. International Finance Program

Launched in 2014, this program targets graduates from Asia holding degrees in law, business, or economics. It offers:

Specialized Training: Focus on international and European banking, securities, and finance law.

Practice-Oriented Approach: Emphasis on practical skills relevant to the Asian financial markets.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The ILF leverages Goethe University's facilities, including the House of Finance, to provide students with access to state-of-the-art resources. The House of Finance serves as a hub for study, research, and social interaction, enhancing the educational experience.

Leadership Team

Prof. Dr. Andreas Cahn: Executive Director of the ILF and Endowment Funds Commerzbank Professor at Goethe University Frankfurt.

Prof. Dr. Manfred Wandt: Director of the Institute for Insurance Law at Goethe University Frankfurt.

Governing Boards

Board of Trustees

Mr. Antonio Sainz de Vicuna: Former General Counsel, European Central Bank.

Mr. Hans Eichel: Former Federal Minister of Finance.

Prof. Dr. Bernd Fahrholz: Honorary Senator, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main.

Prof. Dr. Thomas Gasteyer: Of Counsel, Clifford Chance.

Dr. Hendrik Haag: Partner, Hengeler Mueller (Chairman).

Mr. Felix Hufeld: President, Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (BaFin).

Prof. Dr. Jan-P. Krahnen: Professor at the Department of Business & Economics, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main.

Mr. Hermann-Josef Lamberti: Former Member of the Board of Managing Directors, Deutsche Bank.

Mr. Fausto Parente: Executive Director, European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority.

Dr. Thomas Schäfer: Minister of Finance, State of Hesse.

Prof. Dr. Rudolf Steinberg: Former President, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main.

Mr. Carl-Ludwig Thiele: Member of the Executive Board, Deutsche Bundesbank.

Mr. Karlheinz Weimar: Former Minister of Finance, State of Hesse.

Prof. Dr. Birgitta Wolff: President, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main.

Prof. Dr. Chiara Zilioli: General Counsel, European Central Bank.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The ILF operates within the specialized niche of interdisciplinary legal and financial education. The demand for professionals with combined expertise in law and finance is growing, driven by the complexities of global financial markets and regulatory environments.

Competitor Analysis

Frankfurt School of Finance & Management: A private university offering a range of programs in finance and management. It is recognized for its research and executive education programs.

EBS Universität für Wirtschaft und Recht: Offers programs in business and law, known for its entrepreneurial focus and strong alumni network.

Center for Financial Studies (CFS): An independent research institute affiliated with Goethe University, focusing on finance research and serving as a forum for dialogue between academia, policymakers, and the financial industry.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The ILF collaborates with various institutions to enhance its programs:

International Exchange Programs: Partnerships with Columbia Law School, FGV Direito Rio, and Amsterdam Business School for student exchanges.

Internship Placements: Collaborations with leading international law firms, banks, and central banks to provide practical training opportunities.

Operational Insights

The ILF's strategic location in Frankfurt, combined with its interdisciplinary curriculum and strong industry connections, positions it uniquely in the market. Its small class sizes and international orientation offer a personalized and globally relevant educational experience.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The ILF aims to:

Expand International Reach: Attract a more diverse student body and establish additional international partnerships.

Enhance Program Offerings: Develop new courses addressing emerging trends in law and finance, such as sustainable finance and fintech.

Strengthen Industry Engagement: Deepen collaborations with industry partners to provide students with cutting-edge insights and opportunities.

Contact Information

Website: www.ilf-frankfurt.de

Address: Institute for Law and Finance, Goethe University Frankfurt, Campus Westend, House of Finance, Theodor-W.-Adorno-Platz 3, D-60629 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.