
First Boston Corp has undergone significant evolution and growth over the years. The company was founded in 1960 by John J. McCloy, a prominent banker and diplomat.
First Boston Corp's early success was largely due to its innovative approach to investment banking. The company's first major deal was the $1.5 billion sale of the United States Steel Corporation to the U.S. government.
In the 1970s, First Boston Corp expanded its operations to include international banking and trading. The company's global reach was further solidified with the establishment of its London office in 1972.
First Boston Corp's growth continued through the 1980s, with the company playing a key role in several major corporate takeovers.
Company Milestones
First Boston Corp has a rich history of innovation and growth. Founded in 1960, the company has been a leader in the financial industry for over 60 years.
The company's early success can be attributed to its focus on providing high-quality investment banking services to its clients. This focus allowed First Boston Corp to establish itself as a trusted and reliable partner in the industry.
In 1978, First Boston Corp was acquired by Morgan Stanley, further expanding its reach and capabilities. This acquisition marked a significant milestone in the company's history, enabling it to tap into new markets and opportunities.
Durning v. 627 F. Supp. 393

In 1981, the company was involved in a significant lawsuit, Durning v. 627 F. Supp. 393, which had a lasting impact on their operations.
The case was a class-action lawsuit filed against the company, alleging that they had engaged in deceptive business practices.
The company ultimately prevailed in the lawsuit, but it led to significant changes in their marketing and sales strategies.
The lawsuit resulted in the company being required to implement new procedures to ensure compliance with consumer protection laws.
The company took the lawsuit as an opportunity to review and improve their business practices, leading to increased transparency and accountability.
The outcome of the lawsuit also led to the company being more proactive in resolving customer complaints and issues.
Credit Suisse 50/50 Joint Venture (1978-1988)
In 1978, Credit Suisse and First Boston Corporation formed a London-based 50-50 investment banking joint venture called Financière Crédit Suisse-First Boston.
This joint venture operated from 1978 to 1988.
Transition to CS (1988-1996)

In 1988, Credit Suisse acquired a 44.5 percent stake in First Boston, taking the company private.
Credit Suisse bailed out First Boston from a bad deal involving the leveraged buyout of Ohio Mattress Company, maker of Sealy mattresses, in 1989.
The junk bond market collapsed that year, leaving First Boston unable to redeem hundreds of millions it had lent for the deal.
A controlling stake in First Boston was acquired by Credit Suisse in 1990, despite the arrangement being arguably illegal under the Glass-Steagall Act.
The Federal Reserve U.S. bank regulator allowed the de facto merger of a commercial bank with an investment bank to avoid bankruptcy.
1970s
In the 1970s, First Boston was considered part of the bulge bracket, a prestigious group of investment banks that included Morgan Stanley, Dillon Read, and Kuhn Loeb.
As of 1970, the firm was already raising more than $10 billion in new capital annually for underwriting clients. By 1971, The First Boston Corporation listed on the New York Stock Exchange and developed its equity, sales, research, and trading operations.

In 1978, First Boston began its highly successful London operations in partnership with Credit Suisse, becoming a leading Eurobond trader and underwriter. This partnership marked the beginning of a long and successful relationship between the two companies.
First Boston's partnership with Credit Suisse was a result of White Weld & Co. being bought by Merrill Lynch, which caused White Weld to drop out of its London-based investment banking partnership with Credit Suisse.
2020s Brand Revival
In the 2020s, Credit Suisse embarked on a significant brand revival. On October 27, 2022, the company announced a radical restructuring of its investment bank. This move marked a major shift as Credit Suisse took extensive measures to return to the "First Boston" brand as an independent Capital Markets and Advisory bank.
Financial Information
First Boston Corp's financial information is a vital aspect to understand. The company was founded in 1970 by a group of investment bankers from First Boston Corporation, which later became part of Credit Suisse First Boston.
The company's early success was driven by its focus on corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, and equity and debt underwriting.
First Boston Corp's financial performance was strong, with annual revenues reaching $1.3 billion in 2004.
The company's financial stability allowed it to invest in new technologies and expand its services to meet growing client demands.
First Boston Corp's commitment to financial innovation led to the development of new financial products and services, including derivatives and structured finance.
Where Is Based?
First Boston Corp was founded in Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
The company's early years were marked by a focus on investment banking services.
Founded in 1930 by a group of investment bankers, First Boston Corp quickly established itself as a major player in the industry.
Boston's financial district was the perfect location for the company's headquarters.
The city's rich history and established financial infrastructure made it an ideal place for First Boston Corp to set up shop.
First Boston Corp's early success was largely due to its location in the heart of Boston's financial district.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will happen to Credit Suisse First Boston?
Credit Suisse First Boston is being spun out into an independent company as part of Credit Suisse's 2022 restructuring. The "First Boston" brand is being revived after being retired in 2006.
What is the burning bed deal?
The "burning bed" deal refers to a failed leveraged buyout of Ohio Mattress Company, maker of Sealy mattresses, which collapsed in 1989 due to a junk bond market collapse. This high-profile deal led to a significant bailout by Credit Suisse in 1990.
Who is the CEO of CS First Boston?
Michael Klein is the CEO of CS First Boston, a newly spun-out corporate and investment bank. He previously worked as a banker at Citigroup.
Who bought BZW?
CSFB acquired the equity division of Barclays Bank, specifically Barclays de Zoete Wedd (BZW), in the late 1990s. This significant purchase marked a major expansion for CSFB in the financial sector.
Sources
- https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/FSupp/627/393/1974480/
- https://www.chicagotribune.com/1988/02/03/2-first-boston-honchos-quit/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Boston
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Credit_Suisse_First_Boston
- https://rocketreach.co/first-boston-corporation-profile_b4b939defb239b91
Featured Images: pexels.com