Finance and brokerage

Abstract

René’s influence was rooted in his role as a financial broker, which was based, in turn, on his role as a transregional lord. Borrowing money, whether for himself or for others, depended on the lands and rights that he could offer as collateral. The attractiveness of this collateral depended on whether potential lenders saw benefits in acquiring it. The spatial situation of René’s lands (and their productivity) with respect to the location of various lenders was thus crucial, as were his personal relationships with various Swiss creditors. René instrumentalized his landed position and became a key financial broker for the House of Savoy and others. His two imprisonments seriously harmed his financial position, but he eventually recovered.