[ BUY-SIDE COVER | DEGROOF PETERCAM ]
by technological advancements, the proliferation of data, and evolving regulatory frameworks […] Traditional skills – such as intuition, market expertise, and relationship management – remain critical but are now complemented by proficiency in coding and data science,” asserts Bille.
Whilst he oversees the multiasset buy-side team, Pierre Renna heads up fixed income trading specifically as head of buy-side fixed income dealing.
Renna is highly cognisant of the opportunities presented by the continued electronification of fixed income, nonetheless agreeing that the Degroof Petercam approach of equilibrium is the key to the firm’ s accomplishments.
“ While electronification will grow where liquidity permits, thoughtful, relationship-driven execution will continue to play an indispensable role in significant parts of the market.
“[…] We focus on striking the right balance. We leverage electronic tools where they add value, but we also maintain the flexibility to adapt our methods to the unique needs of each trade. This hybrid approach ensures
“ Data management augments the trader’ s capacity, enabling them to deliver meaningful value. It allows us to deliver a high touch execution experience, but in a way that is highly scalable: efficient, targeted, and quick.”
16 // TheTRADE // Q3 2025 that we consistently deliver optimal outcomes for our clients, regardless of the trading environment.”
Collaboration is in Degroof Petercam’ s DNA When it comes to the origins of the Degroof Petercam buy-side trading team, Bille tells The TRADE that his idea for launching the dealing desk came off the back of a common thread which has defined his approach throughout his career- to anticipate industry trends and align activities accordingly.
“ In 2007, after contributing extensively to the implementation of the Mifid I regulation, I became
“ The trader’ s role is more dynamic, multidisciplinary, and impactful than ever before.”
PHILIP BILLE
PIERRE RENNA convinced that creating a buy-side desk was the right step for our company. Recognising the strategic importance of the moment, I transitioned from the sell-side to the buy-side to establish and lead this new desk.”
Bille joined Petercam 31 years ago, guiding its evolution as a buy-side dealer in addition to its other offerings. All the time keeping his finger on the market structure pulse.
“ Over the years, I’ ve had the privilege of managing a multi-asset buy-side team, navigating market cycles and crises, adapting to regulatory and technological changes, driving strategic projects, and recruiting highly talented colleagues,” enthuses Bille.
One of these very colleagues is Renna, who took up the reigns as head of buy-side fixed income dealing in early 2024, having joined the firm back in 2012.
Renna now oversees a team of five fixed income traders which form part of the ten-strong desk. The desk operates in a multi-asset model – whilst traders who comprise the desk specialise in their respective asset class, they operate as a cohesive unit.
“ Insights, tools, and strategies are shared across us to ensure optimal outcomes for our clients. Collaboration isn’ t just a value- it’ s the foundation of our daily operations,” explains Bille.
“ We form a unified team of professionals across diverse fields, all committed to driving innovation and shaping the future of our trading setup.”
This is bolstered by close alignment with investment objectives and continuous dialogue with the firm’ s portfolio managers, Bille and Renna explain, adding