Legislative/Regulatory Research Case Studies

In 2008, a successful hedge fund client approached First International with a request for an evaluation of possible U.S. government action on ethanol tariffs and subsidies. Within two weeks, First International compiled a poll of U.S. executive and legislative branch staff, as well as relevant business and trade advisory groups, concluding that due to existing law and political interests, the executive branch would not take any action that would significantly impact ethanol tariffs and subsidies. First International also secured meetings for the client with relevant legislative and executive branch staff to provide additional color.

In 2005, following Hurricane Katrina, First International was tasked with gauging Congressional reaction to the need for new housing and reconstruction projects which would impact the U.S. cement industry, including duties on Mexican cement. First International utilized its network of contacts among government officials, trade associations, and industry insiders to provide an accurate 2005 outlook, predicting the January 2006 Mexico-U.S. agreement on cement tariffs.

Throughout 2008 and into 2009, hedge fund and private equity fund clients have inquired about the reality of a nuclear industry “renaissance” in the U.S. Over that period of time, First International has organized several meetings for these clients with industry experts, Congressional staff, and specialists at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and Department of Energy, as a part of an ongoing effort to keep clients educated and informed regarding the nuclear energy industry.