For decades, the company relied on its connections with blue-chip corporate clients and a global network of offices that was likened to a shadow State Department.

But by advising G.E., Chase is trying to demonstrate that it can win the bluest of blue-chip clients.

It was for partners only, and maybe an occasional guest such as a blue-chip client or prospective recruit.

"If a blue-chip client said, 'We're going to be profitable next year,' it's probably a pretty safe bet," he continued.

Many investment bankers report that their blue-chip corporate clients have been calling to say that they want to take a harder look at the idea of going private.

BankAmerica had provided the hedge fund with investment capital, loans and access to the bank's list of blue-chip clients around the world.

The more aggressive firms soon began to strip Dillon, Read of its blue-chip clients.

William Georgis, a Manhattan architect with blue-chip clients, is already predicting a backlash.

Mr. Benatti's job was to find potential acquisitions, top local talent and blue-chip clients.

Her firm was a wanna-be-with forty lawyers it wasn't big enough to attract blue-chip clients, but the leadership was very ambitious.