Navigating Consolidation and Technological Integration in Financial Services

In the ever-evolving landscape of financial services, the industry is increasingly adopting the approach of acquisitions and advanced technological integration. These trends, driven by a multitude of factors, have profound implications for the industry by altering the strategies and resources required for success in the market. Factors to Consider During Consolidation in Financial Services MARKET

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Unlocking Potential: The Secret Weapon of Single Relationship Managers

This paper, authored by Byron Derti, a senior analyst at Meradia, underscores the pivotal role of a single relationship manager in modern investment operations. Byron’s background in data analysis and project management equips him with knowledge in performance analytics and data-driven insights, which are crucial for driving client success. Highlighting a manager who adeptly navigates multiple workstreams, ensures seamless communication, and adapts to market changes, this analogy likens them to a conductor orchestrating a symphony of collaboration, ultimately enhancing client service and operational efficiency. Embracing this model with the right support can propel your firm to new heights of success.

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From Complexity to Efficiency – Modernizing Data Pipelines

In the fast-paced world of investment asset management, accurate and timely data is crucial for informed decision-making. Data pipelines serve as metaphorical vehicles that facilitate the movement of data from its source to delivery points. Traditionally, investment asset management firms have relied on multiple pipelines for different data sources, resulting in complex and cumbersome processes. This paper explores the concept of modern data pipelines in investment asset management, their advantages over traditional pipelines, and best practices for their implementation.

by Andrew Jacob, CFA

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Proactive Project Management: 3 Steps to Preventing Early Setbacks

Entering a large-scale transformation project can be a daunting task. But does it need to be? What separates a successful project from one that is fraught with delays and cost overruns? While the execution of any large-scale implementation project is critical, equally so is the planning phase. It is here, during planning, before the vendor even lands in your office, that the foundation of a successful project is formed. Consider the following three principles as keys to your success.

by Christopher Dyer, Manager

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Investment Performance Is a Data Management Challenge

Investment Performance transformation projects are notoriously difficult. Why? Investment Performance is, at its core, an enterprise data function in disguise. Its role in enterprise data management is so prevalent that the maturity with which a firm’s Investment Performance function manages this data functions is typically a bellwether for the operational efficiency of the firm generally. Performance and analytics, done well, consume an astounding array of internal, external sources and often a combination of the two. In addition, you’ll be hard pressed to find any department in the firm that doesn’t want to consume its outputs and scrutinize its conclusions. Investment Performance transformations are difficult because they necessarily require evolution for the firm’s enterprise data assets and can impact nearly every department.

by Laurie Hesketh, CIPM, PMP

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The Cost of Reactive Controls

In today’s investment operations, errors are an unfortunate fact of life, and asset managers must have a comprehensive controls framework in place to manage them effectively. However, when an error occurs, the tendency for most firms is to react by implementing manual controls rather than taking a holistic approach to assessing their overall framework. This reactive approach can lead to an over-saturation of controls, resulting in lost productivity, increased costs, and an increased risk of human error. In this paper, we explore some of the hidden costs of manual controls and identify four key risks that firms should consider when implementing a new control.

by Jill Stassel, Senior Consultant

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Replacing Your Legacy Investment Operations Software? Don’t Ignore These Three Red Flags

Have you selected a new investment operations system to replace your legacy technology and manual workarounds? Or have you decided to outsource investment operations to a service provider?
Both efforts are significant and likely the largest efforts your part of the organization has ever seen. Are you making the right decisions? Or do you need a golden opportunity to advance your business and improve the way you work? Here are three red flags you’re overlooking business transformation opportunities.

by Brian Lollar, Managing Director

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Nine Trends Defining Financial Data Management in 2023 and Beyond

While it’s impossible to know exactly what to expect for the future of the data management and governance industry, research and experience combine to yield what we believe will be the top trends over the coming years. These trends will shape the technology, operations, and performance of nearly every firm in the investment industry in some way.

by Andrew Jacob, CFA, Senior Consultant

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