Can GenAI Give Robo-advisors a Second Life?

Context: Just imagine, on the way to your workplace, you can ask your favourite “character” from a movie or your sports icon to call and chat. This character can also explain where you are spending more and discuss your personal finances. Since you like your character, your conversation is engaging, and the character talks in […]

Why do Asset Managers in India ignore customer experience (CX) in “Direct” distribution channels?

Mutual fund awareness in India has surged, with 40 million investors doubling in just a couple of years and a target of 100 million seeming achievable. Despite over 44 AMCs offering more than 1,400 equity-oriented schemes, the distribution network is stretched thin, making direct channels—AMC websites and apps—crucial. However, many websites are not user-friendly, especially for mobile users, creating a poor experience for first-time investors. Improving website usability, segmenting direct investors, and highlighting key features like instant redemption can significantly enhance investor engagement and conversion.

Why are WealthTech startups struggling to break even?

You may have read and heard about the opportunities of FinTech in India. Even in the funding winter times, FinTech tops the chart in comparison with other sectors. The total fundraising is to the tune of $2Billion from Jan to June-2023. Source: ENTRACKRWealthTech / InvestmentTech is one of the segments in the Fintech vertical, which […]

Why? How? What? Execution Only Platforms (EOPs)

On 13th June 2023, SEBI released a circular for Execution Only Platforms (EOP) for facilitating transactions in direct plans of Mutual Funds schemes. I have been tracking the wealth tech platforms space since 2015, and I analyse both the trends in domestic and international markets in the Asset Management Industry. The objective of this blog […]

High Fidelity

A phone call that changed my career The year was 2004. I was fresh off the launch of Franklin India’s Flexi Cap Fund, one of the largestNFOs of those times. My experience with Franklin Templeton had taught me the importance ofdistributor engagement, and it helped generate strong business. At that time, there was a buzz […]

Is there a case for AMCs partnering with FinTechs? – Part 1

Asset Management

Old Sales model – the most preferred channel in Indian Asset Management Industry Ever since I got into the Asset Management industry in 2005, this question always lingered with me – why isn’t tech not playing an essential role in Investment / Fund management firms?While I have heard a few AMC CEOs telling me that […]

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