ICI Innovate 2025 brought together industry leaders to explore the evolving landscape of asset management, with a strong focus on technology, particularly artificial intelligence and tokenization. Here’s a recap of the key themes and discussions:

Tokenization

  • The conference highlighted the growing importance of tokenization in delivering optimal outcomes and experiences, especially for younger generations.
  • Panelists from ICI, DTCC, and Franklin Templeton discussed the current state of the tokenization industry, future predictions, and their respective firms’ initiatives in the digital asset space.
  • The DTCC is exploring tokenizing funds, while Franklin Templeton provided context around digital assets and past achievements in the field.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

  • AI’s potential to automate analysis and improve sales and distribution was a major topic.
  • Panelists shared how they are leveraging proprietary data for GenAI and utilizing AI-enabled cloud platforms.
  • The governance of AI frameworks was discussed, with emphasis on regulatory guidance, compliance, and risk management.
  • Practitioners emphasized that AI requires human operation and highlighted its use in improving industry research, analyzing documents, and servicing clients.
  • Eric Pan, President & CEO of ICI, discussed the future of AI in asset management and how it will shape the industry.

Retail Alternative Investments

  • The growing interest in retail alternative investments was examined from the perspectives of issuers, distributors, technology providers, and transfer agent operations.
  • Panelists emphasized the importance of an integrated ecosystem for these emerging products.
  • Alternative investments are viewed as big, growing, and adding returns to retirement accounts.

Innovation for Small and Mid-Sized Firms

  • Small and mid-sized firms face unique challenges in adopting new technologies due to limited resources.
  • Panelists shared advice on how these firms can find success through creative innovation.

Digital Assets and Custody

  • Digital assets and custody are at the forefront of innovation in the asset management industry.
  • Panelists shared insights on the future of the industry and key considerations for firms moving into this space.

Additional Takeaways

  • The asset management industry is increasingly relying on key players for AI and technology solutions, even among larger firms.
  • Building strong relationships and finding easy-to-work-with software providers is crucial.
  • The industry is perceived as lagging behind others in AI adoption, primarily due to regulatory caution.
  • AI is being used to enhance productivity and enable investment analysts to focus on higher-value tasks.

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