In advance of the event, Delano checked in with Emily Smart, global head of product at Abrdn. She speaks on the “Improving value for investors: is drastic change needed for success?” panel, at 11:30am.

Aaron Grunwald: What do you want the audience to get most from the “Improving value for investors: is drastic change needed for success?” session?

Emily Smart: The point that value for investors is broader than just cost, and while cost should be fair and clearly communicated, investment managers should think about the broader value proposition that matters to their investors and what that should include.

From your point of view, how can asset managers improve value for investors?

Through clear and simple communication of intended outcomes; ensuring that they follow through on their commitments; easy to digest ongoing fund reporting; and, transparent information on costs.

Is there a risk that cost of regulatory compliance will start to outweigh the benefits?

Broadly, I think that the regulation is well intended and focused on increased transparency to aid investor decision making. One of the major risks is that the volume of regulatory change, pace at which it must be delivered, and complexity, results in increased costs for asset managers, that in some cases, will be passed onto clients.

Aside from your own talk at the Alfi event, which session are you most looking forward to hearing, and why?

I am really looking forward to the session “What will shape future fund products” [editor’s note: Wednesday 22 March at 2:10pm]. The subject is very close to my heart and critical that our industry continues to innovate to meet evolving client needs.