Recent discussions around data management and artificial intelligence confirm a strong trend: these topics are now at the core of priorities for External Asset Managers (EAMs).

A recent event held in Geneva highlighted a key idea: the value no longer lies solely in data itself, but in the ability to exploit it, understand it, and share insights across peers.

A format focused on peer exchange

The success of this event was largely driven by its format. Rather than a traditional top-down approach, the discussions centered on peer exchange and real-world experience sharing.

This format enables professionals to address concrete challenges, share practical approaches, and collectively reflect on common industry issues. It also creates a space where open dialogue accelerates learning and adoption.

Key challenges for EAMs

Conversations during the event highlighted several major challenges facing EAMs today:

  • Structuring and ensuring data reliability
  • Improving performance transparency
  • Understanding profitability drivers
  • Leveraging artificial intelligence in a practical way

In this context, data management goes far beyond consolidation. It becomes a strategic lever to enhance decision-making and strengthen competitiveness.

The importance of real-world experience

One of the most valuable aspects of the event was the contribution of industry practitioners sharing their experiences. These real-life perspectives help to:

  • Illustrate concrete use cases
  • Highlight the benefits of structured approaches
  • Identify key success factors in implementation

Such exchanges accelerate the maturity of organizations when it comes to data management and performance analysis.

Reflecting a broader industry shift

The strong engagement and participation observed during the event reflect a broader transformation within the industry. Organizations are increasingly looking for:

  • Tools that can explain performance, not just report it
  • Better integration and consistency of data
  • Pragmatic use of artificial intelligence

These expectations confirm that performance management, supported by data and technology, has become a central strategic priority.

Conclusion: building a community of expertise

Beyond the content itself, events like this help foster a true community of expertise. Peer-to-peer exchanges promote the sharing of best practices and strengthen collective knowledge across the sector.

As challenges become more complex, this collaborative approach is essential to support the transformation of EAMs.

One thing is certain: this momentum is only just beginning, and future initiatives will continue to build on these valuable exchanges.