Engagement is a critical driver of success in today’s investment landscape. This session will explore what constitutes meaningful engagement, how to foster collaborative relationships with portfolio company leadership, drive value creation, navigate challenging situations, and measure impact. We will also examine how technology and digital tools are being leveraged to enhance engagement initiatives.

The transition to a low-carbon economy is underway, presenting unprecedented investment opportunities. This session will explore the landscape of climate-aligned investing, highlighting key sectors, technologies, and strategies for capturing investment opportunities in climate resilience and adaptation solutions.

• Examining the scope of the challenge and the key drivers of change, including policy developments, technological advancements, and shifting consumer preferences.
• Highlighting key sectors driving the transition, analysing investment trends, and identify emerging opportunities.
• Identifying and mitigating climate-related risks in investment portfolios and discussing frameworks for assessing and managing these risks.
  

Active ETFs are rapidly gaining traction, blurring the lines between traditional active management and the efficiency of the ETF structure. This session will delve into the dynamic world of active ETFs, exploring their benefits, challenges, and potential to reshape the investment landscape.

• Exploring the diverse range of active ETF strategies available - including fundamental, quantitative, thematic, and ESG-focused approaches – and the factors driving their performance.
• Understanding the crucial role of the portfolio manager in active ETFs. How their investment philosophy, decision-making process, and expertise adds value in different market environments.
• Examining the growth trajectory of active ETFs and their potential to disrupt the asset management industry.
  

A quickfire focus on new funds, themes and sectors - why they were launched, what makes them stand out, their investment teams, key parts of the sustainable investment process, key positions at launch, engagement approach, and how they fit in investors' broader sustainable portfolios.

This session will delve into the key challenges and opportunities facing DB schemes, offering expert insights and practical strategies for ensuring their long-term sustainability and meeting the needs of beneficiaries.

• Discussing asset allocation strategies, the role of alternative investments, and the growing importance of ESG considerations in DB portfolios.
• Exploring various de-risking options, including liability-driven investment (LDI), buy-ins, and buyouts. We'll discuss the factors to consider when choosing the right endgame strategy for a scheme.
• Examining how technology can improve efficiency, enhance risk management, and improve communication with members. We'll discuss the potential of AI, machine learning, and data analytics in DB pension management.
  

• Identifying the potential benefits of incorporating private market allocations in DC schemes, including diversification, enhanced return potential, and long-term growth prospects.
• Developing a well-defined investment strategy with clear objectives, risk parameters, and target allocations for different private market asset classes.
• Addressing the practical challenges of implementing private market investments in a DC context – vehicle selection, liquidity management, valuation and reporting.
• Importance of thorough due diligence when selecting private market managers. Key factors to consider, such as track record, investment process, risk management, ESG integration, and alignment of interests.
  

The UK government's Mansion House Reforms aim to unlock the potential of the UK's financial services sector and boost investment in the economy. This session will delve into the key elements of these reforms, examining the government's push for pension funds to allocate more capital to productive investments. We'll discuss the potential impact on scheme funding, investment strategies, and member outcomes. We'll also address the challenges of managing illiquidity and ensuring appropriate governance.

This session will delve into the changing landscape of trustee fiduciary duties, exploring the key challenges and opportunities facing trustees in the years to come. We examine how the concept of fiduciary duty is being redefined in the context of modern investment challenges, including ESG considerations, climate risk, and technological disruption. We'll discuss the growing emphasis on stakeholder interests and the need for trustees to balance competing priorities.

 Join our panel of leading fund selectors as they share their insights on navigating the evolving fund selection landscape, from emerging technologies and data analytics, to shifting investor preferences, the rise of alternative investments, and a deeper understanding of ESG factors. 

• How are fund selectors uncovering hidden gems and generating returns in the face of uncertainty?
• With traditional asset classes facing headwinds, how are fund selectors incorporating private markets, real estate, and other alternatives into their portfolios?
• Explore how they are integrating ESG considerations into their fund selection process and measuring the impact of sustainable investing.
• How they are leveraging technology to enhance their research, portfolio construction, and risk management • What are the key trends and potential disruptors that fund selectors are watching?

Private market investments, once the exclusive domain of institutional investors, are increasingly becoming accessible to high-net-worth individuals. This session will explore the evolving landscape of private markets within wealth management, examining the opportunities and challenges for firms and clients alike.

• Examining the factors enabling access to Private Markets.
• Practical guidance on navigating the challenges of illiquidity, valuation, due diligence, and fees.
• Overview of private market products.
• Strategies for allocating private markets within portfolios, including risk profiling and client segmentation.
  

Thematic funds have exploded in popularity, offering investors targeted exposure to powerful long-term trends reshaping the world. This session will delve into the world of thematic investing, providing a framework for understanding, evaluating, and strategically utilising thematic funds in a diversified portfolio. Strategies for incorporating thematic funds into a diversified portfolio. We'll discuss asset allocation considerations, risk management techniques, and the importance of aligning thematic investments with individual investment goals and time horizons.

Emerging markets offer investors the potential for high growth, but also come with unique risks and challenges. This session will provide a comprehensive framework for navigating the complexities of emerging market fund selection, equipping investors with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions.

Analysis of the current state of emerging markets, including key trends, growth drivers, and potential risks.

• Moving beyond traditional benchmarks and exploring alternative approaches to emerging market investing. We'll discuss factors like ESG integration, thematic investing, and frontier markets as potential sources of alpha.
• Key considerations for evaluating emerging market funds, including investment process, risk management, portfolio construction, and the experience and expertise of the fund manager.
• Strategies for incorporating emerging market funds into a diversified portfolio. We'll discuss asset allocation considerations, risk management techniques, and the importance of aligning investments with individual investment goals and time horizons.

 The financial advice landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation, driven by technological advancements, evolving client expectations, and a shifting regulatory environment. This session will give financial advisors the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate this changing landscape and thrive in the future.

• Exploring how advisors can leverage technology to enhance efficiency, personalize advice, and improve client outcomes.
• Discussing the importance of building strong client relationships, providing empathetic advice, and navigating complex financial situations that require human judgment and expertise.
• Understanding the evolving needs and expectations of clients, particularly millennials and Gen Z. Discussing strategies for attracting and retaining younger clients.
• Staying ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving regulatory environment. Impact of key regulations and initiatives, such as the Consumer Duty, and their implications for financial advice practices.
  

Requirements on fund labelling aim to tackle greenwashing and help advisers have clearer conversations with clients. We consider the practical implications for advisers as they integrate sustainability matters into their investment advice, how to break down the complex world of ESG for clients, and how to go above and beyond the labels.

• Understanding and explaining the key labels, their use, and the sustainability features of the products they advise on.
• Delving into due diligence requirements when selecting investment products to ensure they meet regulatory standards.
• Understanding how implementation of SDR can help you speak to clients about their preferences and suitability around sustainable investing.

We are facing a generational shift, with millennials and Gen Z poised to inherit significant wealth and reshape the client landscape. This session will explore the unique needs and expectations of these next-generation clients, providing financial advisors with actionable strategies to effectively engage them and build lasting relationships.

This session will provide you with tips to help you reach out, engage and appeal to the next generation of clients.

• Characteristics of millennial and Gen Z clients, including their values, financial priorities, and preferred communication styles.
• Strategies for establishing trust and rapport with next-gen clients, who often prioritize authenticity, transparency, and a values-driven approach.
• Harnessing the power of technology to connect with and serve next-gen clients.
• Navigating the complexities of intergenerational wealth transfer: strategies for building relationships with heirs, facilitating family financial conversations, and ensuring a smooth transition of wealth.
  

Providing financial advisers with a comprehensive understanding of the crypto currency markets and why the younger generation are investing. We explore how digital assets fit into investment portfolios, the risks and opportunities they present and the regulatory and compliance considerations advisers need to be aware of.

Attendees will gain insights into how to approach conversations with clients about cryptocurrencies, assess whether they are appropriate for a client’s financial strategy, and stay informed about the evolving landscape of blockchain technology.