Opinion
Have You Ever Been Mistaken for a Data Vendor?
Max used to take a jab at people by asking them a question that was tinged with snark. In today’s environment, that insult has become an important question.
AI on Our Minds: Firms Struggle with How to Incorporate AI
The hype of artificial intelligence is far from fading—actually, it’s more like a building tidal wave. Wei-Shen wonders if the capital markets will catch the wave, or get smothered by the tide.
Fighting the Bad Robots: AI Raises Questions About Ethics
Artificially intelligent algorithms are not infallible—as Jo Wright explains, it’s quite the opposite.
Tapping AI for Buy-Side Growth
Asset managers wanting to thrive in today’s landscape of squeezed margins must learn how to capitalize on innovative AI tech to deliver top-line growth, according to SS&C Technologies.
Machine Learning as a Tool: What Is Your Problem?
The call of artificial intelligence and machine learning is alluring. However, Wei-Shen says they can be tough to deal with, especially when shooting at invisible targets.
On Blockchain Skepticism
Anthony Malakian has his doubts about some of true benefits of distributed ledgers.
Exegy Sues Activ Financial: The Problem with Patents
Max Bowie recalls some hit-and-miss patent cases from the past two decades, and what this one might mean for the future.
Plus ça Change: Data Management is a Perennial Problem
The pace of change—in politics and in fintech—over the past few years has been breathtaking. Jo finds out at NAFIS, however, that some things never change.
As Bloomberg Leaves SSEOMS/KYC, Others Will Look to Capitalize
Bloomberg’s SSEOMS will dissolve by April 2021, which means its clients are on the prowl for alternatives.
Raising the Standard(s) for Alt Data
With alternative data on every firm’s agenda, Max looks at efforts designed to make it easier to integrate new data sources into investment strategies, and why standards for alternative data represent an important step forward.
Using APIs to Increase Efficiency
FpML has been a key enabler of automation in the derivatives industry, but its value could be further enhanced by providing value-added web services with open connectivity.
Taking a Chance
Anthony explains some of the structural changes taking place at WatersTechnology.
Bank and Buy-Side Data Specialists Discuss Data Transformation Do’s & Don’ts
This year’s North American Financial Information Summit saw C-level execs from the buy and sell sides come together to talk about data needs.
Be Like Water
Flexibility is key when navigating the Chinese water, says Wei-Shen Wong.
May 2019: The Power of Potential
Max Bowie highlights some of the biggest stories from the May issue of Waters.
Banks Find Tech Firms Have Big Risks Too
The flavor of the week among investment banks is not to be a bank, but a tech company. While the numbers are starting to back that claim up, so are the risks involved, writes James Rundle.
Open API Opportunities Outweigh the Challenges for Banks
The financial industry has traditionally lagged in adopting open technologies, but its continued evolution may rely on one, in particular, argues Lisa Iagatta, chair of ISITC North America.
Open and Shut (Anything But)
It’s a heady time for those developing data standards, but Jamie Hyman says standards leaders need to agree about what “open” means, or they risk getting bogged down in semantics.
The Gentle Touch
Financial firms often look to Asia for expansion because of the compelling size of the region’s markets. Wei-Shen details how it could prove harder than it seems.
April 2019: Welcome to the New WatersTechnology
Max previews the first issue of the relaunched magazine, and extends a welcome.
Safe as Houses
If you want the definition of a circular argument, talk to anyone involved with clearing about resilience and recovery. But more pernicious risks remain unaddressed.
How Refinitiv is Challenging the Conversation Around Diversity
Many companies are excellent at talking the talk, but few can walk the walk when it comes to diversity.
A Blueprint for Alternative Data in Asset Management
UBS Asset Management’s data chief sets out his recommendations for using alternative data in the investment process.
Get the Pitchforks
While no one involved in the building of the stalled Consolidated Audit Trail is free from blame, Anthony says there are reasons to believe the CAT won’t ever materialize, regardless of the plan processor.