How long have you worked in fund selection, and what do you enjoy most about the role?
I have been in the business of Investment Advisory and fund selection since 2012. The most fulfilling part of the role is the fact that fund selection is not just about numbers and performance but understanding client’s unique circumstances, ability, and willingness to take risk as well as return expectation and curating a fund portfolio that truly helps them achieve their goals. Seeing the strategies pay off over time is incredibly rewarding. Also, being an External Asset Management Firm, we are not tied to any proprietary fund and are able to select the best possible funds across the globe. Thus, the independence to do it unbiasedly makes it very fulfilling.
Looking ahead to 2026, which key asset allocation calls do you expect to be rewarded, and why?
While we expect 2026 to be very volatile, we do expect the under-mentioned to perform well over a period of time:
- A more broad-based growth apart from the MAG7 especially in financials, utilities and industrials as the gap between the growth rate of magnificent 7 and the rest has been reducing for some time now.
- Higher geopolitical stress would increase demand for some safe heavens where we would expect gold, real assets, and Bitcoin to do well. These would be excellent portfolio diversifiers for 2026.
- In 2026, we believe AI will bring notable disruption, with consequences across the economy including the labour market. However, it is important not to mis the opportunity and continue to have exposure to the AI companies especially cloud computing and cyber security
Outside of work, what are your favourite activities or interests?
It is important to have a work life balance and outside of work, I like to travel to new places with my family (wife and two kids) to expose the kids to different cultures, history etc. I have also recently got into Padel which I try to religiously play at least twice a week. Weekends are dedicated to spending time with the family and friends with parks, malls, and movie nights.