High levels of volatility, immediate and long term survival packages and varying market conditions are just some of the factors that have turned the asset management sector on its head in 2024.
The usual script of how to manage funds, equities, statements and derivatives is now completely different due to the ongoing financial implications of COVID-19. This rings true across the sector in every corner of the globe.
Major companies have been forced in recent months to not only change their immediate strategies and portfolios in order to survive, but also re-evaluate their processes and systems, both in light of the new normal and to better cope with market volatility in the future.
This presents an ample opportunity for businesses to retrain and prepare their employees for the future. Implementing a clear and effective plan for the ‘new normal’ in asset and fund management needs to resonate across an entire hierarchy, and it needs to be achieved through regular training.
But with so many employees still working from home, how can businesses implement a training programme that will prepare an entire workforce for what's ahead? Enter virtual learning.
How can virtual learning improve asset management training?
Now that many employees are working from home and offices worldwide are running at reduced capacity, businesses are looking for new ways in which to integrate digital processes. This has been evident in the sharp rise in the popularity of video conferencing software like Zoom and WebEx.
Advancements in technology (particularly in the field of virtual learning) mean that it is now possible to transfer classroom-based learning to be delivered entirely online. This is particularly beneficial this year for large-scale businesses that host annual training events.
Of course, much like a face-to-face training programme, virtual training courses need to be carefully structured and implemented using the right techniques in order to be successful.
Particularly when it comes to an asset management training programme, which will need to be related to several areas of the business including regulation, pricing and technology, it is crucial that leaders choose the right methods at the right time.
Fortunately, the flexible and easy-to-use nature of virtual learning lends itself to asset management businesses, as employees will be able to learn and engage with training material on various topics much quicker than traditional classroom-based programmes.
In addition, many virtual learning methods are available on-demand at any time, which proves to be useful for employees who work within multiple areas of the business, allowing them to learn at their own pace. Effective virtual learning methods include:
- On-demand microlearning and e-learning modules
- Custom-designed interactive PDFs and workbooks
- Training films and filmmaking activities
- Virtual classroom sessions and webinars
- Live facilitator-led group discussions and activities.
Our virtual training programmes for asset management
At MDA Training, our dedicated consultants possess an expert-level of knowledge in creating and delivering bespoke virtual learning programmes for leading asset management businesses.
Despite the challenges associated with COVID-19, we are continuing to provide virtual simulations and interactive training programmes for our clients.
Specifically, our "Introduction to Asset Management" virtual simulation is designed to explore the challenges of being a fund manager first-hand. Our blended approach is centred around a collaborative, online activity where key learning is embedded through short, trainer-led discussions.
Employees are required to outperform the benchmark by investing client money and making asset allocations over a specific period. Their decisions are based upon real-time economic and market information, thus helping them to better understand how a fund manager analyses data and makes investment decisions.
We then bring all the learning together. We analyse each team's performance and link the learning back to the needs of the fund management business, highlighting the vital role they play in supporting business performance.
This programme can be delivered via Zoom or WebEx and can be tailored to meet the varying needs of different audiences from early careers and general onboarding through to CPD for technology or sales and distribution professionals. For more information about this simulation, please watch the video below: