TradeTech 2024: Macroeconomics, Diversity, and Emerging Markets - Main Day 2 Morning Recap

The WBR Insights Capital Markets team are excited to bring you on site content throughout TradeTech Europe 2024, capturing key highlights from the insightful sessions!

Moving into the third and final day of TradeTech Europe, we were prepped and ready to dive in. This morning’s packed agenda has been filled with insightful sessions, here's a quick recap:

We kicked things off with a thought-provoking panel on the evolution of the multi-asset trading model. Industry leaders from DWS Group, Allianz Global Investors, Man Group and Streets Consulting shared their expertise in navigating the complexities of multi-asset trading environments. Key takeaways focused on optimising strategies, leveraging technology, and building a talented workforce to ensure success.

The conversation then shifted to a crucial industry topic; cultivating a more inclusive and diverse workforce. The DE&I Fire-Side Chat featured leading figures Isabelle Bourcier at HSBC Asset Management, Julie Dickson at Capital Group, Nav Khinda at UBS and Julia Streets at Streets Consulting, who discussed their journeys in implementing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives within their organisations.

While the specifics of the DE&I Fire-Side Chat remained confidential under Chatham House rules, these leaders are clearly working to make significant progress on diversity and inclusion within their organisations. Their insights undoubtedly sparked important conversations among attendees, highlighting the critical role DE&I plays in the industry.

In a recent discussion with Lucy Bradley, Senior Divisional Director for WBR Capital Markets, we explored how to leverage our platform to champion diverse voices and female talent within the industry.

Lucy shared, "Our partners and audiences are increasingly vocal about their DE&I initiatives and the need for concrete action. We're committed to supporting the industry in achieving these goals." This focus on DE&I is crucial. The gender pay gap remains a significant challenge across all sectors, not just capital markets (evidenced by the UK's 14.9% gap). Diversity and inclusion is essential to attracting and retaining top talent, regardless of gender.

That's why live discussions at TradeTech are so impactful. Industry-wide buy-in is necessary for change, and the diverse attendance at these sessions reflects a growing commitment. The need for practical solutions and increased support for talented female traders' career progression is rising.

Check out the full blog with Lucy here.

The morning continued with a Macroeconomic Keynote Panel exploring the current economic climate, focusing on navigating interest rate uncertainty, inflation trends, and geopolitical risks. Experts from Ostrum Asset Management, AXA Investment Management, Groupama Asset Management, Amundi Institute and The TRADE provided valuable insights on capitalising on these macro themes for optimal returns.

During the networking break, Exegy offered an exclusive masterclass on the state of trading and technology today. This session provided attendees with in-depth knowledge of the latest trends shaping the trading landscape.

The final stretch of the morning at TradeTech Europe offered a deep dive into emerging market opportunities. The Emerging market panel explored how advancements in market structure, liquidity, and electronic trading can be leveraged to uncover alpha-generating opportunities. Followed by a specific look at the Brazilian market, with a presentation by Claudio Avanian Jacob, Managing Director - International Clients and Business Development at B3, on how recent developments can help reduce trading costs and improve investor results.

With a packed afternoon still ahead, the WBR Insights Capital Markets team is eager to see what the final few hours of TradeTech Europe has in store! Stay tuned for further updates and key takeaways as the conference draws to a close.