One of the challenges facing African businesses involves the ability to obtain working capital in order to further improve their products and services.
While strategies such as online marketing and crowdfunding are certainly worthwhile strategies, these might not be able to generate the levels of liquidiy that are required. So, it only stands to reason that many organisations are now adopting institutional trading as a viable alternative.
However, another problem begins to emerge. It can be difficult to find a firm that is capable of providing the most appropriate services while simultaneously remaining focused on developing long-term relationships with these clients.
This is why it pays to think ahead and to appreciate the qualities that serve to define a worthwhile wealth management agency. Let’s briefly examine five features that should always be present.
A Focus on Institutional Trading
Some businesses are unaware of the differences between a personal wealth management firm and a brokerage that deals specifically with institutional clientele. This can represent a rather serious mistake, as smaller agencies might not possess the in-house resources that institutional investments often require.
So, the first step is to speak with a representative in order to determine what types of trades they can handle. This will also help you to determine whether or not the company is geared towards larger trades and cognisant when dealing with portfolios that could be valued well into the millions.
Practical Trading Concerns
Any institutional brokerage should possess the latest utilities and tools that are intended to take advantage of what can often represent a frenetic market environment. Here are three qualities to appreciate:
- Extremely competitive costs to maximise profit margins.
- Accurate real-time pricing models.
- Automated processes that help to mitigate the risks associated with volatile market conditions.
Note that the term “mitigate” as opposed to “eliminate” was used above. This arises from the simple fact that risk is an inherent component of any online trading position. The key here is to employ various techniques in order to minimise the amount of exposure at any given time. An agency that promises to eliminate risk should be avoided at all costs.
One Size Does Not Fit All
Some institutional brokerages are solely concerned with acquiring as many clients as possible. Although this might increase their profit margins, it hardly provides the “personal” touch that modern traders require. The best companies strive to create long-term relationships with each and every customer.
Not only can this foster loyalty, but it will help to ensure that the most appropriate strategies are put into place according to the need of the individual. This approach can be likened to performing a surgery with a scalpel as opposed to a broadsword. Personalisation pays in this day and age.
Multiple Asset Classes
Anyone who is even vaguely familiar with investing appreciates that a balanced portfolio can often spell the difference between profit and loss. This is one of the reasons why quality institutional brokers make it a point to offer a wide array of asset classes to choose from.
From short-term liquid positions to long-term holdings intended to provide a predictable source of income, variations in the thread ultimately strengthen the weave. Furthermore, working in tandem with a multi-faceted agency is the best way to avoid being forced to deal with numerous brokerage houses; reducing costs and possible confusion.
The Role of Transparency
A final tenet to examine before making a decision involves the notion of transparency. Institutional brokerages need to be able to prove that they are capable of providing tailor-made solutions. Furthermore, clients should be offered the option to learn about important metrics including (but not limited to):
- How trades are executed
- Fees and/or commissions
- How funds are protected and what security protocols are in place
- Taxation obligations
- Privacy policies
- Potential conflicts of interest
Ironically, relatively few institutional traders give these variables the attention that they deserve. This is why it is crucial to ask a representative any questions you may have well before the registration process is completed.
Ultimately, not all institutional brokerages have been created equally. Encountering an organisation that offers tailor-made services in accordance with your discrete investing goals is the best way that your time and effort is being focused in the right direction. Do not hesitate to bookmark this article for future reference if desired.
