Prior to assigning mandates, institutional investors now focus on the strength and maturity of asset managers' operations, not simply their service offering and investment performance. Those mandates have become larger as a result of super industry consolidation, attracting attention from global players.

Local fund managers are faced with the dual challenge of increasing back office efficiency whilst finding differentiation through product innovation. This has triggered merger and acquisition activity, particularly with foreign firms diversifying by gaining local presence in stronger regional economies.

Against this backdrop of change, the ability to respond rapidly is essential. Sequential's investments industry expertise and strength in transformational activity provide this capability.