| Biography Fay joined Alexforbes on 1 May 2023, initially as a Senior Technical Marketing Specialist before transitioning to her current role as a Senior Discretionary Fund Management Specialist with Investment Solutions by Alexforbes. With over 16 years of experience, Fay has honed her expertise primarily within the asset management industry. Her career journey includes roles as an equity analyst, multi-manager research analyst and DFM portfolio manager at institutions such as Sanlam Investments, Glacier by Sanlam and PPS Investments. Notably, she played a pivotal role in refining investment-related processes and launching a DFM at PPS Investments from 2017 to 2020. |
How do you see DFMs evolving in the future to keep Alexforbes competitive?
The evolution of South Africa’s DFMs will be shaped by stricter regulations, global passive investments, ESG filters and alternative strategies. Initially created to alleviate administrative and regulatory burdens on IFAs, DFMs are now crucial in managing complex investment landscapes. Future success will depend on scale, research capabilities and technology-driven solutions. The Investment Solutions DFM strategy is rooted in connecting high-quality advice with best-in-class solutions. We leverage our institutional expertise for retail clients, ensuring IFAs remain confident and in control.
Our differentiators include:
- Advice-led DNA: Our DFM inherits Alexforbes’ rigorous research frameworks to help IFAs create model portfolio solutions.
- Multi-manager expertise: Unlike DFMs that push in-house products, we leverage our strengths to provide best-of-breed local and offshore solutions.
- Global partnership: Through Mercer Global Investments, we access top-tier offshore research and expertise, enhancing our portfolio construction.
- Technology and data: We use Adviser and Practice Impact Reports to provide real-time insights that shape future-fit solutions.
How do tightening regulations impact your ability to stand out?
Investment Solutions is well positioned to thrive under regulations like the Conduct of Financial Institutions (COFI), which prioritises good conduct, transparency and customer protection. Our Best Practice team and Academy keep IFAs ahead of compliance trends. Our Mercer partnership also provides global diversification. By integrating insights from our chief economist, digital analytics and strategic units, we help our clients to adapt swiftly to regulatory changes. This proactive approach ensures our solutions remain compliant, effective and competitive.
How important is technology for DFMs?
Agility is key to the future of DFMs and technology plays a vital role. However, it’s not just about AI-driven platforms – it’s about mining data to provide actionable insights. Hyper-personalisation allows us to tailor solutions to each IFA and their clients. Technology should be an enabler rather than the solution itself. By analysing IFA client books and practice data, we develop bespoke investment solutions that enhance their advice models. Partnering with IFAs for ongoing innovation ensures both practice prosperity and long-term business sustainability.
How can DFMs support IFAs?
Our Adviser and Practice Impact Reports provide detailed insights into practice health, identifying risks and opportunities. Much like a regular medical check-up, these reports analyse asset allocation, manager spread, flow trends and client demographics. This ongoing dialogue ensures IFAs remain aligned with best practices and optimal fee structures. Beyond investment management, we help IFAs address business sustainability, succession planning and long-term growth.
How can DFMs contribute to industry transformation and succession planning?
DFMs must continuously evolve to support industry transformation and inclusivity. Alexforbes is committed to Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) by promoting diversity in asset management and financial advisory services. Through AFinvest, our digital launchpad, we are empowering emerging IFAs, especially black advisers, by providing
cost-effective, scalable advisory solutions. Additionally, we partner with organisations like ABSIP to drive meaningful transformation.
Succession planning is another crucial role. Leveraging Alexforbes’ financial strength and business infrastructure, we help IFAs structure succession strategies that ensure business continuity. Our practice reports support workforce planning, allowing experienced advisers to transition ownership smoothly while fostering industry growth and sustainability.
