BEYOND SCALE: the changing sources of competitive advantage

A wave of mergers, acquisitions and strategic partnerships has reshaped the competitive landscape of European asset management. As firms respond to competitive threats such as fee pressure, rising technology costs, changing investor expectations and growing demand for private markets capabilities, many are reassessing how to position themselves for long-term growth.

While asset managers continue to pursue scale to strengthen their competitive position and reduce costs, growth and profitability are not inextricably linked to size. Increasingly, firms are seeking scale not simply to build assets, but to expand capabilities, strengthen distribution and improve access to new client segments and growth opportunities. As traditional measures of success come under pressure, asset managers are focusing increasingly on strengthening client relationships, expanding distribution reach and building distinctive capabilities. 

In this one-hour webinar hosted by FT Live in partnership with Ignites Europe, senior industry leaders will discuss the forces reshaping European asset management. The discussion will explore how firms are reassessing the role of scale, where new sources of competitive advantage are emerging, and which capabilities will be most important for success in an increasingly complex and evolving market. 

The future of scale

How consolidation, M&A and strategic partnerships are reshaping competition—and whether scale alone still delivers advantage.

The next sources of competitive advantage

Why distribution, specialist expertise, technology, product innovation and client relationships are becoming increasingly important differentiators.

Positioning for long-term growth

How firms are adapting their business models to compete in an increasingly complex, technology-enabled and client-centric asset management landscape.

Understand where competitive advantage is shifting

Explore how leading asset managers are rethinking growth, differentiation and long-term success beyond scale alone.

Hear from senior industry leaders

Gain practical insights from executives shaping strategy across Europe's leading asset managers and distribution businesses.

Benchmark your strategic priorities

Understand how peers are responding to consolidation, evolving distribution models, technology investment and changing client expectations.

Future of Asset Management Europe
24-25 November 2026
London and Online

FOAM Europe brings together senior leaders to explore how the industry is evolving in response to investor demands, disruptive innovation, and a shifting geopolitical landscape. Across two days, attendees will gain strategic insights, forge new partnerships, and debate how to navigate operational complexity and unlock the next wave of growth.

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