Library picture: A panel at the Alfi European Asset Management Conference, 21 March 2017 LaLa La Photo

Library picture: A panel at the Alfi European Asset Management Conference, 21 March 2017 LaLa La Photo

In advance of the event, Delano spoke with Mercedes Azpiroz of MagallanesValue Investors. She speaks on the “Entering the millenial era--the changing face of European Asset Management” panel, 6 March at 3:45pm.

Aaron Grunwald: What do you want the audience to get most out of the “Entering the millenial era” panel?

Mercedes Azpiroz: I would like to stress the changes in the AM industry in Spain as perceived by millennials focusing on digitalization and concerns beyond those purely investment related.

Are millennials truly a different type investor, or are they simply “young” investors, similar to other generations when they were in their 20s and early 30s?

Yes they are a different type of investor responding to today’s realities. Among others, greatly increased life expectancy, occupation and income volatility, the crisis of the welfare state… and digitalisation, which affects the way they interact with the managers and providers.

If you had one suggestion for today’s millennial investors, what would it be?

Start investing now on a regular basis and take advantage of the power of the compound interest. And select good asset managers!

Aside from your own talk at the ALFI event, which speech or panel are you most looking forward to hearing, and why?

The panels related to Impact investment [editor’s note: on Wednesday]. Sustainability, ESG, impact, climate, being critical points for millennial investors, they represent a big challenge for asset managers if they want to ensure implementation and commitment.