Funds World
The Future of Funds, the Funds of the Future18 June 2025, 09:00 – 14:00 CET
On 18 June, we are hosting our first-ever Funds World conference at the Philharmonie, Luxembourg.
Funds World is designed to provide a comprehensive view of the latest industry trends, insights, opportunities, and challenges. Prepare to be at the forefront as our expert panels explore the dynamic shifts within the fund industry, unveil the next wave of fund innovation, and examine the global economy’s role in forging our financial future.
Register now to secure your place at this exclusive event – we look forward to welcoming you.
If you have any questions, please contact the IM&F sector team.
The investment management world is coming to Luxembourg – don’t miss out!
Agenda
8:30 - 9:00
Registration & Coffee
9:00 - 9:30
Welcome & Setting the scene - The Evolution of Funds: Past, Present, and Future
Funds have been a vital conduit for financing since the dawn of humanity, yet the needs and techniques continue to evolve. In today’s increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, investment funds are more critical than ever in addressing the world’s most urgent challenges. Whether bridging connectivity gaps, promoting decarbonisation, or advancing the digital agenda, funds play a key role in financing the next wave of global economic growth.
Guided by expert speakers from diverse backgrounds, today’s discussions will cover:
- What the future economic outlook looks like and how financing will be deployed tomorrow.
- How disruptive innovations are reshaping investment fund models and strategies.
- How funds can act as catalysts for addressing tomorrow's challenges and opportunities.
Let's embark to envision the bold new possibilities for the funds industry.
9:30 - 10:00
Market Insights: The Next Odyssey of Your Business Model
Global Shifts in Fund Management
The future of fund management is being shaped by profound economic and technological transformations. From geopolitical uncertainty to the rise of the digital economy, these shifts are redefining how the industry operates.
Impact of Technology and AI
AI and automation are rapidly transforming financial services. As these technologies evolve, global markets must adopt and adapt to ensure long-term competitiveness and efficiency in an increasingly automated world.
Positioning Fund Managers for the Future
Fund managers worldwide must pivot to navigate these changes effectively. In a world where free trade, capital movement, and the flow of people face growing constraints, funds will play a pivotal role as natural connectors, sustaining global prosperity despite these challenges.
10:00 - 10:50
Pioneer the Next Funds Era: The Future of Funds – Cross perspectives on the Future of Funds
Disruptive Innovations Shaping the Future of Funds
Technological advancements such as blockchain, tokenisation of funds, AI, and digital platforms are revolutionising fund operations. These innovations streamline processes, reduce costs, and enhance transparency, transforming the entire business model for funds and service providers. This shift could reshape retail investment strategies by lowering barriers to entry and simplifying investment management, particularly through the digitisation of value chains. The role of regulators will also be pivotal in fostering and managing this wave of innovation.
Funding Innovation – The Role of Investment Funds
Investment funds play an increasingly vital role in funding innovation, from AI and data centres to blockchain technology. Global case studies illustrate how new fund models are reshaping investment structures and driving growth in these areas. As this landscape evolves, LPs are expecting innovation and engagement from their GPs.
10:50 - 11:20
Coffee Break
11:20 - 12:10
No Future Without Funds: The Funds for the Future
As we confront global challenges, investment funds are uniquely positioned to address key issues like financing the real economy, fostering socio-ecological transitions, and bridging pension gaps.
Navigating Global Demographic Shifts
With aging populations and widening pension gaps, investment funds can channel global capital into long-term solutions for aging economies. By leveraging strategies like ETFs and retail investment, we can explore parallels with the U.S. and discuss how funds can tackle demographic shifts.
Preserving Our Planet - Sustainable Funding on a Global Scale
Funds play a critical role in advancing the sustainability agenda. We will examine how funds can drive impact initiatives and provide essential financing to support socio-ecological transitions globally.
Bridging Borders: Tackling Regulatory Fragmentation
Regulatory fragmentation is one of the greatest challenges facing the global fund industry. We will explore how funds can help bridge regulatory gaps and facilitate cross-border investments in a fragmented environment.
Impact on Asset Classes
We will explore how demographic shifts, sustainability initiatives, and regulatory challenges impact asset classes.
12:10 - 12:30
Closing Session: The Funds of the Future
What will the investment funds of tomorrow look like? From retail alternative funds to infrastructure, healthcare, virtual/crypto, or pension funds, future funds will be vastly different from today’s. Investors will likely be more diverse, and distribution channels may evolve to include blockchain technologies. We will examine how these future funds will differ in structure, investor profiles, and objectives.
As we prepare for this future, education and investor knowledge become more critical. Fund managers and investors alike must be equipped to navigate emerging trends and innovations. We all play a role in spreading awareness and fostering a well-informed global investment community
12:30 - 14:00