NYAIR Episode 36
AI & Machine Learning in Investment Management
Dive into a powerhouse NY-AIR episode exploring how artificial intelligence, machine learning, and alternative data are transforming the investment world. Rick Roche, an influential industry leader, breaks down complicated quant topics, industry complacency, investor psychology, and why asset management is ripe for disruption. This practical deep-dive makes sense of AI hype for professionals making real investment decisions.
Featured Guests
Rick Roche
Investment Advisor, Wealth Effects | Former Managing Director, Little Harbor Advisors
A pioneer at the intersection of finance and technology, Rick Roche is acclaimed for translating complex topics in AI, machine learning, and quant investing into actionable guidance for top investment professionals. With over three decades advising institutional clients and building alternative strategies, Rick’s track record includes leadership at Little Harbor Advisors and a groundbreaking AI-focused consultancy, Roche Invest AI. Rick is celebrated for his research on volatility, tactical allocation, and leveraging big data in capital markets, with frequent speaking and media appearances guiding peers through financial revolutions.
Robert Akeson
Managing Director Investment Banking at Riverside Management Group
A seasoned executive who has shaped the future of brokerage and capital markets, Robert Akeson brings decades of experience in investment banking, agency execution, and risk management. As the former COO and Co-Head of Prime Brokerage at Mirae Asset Securities (USA), and now Managing Director at Riverside Management Group, Robert is widely recognized for pioneering best practices in hedge fund services, capital introduction, and institutional advisory. His influence spans industry boards, major conferences, and multiple innovation-driven finance platforms.
Key Insights From This Episode
Why AI and Machine Learning Matter for Asset Managers
AI isn’t just hype—machine learning models now outperform humans in pattern recognition, risk assessment, and trade execution. Asset managers ignore this shift at their peril.
The Power and Pitfalls of Alternative Data
Traditional financial statements are no longer enough. Winning strategies now blend satellite imagery, social sentiment, and granular alternative data—requiring sophisticated analytics and skepticism about privacy and relevance.
Complacency Is the Industry’s Biggest Risk
Despite the promise of quant tech, asset management lags every other finance sector in adoption. Disruption from big tech and digital-first players is only accelerating.
Human Expertise Endures—With a Twist
Enhanced “augmented intelligence” is the future: machines crunch vast data, but experienced professionals must still interpret, oversee, and override algorithms when needed.
Why the Next Bubble May Be Different
Systemic leverage and asset bubbles persist—in equities, bonds, and alternative markets. Strategies must adapt to bubbles multiplying across new domains, with defensive portfolio positioning more critical than ever.
Practical Steps to Start Your AI/Quant Journey
From sourcing alternative data signals to mastering programming or deploying cloud-based ML platforms, Rick shares baby steps and expert pathways for professionals eager to bridge the quant divide.
Access the Full Conversation
Unlock the full episode audio and download your exclusive insights deck, packed with frameworks and actionable ideas. Every financial professional—portfolio manager, allocator, or strategist—will find practical, next-step value to futureproof their approach in an industry facing seismic change.
Soundbites Worth Saving
“I believe the asset management industry is far too complacent for comfort—big tech and quant pioneers are primed to eat our lunch.”
— Rick Roche
“The best option going forward is to use augmented intelligence: let machines automate the data deluge, but always apply human domain expertise to make the final call.”
— Rick Roche
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