Transforming The Investment Management Industry With Seema R. Hingorani

Featured Guests

Seema R. Hingorani

Founder, Girls Who Invest; Senior Leader, Morgan Stanley Investment Management

Seema is a veteran investor with nearly three decades of experience spanning long-only equity, public and private markets, and leadership roles including Chief Investment Officer for the New York City pension fund managing $160 billion. She is the visionary founder of Girls Who Invest, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing the number of women in asset management through education, mentorship, and paid internships. Seema’s pioneering approach leverages deep industry insights and a commitment to inclusivity that has helped develop a diverse alumni base of over 2,500 women, 70% of whom stay in the investment field. At Morgan Stanley, Seema leads initiatives focused on retaining and advancing diverse talent globally.

Key Insights From This Episode

Gender-diverse teams deliver better investment outcomes.

Multiple studies affirm that diverse perspectives contribute to stronger decision-making and superior returns in investment management.

Pipeline challenges exist but culture is the greater barrier.

Firms often cite a lack of qualified female candidates, yet many have recruiting and cultural practices discouraging diverse talent.

Education and mentorship are critical levers.

Girls Who Invest’s model includes rigorous training, mentorship, and paid internships that prepare and guide women into real roles in asset management.

Retention is as important as recruitment.

Focus must shift beyond hiring to developing and retaining women through continuous education and supportive cultures.

Targets create accountability and progress. The 30x30 vision aims for women to manage 30% of global investable capital by 2030, driving strategic industry focus.

Collaborative industry partnership fuels change.

Effective progress relies on coordinated efforts across firms, nonprofits, and educational institutions to amplify impact.