Securities services embrace next generation technology

Abstract

The securities services industry is facing several acute challenges, including rising costs and intrusive regulations. Despite this, the sector is responding. Having spent years embracing digitalisation, post-trade providers are continuing their journey by leveraging automation and adopting disruptive technologies such as application programming interfaces (APIs), artificial intelligence (AI), Blockchain and digital assets. Not only can this help firms net operational synergies, but it will enable them to widen their product suites and services. At the same time, however, this disruption cannot be rushed. Both traditional and new technologies, alongside asset classes, will coexist for many years to come, while a host of logistical complexities still need resolving. This is especially true with regards to the lack of standardisation as it applies to certain technologies. A thoughtful, carefully considered approach to innovation and digitalisation is essential if the benefits of these new technologies are to be fully realised.