As the adoption of artificial intelligence continues to accelerate, asset managers, management companies and custodians are facing fundamental questions: How can data, expertise and technology be combined to create real value? This topic was recently explored by Gunther Glabbatz, Head of Sales Germany & Austria at Profidata, during the event “Fund After Work: How Intelligent Is Artificial Intelligence Really?” in Frankfurt.

During the event, he provided insights into current AI initiatives across the Profidata Group and demonstrated how artificial intelligence is helping to accelerate processes and drive innovation. “Only organisations that have full control over their data can truly unlock the potential of AI,” says Gunther Glabbatz. “As a provider of investment management software and services, we have spent decades helping financial institutions consolidate, structure and operationalise large volumes of data from a wide range of sources. Today, this expertise forms the foundation of our successful use of AI.”

At Profidata, a clear principle guides every AI initiative: artificial intelligence should not be applied in isolation, but where it delivers tangible value for clients and employees. The following examples illustrate how this approach is being put into practice today.

Use case 1: Compliance and investment guidelines

One of the most promising applications of artificial intelligence lies in the field of investment compliance. Translating investment restrictions from fund prospectuses, UCITS documentation and internal investment guidelines into operational compliance rules is among the most complex tasks in fund management. Varying terminology, interpretational nuances and complex regulatory requirements often result in significant manual effort.

To support this process, Profidata leverages AI-powered document analysis. Fund documents are analysed automatically, relevant information is identified and potential investment restrictions are detected. The extracted information can then be linked to and validated against existing rule sets. The result is faster onboarding processes and a higher level of quality and consistency in the implementation of regulatory requirements.

Use case 2: New documentation platform with AI agent

Another important milestone is the new documentation platform for XENTIS and Prisma. The platform brings together user manuals, release notes, “What’s New” updates, standard reports and other product-related information in a single, centralised environment.

At the heart of the solution is an integrated AI agent. Users can ask questions and receive instant answers based on the available documentation. The language of the query is irrelevant – the AI agent understands context, identifies the most relevant content and guides users directly to the information they need. This significantly reduces search effort and facilitates knowledge sharing across the organisation.

Use case 3: Software development

Artificial intelligence is also being leveraged within Profidata’s software development processes. AI-powered tools support our teams in development, testing and documentation activities, helping to automate repetitive tasks and improve efficiency. This enables new features to be delivered more quickly and enhancements to be implemented more effectively. Clients benefit from shorter development cycles and the continuous evolution of our software solutions.

At the same time, Profidata is investing in the technological foundations required for future AI-driven solutions, including the development of a central AI integration layer. This creates the framework for seamlessly incorporating multiple AI agents and specialised AI applications into existing business processes in the years ahead.

AI is transforming asset management – but people remain crucial

The discussions at the FAW Event made it clear that artificial intelligence will bring about lasting change in the financial industry. One particularly thought-provoking perspective came from Dr Andreas Sauer of ansa capital management in his presentation, “Can AI Replace the Fund Manager?”. His answer was nuanced: AI will transform asset management in many areas and revolutionise individual processes. At the same time, human expertise will remain indispensable – particularly where experience, judgement and the interpretation of complex relationships are required.

“AI delivers its greatest value when it connects data, expertise and processes,” concludes Gunther Glabbatz. “That is exactly where we are focusing our efforts at Profidata. Our initiatives demonstrate how Profidata is already translating the potential of AI into practical solutions today, laying the foundation for the next generation of market-leading investment management solutions.”