Tech It Up

In crypto, volatility is unavoidable. Confidence is engineered. Crypto markets are defined by constant change — new assets, shifting venues, and rapid price movements. But while volatility may be inherent, the infrastructure supporting crypto trading doesn’t have to be reactive. In this episode of Tech It Up, two leaders at the center of the RealTick EMS crypto journey — Gerry Portante and Justin Casenta — share how a deliberate, client‑first approach to building a crypto trading platform led to technology that performs consistently, even when markets don’t. Tune in for a conversation on how intentional innovation is shaping crypto infrastructure clients can trust for the long term.

When most of the industry talks about alpha, the focus is on investment performance. But increasingly, leading firms are uncovering a different source of value: operational excellence. In this episode, we explore “Operational Alpha” and how disciplined execution across tax strategy, rebalancing, cash flow management, and reporting can meaningfully improve client outcomes. From tax-loss harvesting and direct indexing to household-level reporting and proposal generation, we break down the often-overlooked infrastructure that powers modern asset management. The takeaway: in today’s environment, delivering alpha isn’t just about what you invest in, it’s how you execute, scale, and communicate it.

Multi-manager funds have quietly emerged as one of the most dynamic and rapidly expanding segments of the hedge fund industry. In an environment where allocators are demanding consistency, disciplined risk management, and real downside protection, the multi-manager model is purpose-built to deliver. But behind the steady returns lies a highly sophisticated operating machine. From rapidly onboarding portfolio managers to managing complexity across asset classes and strategies, running a multi-manager platform is anything but simple. In this episode of Tech It Up, our hosts sit down with SS&C Advent's Aani Nerlekar, Managing Director of Solutions Management & Sales Engineering, and Jordan Daub, Managing Director, Sales Engineering, to unpack what’s driving the rise of multi-manager funds and explore the challenges and opportunities shaping their evolution.

Philanthropy is no longer just a year-end tax conversation. In this episode of Tech It Up, Susan McClure and Eric Hewitt of SS&C ALPS Advisors join Blake Rohde of TIFIN Give to explore how modern donor-advised fund infrastructure is transforming the role philanthropy plays in wealth management. The conversation covers how technology is making charitable planning more collaborative, digital, and year-round, helping advisors strengthen relationships, support family legacy conversations, and differentiate their firms.

In this episode of Tech It Up, hosts Jasmin Conner and Trent Turner are joined by Michelle Greive to explore how operational wellness inside advisory firms directly impacts client financial wellness. They discuss why efficient workflows, unified data, and streamlined collaboration are critical to delivering clarity, confidence, and better long-term outcomes. Tune in to hear practical strategies for removing friction, scaling healthier operations, and creating more time for meaningful planning and client conversations.

2025 was a year of transformation for the investment management industry, and we were here for all of it. In this special recap episode, Trent Berry and Jasmin Conner revisit the most impactful conversations from the past year. You’ll hear highlights from the expert voices who joined Tech It Up and shared their insights on the trends and strategies shaping the investment management industry. Packed with actionable takeaways, this is your quick guide to what mattered in 2025 and what’s next in 2026. Every clip in this episode comes from a full-length conversation packed with insights from experts. You can listen to the complete episodes here: AI Everywhere: What’s Real, What’s Not, and What Works with Alex Schlesinger Bells and Whistleblowers: Compliance, AML/KYC, and Insider Trading with Sara Raisner The Rise of SMAs: Why Investors Are Making the Shift with Tim Duffy Embracing Multi-Asset, Multi-Strategy Portfolios with Javier Flores The Art & Science of Measuring Private Equity Performance with Mark Elliott Inside the Data: Pressures and Priorities Driving Investment Management Technology Decisions with Sam Knox From Evaluation to Implementation: The Dos and Don’ts for Selecting a Technology Vendor with Jonathan Balkin

From enhanced integrations and reporting capabilities to major updates across client experience and portfolio management, it’s been a transformative year for SS&C Black Diamond Wealth Solutions and our advisors. Join Leslie Martin and Michelle Greive, Directors of Product Management at SS&C as they walk us through the highlights of 2025, share what’s driving the product vision for the year ahead, and reflect on how advisor feedback continues to shape the future of Black Diamond.

Institutional Investor’s Sam Knox and SS&C Advent’s Valerie LaBarge unpack findings from a new research study on how investment management firms are approaching technology today. They explore where firms feel the most pressure, how teams are prioritizing modernization, and why integration and data management are rising to the top of tech roadmaps. Sam breaks down the key insights from the survey and executive interviews, while Val shares real-world client perspectives on modernization mindsets, alignment across teams, and the growing demand for personalization. Together, they highlight the trends shaping the next generation of investment technology and what firms should consider as they plan ahead. To dive deeper into the data, be sure to read the full research report, The Next Generation of Technology for Investment Management: http://bit.ly/3MAo79H

In this year-end episode of Tech It Up, host Jasmin Conner talks with Jen Becher and Steve Leivent about the milestones that shaped 2025 for Black Diamond Wealth Solutions. They cover the impact of the rebrand, how advisor relationships strengthened, and the leadership lessons learned through a year of major change. Jen and Steve also share what they are looking forward to in 2026, including new opportunities for integration, innovation, and advisor success.

As our listeners have probably caught on, twice a year, SS&C Advent’s Geneva, our portfolio, fund, and investor accounting solution, releases a series of new features and enhancements to support our clients in setting the foundation for continued optimized operational efficiency. Talk about a tongue twister! In this episode, we sit down with Catherine Daly and Elizabeth Larmore as they walk us through another milestone delivery with the 25.2 release - and maybe give us a glimpse of what's mapped out for future releases.

Selecting the right technology vendor can be complex and costly if done incorrectly. In this episode of Tech It Up, Jasmin Conner speaks with Jonathan Balkin from Alpha Alternatives to explore the challenges of selecting and implementing new technology. They discuss how consultancies can guide organizations through the entire process, what to do before engaging vendors, key evaluation considerations and red flags, and essential steps for successful implementation and migration. Tune in to hear expert insights on how to make technology decisions that deliver real impact.

In this episode of Tech It Up, host Trent Berry sits down with Alex Hagmeyer, Co-Chief Investment Officer and Senior Director of Quantitative Research at SS&C ALPS, to unpack how advisors can elevate their approach to tax loss harvesting. Together, they explore how technology and continuous monitoring are transforming what was once a year-end exercise into an ongoing strategy that enhances after-tax outcomes and strengthens client portfolios. From overcoming common misconceptions to leveraging automation and direct indexing, Alex shares research-backed insights on how to make tax loss harvesting a proactive, scalable part of modern portfolio management.

More than half of global institutional investors now allocate 10% or more of their portfolios to private markets, and many plan to increase their allocations to private equity (PE) further, according to Aviva Investors . Why? Because PE helps investment managers deliver diversification, personalization and alpha to their clients. But measuring performance in this asset class isn’t as straightforward as measuring performance in public markets. Tune in to explore PE performance measurement options, challenges, and best practices for addressing them—it’s worth a listen.

This week, Jasmine Conner, Trent Berry, and guest Amy Arnett, Vice President of Insurance Solutions at DPL Financial Partners, cover how advisors can approach long-term care planning conversations with confidence and clarity. With October marking Long-Term Care Awareness Month, we explore why these discussions are critical, how modern solutions have evolved, and the key opportunities advisors shouldn’t overlook. Topics discussed: Common misconceptions around long-term care planning for clients and advisors How today’s long-term care solutions differ from traditional policies The importance of timing and identifying client profiles where LTC planning is essential Exploring hybrid vs. traditional LTC products and when each makes sense *How advisors can position long-term care as a proactive strategy to protect client futures**** Links mentioned in this episode: SS&C Black Diamond Annuities & Insurance Marketplace DPL Financial Partners

AI isn’t magic—and treating it like it is wastes time, money, and effort. In this episode of Tech It Up, Alex Schlesinger joins hosts Trent Berry and Jasmin Conner to cut through the hype, call out common missteps, and showcase how to identify the use cases where AI actually delivers lasting value. Whether you’re skeptical of the buzz or eager to put AI to work, you’ll take away practical insights to guide smarter decisions about its future.

Mergers and acquisitions bring both opportunity and complexity, especially when it comes to technology and AI. In this episode of Tech It Up, hosts Trent Berry and Jasmin Conner talk with Verity Larsen, Founder and CEO of Versoft, about how to create a clear 90-day consolidation plan, decide which tools to keep or sunset, and manage compliance in an AI-driven world.

In this episode of Tech It Up, we discuss an increasingly popular star of the investment management world: personalized and diversified portfolios through managed accounts Today, personalization and flexibility across assets and strategies are top investor demands that managers can meet through strategic structures such as portfolio sleeves, separately managed accounts (SMAs) and unified managed accounts (UMAs). However, implementing those account structures at scale without the right technology isn’t easy. Join host Jasmin Conner and guest Tim Duffy of SS&C Advent as they explore the context, capabilities and challenges surrounding these fund structures and the technology that makes them possible. Tune in; it’s worth a listen.

In this milestone episode of Tech It Up, hosts Trent Berry and Jasmine Conner sit down with Steve Leivent, Senior Vice President and Co-General Manager of SS&C Wealth & Investment Technologies, to discuss the strategic rebrand to SS&C Black Diamond Wealth Solutions. With decades of experience and a front-row seat to the evolution of fintech, Steve unpacks why the time was right for a bold brand transformation, how it supports advisors in a changing landscape, and what this means for the future of SS&C’s platform and client experience.

This special edition of Tech It Up features a conversation between industry experts Catherine Daly of SS&C Advent, Kevin Gallagher of Bain Capital Credit, and Nick Libertiny of Sound Point Capital Management, where they sat down to discuss the transformation of the loan data market. They cover the critical role that data serves for fund managers, influencing everything from investment decisions to accounting and advanced analytics, and how ensuring the data is clean, current, accurate, and consistently formatted across the technology ecosystem poses challenges for funds investing in loan-based instruments. Tune in to deepen your understanding of the challenges and opportunities surrounding both syndicated and private loan data management, and how to leverage technology to automate data flows in the back-office.

In this episode of Tech It Up, Black Diamond product leaders Michael Persin and Leslie Martin share how advisors can level up client engagement through personalized portals, real-time collaboration tools, and integrated financial planning. If you’re looking to deepen client relationships and modernize your practice, this is one you won’t want to miss.

Out with the old, in with the new. The classic 60/40 model is on the decline, and multi-asset and multi-strategy portfolios are stepping into the spotlight. AUM in multi-asset investments have grown from under $2 trillion in 2003 to approximately $16 trillion in 2023. In this episode, host Trent Berry welcomes back Javier Flores, Director of Solutions Management at SS&C Advent. Flores shares insights into the driving forces behind this growing trend, discusses various approaches to managing multi-asset, multi-strategy portfolios and the technology that makes it possible. Tune in for an engaging conversation about today’s investment strategies and the technology needed to support them.

In a market where the demand for investor due diligence is rapidly rising, staying competitive requires more than just keeping up - it calls for amplifying operations at every level. The team is constantly working to deliver strategic enhancements to the platform, designed to help clients stay ahead of the curve. In this episode, join our hosts as they sit down with Eddie Russo and David Peck for a front-row seat as we plug into the April release of SS&C Advent’s Geneva®.

In this episode of Tech It Up, hosts Trent Barry and Jasmine Conner speak with Doug Fritz, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of F2 Strategy. Topics include: Key shifts in wealth management over the past decade The role of personalization and predictive tools Gaps in tech stacks and how to address them How to prioritize modernization during budget constraints This episode is ideal for executives, advisors, and anyone thinking about the future of WealthTech. Resources: F2 Strategy: f2strategy.com Doug Fritz on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/doug-fritz

The lines between different asset classes continue to blur. Firms with roots in hedge funds or private equity are branching into private credit, real estate, venture capital, or infrastructure funds. In this episode, our hosts are joined by Raya Gabry, Senior Director of Product Management, SS&C Eze, and John Berthiaume, Director, Product Management, SS&C Advent, as they unpack the drivers of this latest trend and discuss why it's essential for firms to have a holistic investment ecosystem to achieve diversification and growth.

This week, Jeffrey Cohen, Patton Weber, and our hosts Trent Berry and Jasmine Conner cover how advisors can streamline K-1 season using automation, integration, and industry expertise to ease tax season pressures and enhance client service. Topics discussed: The challenges of alternative investment tax reporting and K-1 retrieval How SS&C Accord automates document management and integrates with Black Diamond Vault The role of fund administration experience in delivering accurate, reliable tax data

Every asset manager uses performance measurement and attribution to communicate results and understand performance drivers, but one size doesn’t fit all. Active investment managers especially benefit from deep performance analytics and meaningful attribution methods that go beyond the basics to fully understand what drives their returns, leading to actionable insights. They also help to present a clear picture of their value vs. passive investing alternatives and downward fee pressure. In our latest Tech It Up podcast, performance solutions director Mark Elliott joins hosts Trent and Jasmin to discuss why deep performance and attribution capabilities are needed, what those capabilities should be able to do, and how best to utilize them to highlight investing success and identify investment risks and opportunities.

Younger investors value more than just returns—they want meaningful relationships, seamless technology, and personalized guidance. In this episode, we explore how financial advisors can build deeper connections, engage the next generation, and leverage technology to enhance (not replace) the client experience. Special guest Michelle Greive shares insights on aligning with client values, using digital tools effectively, and creating a lasting impact beyond portfolio performance. Whether you're looking to future-proof your practice or strengthen multigenerational relationships, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways.

In this episode of Tech It Up, Jasmin Conner and Trent Berry are joined by Tim Duffy, Senior Solutions Manager at SS&C Advent. Together, they explore one of the fastest-growing trends in asset management – separately managed accounts (SMAs). Tim breaks down the key drivers behind SMA growth, the operational complexities firms face, and how technology is helping firms navigate the challenges of managing SMAs at scale. Tune in for expert perspectives on the future of SMAs and what asset managers need to prioritize to stay ahead in this evolving market. Related resources mentioned in this episode: Transforming Active Management: How SMAs Meet Growing Investor Expectations Genesis Fundamentals: Everything You Need to Know About Creating and Managing SMAs

Join hosts Trent Barry and Jasmine Conner on this episode of Tech It Up as they dive into the future of wealth management with Bryan Klein, Product Manager at SS&C Black Diamond. Bryan shares his journey from earning his CFP and master’s degree to helping advisory firms deliver holistic financial planning through innovative technology solutions. Together, they explore how values-based planning, client-centric tools, and integrated platforms are shaping the next era of financial advice.

Our hosts sit down with Sara Raisner, a Partner at A&O Shearman, for a conversation covering whistleblower protection, AML and KYC requirements, and insider trading. At A&O Shearman, Sara focuses on regulatory examination and enforcement matters, internal investigations, and securities-related disputes. Regularly representing financial institutions, hedge funds, and public companies before the SEC, FINRA, CFTC, New York Office of Attorney General, DOJ, and other regulators, Sara brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this episode. After joining us at the Boston Client Forum late last year to engage in a very successful and enlightening interview, we wanted to repeat the excitement for our listeners.

In this episode, we explore the art of negotiation for female financial advisors. Our guest, Shelby Nicholl—founder of Muriel Consulting and host of the Kick It Open podcast—shares insights from her 25 years in wealth management, including leadership roles at LPL Financial and Edward Jones. She offers strategies to navigate negotiations, overcome self-doubt, and secure career opportunities with confidence.

In this episode of Tech It Up, Jasmin Conner and Trent Berry are joined by Joe Metcalf, IT & Operations Manager at Vestia and consultant to RIAs, to discuss operational challenges and technological transformations in the wealth management industry. Joe shares insights on tailoring tech recommendations to firm culture, identifying critical areas for improvement, and the importance of proactive tech optimization. He also explores trends like tech consolidation, the growing role of CRM and portfolio tools, and how firms can stay competitive through smarter tech integration and change management.

How do investment firms stay competitive in an industry defined by rapid change and increasing complexity? Explore how a connected investment platform enables firms to scale, optimize workflows, and respond to evolving investor demands with precision.

Alternative investments have seen incredible growth during the past few decades. Private credit, a form of lending to companies by institutions other than banks, has also been growing at an extremely fast rate. In this podcast, Trent and Jasmin are joined by Brant Snyder, Director of Product Management, and Matt Macomber, Senior Sales Engineer, both at SS&C Advent to dive into why private credit is such an attractive investment opportunity, discuss its surge in popularity, and most importantly, what factors are responsible for its growth. They also discuss how and why the right technology is so important when investing in credit.

Join hosts Trent Berry and Jasmin as they dive into the fascinating world of unique assets in this episode of Building Wealth with Unique Assets: Insights on Ultra-High-Net-Worth Asset Management. Featuring Taylor Franklin, Oil and Gas Portfolio Manager, and Sam Katigan, VP of Unique Assets at SS&C Innovest, the discussion uncovers the untapped potential of real estate, oil and gas interests, notes, mortgages, and collectibles. Learn why these assets are pivotal in the $84 trillion Great Wealth Transfer and how wealth managers can harness their value. Don't miss this insightful conversation tailored for professionals navigating high-net-worth portfolios.

Achieving operational Alpha is simpler than you may think… All You Need is a Plan. Join our hosts as they sit down with Karen Meehan and Patrick Mooney to dive into how you and your team can utilize the updated features of the October release to reach peak operational efficiency. Guest Speaker: Karen Meehan | Senior Manager, Product Management, SS&C Advent Patrick Mooney | Sr. Client Success Manager, SS&C Advent

Don’t let performance complexity hold your firm back. Investment managers are diversifying across multiple asset classes and security types, adding complexity to performance analytics. Yet, many firms often rely on patchwork technology and legacy systems, leading to data silos and reconciliation headaches. Tune in as we review the evolution of performance measurement, explore the challenges it presents, and discuss today’s tools and technologies that support modern performance, providing actionable insights for better decision-making.

Are you tracking investments in spreadsheets or starting out with limited accounting and reporting software? Tune in to our latest Tech It Up episode, where we discuss the challenges startups and emerging funds face building out their investment operation from a back-office perspective. Together we discuss how a patchwork of disparate systems cobbled together can lead to operational inefficiencies, data inconsistencies, and increased operating expenses. Join us as Aani Nerlekar, Vice President of Solutions Management & Sales Engineering at SS&C, and Stephen Ruane, Senior Director of Product Management at SS&C walk through some of the essential back-office considerations to help you avoid operational pitfalls, gain competitive footing in the industry, and build a scalable platform for long-term growth. Links mentioned in this episode: Blog: Bypass This Common Back-office Operational Hurdle Whitepaper: Patchwork Doesn't Work Anymore

As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve in ways not seen since the 2008 financial crisis, understanding how to balance strategic investment activities with compliance demands is key. Tune in to hear Joanne Kane, Chief Compliance Officer at SS&C, as she unravels the complexities of the current regulatory environment. You will gain insights into how these changes impact your business operations and strategies, and our continued commitment to helping clients manage risk and meet their compliance obligations.

From the high pressures of Wall Street cold calling to becoming the Founder and CEO of Sovereign Financial Group and goRIA, Chuck Failla joins us on Tech It Up to discuss his career journey and the increasing trend of advisors going independent. We explore the driving forces behind this shift, the advantages it brings, the hurdles it presents, and most importantly, Chuck provides practical advice for those on the brink of making the leap. Moreover, we examine the game-changing role of technology and automation and how it has become an indispensable tool for small to mid-sized wealth management firms in a fiercely competitive market. Whether you're an advisor contemplating the independent route or simply intrigued by the trend, be sure to tune in for an insightful episode.

Is your tech stack keeping up with industry demands? As the industry trends towards more diverse offerings, especially among firms serving both institutional and private wealth clients, the demand for robust, adaptable technology is even more critical. Firms are grappling with revenue pressure, fee compression, and market segment shifts requiring greater customization. Given this, firms are evaluating their technology and operational workflows to enhance agility and scalability in portfolio management, without compromising quality. Tune in as we explore these challenges and eight essential investment management capabilities for a modern investment platform.

In this episode of Tech It Up, we explore the world of alternative data, revealing how it is revolutionizing investment management. Together, we unravel the mysteries of the unique advantages it offers and its potential to drive firms ahead of the competition. Join us as industry insider Matt Carroll, Head of Data Lens Sales and Partnerships at SS&C, sheds light on the essence of alternative data, how it differs from traditional data used in reporting, and the momentum it's gaining in the finance sector. Matt also discusses the barriers to wider adoption and introduces groundbreaking tools and technologies, including SS&C Data Lens. Whether you're new to alternative data or seeking to integrate data science into your firm’s DNA, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay competitive in the ever-evolving world of finance.

In this episode of Tech It Up, we delve into the cutting-edge enhancements to our asset management solutions, exploring key trends and innovations shaping the industry and our technology, such as tax-loss harvesting, increase in separately managed accounts, and operational transparency. Rita Chiu, Managing Director of Product Management, and Al Castillo, Managing Director of Solutions Management, provide a glimpse into our strategic roadmap, emphasizing the shift towards a fully cloud-based delivery model through the Genesis Platform initiative. This conversation is more than an update; it's an in-depth look at how SS&C Advent's solutions are evolving to meet the industry's future demands. Tune in to discover how SS&C Advent is leading the way in innovating emerging solutions to improve efficiency and address market needs, ensuring your business is not just prepared, but ahead of the future.

With mounting pressure to keep pace with demand for investor due diligence, today’s market is full of challenges to stay competitive. This is why the Geneva® team works tirelessly to ensure the platform continues evolving. Join John Berthiaume and Claire Fix as they dive into what enhancements make the April 2024 Geneva release so special.

Are you curious to learn how AI is shaping the financial industry? Then don't miss out on this insightful conversation with industry leaders at the forefront of this transformation. The discussion covers a variety of topics, from a firm's primary concerns while implementing AI, to how it's leveling the playing field for smaller to mid-sized firms, and the potential for increased regulations. Whether you're fascinated by the potential of AI, eager to learn future initiatives, or concerned about data quality or control, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to gain valuable perspectives that could shape your firm's future.

Tune in as we trace the journey of order creation and execution technology from simple tools for tracking phone orders to becoming the indispensable cornerstone for the front office they are today. We discuss the evolution of trading, how the landscape has fundamentally shifted, and the current market trends that are shaping the future. Don't miss out on this discussion about what's next for trading and investment management, and exciting innovations that are set to revolutionize investment firm experiences.

Are you prepared for the T+1 deadline on May 28, 2024? Listen to our latest Tech It Up episode to learn how T+1 is impacting our clients. Our guest, Paul Thomas, SS&C Advent Relationship Manager, recently helped moderate a virtual focus group with over 170 clients to discuss their transition plans and readiness. Paul provides potential implications, challenges, and opportunities from this mandate, including insights from the session. The discussion covers everything from automation and operations to timestamps and third-party reliance. Whether your firm is in the planning, testing, or implementation phase, this episode is sure to guide you in your preparations. So, what are you waiting for? Tune in to our latest Tech It Up episode and prepare for the T+1 deadline!

Tune in to hear the story of how a thirty-billion-dollar buyout of Caesars Entertainment turned into unprecedented bankruptcy of the gaming empire. This story takes us from the Vegas Strip to Wall Street boardrooms, Chicago courthouses, and the halls of Congress.

In today's dynamic regulatory landscape, staying compliant is not just an option; financial firms must mitigate risks and safeguard their reputation. To shed light on this crucial topic, we invite you to join our recent podcast episode featuring Martin Orbach, VP, Head of Product for SS&C RCI, and Kyle Fleming, Senior Manager of Product Management for SS&C Black Diamond. During this insightful conversation, Martin and Kyle delve into the intricacies of regulatory compliance, addressing key concerns for financial advisors, such as electronic communication surveillance, active versus passive compliance strategies, and the tools available to manage risk effectively. Listen to the podcast now!

During this episode of Tech It Up, we discuss the future of the investment landscape and how firms are staying competitive. We delve into trending topics and themes that have emerged in the past year, and what to expect in 2024. The conversation covers everything from tax-loss harvesting and portfolio management strategies to fee compression and beyond. Tune in for this thought-provoking discussion!