'Our strategies are model-driven, guided by fund managers'

Model-driven vs human-led portfolios?

We follow a quantamental approach, blending quantitative analysis with fundamental research. This combines back-tested model outputs with robust analysis and portfolio construction to deliver consistent, risk-adjusted returns. All our strategies are model-driven with a fund manager overlay.

Quant techniques reduce bias and bring discipline, while the human element makes the portfolio responsive to changing market environments.

Roughly 50–80 per cent of stocks come from model output. But areas like governance checks and event-driven calls require judgment. So, it’s not a case of one replacing the other, but rather working together in a jugalbandi.

Post-stress test safeguards?

Stress tests have added a layer of discipline and transparency. While we meet all regulatory norms on disclosures, the bigger shift has been cultural—we now review portfolios through a lens of liquidity and risk, not just performance.

This helps investors understand what they own, how liquid it is and how it might behave in different market conditions. The result is better portfolio resilience in times of stress.

In debt, stress tests cover credit, interest rate and liquidity risk. With regulatory safeguards in place, we’ve constructed portfolios that stay true to the scheme objectives and prioritised higher-quality issuers, even at the cost of slightly lower yields.

On low-friction investing and investor churn.

Digital platforms have made investing very easy, but that convenience has also brought shorter holding periods, especially for first-time investors. SIP accounts are rising, but so are discontinued ones.

We’re tackling this through goal-based communication and investor education. On the product side, we offer outcome-oriented strategies. On the process side, digital nudges and engagement tools help reduce impulsive exits and promote long-term thinking.

Rapid-fire questions

• One AMC you admire (not yours): Those with growth innovation.
• One fund manager, past or present, you would love to have on your team: OpenAI.
• Beyond returns, one criterion you want investors to judge your AMC on: Resilience.
• If not running an AMC, what would you be doing? An explorer cum National Geographic photographer.

This article was originally published on October 27, 2025.