Lumen Capital Investors is a pioneer in Singapore. As one of the first Independent Asset Managers, it continues to attract experienced partners with an entrepreneurial mindset. In the financial sector, LCI is strategically positioned to take advantage of changing dynamics while capitalizing on a shift towards even greater independence – and flexibility.
Lumen Capital Investors (LCI) was founded on the core belief that having a client-centric approach requires truly open architecture. Now, more than a decade after its inception, it remains committed to that very same – and very fundamental – principle.
Jan Dirkmann, CEO of LCI, strongly re-affirms just that by saying it is «at the heart of our firm», providing both partners and clients access to open architecture when it comes to investments, custody, as well as many other services. The unwavering commitment to a wide range of choices enables LCI to provide tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each client, regardless of their investment goals or preferences.
Power of the Independent Model
The independent asset management model of LCI ensures that the interests of clients are aligned with those of the firm, with investment portfolios designed to best meet their needs. LCI offers clients the flexibility to choose their level of involvement in the asset management process based on their individual preferences and goals.
Kumala Dewi, who joined LCI in 2018 from a large Swiss financial institution, clearly sees the value of an independent setup where clients can benefit from having an unconstrained platform while taking advantage of the power of pure objectivity when it comes to making decisions and accessing services.
Strong Support Model
LCI's senior management has a long and successful track record in the industry, providing partners with a comprehensive support model that allows them to focus on clients.
A dedicated portfolio management team offers tailor-made advisory and discretionary services, while experienced assistant relationship managers proactively support clients and partners.
LCI's strong back-office team performs everything in-house, covering compliance, finance, risk management, and HR. This ensures that partners always have prompt access to effective, efficient sources of support.
Nadia Bathiche, a partner who joined LCI in 2016, notes the strength of the support team, which is additionally helped by an intelligent approach to technology, making LCI an excellent place for advisors to be as independent as necessary, and putting them in a position to offer more to clients.
Smart Use of Technology to Support the Team
LCI has always been committed to leveraging technology to enhance its services. It has also consistently made significant investments in new tech tools. «We believe in the smart use of technology, striking a balance between flexibility and system support,» says Thomas von Rueti, the firm's COO and CRO.
LCI is continually enhancing its platform to provide its partners with an efficient ecosystem for managing clients in the most effective way possible. As part of this journey, the firm has collaborated with Contemi to develop an Independent Asset Manager (IAM) CRM system. The future rollout of the system is a critical milestone for LCI, as it will enable the firm to deliver an even more personalized service to clients while further streamlining internal processes.
Becoming a Successful Partner
When it comes to partnerships at LCI, there are no hard and fast rules. That is the beauty of its model as it is an environment that allows different types of partners to thrive. That being said, there are certain key elements that can help prospective partners. Having a strong reputation for credibility, and an entrepreneurial mindset, while focusing on client needs is critical. They are far more important than having career goals in tiered ranks of management or extensive industry experience.
Ultimately, success as an independent asset manager comes down to an ability to build strong, long-term relationships with clients by providing tailored solutions that align with their unique needs and objectives.
Sow Cheng, Partner, who joined the asset manager in 2021 believes that success is a combination of strong client focus, hard work, and a support team you can count on - something that clearly stands out at LCI.
Why Join Lumen Capital Investors?
There are several good IAM companies in Singapore so why should successful advisors choose LCI? Wilfried Kofmehl, Founder and Chairman, outlines it as follows: «The entrepreneurial freedom in an organization like LCI is a unique experience, particularly for people who have worked in the rigid scaffolding of large financial institutions. People with the right mind and skillset have enormous possibilities with our infrastructure and support system.»