In this far-reaching conversation, Ken Blay, Head of Research, Global Thought Leadership at Invesco, provides insights on the changing face of the asset management industry. Unpacking key findings from his CFA Institute Research Foundation monograph, “Beyond Active and Passive Investing: The Customization of Finance,” Blay describes how active management is maintaining its dominance and how portfolio customization and collaboration are re-shaping the industry. Blay also shares invaluable lessons from his work with Nobel laureate Harry Markowitz.   

Whether you're an institutional investor, portfolio manager, advisor, or researcher, this conversation provides an essential perspective on how asset management is evolving—from the role of active management and the rise of customization to the practical applications of AI. Hear how one industry leader is navigating complexity, challenging assumptions, and helping clients adapt to a changing investment landscape. 

Key discussion points: 

• Why the active vs. passive debate misses the bigger shift — asset management is moving from products to services.
• How customization at scale is reshaping investment design — and why it demands new infrastructure, tech, and human capital.
• Why collaboration is becoming the next performance edge — and how firms will need more “extroverted quants.”  
• How AI is being used to personalize and streamline portfolio commentary — reducing production time while maintaining relevance at scale.