Privium Fund Management is actively involved in the Dutch and European policy debate on asset management and regards DUFAS as an essential link between the sector and policymakers. For this reason, Privium became a member of DUFAS in December. In this interview, Marlien Blaauw and Robert-Jan van Hoorn of Privium discuss the role of DUFAS within an increasingly complex regulatory landscape, the key developments and challenges facing the sector in the coming years, and how they aim to contribute—through committees and expert groups—to a strong and future-proof asset-management sector.
How do you view the role of DUFAS in the current European and Dutch policy landscape for asset management?
“The role of DUFAS is highly significant within the current European and Dutch policy landscape for asset management. DUFAS acts as an important bridge between the sector and policymakers in both the Netherlands and Europe, effectively representing the interests of asset managers and their clients within an increasingly complex regulatory framework.
In addition, DUFAS contributes to knowledge-sharing and helps translate European legislation into a level playing field for the Dutch market, thereby strengthening both the practical implementation and the overall quality of the sector.”
The sector is facing important developments in the coming years. Which trends or challenges do you see at EU and national level, and where can the sector make a meaningful contribution?
“In the coming years, the sector will face significant challenges at both EU and national level, in addition to the broader macro-economic and geopolitical challenges confronting Europe. Strengthening competitiveness is essential for both the Netherlands and Europe in order to maintain economic and societal relevance. Investments by institutional investors and investment funds play an important role in this regard.
Establishing investment funds in the Netherlands generates both direct and indirect positive effects on the economy and the overall investment climate. This requires effective and transparent cooperation between all relevant stakeholders, including policymakers, supervisors, fund managers and investors. As a sector, we can contribute by investing in innovation, cooperation and knowledge-sharing. In doing so, we strengthen our competitiveness while simultaneously—together with the investors in our funds—contributing to societal objectives and future-oriented policy.
In addition, we see the revision of the AIFMD, SFDR and sanctions legislation as key topics for the sector. Further digitalisation is also a priority, aimed at improving processes, with cybersecurity playing a prominent role. Moreover, the asset-management sector is an important link in the energy transition.”
Which elements of DUFAS’s work are most relevant to you in the context of cooperation within committees and expert groups?
“For us, the overarching framework within DUFAS is particularly relevant. Within this framework, all key sub-topics relating to our sector are monitored through the various committees and their expert groups. Insights are shared, and the sector actively participates in consultations. In this way, the interests of fund managers and the investors in their funds are effectively represented.
Based on Privium’s expertise, we expect to be able to make a valuable contribution to the DUFAS Fund Regulation & Investment Services Committee, and more specifically to the AIFMD and AML expert groups.”
