In this series, we talk to leading figures from the asset management industry and around it. Second, we spoke with Edward Feitsma, strategic policy advisor at VNO-NCW on the financial sector portfolio. From this position, Edward deals with financial topics within VNO-NCW. During the DUFAS ALV, he shared his insights on the position of the financial sector in the political administrative arena of The Hague.
In what ways is VNO-NCW committed to the Dutch asset management industry?
"VNO-NCW is particularly committed to the asset management industry by pushing for a good investment climate in the Netherlands. This also makes and keeps it interesting for DUFAS members to invest in the Netherlands. In addition, our team in Brussels is committed to the further perfection of the internal market. Strengthening the internal market will lead to easier movement of investments across national borders. Finally, we are trying to improve the image of the asset management sector - as part of the financial sector as a whole. Think about climate, but also, for example, for defense, where asset managers can play an important role. On specific dossiers, this then involves the tax treatment of investment institutions and legislation around sustainability."
How do politicians view the asset management industry?
"Limited! It doesn't seem to be top of mind for Dutch politicians. If they talk about the financial sector at all, it is often the banks. As far as it is: critical, as to any part of the financial sector. Recently, it can be seen that this is improving though: our efforts will be to get the business climate for financial players back on the radar; after all, the sector's contribution to our society is extremely large."
Where are the biggest opportunities for the Dutch asset management industry (and financial sector) to grow?
"From VNO-NCW it is difficult to say anything about this, but from a distance the consolidation battle does not seem over yet, there remains enough pressure on costs. Furthermore, it will of course depend on the type of asset manager. You may get more niche players, for example family offices. In any case, we are betting on the sector to use the funds for broad prosperity in our country, which in our recently updated definition also means that we hope to invest in resilience of our society ."
