“With a strong push for greater transparency, financial firms are challenged to create best practices that will enhance the experience for both consumers and providers.”

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As President & CEO of Scivantage, Adnane Charchour brings leadership, depth, experience, perspective and vision. With a distinguished and proven track record in the fFinancial iIndustry, Mr. Charchour helps Scivantage achieve its goals in providing superior technology based products and services to broker-dealers, mutual funds, custodians and prime brokersin the broker-dealer space.

Scivantage is an independent financial technology provider with proven expertise in online brokerage, tax and portfolio reporting, and wealth management applications that automate and integrate key business practices for broker-dealers, mutual funds, custodians and prime brokers. From trade order processing and account management to comprehensive cost basis reporting and automated account opening, maintenance and funding, Scivantage’s back-office independent solutions enable financial institutions and financial professionals to dramatically reduce operational costs, strengthen customer relationships and improve productivity.

MO: What are some of the ways that Scivantage has evolved since first launching back in 2000?

Adnane: Since the launch of the firm in 2000, Scivantage has matured alongside our clients to offer a number of mission critical systems creating deeper and wider relationships. Technology in particular has evolved and we are now providing more complex products in response to an enhanced regulatory environment. Over the years we’ve expanded further into the wealth management space, as well as into the data processing arena with our cost basis offering.

MO: Can you elaborate on why one of the biggest mistakes a bank or a brokerage can make is tailoring their services to one market segment? What tips would you give your clients when it comes to diversification?

Adnane: Diversification is a survival principle. The financial industry went through a tremendous amount of turmoil over the last few years. Looking back, it’s clear that the firms who had the most diverse offerings were able to better navigate the conditions, as they were able to balance risk with servicing client needs. It is imperative however that, regardless of the market climate, firms continue to implement strategies enabling them to progressively and gradually strengthen the variety of their offerings. Integrating diverse technologies is a key factor to success here!

MO: What are some trends in your industry that you’re excited about and think that our readers should be paying attention to?

Adnane: Regulation! Regulation! Regulation! I know that people do not usually get excited in a positive way about this topic, however, as more and more financial regulations are put into place, I become increasingly enthusiastic about the opportunity it generates to improve the industry overall. With a strong push for greater transparency, participants are challenged to create best practices that will enhance the experience for both consumers and providers, and technology is at the epicenter of this transformation. The end result of this tightened regulatory environment will be a better client experience. I genuinely believe that regulations should be seen as an opportunity, and that after the dust has settled, the individual investor will be better off and thus financial institutions will be better off. As a technology company, we create the tools which facilitate the leap from good to great and it is exciting to be an integral part of this evolution.

MO: Have you had any mentors during the course of your career? Is there anyone that inspires you?

Adnane: I’ve been fortunate to have a lot of mentors and influences throughout my journey, but two stand out the most. When I started my business career, Bill Gates was the technology business leader to watch. His unique innovation shifted the way companies now communicate and do business and he continues to contribute to the community via philanthropic efforts. Additionally, Warren Buffet is someone I truly admire. He is able to execute complex business transactions while communicating their value in straightforward, simple terms. This concept for success is something I strive to do each day.

MO: What are some of the biggest challenges facing wealth management firms and how are you able to help them?

Adnane: Wealth management firms are in a continuous competitive race and most struggle to diversify their product offerings to meet the needs of their customer base. Each firm is trying to provide the most comprehensive service and technology that can attract and retain investors ranging from Gen X and Gen Y to the baby boomers. However, the end goal – an integrated offering that can service the distinct needs of each market segment – is what can truly make a wealth management firm stand out and is what we work with our clients to achieve. Impressive front-end technology is no longer enough and firms are challenged to extend best practices across their operations. We help firms address these issues by offering a flexible and integrated technology platform that allows them to serve all of their client needs.

MO: What should our readers be looking for when it comes to choosing an online broker? Additionally, what kinds of questions should they be asking when investing online?

Adnane:  When choosing an online broker, look for a firm that matches your investment style. From full-service to regional to self-service, you must identify your investment goals and match your broker accordingly. Additionally, consider your investment strategy and make sure your chosen broker accommodates the products necessary to execute on your strategy. Most importantly, do your research. Find out what the broker’s existing clients are saying. In today’s fast moving, social media world, there is a plethora of information available including customer satisfaction scores and comments.