An increasing number of asset management firms are working with fintech firms — in particular, robo-advisors or digital investment managers (DIM) — to transform the way they distribute products through new platforms.

The platforms vary from firm to firm but, in general, they make it easier for investors to access unit trusts, as they can now buy them directly online and create personalised portfolios. The minimum investment amount and sales charges are also lower.

For instance, BIMB Investment Management Bhd partnered investment tech provider Valuefy Solutions to launch the BEST Invest app in April. With this, investors can rely on a robo-intelligence system to build a shariah and environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG)-compliant portfolio.