Students need to combine financial skills with technology

As global wealth expands and financial markets become increasingly interconnected, financial services are evolving across wealth management, private banking, fintech and investment advisory. Technology, artificial intelligence, ESG investing and digital platforms are also influencing the skills expected of finance professionals. In this interview, Dr Arindam Banerjee, Professor (Finance) and Program Director – Master of Applied Finance & Wealth Management, SP Jain School of Global Management, discusses these developments and changing expectations for students entering the finance sector.

Q1. How is global wealth creation affecting demand for professionals in wealth management and asset management?

The growth in high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals across developed and emerging economies has increased demand for professionals in wealth management, private banking and asset management. There is also demand for expertise in alternative investments, sustainable finance, digital advisory and family office management.

As wealth is transferred across generations, organisations require relationship managers, analysts, compliance professionals, investment specialists and technology experts.

Q2. What does the growth of India’s affluent population mean for students?

India’s expanding wealth market is being supported by entrepreneurship, rising household wealth and greater participation in financial markets. Mutual funds, portfolio management services, alternative investments and digital investment platforms are creating opportunities for professionals with relevant expertise. Wealth management combines financial analysis, client advisory and relationship management, offering students different career pathways.

Q3. Why are specialised finance programmes gaining importance?

Traditional finance degrees provide a broad foundation, but employers increasingly look for practical, industry-relevant capabilities. Specialised programmes can expose students to datasets, financial tools, regulations and case studies. Internships, mentorship and industry interaction can also help students understand how financial concepts are applied professionally.

Q4. How are AI, fintech and ESG changing finance careers?

Technology is changing several functions within financial services. Routine activities such as reporting, reconciliation and some forms of evaluation are increasingly automated. This increases the importance of data interpretation, digital skills and the ability to work with AI-enabled systems. ESG investing is also creating roles related to sustainability research, impact investing and green finance.

Q5. What skills do employers seek in young finance professionals?

Financial modelling, valuation, data analysis and familiarity with tools such as Excel, Python, Power BI and Bloomberg remain useful. Employers also look for communication, problem-solving, commercial awareness, teamwork and ethical judgement. As automation takes over routine activities, critical thinking and relationship-building become increasingly important.

Q6. What can international exposure add to finance education?

Exposure to an international financial environment can help students understand different regulations, currencies, markets and investment practices. It can also develop cross-cultural communication and adaptability, which are relevant to professionals working with clients and institutions across markets.

Q7. What hiring trends are visible across wealth management and fintech?

Recruitment needs vary across sectors, but specialised roles continue to emerge. Wealth management and private banking firms require professionals in advisory and relationship management, while family offices need expertise in investments, governance, philanthropy and succession planning. Fintech firms recruit in analytics, digital products, customer experience and risk management. Internships, certifications, practical exposure and technology skills can strengthen a candidate’s profile.

Q8. How can students build AI and digital skills without losing focus on core finance?

Students should treat technology as an additional capability rather than a replacement for financial knowledge. Understanding how AI and data tools are used in analysis, research, reporting and decision-making can be useful. At the same time, students need a sound grounding in finance because technology is most effective when users understand its context. Combining financial understanding with digital literacy can help students adapt as roles and tools change.

Q9. How can finance education better connect classroom learning with industry requirements?

Finance education can become more experiential through case studies, simulations, analytics platforms, capstone projects, internships and industry mentorship. Curricula also need regular updates as technology, regulations and financial markets change. Faculty with practical experience can help students understand how theoretical concepts apply in professional situations.

Q10. What advice would you give students preparing for careers in finance?

Students should seek practical experience through internships and projects while developing technical and interpersonal skills. They should stay informed about global markets, understand technological changes and strengthen communication and analytical abilities. Specialised education and professional certifications can provide structured learning. Above all, students should approach finance as a field requiring continuous learning, professional integrity and consistent development.