Infinite Systems with Ali Zahedi | E346

Comprehensive and integrated portfolio management.

In this episode of Fintech Impact, Jason interviews Ali Zahedi, CEO of Infinite Systems, about their comprehensive portfolio management software, Harmony, and its impact on the Canadian wealth management industry. Allie shares the origins of Infinite Systems, emphasizing the company's commitment to providing end to-end, integrated solutions for wealth managers and their move towards exploring inorganic growth opportunities through acquisitions. The conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of building a tech based solution from the ground up, the importance of team cohesion, and the company's future visions focusing on both enhancing existing services and exploring adjacent opportunities.

Episode Highlights:

  • 00:10: Introduction to FinTech Impact and today's focus on Infinite Systems and their Harmony platform.

  • 00:29: Ali Zahedi expresses gratitude for being featured on the podcast.

  • 00:32: A brief overview of Infinite Systems is provided.

  • 00:34: Allie discusses the founding of Infinite Systems, its focus on foundational technology for wealth managers, and expansion to larger institutions.

  • 00:52: The conversation shifts to the origins of Infinite Systems and the identification of industry needs.

  • 02:07: Allie elaborates on the end-to-end services and core components provided by Harmony.

  • 04:33: The challenges of building an all-encompassing system and the internal development strategy are discussed.

  • 05:49: In-house development history, the programming-centric approach, and the importance of system integration.

  • 07:11: Strategies to balance client-specific needs with universal features within the system.

  • 09:04: The implementation and onboarding process for new clients transitioning to the Harmony platform.

  • 10:40: Challenges in data migration and the value of custodial data in the onboarding process.

  • 12:43: The significant role of Infinite Systems' experienced team in improving the client conversion process.

  • 13:41: Discussion on strategic market focus and the potential for exploring advisory services.

  • 15:43: Allie shares future visions for Infinite Systems, focusing on growth through acquisition.

  • 18:04: Feedback from clients post-implementation and the exceptional quality of customer service.

  • 21:34: Closing thoughts and encouragement for wealth management firms to consider Infinite Systems' offerings.

Key Points:

  • Infinite Systems has significantly impacted the Canadian wealth management industry with its end-to-end platform, Harmony.

  • The company attributes its success to a strong, internally driven development approach and a commitment to comprehensive, integrated solutions.

  • Future growth strategies include exploring inorganic opportunities through acquisitions and expanding into adjacent service areas.

  • Client feedback emphasizes the platform's comprehensiveness and the superior quality of customer service offered by Infinite Systems.

  • There's a strong belief in the potential for growth through greater risk-taking in the conservative Canadian financial industry.

Tweetable Quotes:

  • "Started 20 years ago, Infinite Systems focuses on providing foundational technology to wealth managers." - Ali Zahedi

  • "Harmony was born out of a need for a fully integrated end-to-end portfolio management system." - Ali Zahedi

  • "Our strength is programming, leading us to develop a comprehensive in-house solution." - Ali Zahedi

  • "The biggest reward is our team. Working with best friends and turning visions into reality is the dream." - Ali Zahedi

Resources Mentioned: