Risk and trading systems
High quality systems are integral to an institution’s ability to enter into transactions and manage its risk.
We can help institutions at all stages of their system development cycle:
- High level systems architecture
- Functional requirements and specifications
- System selection and vendor liaison
- Project management
- Business analysis
- Systems development (in conjunction with our strategic IT development partners)
We approach risk and trading systems from a business perspective, applying our extensive knowledge of the processes, functionality and data requirements that are part of a risk or trading system implementation. Where IT integration or development is required, we work with our strategic IT partners to provide seamless business and IT solutions.
We have extensive knowledge of most of the major system vendor solutions in the risk management and trading system space. If clients wish to buy a new system, we can advise them on the package that meets their requirements and, if they wish, manage the selection process. As a matter of policy, we do not act as sales agents for vendors nor accept commission. Clients can therefore be certain that our advice will be impartial.
Vendors of risk management systems often face resource constraints in implementing their solutions. We can provide vendors with additional resources and consulting to help them implement their products to their clients’ satisfaction.
Client
Financial markets division of major retail and commercial bank
Region
UK
Client need
The client wished to upgrade its credit risk management system for its dealing room business. The client needed advice in respect of the required functionality and whether it should buy a vendor solution or build in-house.
Our deliverables
We initially produced a high level functional requirements document and a roadmap for how this would be delivered over the coming years. This involved helping the client to clarify its policy and methodology in a number of areas.
We produced a business case for the system which included an analysis of the build or buy options.
We identified a shortlist of potential vendors that would meet the client’s requirements and, in conjunction with the client, produced the questionnaire for the Request for Proposal and scored the responses submitted by the vendor.
We performed business analysis in relation to the implementation of the first phase of the system and wrote the functional requirements specification.
We also provided systems development and business analysis for a number of tactical systems initiatives.
Client
Treasury operation of retail and wholesale banking group
Location
UK
Client need
The client had embarked upon a proof of concept for an integrated credit and market risk management system. The client required assistance in quantitative business analysis.
Our deliverables
We provided quantitative business analysis to specify interfaces and test pricing and risk models.
Client
Wholesale bank
Location
Benelux
Client need
The client was implementing a global credit risk management system and needed external assistance in the management of the programme.
Our deliverables
We provided the programme director for the implementation. He was responsible for all aspects of user requirements, vendor and IT liaison, interface design, data and testing. The programme director managed a team of 15 project managers across the globe.
Client
US Investment manager
Location
UK and Ireland
Client need
The client had embarked upon a project to implement a reference data system which provided a central source of reference data for all its applications. The client needed additional resources to manage the testing process.
Our deliverables
We provided business analysis and project management resources for this project.
Client
Risk software vendor
Region
UK
Client need
The client sold a range of risk management software products and wanted to upgrade the functionality of its collateral management system. The client wanted to engage external advice to ensure that the functionality of the upgraded system met market demands.
Our deliverables
We provided subject matter expert advice to the client throughout the development of the system. This included advice on functionality and market trends.