Expanding capabilities and streamlining operations
When Melqart Asset Management launched its first fund in October 2015, it prioritized operational excellence, efficiency, and control. But, over time, the firm realized that their previous mix of multiple systems and providers could not keep pace with their growing business.
In September 2021, Melqart partnered with Enfusion to go live with its first fund on the platform. This launch achieved integrated data and workflow across front-, middle-, and back-office functions. Since adopting Enfusion’s Portfolio Management System (PMS), Order and Execution Management System (OEMS), and accounting platform, Melqart has a has generated cost efficiencies and improvements. With the addition of Enfusion’s expert Managed Services team handling critical volume-sensitive processes in the middle office, Melqart’s in-house team remains free to focus on high-value investment activities.
Migrating to Enfusion was a critical first step in helping scale and manage multiple funds, counterparties, and asset classes, according to Melqart’s Head of Operations, Deepak Verma. Working closely with their Enfusion team is now helping them achieve their growth ambitions while adding new technologies to their overall stack.
The resources allocated to Melqart allow Enfusion’s qualified team to respond to queries in an effective and timely manner.”
A growing and evolving firm
What began with two funds has grown into a diversified structure managing six distinct mandates, including master-feeder structures and managed accounts. Melqart trades across a broad range of asset classes, including equities, bonds, bank loans, swaps, options, , futures and FX.
Their most recent expansion has also increased the firm’s trading volume and required enhanced workflows to manage complex asset classes, multiple prime brokers, and additional counterparty relationships. Enfusion provides the infrastructure needed to manage complexity and scale.
In addition, Enfusion’s regular system updates and enhancements have ensured that Melqart can continue to optimize without the burden of software upgrades. This model has allowed Melqart to incorporate new features and workflow improvements while staying agile and responsive to evolving market demands.
For example, the adoption of cash processing automation and UCITS rules has reduced manual intervention and strengthened oversight. Melqart has also refined its approach to counterparty connectivity, now integrating with 10 key counterparties for trade execution and reconciliations.
Regulatory changes have reshaped Melqart’s requirements as well. The shift to T+1 settlement in North America was a significant industry milestone, but thanks to proactive planning with Enfusion, Melqart did not need to plan for or manage the transition. The firm’s activities remained uninterrupted, allowing traders to maintain their strategies without disruption.
Strengthening workflows with innovation
As Melqart expands its investment operations and fund structures, Enfusion remains a critical element of its operating model. In addition, Enfusion’s open architecture facilitates connectivity with several additional point solutions that Melqart chose to adopt. This flexibility has allowed Melqart to enhance its decision-making without the need for extensive custom development, including enhancements such as:
- Trade confirmation: Transitioning from NYFIX to CTM to improve efficiency and accuracy
- Post-trade processing: Onboarding Triana for more streamlined trade handling
- Performance monitoring: Developing a custom dashboard for KPI tracking, providing deeper insights into performance and efficiency
- Operational oversight: Using alerts and monitoring tools to refine oversight and improve reconciliation processes
Operational excellence and efficiency gains
Verma further underscored the strength of this collaboration, adding that the relationship has evolved into a true partnership, allowing Melqart to focus on investment strategy with a robust, adaptable backbone.
Enfusion plays an integral part in our operational processes and is an extension of the Melqart team.”
By aligning technology with expert services, Melqart has built a framework supporting its current needs and future ambitions. As the firm continues to expand, Enfusion remains an essential enabler of growth.
Enfusion’s flexible platform and talent combine to meet the constantly evolving needs of a sophisticated investment manager across multiple funds and complex asset classes. Features include:
- Connectivity and data pipelines between 10 different counterparties
- All-in-one PMS, OMS, EMS, and accounting
- A specialized client team able to handle routine operations, exceptions, and esoteric trades and products
- Ability to support many asset types and trades including equities, bonds and other fixed-income products, swaps, options, warrants, privates, futures, FX and loans
- Wide range of reconciliation capabilities including cash, position, ISDA, and administrator.
- Streamlined reporting and compliance workflows.
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