ICAA hosted ‘Smart DigiTech & AI Forum 2025’ in Kolkata, Highlighting the Future of Mutual Fund distribution business in Digital & AI landscape

The Independent Consultants and Advisors Association (ICAA) successfully organized the “Smart DigiTech & AI Forum 2025” on Friday, June 13, at the ICC Auditorium, ICC Towers, Kolkata.

The event brought together leading voices from the mutual fund, technology, and advisory sectors to discuss the transformative impact of digitization and artificial intelligence on mutual fund distribution and financial services.

The forum commenced with a welcome address and presentation by Mr. Sujan Das, Secretary of ICAA, that set the tone for the day’s insightful sessions.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Bikash S.S., General Manager, SEBI, shared important regulatory perspectives and their implications for Asset Management Companies (AMCs). This was followed by Mr. S.L. Pandian, Deputy CEO of AMFI, who emphasized operational challenges and adaptability in a rapidly evolving market environment.

Bringing a holistic angle to the discourse, Aradhya Bhagwan Das, Education Director at ISKCON Mayapur, spoke on “Reprogramming Yourself for the Digital Age,” offering a spiritual and mindful approach to coping with digital transformation.

A ceremonial lamp lighting by all dignitaries marked the beginning of the event, symbolizing knowledge, wisdom, and transformation.

A compelling panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Saibal Biswas, featured senior executives from UTI Mutual Fund, Motilal Oswal MF, LIC MF, DSP MF, Union MF, and Franklin Templeton MF. The panel focused on the evolving role of Mutual Fund Distributors (MFDs) in a digital-first financial ecosystem.

The afternoon sessions delved deeper into technological innovations and growth strategies:-

Ms. Bhoomi Ajugia (Sanchar CRM) outlined CRM-driven techniques to scale AUM.

Mr. Sanjay Pandey explored digital gold as a futuristic investment avenue.

Mr. Dwaipayan Bose (Advisorkhoj) demonstrated research tools for business enhancement.

Mr. Anant Agarwal shared his journey from corporate life to MFD entrepreneurship.

Mr. Mahmood Basha (Baroda BNP Paribas AMC) presented insights on the evolving distribution landscape.

Ms. Debayani Ghoshal highlighted the synergy between AI, public relations, and MF business growth.

Mr. Samyajit Mukherjee (IEM Labs) emphasized the importance of cybersecurity in daily client communications.

One of the key highlights of the day was a student felicitation ceremony, recognizing academic excellence among children of the MFD community. The top four achievers in Madhyamik and Higher Secondary examinations were awarded tablet devices—an inaugural initiative by ICAA at the national level.

Mr. Arunmoy Sur, President of ICAA, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants, speakers, and attendees. The event concluded with a networking tea session, facilitating collaboration and knowledge sharing.

The proceedings were skillfully moderated by Mr. Vivek Joshi, CWM, and Mr. Goutam Karmakar, CFP, Founder-Chairman of ICAA.

The “Smart DigiTech & AI Forum 2025” reaffirmed ICAA’s commitment to empowering MFDs, fostering innovation, and equipping financial professionals to thrive in the digital age.

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