Smartkarma, an investment research network for independent research providers, has introduced Boost Research, an accelerator programme designed to support investment analysts who want to start independent research businesses, improve the supply of independent research to the market, and increase the variety of opinions in research to help investment decisions and lead to better outcomes for end investors.
Boost builds on changes in the provision of sell-side investment research made by MiFID II research unbundling and allows analysts wanting to take advantage of these changes to set up on their own with Boost de-risking the move to work independently. The accelerator offers a range of support from subsidised office services to financial support, mentorship and access to regulatory cover, initially from the Smartkarma London office. Participants can also benefit from Smartkarma’s platform providing data, publishing tools and distribution of research to its network of 165 global buy-side institutions.
The rules on joining the programme require applicants to have five-plus years of front-office experience, a focus on either the EU IPO market or emerging markets, an understanding of the use of technology in research applications, and an interest in differentiated delivery mechanisms.
Mark Artherton, head of research at Boost Research, says: “We are dedicated to growing the independent analyst landscape around the world to enhance the variety of opinion available to investors. At a time when sell-side analysts are facing an uncertain future, we are taking these skilled analysts and empowering them to build a sustainable business.”
