How Data Is Changing Fund Conversations: Evelyn Partners’ James Burns | Fundpath

In a discussion with Fundpath, James talks about how data shapes conversations between fund sellers and buyers, and how smarter insights are driving more meaningful engagement.

He explores how the right data enhances efficiency in his fund selection process, reduces noise, and sharpens communication—while reaffirming that human judgement and relationships will remain central to good investment decisions.

Data and Diligence: The Keys to Engagement

Q: What role does data play in your day-to-day interactions with asset managers, and how can platforms like Fundpath optimise that?

James: Data plays a huge role in deciding who we engage with. If asset managers can access structured information, such as who’s responsible for which asset class at our firm, they save time and target the right people. Fundpath gives that visibility. Rather than sending blanket emails, they can direct their outreach based on data about our firm’s internal structure. That’s a smart use of data to improve commercial efficiency.

Q: Can you give an example of how intelligent use of data has improved your workflows or saved time in fund sourcing?

James: Certainly. Suppose someone pitches a new short-duration bond fund. Without prior due diligence from our fixed income team, it’s a non-starter. If they had checked our profile on the platform and identified who covers that asset class, they’d avoid unnecessary calls. Using real-time, role-specific data avoids wasted effort and supports a more targeted and professional interaction.

Winning Attention Through Relevance

Q: For asset managers looking to improve their data-led engagement strategies, what advice would you offer?

James: Use platforms that give you access to the right data. Fundpath, for example, gives you insight into who covers which area, helping you direct your communication efficiently. It’s about using data smartly — less noise, more signal. Reach out to the right person, with the right message, at the right time. That’s how you win attention in a saturated market.

Q: With the sheer volume of data available today, how do you manage information overload in your investment decision-making process?

James: We’re flooded with information — emails, newsletters, social media feeds — and it’s a challenge to sift through it all. The key is filtering for relevance. Tools like Fundpath are helpful because they streamline the flow of insights, ensuring people see what’s most useful without drowning in data. It’s not just about having data; it’s about making it actionable.

The Coming Wave

Q: How do you see data-driven technology transforming the investment management landscape over the next 2 to 5 years?

James: AI and data analytics will undoubtedly transform the space, particularly in how we monitor and assess investment opportunities. But despite these advances, the core of our work — trust and human judgment — remains. I see platforms improving how we gather and analyse data, but face-to-face manager meetings will continue to be vital. The tech will enhance our process, not replace it.

Q: From a data strategy point of view, what trends do you see shaping the way asset managers need to operate?

James: Asset managers will need to work harder to justify fees, and that starts with data. Whether it’s performance, ESG metrics, or benchmark comparisons, transparency will be key. Passive and active ETFs are data-rich and low-cost, so unless active managers can provide clear, measurable outperformance, they’ll lose ground. We’re moving into a space where the narrative must be backed by ROI.

Q: Thank you, James. Any final thoughts?

James: Just to reiterate — data is increasingly critical, but human relationships still matter. Technology should enhance, not replace, the human side of investment decisions. Tools like Fundpath make it easier for both sides of the table to engage more meaningfully.

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