SEI Expands Global Footprint with New Office in Singapore to Enhance Asset Management Services
SEI Enhances Global Presence with Singapore Office
In a strategic move that underscores the company's commitment to scaling its operations within the Asia-Pacific region, SEI® (NASDAQ: SEIC) has announced the opening of its new office in Singapore. This initiative not only marks a pivotal milestone in SEI's expansion plans but also positions the firm to better serve the booming asset management sector in one of the world's leading financial hubs.
As the demand for specialized financial services continues to rise, SEI intends to offer a suite of services that align with both current client needs and emerging market opportunities. These include asset servicing, professional services, as well as the distribution of SEI's UCITS funds. With the anticipated acceleration of client adoption, SEI plans to further expand its offerings, catering specifically to the unique needs of the Asia-Pacific market and enhancing its expertise in asset management and technology.
According to recent reports, assets under management (AUM) in Singapore reached a staggering S$6.7 trillion in 2025, marking a remarkable 10% increase from the previous year – a clear indication of the sector's robust growth trajectory. Additionally, Singapore-based asset managers are sourcing over 60% of their AUM from international markets, underscoring the global landscape in which these firms operate.
The establishment of the Singapore office follows SEI's impressive momentum in business development, particularly in technology, operations, and investment services. Notably, SEI provides asset servicing for 48 of the top 100 asset managers globally and stands as one of the leading administrators of private assets, which reinforces its ability to cater to high-profile clients seeking extensive regional support.
To lead operations in Singapore, Connall McGuckian has been appointed as the Managing Director, Head of Singapore. With nearly 14 years of experience at State Street Singapore, where he served as Chief Operating Officer for Alternatives Investment Solutions in Asia-Pacific, McGuckian brings invaluable industry knowledge to SEI. His previous experience includes playing a pivotal role in establishing Goldman Sachs Administration Services in Singapore, marking him as a seasoned expert in the field.
Sanjay Sharma, CEO of SEI International and the Global Head of SEI's Private Banking sector, emphasized the significance of the Singapore opening: "Singapore is a critical market for SEI's growth in Asia-Pacific and a pivotal step in evolving our international business. The region's asset management industry is experiencing notable expansion, making this an ideal location for us to enhance our offerings."
Sharma further noted that clients in the industry are increasingly in search of scalable solutions that simplify complexities while allowing for efficient operations across various markets. With McGuckian at the helm, SEI intends to bolster its relationships and operational capabilities in alignment with client needs in this dynamic region.
"As financial service firms evolve to tackle new market challenges and broaden across asset classes, they require strategic partners like SEI to facilitate their growth," McGuckian remarked. By establishing a presence in Singapore, SEI is poised to leverage local talent and support the evolution of the asset management landscape in Asia.
The Singapore office will serve as a vital platform for SEI to enhance its offerings and foster new partnerships, ensuring it remains at the forefront of the financial industry's transformation. By investing in markets where it can offer meaningful value to clients, SEI continues to reinforce its reputation as a leader in the global financial sector.
In conclusion, SEI's decision to broaden its operations into Singapore not only reflects strategic foresight but also highlights the company's dedication to supporting the ongoing growth of the asset management industry across Asia-Pacific. As SEI implements its ambitious plans, it stands ready to deliver tailored solutions that enable clients to thrive in an increasingly complex financial landscape.