Investing in education

00:00:03: Hello and welcome to an Alfie podcast part of the annual report.

00:00:07: To help prepare next generation of finance professionals, Alfie has recently supported launch two master's programs.

00:00:15: One is with McKill University in Canada The other at the university of Luxembourg focuses on private assets.

00:00:22: To tell us more about how these initiatives came into life I'm joined today by Miriam Henke who leads Talent Attraction Project.

00:00:32: Hello, Michaela.

00:00:33: Thank you very much for having

00:00:34: me.

00:00:35: Why is education such an important part of the industry's future?

00:00:39: Well... The financial sector is changing very quickly and people working in it need to evolve just as fast.

00:00:46: For Alfie investing in education is really about preparing next generation People who will shape the future.

00:00:55: Luxembourg is one of the world's leading investment fund center.

00:00:58: So it is essential that we continue to attract and develop highly qualified professionals.

00:01:04: by partnering with universities, We make sure academic programs reflect their real needs off industry while giving students exposure to practical experience.

00:01:14: Ultimately, these initiatives strengthen the entire ecosystem – connecting academia industry and public institutions.

00:01:22: And helping Luxembourg remain competitive as a global financial

00:01:25: hub.

00:01:27: Let's start with McGill program.

00:01:29: What makes this master unique for Luxemburg?

00:01:32: This programme brings one of world leading finance degrees to Luxembourg for first time.

00:01:38: McGilds Master of Management in Finance is highly regarded internationally and now professionals working in Luxembourg can complete it here without leaving the country.

00:01:51: What also makes it unique is this strong emphasis on practical learning, students actually manage investment funds as part of a program gaining real experience with portfolio management risk analysis and investor relations.

00:02:06: The Programme is also designed for working professionals With flexible format combining online and in-person learning.

00:02:13: So it allows people to continue their career, while deepening the expertise in finance.

00:02:21: The second program focuses on private assets at the University of Luxembourg.

00:02:26: Why is this topic so relevant today?

00:02:28: Private assets have become one of fastest growing areas in global investing.

00:02:34: Investors are increasingly allocating capital for private equity infrastructure and real estate So assets closely linked with the real economy.

00:02:44: Luxembourg plays a major role in this space, particularly as the global hub for

00:02:49: private asset

00:02:50: funds.

00:02:51: The program gives students a deep understanding of how these investments are structured financed and managed.

00:02:58: It combines academic research with practical insights from industry practitioners covering the full investment life cycle From fundraising and deal structuring to valuation risk management and regulation.

00:03:13: It is a great example of education reflecting the strength of Luxembourg's financial

00:03:18: centre.

00:03:20: Miriam, if we look five or ten years ahead what impact do you hope these programmes will have?

00:03:26: The ambition to build strong pipeline of talents people who understand both theory and practice.

00:03:33: These programs create closer links between universities, financial institutions & policy makers leading to more research, innovation and collaboration.

00:03:44: But most importantly they help positioning Luxembourg as a place where people can build long-term carry and finance.

00:03:52: Thank you very much for all this information.

00:03:54: Let's add, for those who would like to invest in their career that registrations are currently open for both programs at McGill.

00:04:01: the Master of Management in Finance in Luxembourg is a two-year part time program designed from working professionals.

00:04:08: The next application deadline is June At the University of Luxembourg, The Private Assets Track of the Master in Finance and Economics is a full-time program taught in English with admissions for European applicants still open until May.

00:04:25: So whether you are looking for flexible part time format or a full time academic path both programs offer strong opportunity to build specialist expertise here at Luxemburg.