My CAIA journey required dedication and commitment to master the learning material for Level I and Level II, while balancing the demands of my role as an Associate Private Banker. With a solid foundation in how alternatives fit into a diversified portfolio and an understanding of various underlying strategies, the journey quickly evolved from theoretical learning to practical application, particularly from an allocator’s perspective.
One of the greatest benefits of becoming a CAIA Member has been growing my network of like-minded and passionate private market specialists. I have made it a priority to engage with the CAIA community by attending chapter events regularly. These gatherings provide invaluable opportunities to connect with fellow finance professionals and allocators deeply immersed in the alternative investment space.
Through these interactions, I gained practical insights into diverse investment strategies and real-world client feedback, which enriched my understanding beyond what was covered in the formal curriculum. The exchange of knowledge with peers and the broader CAIA network has been instrumental in deepening my expertise and expanding my professional connections within Sydney's private market landscape.
In my role in Private Banking, I frequently engaged with clients on portfolio construction and asset allocation. While many clients and Financial Advisers were well-versed in equities and fixed income strategies, I observed a notable gap in their understanding of alternative investments. The role of alternatives in a diversified portfolio and the nuances of various underlying strategies often seemed unclear to them.
This insight drove my decision to specialize in alternative assets. I sought to gain the expertise needed to effectively educate clients on the strategic benefits and importance of incorporating alternatives into their portfolios. After extensive research and discussions with colleagues who had pursued the CAIA designation, I recognized that obtaining the CAIA Charter would not only be intellectually stimulating but also crucial for developing the depth of knowledge required in this field.
The CAIA Program provided me with a robust understanding of alternative investments, which I was able to apply directly in my Private Banking role. This practical application enriched my ability to educate clients and advisers on alternative strategies. Following the attainment of my CAIA designation, I transitioned into funds management, where I focused on working with advisers on building their understanding of investments with low correlation and volatility compared to traditional asset classes, thereby enhancing portfolio diversification. The CAIA Charter significantly advanced my knowledge and credibility, positioning me as a specialist in private markets and alternative investments.
About Shenal Cooray, MBA, CAIA
Shenal is a Key Account Manager at Platinum Asset Management. His role is working with new and existing clients to help them understand his firm’s investment philosophy and process, and therefore the role they can play in a diversified portfolio. He aims to drive inflows into the firm’s products, and stem significant outflows, by continually providing insight and analysis through regular client engagements. He is the conduit between the Portfolio Manager and client. His clients are Financial Advisers and other non-institutional allocators of capital. Shenal has been a CAIA Member since 2022.