How can Nomura enhance its global equity research to provide more actionable insights for institutional investors?

Introduction

To enhance Nomura's global equity research and provide more actionable insights for institutional investors, we need to thoroughly analyze the current product, understand user needs, and develop innovative solutions. I'll approach this challenge by examining key stakeholders, identifying pain points, generating solutions, and proposing metrics for success.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions

• Looking at the product context, I'm thinking about the specific types of institutional investors we're targeting. Could you provide more information on the primary user segments within our institutional investor base?

Why it matters: This helps tailor our solutions to the most impactful user groups. Expected answer: A mix of hedge funds, mutual funds, and pension funds. Impact on approach: Would focus on features that cater to the unique needs of each segment.

• Considering user behavior, I'm curious about how our institutional investors currently interact with Nomura's equity research. What are the primary touchpoints and delivery methods for our research?

Why it matters: Identifies potential areas for improvement in the research delivery process. Expected answer: Primarily through a web portal, email distributions, and analyst calls. Impact on approach: Could explore enhancing digital platforms or creating new interactive formats.

• Examining our market position, how does Nomura's global equity research currently compare to our top competitors in terms of coverage, accuracy, and timeliness?

Why it matters: Helps identify our strengths and areas for differentiation. Expected answer: Strong in Asian markets, but room for improvement in North American coverage. Impact on approach: May focus on leveraging our Asian expertise while bolstering other regions.

• Considering external factors, what recent regulatory changes or market trends are impacting the equity research landscape?

Why it matters: Ensures our solutions align with current market dynamics and compliance requirements. Expected answer: Increased focus on ESG factors and regulatory pressure for transparency in research methodologies. Impact on approach: Would incorporate ESG analytics and enhance transparency in our research process.