Friday Frame: The Most Overlooked Factor—Time
September 19, 2025
Why Overlooking Time Can Turn Customization into a Hidden Operational Burden
Launching a customized private markets vehicle comes with a cost many RIAs underestimate: time. Beyond setup, operating a single private fund can demand up to 2.5 days per client each year for reporting, compliance, valuations, capital calls, and audits. Scaled across a book of business, that translates into a full year of operational workload—a commitment that often goes unrecognized until resources are stretched thin.
The challenge is that time doesn’t scale linearly. A few client variations—different reporting needs, liquidity terms, or fee structures—can quickly multiply touchpoints. Without the right systems and support, the risk of delays, regulatory gaps, and investor dissatisfaction grows. For RIAs, success depends on acknowledging the true time cost upfront and investing in the people, processes, and technology to manage it effectively.
Partnering for Efficient, Time‑Smart Operations:
Hidden Hours: Operating a customized private markets vehicle can consume 2.5 days per client annually, adding up to a full year of work across a book of business.
Operational Edge: Streamlined processes, dedicated resources, and technology platforms help RIAs manage this hidden workload—reducing risk and preserving capacity for client strategy and growth.
Topics Covered:
- How the hidden time commitment of customized private markets vehicles can impact operational capacity.
- Why building streamlined processes, leveraging technology, and allocating dedicated resources is essential for managing workload efficiently.
