Organised by LAQSA (Lambda Quantitative Strategies Association), the Delhi edition of the conference brought together an eclectic mix of thought leaders, policy experts, economists, technologists, and quant professionals to explore how data-driven strategies are reshaping the future of Indian finance and policymaking.
With the theme focused on the intersection of quantitative research, technology, and regulation, the one-day conference offered a rich mix of expert panels, fireside chats, and research-driven presentations.
LAQSA’s mission to promote the science behind market strategies was on full display, with a meticulously curated agenda that reflected both the maturity and the momentum of India’s evolving quant ecosystem.
Data and Policymaking: A Candid Conversation
One of the standout moments of the day unfolded during a mid-morning discussion featuring eminent voices such as Dr. S.N. Ghosh (DEA-AJNIFM, Ministry of Finance), Dr. T.C.A. Anant (Ex-Chief Statistician of India, Ex-Secretary, MOSPI), and Arvind Mathur (Advisor & Mentor, NDA; Ex-ADB). Moderated by Pankaj Mani (LAQSA, WILMOTT), the panel tackled the complex relationship between data reliability, economic governance, and regulatory effectiveness.
The discussion struck a chord by highlighting how the robustness of statistical systems directly influences market confidence and policy outcomes.
Rishi Kohli, Co-Founder of LAQSA, added, “We’re delighted with the overwhelming participation and spirit of discovery at this year’s IIQC Delhi Edition. Each session illuminated new frontiers in systematic thinking and reinforced the power of community in shaping the future of quant in India.”
AI, Ethics, and the Quant Frontier
As the day progressed, conversations turned toward the implications of emerging technologies. A thought-provoking fireside chat between Prof. Arun Kumar of JNU and Prof. Shanta Laishram from the Indian Statistical Institute examined the ethical dimensions of AI in finance—particularly its environmental impact and its potential to widen systemic inequalities if left unchecked.
New-Age Strategies and Systematic Thinking
Later sessions featured insights from family offices, hedge fund managers, and fintech innovators, who delved into cutting-edge strategies such as long-short models, high-frequency trading, and alternative investment frameworks.
These discussions reflected not only a growing sophistication in India’s financial toolkit but also a strong appetite for experimentation with systematic and algorithmic approaches.
Pankaj Mani, Co-Founder of LAQSA, remarked, “The Delhi Edition of IIQC underscored our commitment to cultivating innovative thinking and collaboration within the quant community. This vibrant gathering brought together domain leaders, educationists, researchers, and enthusiasts, fueling deeper conversations and actionable insights to push boundaries in data-driven domains.”
Charting the Road Ahead
As India’s financial markets continue to evolve amidst global volatility and increasing complexity, the IIQC serves as more than just an industry meet—it is becoming a vital crucible for new ideas and disciplined innovation.
With LAQSA at the helm, the message is clear: quantitative strategies are not just a fleeting trend, but a foundational pillar of India’s modern financial architecture.
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The future, as IIQC 2025 reaffirmed, will be written in data—and shaped by those bold enough to decode it.
(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions given by experts are their own. These do not represent the views of the Economic Times)
