May 30, 2025
What was once considered a niche solution for tech-savvy investors has rapidly become a mainstream investment avenue in Malaysia. Commonly known as Digital Investment Managers (DIMs) in the country, robo-advisors are transforming the way Malaysians approach personal finance and wealth creation.
By combining algorithm-driven strategies with carefully crafted human insights, these platforms offer something that traditional wealth management often lacks: simplicity, affordability, and accessibility — all through a mobile screen.
At the heart of this transformation is the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC), which laid the groundwork for innovation through a specialized Digital Investment Management framework. This framework not only fosters growth but ensures consumer trust by applying rigorous standards to these digital platforms, akin to those required of conventional fund managers.
The Malaysian Robo-Advisory Landscape: Regulated Growth
Smart Regulations Driving Market Expansion
Malaysia’s robo-advisory sector gained solid momentum in 2024, mirroring the maturity and resilience of the overall capital market. As reported in the SC’s 2024 Annual Report, the nation’s fund management industry surpassed RM1.07 trillion in total assets under management (AUM) — a healthy 9.6% year-on-year growth.
This surge stemmed not only from strong global equity trends (particularly in the AI sector) but also from increasing investor trust in digital-first, cost-efficient investment models.
Robo-advisors have become a gateway for retail investors to enter capital markets. With low minimum investments, intuitive onboarding, and diversified portfolios powered by automated systems, DIMs lower barriers and broaden access to financial planning — especially for those previously underserved by traditional advisors.
The SC’s continued emphasis on responsible innovation, investor protection, and regulatory discipline plays a vital role in shaping this growing ecosystem. Key initiatives like the Regulatory Sandbox, introduced during the SCxSC Fintech Summit 2024, enable safe experimentation with novel fintech solutions under regulatory supervision.
Market Dynamics and Competitive Challenges
Despite its upward trajectory, the robo-advisory market also faces mounting competition.
In July 2024, Raiz Malaysia Sdn Bhd — known for its micro-investing tools and financial literacy initiatives — discontinued operations due to a strategic pivot by its Australian parent company. This move coincided with the debut of Ria, a new robo-advisor launched by its former joint venture partner Amanah Saham Nasional Berhad (ASNB).
Raiz’s closure highlighted a key challenge: the need for clear differentiation, sustainable growth models, and alignment with long-term market strategies. As more players enter the space, success will depend on providing distinct value while maintaining operational scalability.
Investor expectations are also rising. With retail participation growing — evidenced by daily average trading volume increasing from 3.55 billion (2023) to 4.29 billion units (2024) — demand for digital, transparent, and low-cost investment solutions continues to surge.
In response, the SC is doubling down on inclusion and innovation through its 5-Year Roadmap (2024–2028) aimed at strengthening capital market access for MSMEs and mid-tier companies, further solidifying the role of DIMs in Malaysia’s digital future.
Malaysia’s Licensed Robo-Advisor Platforms (2025)
Below is an overview of licensed Digital Investment Managers in Malaysia as of 2025:
1. Akru Now Sdn Bhd (Akru)
Offers personalized, goal-based portfolios (e.g., education, retirement) with no minimum deposit, and tiered annual fees starting at 0.7%. Ideal for beginners seeking simple, low-cost investing.
2. Amanah Saham Nasional Berhad (Ria by ASNB)
Integrated into the myASNB app, Ria uses ASNB’s trusted unit trust funds. Fully Shariah-compliant with a RM100 minimum investment and a 0.3% flat annual fee.
3. CP Global Fintech Solutions Sdn Bhd (Airo Malaysia)
Launched in 2023, Airo offers both Shariah-compliant and conventional portfolios. It charges a 0.8% flat fee and focuses on capital preservation using tools like inverse ETFs.
4. GAX MD Sdn Bhd (MYTHEO)
A Japan-backed platform offering thematic and ESG ETF portfolios. Management fees range from 0.5% to 1.0%, with up to six free switches per year.
5. Kenanga Investment Bank Bhd (KDi GO)
Combines savings and investments with services like KDI Save and KDI Invest. No fees under RM3,000, with tiered rates from 0.3% to 0.7% for higher investments.
6. StashAway Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Provides globally diversified portfolios across thematic, ESG, and Bitcoin ETF strategies. Fees range from 0.15% to 0.8%, with no portfolio limits and fractional investing features.
7. UOB Asset Management (Malaysia) Bhd
Catering to individuals and corporates via UOBAM Invest and UOBAM Robo-Invest. Requires a minimum AUM of RM500,000 with an annual fee of 1.3% (advisory + platform).
8. Wahed Invest Sdn Bhd
One of the pioneers in Shariah-compliant robo-advisory. Offers globally diversified, socially responsible portfolios with low entry thresholds.
9. Raiz Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Ceased in July 2024)
Known for micro-investing features and educational tools like Raiz Kids, Raiz ended operations in 2024 following a strategic change.
