Every Time a Client Tells Us How Our Platform Has Improved Their Decision-Making, It Reinforces Why We Do What We Do: Chris Sier, CEO of ClearGlass

ClearGlass is an independent data analytics company designed to help institutional asset owners and their advisors assess the value for money delivered by asset managers. Founded in the United Kingdom in 2019, ClearGlass has supported over 850 institutional asset owners across the UK and Europe, managing assets exceeding €1.5 trillion. The company has also collaborated with over 530 asset managers to obtain and verify completed CTI templates on behalf of their clients. 

ClearGlass is based in London.

In a recent interview with SME Business Review, Chris Sier, CEO of ClearGlass, discussed the company's mission to bring transparency and efficiency to the asset management industry, highlighting how ClearGlass helps institutional asset owners make more informed decisions about the value and performance of their investments. Here’s what Mr. Sier had to say.

Interview Excerpts

ClearGlass has achieved remarkable growth since 2019. What inspired you to establish the company?

The idea for ClearGlass came from my frustration with the lack of transparency in the investment industry. Institutional asset owners were often left in the dark about the true costs and performance of their asset managers. I saw an opportunity to use data to solve this problem, creating a system where asset owners could access meaningful, standardized information and make more informed decisions.

What challenges did you face in the early days of ClearGlass?

Starting any business comes with its challenges, and ClearGlass was no exception. The biggest hurdle was convincing both asset owners and managers to adopt a transparent approach to cost reporting. It wasn’t just about creating the technology but also fostering trust in the process. Educating the market about the benefits of transparency and how it leads to better outcomes for everyone requires persistence and clear communication.

ClearGlass supports over 850 institutional asset owners. How did you achieve such widespread adoption in a relatively short time?

Our focus has always been on addressing a real and pressing need. By providing a solution that simplifies cost transparency and delivers actionable insights, we were able to demonstrate immediate value to our clients. Word-of-mouth and strong partnerships played a significant role in expanding our reach. Additionally, the support of frameworks like the Cost Transparency Initiative gave us credibility and helped align our goals with industry standards.

How does ClearGlass differentiate itself from other data analytics platforms?

Our emphasis is on clarity, usability, and actionability. We don’t just provide data; we ensure it’s standardized, verified, and presented in a way that’s easy to interpret. Our platform is tailored to address the unique needs of institutional asset owners, helping them assess value for money across 46 investment strategies. This level of specificity and our commitment to transparency set us apart.

Could you tell us more about the technology behind ClearGlass and its impact on users?

Our platform incorporates advanced data analytics and cloud-based technology to process and verify Cost Transparency Initiative templates. This ensures accuracy and consistency, reducing the administrative burden for asset managers and giving asset owners reliable data. The ability to benchmark performance and costs helps users make strategic decisions with confidence, saving both time and resources.

How do you ensure the data collected is both reliable and insightful?

It starts with a rigorous process for obtaining and verifying information from asset managers. Our team works closely with over 530 asset managers to ensure submissions meet the required standards. Once the data is collected, it’s analyzed to provide insights that are not only accurate but also meaningful. This dual focus on reliability and relevance is at the core of what we do.

How do you see ClearGlass shaping the future of institutional investing?

Transparency is the foundation for a healthier financial ecosystem. By providing the tools and insights needed to evaluate costs and performance, ClearGlass is helping to redefine expectations. Asset owners are becoming more empowered to demand value for money, and asset managers are finding new ways to deliver it. This shift is creating a more efficient, accountable, and client-focused industry.

What drives your passion for improving transparency in financial services?

I have always believed that transparency is the key to trust and fairness in any industry, especially one as complex as financial services. My work with ClearGlass allows me to address systemic issues and make a tangible difference in how the industry operates. Knowing that our efforts help clients achieve better outcomes is what keeps me motivated every day.

How do you manage your dual role as CEO and a leader in the transparency movement?

It’s a balancing act, but one that I embrace. Leading ClearGlass requires me to focus on the operational side of the business, while my advocacy for transparency drives our broader mission. These roles complement each other, as the work we do at ClearGlass serves as a practical example of what’s possible when transparency is prioritized.

What has been your proudest achievement with ClearGlass so far?

Seeing the impact of our work on the industry has been incredibly rewarding. Supporting over 850 institutional asset owners and working with asset managers to improve their practices is something I’m deeply proud of. Every time a client tells us how our platform has improved their decision-making, it reinforces why we do what we do.

Could you share something about yourself that influences your leadership style?

My background in both academia and industry has taught me the value of combining big-picture thinking with practical solutions. I strive to lead with clarity and purpose, encouraging my team to stay focused on our mission while fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

What advice would you give to someone looking to drive change in a complex industry like finance?

Be patient but persistent. Change doesn’t happen overnight, especially in an industry as entrenched as finance. Focus on solving a real problem, build trust with your stakeholders, and never lose sight of the impact you want to make.

What do you enjoy most about your role at ClearGlass?

It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that the work we do has a direct impact on improving the industry. I enjoy collaborating with our team, engaging with clients, and finding new ways to push the boundaries of what’s possible with transparency and data.

What is your vision for ClearGlass in the years to come?

Our mission is to continue advancing transparency and improving the client experience. This means enhancing our technology, expanding our analytics capabilities, and reaching more markets. We’re also exploring how we can use data to address other inefficiencies in the industry. The goal is to remain at the forefront of innovation while staying true to our core values.

Chris Sier, CEO, ClearGlass

Our mission is to continue advancing transparency and improving the client experience. This means enhancing our technology, expanding our analytics capabilities, and reaching more markets.