Frank La Salla, DTCC President, CEO & Director, joined a panel of industry CEOs at SIFMA Ops 2025 for a discussion of the top themes shaping global markets.
Market Volatility
La Salla noted that the current market conditions are a result of a confluence of factors, including regulatory changes, economic growth and new financial products. These dynamics create volatility, but the markets are resilient and capable of handling the sudden spikes in activity and rapid movements of capital.
Digital Assets
La Salla emphasized the transformative potential of blockchain in the financial services industry, particularly in enhancing liquidity and capital relief. He highlighted the importance of blockchain not just in cryptocurrency, but in real-time reconciliation and reduced batch processing, which can significantly improve efficiency and lower risk.
Technology
La Salla highlighted the importance of practical applications of artificial technology (AI) within DTCC. He noted the efforts made by DTCC to incorporate AI into their day-to-day operations, making processes more efficient and user-friendly for clients. He also explained the importance of responsible use of AI and the extensive training provided to employees to ensure safe and thoughtful implementation.
Resilience
La Salla underscored the importance of resilience in the financial sector, with a particular focus on how the interconnected nature of the industry necessitates an industry-wide approach. He pointed out that the financial sector must work collaboratively to ensure systemic resilience. This means that in times of crisis or operational failure, the industry as a whole must have contingency plans in place to support each other.
Regulatory
La Salla emphasized that with the industry increasingly focusing on resiliency and recovery plans, firms are working collaboratively to ensure market stability in case of disruptions. He added that the current administration's focus on trade, tariffs, and immigration indirectly impacts the financial services sector.