In this article we describe the current state of the asset management industry, what defines a modern asset manager and what prerequisites he needs to be successful. After all, the asset management industry has been facing fundamental challenges for years, which we will explain in detail. In doing so, we break away from the classic questions and show which points are really at stake. Technology, new data sources and artificial intelligence are changing the asset management industry for the better. Further success factors for the future are a modern work culture and clear and simple communication. We explain the five points in detail. They offer the ideal opportunity for a start-up to lead the modernization of the asset management industry. Four pillars are the prerequisite for a successful implementation: a combination of financial know-how, statistical and computer science know-how as well as many years of industry experience. We explain the reasons using an example.