Once a niche concept reserved for tech-forward investors, robo-advisor (or officially known in Malaysia as Digital Investment Manager (DIM), through its platforms) has rapidly emerged as a mainstream force reshaping how Malaysians invest.

Blending algorithm-driven intelligence with human-designed strategy, these platforms promise what traditional wealth management often could not (simplicity, accessibility, and affordability), all at the tap of a screen.

Behind this transformation is the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC), which established a dedicated Digital Investment Management framework to regulate and license these platforms as Licensed Fintech Intermediaries.

By doing so, the SC has not only fostered innovation but also safeguarded investor trust through stringent oversight, ensuring these platforms operate with the same regulatory discipline expected of traditional fund managers.

The State of Robo-Advisor Platforms Market in Malaysia

Backing Growth with Smart Regulation

The robo-advisor sector in Malaysia continued to strengthen in 2024, reflecting the broader maturity and resilience of the capital market.

According to the Securities Commission Malaysia’s Annual Report 2024, the country’s fund management industry crossed a significant milestone, with total assets under management (AUM) reaching RM1.07 trillion, marking a robust 9.6% year-on-year growth.

This expansion was driven not only by favourable global equity market performance, especially in AI-related sectors, but also by increasing investor confidence in digital platforms that offer cost-efficient, personalised investment solutions.

Robo-advisors have become a key gateway for retail investors to participate in the capital market. By leveraging technology to reduce entry barriers, DIMs offer low minimum investments, simplified user experiences, and diversified portfolios through automated advisory models.

These platforms have played a vital role in broadening financial inclusion, especially for those who may previously have been excluded from traditional wealth management services.

The sector’s growth has also been underpinned by regulatory support and proactive market development by the SC.

The Commission’s emphasis on innovation, investor protection, and market integrity is reflected in initiatives like the Regulatory Sandbox, introduced at the SCxSC Fintech Summit 2024, which provides a controlled environment for testing innovative financial products.

Such efforts have reinforced trust in digital investment platforms and encouraged responsible experimentation within the fintech space.

New Competitive Pressures and Market Shake-ups

However, the evolving landscape has also introduced new competitive pressures.

In July 2024, Raiz Malaysia Sdn Bhd, a platform that supports micro-investing and promotes financial literacy, ceased operations.

The decision followed a strategic realignment by its Australian parent company and coincided with the launch of a competing robo-advisory platform, Ria, by its joint venture partner, Amanah Saham Nasional Berhad (ASNB).

Raiz’s exit illustrates a core challenge facing digital investment platforms: the need for clear differentiation, sustainable scale, and alignment with long-term strategic goals in an increasingly saturated market.

At the same time, investor expectations are rising. With greater retail participation in the capital markets, evidenced by increased average daily trading volumes (4.29 billion units in 2024 vs. 3.55 billion in 2023) and improved investor sentiment, the appetite for digital, low-cost, and transparent investment solutions is growing stronger.

The SC’s continued focus on democratising investments through digital platforms, alongside initiatives like the Catalysing MSME And MTC Access to the Capital Market: 5-Year Roadmap (2024-2028), reinforces its commitment to ensuring that DIMs remain accessible, secure, and innovative.

In sum, the robo-advisor market in Malaysia stands at a pivotal point. While the sector has seen impressive growth, underpinned by rising AUM and deepening retail engagement, players must continue to innovate and evolve to remain competitive.

As the regulatory framework matures and investor sophistication increases, the DIM platforms that can balance automation with personalisation, affordability with value creation, and innovation with compliance are most likely to lead the next phase of digital investing in Malaysia.

Licensed Fintech Intermediaries for Malaysia Robo-Advisor Platforms as of 2025

Akru Now Sdn Bhd

Akru delivers personalised, goal-based investment portfolios designed for various life stages, like retirement or education. It features no minimum deposit, no withdrawal or switching fees, and a tiered annual fee structure starting at 0.7%.

Its transparent pricing and simplicity make it ideal for first-time investors seeking low-cost entry into investing.

Amanah Saham Nasional Berhad (Ria by ASNB)

Ria is embedded within the myASNB app and offers portfolios built using Modern Portfolio Theory, investing in ASNB’s trusted unit trust funds.

It is fully Shariah-compliant, with a low minimum investment of RM100 and a flat 0.3% annual wrap fee. Its integration with a long-standing Malaysian institution makes it a trustworthy choice for conservative investors.

CP Global Fintech Solutions Sdn Bhd (Airo Malaysia)

Airo Malaysia offers a mix of Shariah-compliant and conventional portfolios, including income-focused and tactical global macro strategies.

Launched in 2023, Airo has no lock-in period and a flat 0.8% fee. The platform emphasises security, capital preservation, and active risk management using tools like inverse ETFs.

GAX MD Sdn Bhd (MYTHEO)

Powered by AI and backed by Japanese expertise, MYTHEO offers ETF portfolios such as Omakase, Global ESG, and Thematic products.

It charges 0.5%–1.0% in management fees, with free portfolio switching (up to six times annually). MYTHEO targets everyday Malaysians seeking diversified, globally focused portfolios.

Kenanga Investment Bank Bhd (KDi GO)

Kenanga’s digital arm, KDi GO, offers integrated services including KDI Investing and KDI Save. It features no fees for investments under RM3,000, with tiered charges ranging from 0.3% to 0.7% depending on the amount invested.

With a fully digital onboarding process, KDi GO is ideal for users seeking a seamless app experience that blends savings and investments.

StashAway Malaysia Sdn Bhd

StashAway provides globally diversified, risk-optimised portfolios across general investing, thematic, ESG, and Bitcoin ETF strategies.

With no limit on the number of portfolios, fees from 0.15% to 0.8%, and features like fractional shares and re-optimisation, it appeals to both novice and experienced investors aiming for long-term wealth growth.

UOB Asset Management (Malaysia) Bhd

UOBAM’s DIM offerings cater to both individuals and corporates via UOBAM Invest and UOBAM Robo-Invest. The service carries a 1.3% combined annual fee (advisory + platform). Minimum AUM starts at RM500,000, and access is available through digital wallets or mobile apps.

Wahed Invest Sdn Bhd

Wahed Invest is one of Malaysia’s first Shariah-compliant robo-advisors, focusing on ethical investing aligned with Islamic finance.

It offers globally diversified portfolios with low entry barriers and a strong emphasis on social responsibility, making it a popular choice among Muslim investors.

Raiz Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Ceased Operations)

Raiz Malaysia was one of the pioneers in micro-investing, allowing users to invest spare change via a mobile app.

It promoted financial literacy through features like Raiz Kids and small, scheduled investments. However, it ceased operations in July 2024, following a strategic shift by its parent company.

Note: Raiz Malaysia Sdn Bhd ceased operations in July 2024.

FAQs

What is a Digital Investment Manager (DIM) or robo-advisor?

In Malaysia, Digital Investment Manager (DIM), also known as a robo-advisor, is an online investment platform that uses algorithms to create and manage personalised portfolios.

It automates investment decisions such as asset allocation and rebalancing, making professional investing cheaper, easier, and more accessible, especially for new and retail investors.

Are DIM platforms in Malaysia regulated?

Yes. All robo-advisor platforms in Malaysia under this list are licensed by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) under the Licensed Fintech Intermediaries framework.

This regulation ensures investor protection, platform transparency, and compliance with risk management and cybersecurity standards.

How much do I need to start investing?

Minimum investment requirements vary by platform. Some have no minimum deposit. Others range from RM50 to RM100.

This low barrier to entry makes robo-advisors highly accessible for beginners.

Are there any fees involved?

Yes. Robo-advisor platforms charge annual management fees, typically ranging from 0.2% to 1%, depending on your portfolio size.

These fees are often lower than traditional financial advisory services.

Can I withdraw my money anytime?

Absolutely. Most robo-advisor platforms offer full liquidity with no lock-in periods or penalties, allowing you to withdraw your funds anytime.

Processing times typically range from 1 to 5 business days, depending on the platform and fund type.

Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Malaysia, based on image by davidpinta9122 via Freepik.