Key Challenges in Market Data Management

Let’s face it, market data is complex and expensive. Firms often grapple with inconsistent processes (see example 1), manual workarounds, and limited visibility into where the money goes. That mix leads to confusion, inefficiencies, and costly mistakes.

Some of the common issues seen by our Commercial Management team are:

• Inconsistent workflows that vary across teams or regions, leading to different outcomes and avoidable missteps.
• Manual processes that increase the chance of error, slow everything down, and drain valuable time.
• Poor visibility into actual data usage, costs, and compliance obligations, which makes optimisation feel like guesswork.
• Resource constraints: Tight budgets and limited staffing (see example 2) or a lack of training make it tough to modernise.
• Regulatory pressure for transparent, auditable data handling.
• Knowledge loss due to turnover or lack of training, which leaves gaps in process ownership.

Together, these pain points create a cycle of high data costs, operational risks, and hinder strategic decision-making, making it critical to address them for improved performance and competitiveness.

Steps to Streamline Market Data Operations

Optimising commercial market data processes is no small feat and more than cleaning things up once, it’s about building a system that stays optimised. According to Subject Matter Expert Claire Hobday, CJC’s proven three-step methodology is designed for exactly that:

Assessment & Discovery

This is the foundation. We thoroughly evaluate and map your entire market data environment, event system, workflow and dependencies. Usually, we find duplicated or outdated processes that are holding teams back. We then benchmark the environment against industry best practices and deliver actionable recommendations drawn from CJC’s experience and diverse global client base.

Process Optimisation

Next, we build a better and more efficient way forward. From centralising data governance or automating workflows (like approval tracking, invoicing, or reporting), the goal is to create a more efficient, scalable, and compliant model that minimises potential manual errors and maintain data consistency.

We also help improve vendor management and contract oversight, which empowers clients with the knowledge and structured processes they need to work smarter and more effectively.

Managed Services Integration

Finally, we don’t have to walk away after a handover. Our experts can integrate with your team on-site, or remotely, to provide ongoing operational support and expertise. We become a seamless extension of your internal function, constantly identifying areas for improvement and keeping your operations agile and compliant at a consistent standard.

Where Does CJC Fit In?

CJC’s Commercial Management (CM) team brings a rare combination of deep industry knowledge, vendor-neutral expertise, and flexible delivery models. From tactical support or a strategic full-service solution, our team adapts to your needs.

With a presence in global financial hubs like London, New York, Singapore and Hong Kong, the CM team offers both onshore and nearshore staffing and support, combining global reach with local insight. Regulatory compliance is a key focus, and our team monitors evolving regulations and provides regular training to ensure effective support for compliance requirements.