This paper uses the term “manufacturing theory” in a broad sense and as a basis for a development theory for financial products. It does so by applying manufacturing theory concepts to the financial industry, particularly to the business of asset management. Concepts of financial products, processes, performance, and architecture are explored from the viewpoint that financial products are similar to manufactured goods in the production industry in that these types of products are also “man-made.” Furthermore, existing production industry research and characteristics of financial products are discussed and the outlook for a financial product development theory is stated.