Industry Insights

Stay informed with the latest news and trends shaping the financial advisory landscape. From M&A activity to succession planning, we curate the insights that matter most to advisors.

Key Trends for 2025

  • RIA valuations at near-decade highs (11.0x EBITDA)
  • Record M&A activity with 269 transactions in 2024
  • 105,000+ advisors planning retirement this decade
  • AI adoption becoming essential for efficiency
  • Major regulatory changes in flux
  • Continued movement toward independence
M&A & Valuations

December 19, 2024 | InvestmentNews

RIA M&A Activity Hits New All-Time High in 2024

RIA mergers and acquisitions reached a record 269 transactions in 2024, surpassing the previous year's high. The fourth quarter was particularly active with 78 transactions, driven by rising stock markets and increased competition.

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M&A & Valuations

March 31, 2025 | Wealth Management

RIA Valuation Metric Hits Near-Decade High

The median-adjusted EBITDA multiple for RIAs reached 11.0 in 2024, representing a 37.5% increase from 2020. Over 40 buyers are actively seeking RIA acquisitions, creating competitive market conditions.

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Succession Planning

July 22, 2025 | Wealth Management

RIA Owners Postpone Succession Planning at Their Peril

Over 105,000 financial advisors are expected to retire in the coming decade, yet many are delaying critical succession planning. Experts recommend starting the process 5-10 years before retirement.

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Regulatory

January 2025 | Carlton Fields

Will the DOL Fiduciary Rule Saga Continue?

The DOL's Retirement Security Rule remains in legal limbo with federal court stays preventing implementation. With the new administration, the rule's future is uncertain and may be abandoned entirely.

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Technology

December 2024 | Wealth Management

AI Conversation Co-Pilots Lead WealthTech Innovation

AI conversation co-pilots are becoming the most practical AI application for advisors. Over 90% of asset managers are using AI tools, with generative AI usage jumping from 55% to 75% in 2024.

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M&A & Valuations

January 16, 2025 | Financial Planning

Wealth Management M&A Hits High in 2024

The wealth management sector experienced record M&A activity in 2024 with major deals involving firms managing billions. Experts anticipate continued growth in 2025 driven by regulatory changes.

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Succession Planning

January 2025 | InvestmentNews

Advisors Focus on Succession in 2025 Resolutions

Advisors are prioritizing succession planning, technology implementation, and client communication in their 2025 goals. Many are focusing on revenue-generating activities and eliminating administrative tasks.

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M&A & Valuations

December 12, 2024 | ThinkAdvisor

6 RIA Valuation Drivers in 2025 and Beyond

Key valuation drivers include organic growth rates, client demographics, and technology integration. Buyers are becoming more selective, focusing on firms with sustainable growth and strong succession plans.

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Technology

March 28, 2024 | ThinkAdvisor

10 Trends Shaping Wealth Management in 2024

Key trends include AI adoption, focus on holistic advice delivery, and the continuing movement toward independence. Technology is enabling advisors to eliminate non-revenue generating activities.

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