The ​wealth management and ​financial advising macrocosm is undergoing significant transformations, including how individuals and organizations handle their investments and seek investment guidance.

Advisors who were once tethered to large firms and wirehouses are increasingly embracing the idea of independence, seeking a pathway to serving the growing demand for a more personalized and fiduciary-driven approach. 

This transition to freedom and entrepreneurship is due to the rising popularity of the Registered Independent Advisor (RIA) and turn-key advisory models, which are gaining immense popularity and success. 

For those seeking a more tailored and values-focused Advisory experience, these evolutions offer a multitude of benefits. Let’s take a deep dive into several ways clients can reap rewards from a savvy Advisor’s move to independence.

Commitment to a Platinum Level of Service

One of the primary advantages of working with an independent wealth management expert is their unwavering fiduciary duty. 

Unlike some Advisors tied to behemoth traditional investment houses, which product sales or quotas may influence, those on the independent path are legally obligated to act in their client’s best interests. 

An RIA can serve as a true financial quarterback. They have the flexibility to provide tax planning, estate strategies, insurance products, debt management, college savings plans, and more — all coordinated seamlessly under one roof. This comprehensive approach is more convenient for today’s multi-tasking investors, ensuring transparency and trust in the crucial client-Advisor connection.

Personalized Strategies

Turn-key models also allow industry professionals to break free from the one-size-fits-all approach often seen in staid wirehouses. Today’s consumers are looking for practices that can help them weather a volatile market environment and offer bespoke portfolio-building advice that is tailored to their unique financial goals, tax situation, and risk tolerance.  

Whether your clients are concerned with planning for retirement, funding a child’s education, or simply seeking to build wealth, thriving as an RIA or entrepreneur gives you the power to design a customized investment plan that aligns perfectly with their objectives.

Access to a Wider Range of Options

With independence comes access to a broader universe of investment options, especially for clients with a passion for sustainable investing. 

RIAs and Advisors with their own practices are not confined to the proprietary products offered by a particular financial institution. Instead, they have the flexibility to select investments from a vast array of sources, encouraging customers to diversify their portfolios and potentially capitalize on opportunities that may otherwise be overlooked in a more restricted, non-independent setting without true open architecture. 

This expanded toolbox allows Advisors to focus on diversifying their portfolios more comprehensively and potentially enhance returns while managing risk effectively. 

There is a growing recognition that wealth management and financial services should be more inclusive and accessible. Historically, these spaces were primarily catered to high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals. 

However, there has been a paradigm shift towards providing guidance and support to a wider range of clients, including those with more modest means, as the industry is placing increasing emphasis on holistic financial planning.

Fee Transparency and Cost Savings

Forging your own path can often lead to greater fee transparency, and clients appreciate knowing exactly how their financial “guide” is compensated and the exact operating costs associated with their investments. 

Clients often find that their independent Advisors are more accessible and responsive, which enhances the value proposition. This increased availability can be especially valuable during times of financial uncertainty or when significant life events necessitate adjustments to the financial plan.

A Relationship-Centric Approach

Transitioning to an RIA or turn-key model often reinforces the importance of the rapport between an Advisor and investor. 

Independent practices typically rely on their reputation and client referrals for success, which means they are highly motivated to provide exceptional service and build long-term partnerships. Your customers will benefit from the personalized, white-glove attention and care that comes with an experienced pro who is dedicated to their financial well-being.

Enhanced Technology and Reporting

As the financial industry evolves, technology plays an increasingly vital role in portfolio management and reporting. RIAs are investing in cutting-edge technology platforms to provide their investors with real-time access to their accounts, performance reports, and planning tools. 

Reduced Conflicts of Interest

Vast wirehouses may have various departments, each with its own agenda and potential conflicts of interest. Advisors pursuing a different path will eliminate many of these conflicts by operating with a more streamlined business plan.

Consumers can then be confident that their Advisor’s recommendations are not influenced by internal firm pressures or personal gain. 

Continuity of Service

Clients often worry about the continuity of service when their Advisor transitions away from a larger firm to a more boutique setting. It is crucial to provide robust continuity plans to ensure that clients continue to receive the same or more attention even in the event of unforeseen circumstances. 

This commitment to concierge-level service provides peace of mind for clients and underscores dedication to their financial health.

Find Your North Star

The rising popularity of the RIA and turn-key models represent a transformative shift in the economic landscape. People seeking a more personalized, fiduciary-driven approach to wealth management stand to reap numerous rewards from their Advisor’s transition to independence. 

These benefits include a stronger fiduciary commitment, personalized investment strategies, access to a wider range of investment opportunities, and an increasingly important human connection.

Create a win-win scenario for your career and the clients you serve by fully exploring your opportunities for independence with the experts at TERRANA GROUP. For over 31 years, we have guided over 3000 talented industry professionals to exciting new horizons. Find yours now — reach out to us today!