AI can be amazing and, at times, a bit lackluster. This week, Marie Swift tells us about using AI to develop and clarify a firm’s brand voice, a notable achievement. At the same time, Kelly Coulter warns us that there’s an “authenticity reckoning” coming for AI-produced content that doesn’t feel truly human. At the end of the day, AI is a tool and, like any tool, success depends on how you use it.
Private Advisor Group’s Marketing Head Explores 2026 Marketing Trends
Kelly Coulter of Private Advisor Group predicts the most significant marketing trends for advisors in 2026 in AI, other technology, communications and data.
Coulter cautions about an “authenticity reckoning” next year and predicts some traditional tactics will make a comeback.
Mastering The Management Meeting: The Moment That Makes Or Breaks A Deal
Emily Blue of Hue Partners provides 10 steps for sellers to navigate the initial management meeting with potential buyers. She covers energy, body language, humility, how to tell your story and more.
“Great deals don’t start with data. They start with a genuine connection between people,” according to Blue.
DeVoe’s Annual RIA M&A Outlook: Momentum Expected To Continue Despite Challenges
DeVoe & Company released its annual RIA M&A Outlook, showing that 80% of survey participants expect AI to help the industry, 54% expect M&A transaction volume to increase and only 22% of respondents say that their successors can afford to buy them out.
The firm’s Founder and CEO, David DeVoe, said “Organic growth has joined succession planning as the industry’s greatest vulnerabilities.”
Modern Trust-Based Communication That Scales As You Grow
Marie Swift of Impact Communications related her firm’s experience of using AI to solidify its brand voice, after being inspired by John O’Connell of The Oasis Group.
Swift provided four steps for advisors to do the same.
Deals & Recruiting Roundup
This week’s roundup includes fundraising by FINNY, Ares’ investment in Steward Partners, DeVoe’s M&A outlook, acquisitions by Wealth Enhancement and United Capital, and the sale of Janus Henderson.
As 2025 winds down, M&A activity keeps rolling.
Reach our audience with your brand’s story. Explore Partnerships with WSR!
Join our growing LinkedIn community.
Larry Roth
CEO
Wealth Solutions Report
