We are now ten years into the technology revolution in finance -- you know, the one that was going to put much of Wall Street and most financial advisors out of business. Hasn't happened and likely isn't going to.

There are two basic reasons for that: Investors crave human input and financial planners are nimble. They are deploying technology to improve the client experience. In a new year's column for ThinkAdvisor, you can see how your peers have adapted -- and continue to adapt -- to a world in technology can take your practice to the next level and deepen client relationships. Some trends to watch that are likely to make the advisor-client bond stickier: more specialization in niche areas coupled with holistic planning.

What are some of the ways your practice has evolved? I'd like to hear about the innovations you have implemented.

As always, please feel free to forward this newsletter or give me a call to discuss what's on your mind.

Sincerely,


Mark Elzweig
Announcing: The 'You-Go-First Club'

Robust demand but many Morgan Stanley, UBS advisors hit the pause button. There's always something. For 2018, it's Morgan Stanley and UBS withdrawing from the protocol, which smooths the way for advisors to switch firms. Some of those advisors are waiting for someone else to test the legal waters of jumping to another firm. I call it the "You-Go-First Club." Stay tuned on this one. Overall, competition remains keen for advisors among regional firms and independents. Three of the four major wirehouses are aiming almost exclusively for advisors with $1.5 million or more in gross production. The fourth sees an opportunity and has turbo charged it's deals at all levels. Please contact me for details on deals.
Your 2018 Plan: Success Is No Accident
Eric Sheikowitz
Michael
Silver
Success is no accident! It requires painstaking planning. That's why I invited Eric Sheikowitz and Michael Silver to write a guest blog on my website. Eric and Michael are terrific coaches for financial advisors and senior managing partners at  Focus Partners, LLC.

In their experience, more advisors THINK about making a business plan than actually writing one. Writing a business plan is an important first step. But it's only the first step.

  In this blog, Eric and Michael outline what advisors should   be doing    to ensure growth. Read it here.
Thinking of Selling Your Practice?
     Thinking of selling your practice? 
Let's talk !
Winter is still here. So enjoy it.
We can help you put together a customized succession planning program that meets your needs. Read more  here .

New Yorker tip: Ice skating at Rockefeller Center (above) is glamorous, but it's free at Bryant Park on 42nd Street, if you have your own skates. 
Photo by   @nancefinance

  
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