Practice and Client Management News

Financial Planning's Practice and Client Management coverage includes essential advisor-level strategy and operational insight for firms and solo practitioners. Read how elite advisors build retention-driven practices, manage high net worth relationships and operationalize growth frameworks that go beyond rudimentary 101 topics. Learn the latest financial planning news from expert reporting and analysis that matters to industry leaders.

Wealth management

The funniest wealth management stories of 2024

Here's a look at the lighter side of financial advising, from bizarre complaints to parking lot fraudsters.

By Nathan Place
National Reporter

December 13
Technology

Direct investor platforms grow as wirehouses shrink

Cerulli Associates reports that retail direct investor platforms grew faster than all other distribution channels from 2022 to 2023, while wirehouses have lost ground.

By Rob Burgess
Reporter

December 13
Professional development

New programs aim to train fresh advisors for small RIAs

Amplified Planning is expanding beyond the Externship into a new four-month course and a monthly subscription service for outsourced professional development.

By Tobias Salinger
Chief Correspondent

December 13
Industry News

Raymond James scores $5B team for its employee channel

Scott Burnett and Peter Kelson, formerly of Zions Direct, plan to work mainly with public entities, corporations, foundations and endowments.

By Dan Shaw
Reporter

December 12
Fintech

Want to help teach kids about money? Here are some resources

Experts say financial advisors and wealth management professionals can do a lot of good — and advance their businesses — by promoting financial literacy.

By Tobias Salinger
Chief Correspondent

December 12
Tax planning

How advisors guide clients with year-end charitable giving

Several effective, tax-efficient strategies are available to those who take the time to be strategic and do their homework to maximize their generosity.

By Rob Burgess
Reporter

December 11
Wealth management

Cetera CEO on embracing the 'RIA-ization' of the industry

Mike Durbin on Cetera's M&A plans, why consolidation will barrel forward in the wealth management industry and the advantages of having a hybrid firm.

By Dan Shaw
Reporter

December 11

Resources

The latest Financial Planning research and discussion:

Advisor strategies
Web Seminar Quarterly Outlook Briefing
Web Seminar The art of asking questions

Asking the right questions is at the heart of every meaningful financial conversation—but how do you know what to ask and when?

Partner Insights from eMoney Advisor
Web Seminar Unlock your potential: Monetize and maintain your independence

Did you know you can monetize, simplify and preserve your legacy, all while bridging to the next generation? Most will wonder "what's the catch?"

Sponsor Content from LPL Financial

Practice & Client Management: Key Questions & Analysis

How should financial advisors rethink client management as they grow their practices?

As advisory firms grow, client management often shifts from ad-hoc relationship handling to processes focused on segmentation, service models and long-term retention. Coverage in this area reflects how advisors are operationalizing client experience as a core business discipline.

What operational challenges are most important in advisor-client relationships?

Advisors face increasing pressure from capacity constraints, rising client expectations and the need to balance personalization with scale. Practice and client management reporting highlights where firms are finding success to maintain service quality while expanding.

How are advisors adapting communication strategies to changing client expectations?

Client communication strategies are evolving as advisors respond to demographic shifts, digital expectations and heightened demand for transparency. Read how firms are adjusting cadence, channels and messaging.

How does client management impact long-term practice value?

Effective client management is often viewed as a driver of enterprise value. Client management is a key area of focus for retention, referrals and succession outcomes. Learn how client experience strategy directly to firm durability and valuation.