As we approach the end of 2023, we are excited to present our compilation of the 10 individuals who will have a significant impact on the wealth management industry in 2024. While some of these names may be familiar to you, others may be less widely known. Nevertheless, all of these individuals are poised to make a mark in the coming year.
Trouble in Paradise: Florida’s Homeowners Insurance Woes
Despite recent improvements to Florida’s homeowners insurance ecosystem, including tort reforms, it will take time before these changes have a tangible effect on insurance costs. This is particularly concerning for individuals who moved to the Sunshine State seeking a more affordable cost of living, only to find their premiums skyrocketing. In fact, the average homeowners insurance premium in Florida reached $6,000 this year.
Looking ahead: Insights for Financial Advisors in 2024
After the tumultuous year of 2022, 2023 has provided a much-needed respite for investors. With the S&P 500 experiencing a 24% increase year to date and fixed income making a noteworthy comeback, it’s no wonder many are feeling optimistic. We reached out to industry leaders and asked them to share their predictions for financial advisors in 2024. Some of the anticipated trends include broader stock market participation, recognition for the fiduciary standard, and an anticipated soft landing for the economy, with inflation gradually declining to a range of 2.5% to 3.5%.
The Significance of a Name in Wealth Management Business
The name of one’s wealth management business carries profound significance. In a thought-provoking column, advisor Jonathan Shenkman recounts his decision to remove his own name from his practice and rebrand it as ParkBridge Wealth Management. Shenkman acknowledges that his original business name focused solely on him, potentially overshadowing the contributions of his team members. Furthermore, he recognized that such a self-centered branding could pose difficulties if he ever decided to sell the business. Shenkman also openly shares the inspirational family history and legacy that influenced the choice of the new name.
Legal Battle
First Republic Bank’s failure earlier this year has sparked a legal battle between former employees of the company and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp (FDIC). With the regional banking crisis as the backdrop, the FDIC took over the bank and later announced that JPMorgan Chase would acquire most of its assets and deposits. The FDIC is now facing a lawsuit from nearly 170 former First Republic employees who aim to recover retirement funds they had deposited in a trust established by the failed lender.
Kickback Scheme?
Evolution of RIA Custody Business
Steve Sanders, a 23-year veteran of Interactive Brokers, reflects on the remarkable growth of his company’s custody platform over the past two decades. From its nonexistence 20 years ago, the platform now serves close to 900 advisors with around $37.5 billion in assets under management. As the Executive Vice President of Marketing and Product Development, Sanders discusses the impact of automation and technology on Wall Street and shares some valuable career advice he received from Interactive Brokers founder Thomas Peterffy.
Wishing you a fantastic weekend and Happy Holidays!