RIA Valuation Insights

August 8, 2025 Current Events Industry Trends

You Can’t Spell RIA Without AI

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the RIA Industry

AI is expected to have a significant impact on the RIA industry. This relatively new technology is already reshaping how RIAs manage assets, engage with clients, and navigate an increasingly competitive landscape. For RIA owners, understanding and leveraging AI is becoming critical to maintaining a competitive edge, enhancing firm valuations, and ensuring long-term success in a mature but evolving industry. This post explores the multifaceted impact of AI on the RIA industry while providing actionable insights for firms looking to adapt.

August 1, 2025 Transactions

RIA M&A Isn’t the Only Way

Internal Transactions Still Work

With a constant stream of headlines about M&A and near-daily inquiries from prospective acquirers, it’s easy for RIA owners to get the impression that external transactions are the norm. Internal transactions don’t generate headlines, and prospective buyers (next-gen management) likely aren’t beating your door down to close a deal. While they may be less conspicuous, internal transactions are a viable avenue for succession planning and one that many RIAs accomplish successfully. 

July 25, 2025 Practice Management

Buy, Sell, Plan: The Business of Advisor Succession

Matt Crow on Dimensional Fund Advisors "Managing Your Practice" Podcast

Matt Crow recently had the pleasure of joining Aaron Hasler, Managing Partner at Skyview, and Catherine Williams, head of practice management at Dimensional Fund Advisors, for a discussion about the financial strategies involved in succession planning. They covered financing options, common roadblocks, generational dynamics, and much more. Listen to their discussion in our latest post.

July 18, 2025 Current Events Industry Trends

RIA M&A Update: Q2 2025

M&A activity in the RIA space rebounded strongly in early 2025, with record-setting deal volume in Q1 and continued momentum into Q2. A favorable interest rate environment, increased private equity involvement, and a growing number of serial acquirers helped fuel activity. Despite a sharp decline in total transacted AUM, deal count and strategic interest remained high. For firms exploring growth, succession, or liquidity, understanding the evolving M&A landscape—and aligning your strategy with the right partner—has never been more critical.

July 11, 2025 Industry Trends Trust Companies Wealth Management

Independent Trust Company Trends in 2025

One of the most frequently overlooked sectors in the wealth management industry may be its first cousin, the independent trust industry. While many still associate trust administration with banks, which account for more than 75% of the space, the growing prominence of independent trust companies is capturing the attention of many participants in the investment management community. In this post, we examine current trends impacting independent trust companies.

July 3, 2025 Industry Trends

RIA Market Update: Q2 2025

RIAs generally outperformed the S&P in Q2 2025, with smaller asset managers returning over 13%, and alternative asset managers facing another quarter of underperformance after a year of strong growth. Year-over-year, alternative investment managers saw the strongest AUM growth, while traditional managers proved better at converting this growth to earnings. We explore further in our Q2 2025 Market Update.

June 27, 2025 Industry Trends Valuation Wealth Management

Navigating Valuation Challenges in the Great Wealth Transfer

Over the next two decades, an estimated $68 trillion is expected to transfer from Baby Boomers and Gen X to Millennials and Gen Z in what has been dubbed the “Great Wealth Transfer.” For RIAs and trust companies, this transition presents both opportunities and challenges that directly impact firm valuations. As client demographics evolve, investment management firms must adapt to retain AUM and navigate the valuation implications of this seismic wealth shift.

June 20, 2025 Transactions Valuation

Succession Conundrums: Why Sell to Insiders for Less?

(Because It May End Up Making You More)

A frequent question among RIA owners is whether internal buyers, such as employees or partners, pay less for their equity stakes compared to external buyers, and if so, why pursue internal succession? The answer is straightforward: internal buyers typically pay less, sometimes significantly less, due to unique industry dynamics and the structure of internal deals. This post explores the valuation perspectives and practical reasons behind this pricing differential, as well as why internal succession remains a compelling strategy despite lower valuations.

June 13, 2025 Practice Management Uncategorized

Don’t Punt on Succession Planning, Even if You Plan to Sell Externally

A well-structured succession plan not only enhances the firm’s operational stability and scalability but also increases its attractiveness to potential buyers. Buyers are not merely acquiring existing assets; they are investing in the future growth and continuity of the business. By prioritizing succession planning, RIA owners can better position themselves for a successful exit, ensuring they maximize value and minimize disruption, ultimately leading to a smoother transition for clients and team members alike.

June 6, 2025 Practice Management Valuation

Webinar Replay: Succession Planning for RIAs

Transition with Confidence

In our latest webinar, Matthew R. Crow, CFA, ASA and Brooks K. Hamner, CFA, ASA guide you through the critical steps of succession planning, ensuring your firm’s legacy thrives while maximizing its value. Whether you’re considering a sale, seeking investment, or transacting with current employees, this session is designed to equip RIA owners, acquirers, and industry advisors with the knowledge to make informed decisions and capitalize on emerging opportunities.