Add Row
Add Element
cropper
update
In Financial News
update
Add Element
  • Home
  • Categories
    • Financial Planning
    • Wealth Adviser
    • Miscellaneous
    • Fin Storey
    • Washington News
    • Small Business
    • Small Business
    • National Financial News
January 10.2026
3 Minutes Read

Curley Wealth Management Joins &Partners: A Shift in Financial Planning Dynamics

Professional team in business attire posing for financial planning services.

Strengthening Their Legacy: The Curley Family Joins &Partners

The recent addition of Curley Wealth Management to &Partners, a hybrid broker/dealer co-founded by former Wells Fargo executives, spotlights the growing trend of family-led financial advisory practices seeking innovative environments. Helmed by father-son duo Ed and Corbin Curley, this team brings approximately $500 million in pre-hire assets under management (AUM) and represents the latest in a series of movements across the industry aimed at enhancing client services and financial solutions.

Evolution of Financial Planning in a Changing Landscape

With their solid experience at Wells Fargo, both Ed Curley and his son Corbin have navigated the complexities of wealth management, providing essential services such as financial planning, tax-efficient strategies, and estate coordination. Their transition to &Partners signals not just a career shift, but a response to evolving client expectations that emphasize personalized service and advanced technological support.

The Model Behind &Partners: A New Era in Wealth Management

Founded in 2023, &Partners aims to replicate the intimate culture characteristic of smaller firms while evolving with modern technological needs. Kowach's team is transforming the wealth management landscape, with over 100 advisory practices and an eye on substantial growth, targeting $120 billion in AUM over the next five years. Their ambitious recruitment strategy has already drawn 44 teams from established firms such as Wells Fargo and Edward Jones, highlighting a significant shift in how wealth management firms are attracting and retaining talent.

Gender Diversity in Leadership: A Balanced Approach

One of the standout features of &Partners is its commitment to diversity, with approximately 40% of its teams led by women. This progressive stance is crucial as the financial planning industry strives not only for profitability but for reflecting the demographic realities of the clients it serves. The implications of gender diversity in leadership roles cannot be overstated; firms embracing diverse perspectives often outperform their counterparts in client service and satisfaction.

Impacts on Financial Advisory Practices and Client Relationships

The expansion of &Partners into communities like Oneonta offers more than just new opportunities for financial advisors; it enhances the accessibility of financial planning services for clients. Ed Curley’s experience in the industry, combined with the innovative approach of &Partners, creates a unique proposition: advisors who genuinely understand the familial approaches to wealth management, thus enhancing the trust necessary for robust client-advisor relationships.

As financial planners and wealth advisors, embracing changes in the industry landscape and fostering relationships that prioritize both personal connection and technological adaptation is essential. The movement of teams like the Curleys to firms invested in personal growth and technology signals a pivotal shift that planners should consider as they map out their futures.

Take Action: Embrace New Opportunities in Wealth Management

The financial landscape is shifting, and the rise of firms like &Partners exemplifies the emerging possibilities for advisory teams. As you consider the direction of your own practice, whether it’s to join a more adaptable firm or innovate your service offerings, now is the time to examine how these trends can enhance your client relationships and business sustainability.

Financial Planning

3 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
01.15.2026

Why Bank of America and Wells Fargo's Growth Matters for Financial Planning

Update Strong Revenue Growth Amidst Shifting Wealth Dynamics In a notable turn of events for the banking sector, Bank of America and Wells Fargo have both reported impressive double-digit revenue growth in their wealth management divisions. Each firm achieved a remarkable 10% year-over-year increase, primarily driven by enhanced asset management fees and net income. This upward trend highlights how financial institutions are leveraging their resources amid a complex economic landscape, making it an optimal time for financial planners and wealth advisers to reassess their strategies. Navigating the Wealth Management Landscape The earnings calls from both banks underscore a growing demand for high-quality advice and personalized financial management. For instance, Bank of America’s Merrill Wealth division noted a significant shift towards attracting affluent clients, with about 80% of their net new relationships in 2025 bringing in over $500,000 each. This is an increase from 72% in the previous year, signaling a critical opportunity for wealth advisers to cater to a wealthier clientele. Signal reports indicate that Wells Fargo’s wealth and investment management revenue also rose by 10% to $4.36 billion, reflecting similar trends. Investment in Advisory Services As client needs continue to evolve, the focus on delivering valuable advisory services has become paramount. Executives from both institutions emphasized the necessity of tailored advice to help clients navigate the complexities of wealth management. Merrill Wealth’s Co-Head, Eric Schimpf, articulated this need succinctly by mentioning that “quality advice” is crucial, particularly in today’s volatile macroeconomic environment. The Competitive Edge: Market Share and New Relationships Growth in market share is another critical facet worth noting. In 2025, Merrill holds approximately a 16% market share of ultra-high-net-worth clients, bolstered by a 14% increase in households with assets exceeding $10 million. This is a clear indicator of the growing wealth concentration among high-net-worth individuals, which makes this segment extremely lucrative for financial advisers and firms aiming to expand their offerings. The achievement of over 21,300 net new relationships by Bank of America marks the eighth consecutive year of exceeding 20,000—a vital statistic contributing to long-term growth strategies. Future Growth Prospects Acknowledging the significant opportunities for growth, both banks plan to intensify their outreach towards existing clients who stand to benefit from comprehensive wealth management services. Financial advisers should strategize on how to harness these opportunities, as capturing even a small percentage of Bank of America’s extensive client base could propel growth in wealth advisory services immensely. The narrative is clear; the integration of high-end services and building client relationships is not just a necessity—it's a directive for sustainable success in wealth management. Conclusion: A Call to Action for Advisors With the wealth management industry on an upward trajectory, financial planners and wealth advisers are presented with a prime opportunity to elevate their practices. By focusing on high-quality advisory services and leveraging the latest market insights, they can not only meet the evolving needs of clients but also position themselves for enduring success. It is time for advisers to refine their strategies in alignment with these trends and enhance their service offerings. Explore how you can adapt your practice today for the future of wealth management.

01.15.2026

Navigating Wealth Management Trends of 2026: Key Insights for Advisors

Update Wealth Management Evolution: What to Expect by 2026 The wealth management industry is on the brink of remarkable transformation as we approach 2026. A study by Wealth Management highlights critical trends that will significantly influence the future landscape, particularly focusing on technology investments, risk management strategies, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and enhanced estate planning services. For financial planners and wealth advisors, understanding these trends is imperative to adapt and meet evolving client needs in an increasingly complex economic environment. The Tech Investment Imperative As dissatisfaction with current technology platforms grows, wealth management firms are increasingly viewing technology not just as an operational supplement but as a strategic partner integral to service delivery. According to industry analysts, firms deploying advanced technology, particularly AI, will gain a competitive edge by redefining the advice and services they offer. This perspective is consistent with observations in the industry where AI is not merely an enhancement but a key component shaping client interactions and experience. Risk Tolerance and Investment Strategies Inflation-driven investment strategies are becoming a focal point as clients seek guidance on protecting their wealth. Financial planners will need to explain risk tolerance tailored to individual client situations, especially in volatile markets. High-net-worth clients are increasingly prioritizing peace of mind and financial stability, emphasizing the need for wealth managers to address these concerns proactively. A report from Fidelity emphasizes that an understanding of personal safety and financial security is vital as clients navigate these tumultuous times. Mergers & Acquisitions: The Drive for Growth The M&A landscape has heated up considerably, with record levels of transactions shaping the competitive environment for wealth management firms. With many companies turning to acquisitions as a critical strategy for expansion and diversification of services, the focus is shifting toward acquiring firms with strong technological capabilities. As competition intensifies, firms must evaluate acquisition targets not just for client base or revenue generation but also for technological advancement and operational efficiency. Estate Planning Innovations In a changing demographic landscape, integrating comprehensive estate planning services that encompass tax efficacy and wealth preservation for future generations is paramount. Wealth managers need to consider the varying perspectives of multi-generational wealth transfer as younger clients may prioritize non-traditional values and concerns. The focus will increasingly shift to helping clients understand and confront the complexities surrounding family dynamics in wealth succession planning. What This Means for Financial Planners For financial planners and wealth advisors, each of these trends presents unique challenges and opportunities to engage clients with tailored strategies. Embracing technology, understanding evolving client expectations, and integrating a broader range of services will be crucial strategies to thrive in this changing landscape. Insights from industry reports suggest that successful firms will not only adapt but also anticipate these shifts, ensuring they provide value beyond traditional wealth management. Stay informed about the future of wealth management. It’s essential for professionals in this field to continually refine their strategies and stay ahead of market trends to provide best-in-class service.

01.14.2026

The Retail Channel Rebound: Financial Advisers Must Adapt Strategies

Update The Shift in Asset Management: Retail Channels Regain GroundIn a remarkable turn of events, the U.S. managed assets sector is witnessing a renaissance for retail channels, as they closely trail institutional channels in asset accumulation. According to a recent report by Boston-based consultancy Cerulli, professionally managed assets in the U.S. reached a staggering $73.7 trillion, with retail channels managing $36.6 trillion compared to institutional assets at $37.1 trillion. This near parity indicates a significant shift that financial planners and wealth advisers must consider in their strategic planning.Historical Context: The Rise and Fall of Retail vs. InstitutionalThe retail channel briefly outpaced institutional channels during the pandemic era, driven by a surge in individual investor confidence and increased participation in the markets. However, a market pullback in 2022 saw retail assets decline, prompting concerns about the sustainability of this growth.In light of this new data, it’s evident that retail channels are not just recovering but may exceed their institutional counterparts in the near future. Analysts predict this trend will continue, bolstered by the influx of retirement assets from 401(k) plans being rolled into IRAs, as well as corporate defined benefit plans transferring to insurers in search of better management of pension risks.Current Drivers of Retail Asset GrowthThe resurgence of retail channels is primarily attributed to strong equity market performance and noticeable shifts in client preferences. With an increasing number of investors looking for flexibility and more personalized services, financial planners must prioritize retail strategies.Cerulli's report highlights that there’s been a 10-year growth trend favoring retail channels, a trajectory that suggests financial advisers should adapt their practices accordingly. The data indicates retail clients are particularly receptive to alternative investment options, which current strategies should capitalize on.Implications for Financial Planners and Wealth AdvisersGiven the shifting landscape, wealth advisers need to reassess their strategies to cater to the diverse needs of retail clients. With the rise of ETFs and separately managed accounts (SMAs), professionals should reevaluate how they incorporate these vehicles into investment strategies. Furthermore, with nearly $100 billion held in interval funds by RIAs at the end of 2024, wealth advisers who leverage these offerings will likely attract a growing segment of affluent investors.Future Directions: Navigating Through ChangeAs the industry braces for potential changes, it’s important for financial professionals to stay informed about the evolving market dynamics. The future presents opportunities for wealth advisers to educate clients on the nuances of alternative investments and increasingly sophisticated financial products. By fostering financial literacy and enhancement programs centered on these emerging trends, advisers can position themselves as trusted partners in their clients’ financial journeys.Finally, it’s essential for those managing wealth in retail channels to monitor trends continuously. Understanding the trajectory of corporate plan migrations and individual investor behavior will be crucial in predicting future shifts and adhering to clients' needs.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*