In the first quarter of 2025, F2 team members attended several industry events covering several segments of the wealth management ecosystem. As we’ve done in the past, we took some time to reflect on the biggest themes that came out of each event and how we see the industry’s best way forward. Here’s where we were and what we think the conversations mean for the wealth management industry:
Future Proof Citywide
Next-Gen Succession Planning / Scale with Tech/ Personalization & AI
In attendance: Doug Fritz, Liz Fritz, Ryan Beach, Jaci Stanton, Jacki Esposito, and Megan Davison
This was a new venture for the Future Proof brand and its team did an amazing job curating different experiences to make the large event feel smaller and bring positive energy to the industry. We think the dynamic festival-style concept is a draw for business leaders and see more interest in WealthTech here than in other places. Whereas, just a few years ago, business and technology were separate conversations to be held at separate events, they are now inextricably linked topics. And, we were thrilled to be a part of making Future Proof Citywide special with the opportunity to host private receptions for technology decision makers as well as speak about M&A.
Our entire team left with several takeaways that showed the power technology is playing in firm growth and evolution. We saw a lot of emphasis on planning for the next-gen advisor and understanding the tools they would need to be successful as well as how to manage a custom, high-value business at scale with technology. We engaged in conversations around personalization and AI and how advisors can make it work for their specific use cases.
Overall, the beach venue can’t be beat! The high engagement and optimism led to organic and authentic conversations and valuable connections for members of our industry.
Trust Advisors Forum
Workflows / Holistic Offerings / Mitigating Risk
In attendance: Scott Lamont and Trasha Schwendener
Three ongoing issues affecting banks and trust companies continued to be topics of conversation among participants of this forum: workflows, connecting siloed business units, and mitigating risk. All of these can be addressed with thoughtful technology strategy and implementation.
For example, there are many ways to use technology and automation to optimize workflows to reduce the amount of work required between the CRM and trust platform as well as streamline onboarding and cash management activities. Technology can help connect the services that clients are looking for into a unified offering. And finally, documenting processes and ensuring strong controls is the best way to mitigate risk.
American Banker Association
AI / Compliance
In attendance: Tim Buhler
In many conversations we had with participants at the event we found the biggest areas of concern centered around the use of AI and compliance with regulations. Both areas are in a constant state of change and keeping up with best practices and use cases can be a full time job. As firms seek ways to leverage AI for the future, the good news is many vendors are working it into the platforms advisors already use. Our role is to guide firms through key technology decisions and supply them with the right experts to manage technology that supports both areas. This allows them to focus on their client relationships and other important work while feeling confident that their technology supports their business growth plan.
Where To Next
In the coming months, look for F2 team members at Envestnet, Jolt! , BNY Pershing INSIGHT, and more events!
Continue the conversation with us to learn how we help wealth management firms implement critical technology and marketing strategies to optimize growth.
