Since its debut three years ago, Future Proof Festival has been one of the buzziest events of the year in financial services. In September, 4,000 wealth management professionals took to the beach to network, collaborate and explore new solutions. Jaci Stanton and Liz Fritz attended and brought back a figurative suitcase full of takeaways to share. This one might take more than two minutes…
Technology is a Hot Hot Topic
There’s a big appetite for firms of all sizes to do more for their advisors, and to do better with their technology. One of the key takeaways on this point is the need to analyze the percentage of a technology platform's capabilities you use. If you're only using five to 10% of a technology's functionality, yet paying off for 100% of all capabilities…is it worth it? Are you using it right? We think firms should conduct regular evaluations, identify ways to streamline their platforms, and think about what spend vs. use, strategically.
AI is, unsurprisingly, top of mind across the industry. We attended sessions on AI and explored several AI vendors. But more than just how to use AI, wealth management firms are focused on ethical AI. We're such a highly regulated, hyper human focused industry that we have to talk about how to leverage AI in an ethical way. We have to develop it (and really any technology) for deeper human connection and allow advisors to have more time with their clients.
More Women Needed!
We were thrilled by the turn out and the authentic conversations happening at Future Proof. But we were disappointed with the less than expected female turn out. We need more women to show up at events like this. A highlight of the event for us was the opportunity to host an Evening of Connection for Women Executives. We brought 12 female executives to a roundtable to share best practices and help each other. It was a great success, but we want to see that double next year! So come, lean in, and expand your network! Remember there were a lot of nextgen advisors there as well as firms interested in acquiring advisors. Women need to be a part of those conversations.
Future Proof’s Unique Format Delivers Quality Outcomes
Future Proof’s speed dating format is a really special and effective way to do business. It fits our passion for using technology for deeper human interaction and leveraging our network for good. And, it generated a lot of dynamic conversations for us. Matt Middleton has also built Future Proof Festival to be a place where vendors bring out their best efforts in very creative ways. It’s a great opportunity for technology decision makers at wealth management firms to see the best of the best, set up meetings, and demo all of their options in one place.
Overall, Future Proof’s design really works for unleashing authentic conversations that move the needle in the industry. We can’t wait for the Future Proof Citywide in Miami in March!
Didn’t get enough? Get in touch with Jaci or Liz to hear more about the industry.
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