The Six Defining Trends Shaping Financial Advisors in 2025

Show Highlights Include: 

00:00 – Introduction & Why These Topics Matter
Frank and Stacey explain why this episode focuses on the six themes that got the most traction from advisors in 2025.

03:28 – Data as an Asset and Its Impact on Valuation
Why CRM, data quality, and accessibility now play a major role in how buyers evaluate advisory firms.

08:10 – Industry Consolidation and the LPL - Commonwealth Ripple Effect
How major M&A deals are reshaping recruiting packages, advisor leverage, and firm competition.

13:56 – Staying in the Driver’s Seat During Acquisitions
Why advisors should evaluate whether they would still choose their firm if given a clean slate.

17:04 – W-2 Models, Independence, and the “Swimming Upstream” Trend
The rise of independent W-2 structures and why some advisors are moving back toward them.

21:51 – Deal Evolution, Multiples, and Private Equity Reality Checks
What advisors need to understand about headline multiples, deal structures, and long-term control.

31:16 – From Practitioner to Entrepreneur
The mindset shift required to build scalable, enterprise-level advisory businesses.

36:37 – Marketing, Video, and the Cost of Inaction
Why visibility, authenticity, and decisive action are no longer optional for growth-focused advisors.

This episode is a practical, candid look at where the industry is today - and what advisors should be thinking about as they plan their next move.

Learn more about our companies and resources:

-Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions:

https://eliteconsultingpartners.com

-Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors:

https://elitemarketingconcepts.com

-Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions:

https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com

-JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors:

https://jedidatabasesolutions.com

Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes:

https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/