2023 Independent Advisor Outlook Study
This year's study found that growth makes many aspects of running a firm easier, but not everything.
Key findings
- Enabled by technology and driven by continued client demand for the independent model, growth brings choices, complexity, and challenges to RIA firms.
- Advisors acknowledge the potential benefits of the wealth of data at their fingertips – but harnessing it remains a challenge.
- Finding the balance between scale and high-touch personalized client service is a challenge almost every RIA will wrestle with in the coming years – but it is not insurmountable.
- For firm differentiation and growth, advisors’ time must be front and center as the value-creator for client relationships.
About the study
The Independent Advisor Outlook Study (IAOS) is conducted for Charles Schwab by Logica Research. Logica Research is neither affiliated with, nor employed by, Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.
The survey, conducted from December 1 through December 15, 2022, polled 862 independent investment advisors who custody assets with Schwab Advisor Services, representing a total of $359 billion in assets under management (AUM). Participation was voluntary, participants were not incentivized, and the typical (median) survey length was 15 minutes.
Media Contact: Kelly Cook
More Independent Advisor Outlook Studies
Discover related stories
Innovation
Streaming, settlements, and smart investing
By getting involved in gaming and tapping into audience’s niche passions, Schwab is making the world of investing within reach.
Careers
Powering branch growth through Schwab's Financial Consultant Academy
A decade of training future financial consultants has fueled talent, fast-tracked careers, and helped meet evolving client needs.
Industry
The sole of IMPACT: Fun sneakers signal a fresh, modern RIA industry
Danny Rubin’s custom kicks stole the show at the RIA IMPACT conference, a sign that the advisor world is loosening its laces.
0-3TYX