Market Moves and Strategic Acquisitions Kick Off 2026
The new year has already seen significant activity in the financial advisory and wealth management sectors. Notably, RBC has expanded its footprint in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, by adding The Thomasco Group, a team formerly with Morgan Stanley managing $646 million in client assets.
Similarly, Carson has completed the full acquisition of a Minneapolis-based practice led by Jeremy Willner, which manages $395 million. This follows Carson’s initial 30% equity stake taken earlier in 2024, reflecting a growing trend of consolidations in wealth management.
Mariner also made headlines by adding $1.8 billion in assets under advisement through acquisitions of First National Advisors and Strava Wealth, increasing its presence in Boston and Pittsburgh. Meanwhile, Apella expanded its Mid-Atlantic footprint by acquiring the wealth management division of CPA firm PBMares, adding $1.7 billion and bringing its assets under management close to $10 billion.
Market Sentiment and Economic Indicators
Despite geopolitical tensions, markets began 2026 with volatility that some experts view as opportunity. For example, analysts from Charles Schwab and others point to external forces, such as the recent developments in Venezuela, as key factors to watch.
Following the U.S. military operation leading to the arrest of Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro, bond markets rallied, rewarding hedge funds and investors who positioned accordingly. This event also sparked a rise in gold and the U.S. dollar, reflecting heightened geopolitical risk.
In commodities, copper reached a record $13,000 per ton, driven by supply concerns amid mine outages and trade disruptions. This highlights the ongoing impact of global trade dynamics on industrial metals and related investments.
Regulatory and Policy Updates Affecting Wealth Planning
Several policy changes and proposals are poised to influence financial planning and taxation in 2026. Rhode Island is considering a 3% surtax on incomes above $640,000 targeting the top 1% of earners, aiming to counteract prior fiscal policies.
The federal landscape is also shifting. A new Social Security bill proposes lifting the payroll tax cap to increase benefits by approximately $1,800 annually, requiring higher contributions from top earners. These changes underscore the importance for advisors to stay current on tax legislation and social programs impacting clients’ retirement plans.
Furthermore, President Donald Trump’s tax cuts package is expected to provide American taxpayers with bigger refunds during the first half of 2026, keeping the economy on track. Advisors should prepare clients to understand these changes and optimize their tax strategies accordingly.
Investment Trends and Opportunities
Wall Street’s traditional players are deepening their digital asset involvement. Morgan Stanley has filed for Bitcoin and Solana ETFs, signaling growing acceptance of cryptocurrency-related products among mainstream investors.
Meanwhile, Bitcoin options traders are optimistic about a potential return to the $100,000 price level, reflecting renewed investor interest following last year’s price declines.
In equity markets, Goldman Sachs highlights cheaper European stocks as attractive alternatives to U.S. equities, especially given the heavy technology concentration stateside. Diversification strategies incorporating global assets could therefore be beneficial.
Client Challenges and Advisory Best Practices
Advisors face growing challenges, including cybersecurity threats. Client hacks are increasingly becoming advisors’ problems, requiring proactive responses and communication strategies to manage breaches effectively.
Another area of concern is healthcare costs in retirement. Ignoring these expenses could jeopardize retirement plans, so comprehensive healthcare planning well in advance is crucial to safeguard clients’ nest eggs.
Additionally, wealth management professionals must navigate complex family dynamics, such as gray divorce, where managing finances requires sensitivity and strategic guidance. Clear communication can ease the financial strain on clients undergoing these transitions.
Data Management and Client Relationships
On the operational side, consultants warn that customer relationship management (CRM) systems risk becoming unwieldy and costly due to excessive data accumulation. Streamlining data and focusing on actionable insights can improve efficiency and client service.
Annual portfolio reviews present both opportunities and pitfalls. Advisors should approach these meetings strategically to strengthen client relationships and align investments with evolving goals.
Looking Ahead
As 2026 unfolds, financial professionals must stay informed about market volatility, regulatory shifts, and client needs. From navigating geopolitical developments to embracing new investment vehicles and refining advisory practices, this year promises both challenges and opportunities.
Keeping abreast of these trends and implementing thoughtful strategies will help advisors deliver value and guide clients toward financial success.