Why Stock Picking Might Outperform ETFs in the Next 12 Months For much of the past decade, investors were told: “Don’t bother picking stocks—just buy the index.” Passive ETFs and mutual funds won the spotlight thanks to their low costs, diversification, and simplicity. But the setup for the next year looks very different. Dispersion is widening, leadership is rotating, and macro shifts are creating cracks in broad benchmarks. For disciplined advisors and investors, this could finally be a stock picker’s market again. Leadership Is Broadening Beyond Mega-Caps For years, a small group of companies—the so-called “Magnificent 7”—carried index performance. If you owned the S&P 500, most of your return was coming from Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Nvidia, Meta, Tesla, and Alphabet. That kind of narrow leadership works great for passive investors if those companies keep delivering. But when just a handful of names drive the index, it leaves investors exposed to concentrated risks. Now, signs are emerging that the baton is being passed to mid-caps, cyclicals, financials, and under-owned sectors. As more companies participate in the rally, dispersion of returns naturally rises. This is the environment where active stock selection can add real value. Dispersion Creates Opportunity Dispersion means the gap between winners and losers is widening. In an environment where everything moves together, stock picking adds little. But when some stocks rally 40% while others sink 20%, the ability to overweight winners and avoid losers is critical. Advisors who understand fundamentals—balance sheets, cash flow quality, pricing power, management discipline—are well positioned to separate long-term compounders from companies set to stumble. Passive vehicles can’t make those choices. They own the good, the bad, and everything in between. Macro Shifts Are Amplifying Stock-Specific Risks We’re in a macro backdrop where interest rates, inflation expectations, and monetary policy are in flux. A cooling inflation trend and anticipated rate cuts could boost companies that are more rate-sensitive, while leaving heavily indebted or structurally challenged firms behind. Add in trade tensions, shifting global supply chains, and the energy transition, and you have a landscape where stock-by-stock fundamentals matter more than ever. Passive funds simply don’t discriminate—they allocate capital based on index weight, not merit. Active Products Are Evolving Another tailwind for stock pickers is the rise of active ETFs and other low-cost, rules-based strategies that blend the benefits of selectivity with transparency and efficiency. These products show that investors are seeking more than “just the market.” Advisors can now harness active stock selection without the high fees and lack of liquidity that plagued traditional active mutual funds. That makes it easier to implement conviction-driven ideas while still keeping client costs reasonable. Passive Fatigue Is Setting In Some investors are growing frustrated with “average” results. Passive investing guarantees you the market return—no more, no less. That’s fine in broad bull markets, but when volatility spikes or leadership narrows, those averages look less attractive. Meanwhile, index funds are increasingly concentrated in mega-caps. If one or two of those names falter, index investors feel it directly. Active managers, or disciplined individual investors, have the option to sidestep those risks. The Psychology of Investing Finally, there’s a psychological angle. Passive investing can leave clients feeling disengaged, like passengers on autopilot. Active stock selection—done thoughtfully—keeps them invested in the narrative of businesses, leadership, and long-term growth stories. That engagement can strengthen trust between advisors and their clients, especially when volatility tests patience. The Bottom Line Passive strategies still have their place—especially as a low-cost core. But over the next 12 months, conditions are shaping up in a way that favors selectivity. Dispersion is increasing, macro trends are reshuffling winners and losers, and active approaches have more tools than ever before. For financial advisors, this is a moment to consider tilting more toward stock picking. Done well, it could mean the difference between riding the market and beating it. Connect with us As a fully independent, unbiased, and transparent partner Advisor Outreach gives our clients clear guidance on the best fit for them, instead of leading to a firm that is the best fit for us.  Talk to one of our advisors today to see how we can help you level up. Fill out the form below, and one of our experts will be in touch shortly. Stay Connected Sign up for updates and insights from our team of experts. [email protected] 813.344.28801408 N Westshore BlvdSuite 401Tampa FL 33607 Linkedin Twitter

Rising Advisor Turnover: A Warning Sign for RIA Talent Strategy A recent DeVoe & Company report highlights a troubling trend: advisor turnover among independent RIAs is climbing sharply. Nearly 10% of firms experienced “much higher” attrition, while another 20% saw “somewhat higher” advisor exits—compared to just 2% and 14%, respectively, in last year’s report. The Root Cause: A Talent Development Breakdown According to DeVoe’s 2025 Talent & Growth Survey, advisory firms are falling behind when it comes to building sustainable career paths. Among the key findings: A majority (68%) of next-gen advisors prioritize a well-defined career path. Nearly half (46%) are seeking a clear path to ownership. One-third want more formal coaching and training. However, far too many firms are failing to deliver: Only 40% of RIAs reported having adequate training programs. Just 38% now have clearly articulated career paths—dating down from 50% last year and nearly 60% two years ago. Many instead rely on informal or ad hoc development—sometimes none at all. DeVoe bluntly terms the situation: “Firms are slipping backward on the fundamentals of people development,” producing a “drift toward mediocrity.” Consequences for Firm Leadership & Succession The lack of structured career planning isn’t just hurting retention—it’s foreshadowing succession chaos. Only 27% of firms feel they have next-gen talent ready to step into leadership. Meanwhile, 44% predict a “bumpy transition” ahead. DeVoe’s advice is clear: firms serious about long-term stability should start selling equity early and begin building internal leadership pipelines before it’s too late. Why Advisor Outreach Believes Talent Development Wins Though this report wasn’t written with recruiting firms in mind, the implications are plain. At Advisor Outreach, we’ve built our reputation by recognizing and solving for things like this—before they become crises. We don’t just help advisors navigate broker-dealer transitions. We help them position themselves for long-term growth: Guaranteed clarity: We only introduce advisors to firms that prioritize transparency—especially around growth, equity and succession structures. Career growth, not just comp: The best transitions go beyond money. They deliver development, ownership, and a clear path forward. Peace of mind with partners: So many advisors tell us they’ve been underserved by repeated “no path” responses. We make sure that’s not how our process goes. In Summary The talent crisis in RIA firms is real—and growing. If your firm hasn’t clearly mapped out long-term growth paths and succession, advisors will—and should—look elsewhere. At Advisor Outreach, we don’t just offer a new home. We help secure a future. Connect with us As a fully independent, unbiased, and transparent partner Advisor Outreach gives our clients clear guidance on the best fit for them, instead of leading to a firm that is the best fit for us.  Talk to one of our advisors today to see how we can help you level up. Fill out the form below, and one of our experts will be in touch shortly. Stay Connected Sign up for updates and insights from our team of experts. [email protected] 813.344.28801408 N Westshore BlvdSuite 401Tampa FL 33607 Linkedin Twitter

Why Advisors Choose Advisor Outreach for Broker-Dealer Transitions When it comes to changing broker-dealers, financial advisors face a complex and often emotional decision. From payout structures and client portability to cultural fit and long-term career goals, there are countless variables to evaluate. That’s why more advisors are turning to specialized third-party recruiting firms like Advisor Outreach to guide them through the process. Here’s why Advisor Outreach stands out—and why having an advocate matters. Objective Guidance, Not Sales PitchesAt Advisor Outreach, we aren’t employed by any one firm. Our loyalty is to you. That independence allows us to match advisors with the broker-dealer or RIA platform that aligns with their goals—not one we’re obligated to push. You get transparent insight, not a hard sell. Access to a Broad Network of FirmsWe maintain relationships with top independent broker-dealers, RIA aggregators, and hybrid platforms across the country. This allows us to present you with vetted options you may not discover on your own. We do the legwork to make sure each firm meets your criteria. Confidential, Streamlined ProcessOne of the biggest risks in transitioning is word getting out before you’re ready. We protect your confidentiality every step of the way. Our streamlined process minimizes distractions and lets you focus on your clients while we handle the research and outreach. Strategic Advocacy During NegotiationsCompensation, transition packages, and platform flexibility can all be negotiated—but many advisors don’t know what’s possible. We do. As your advocate, we help ensure you get the most competitive deal available, backed by data and experience. Advisor-Centric PhilosophyWe’re not just recruiters. We’re consultants, sounding boards, and long-term partners. Our team has deep industry knowledge and understands the personal and professional stakes of making a move. We treat each advisor relationship with care, respect, and discretion. Start Exploring the Possibilities Whether you’re actively considering a move or just want to explore what else is out there, Advisor Outreach is here to help. Our services are confidential and free to advisors. Book a Discovery Call with Our Team by filling out the form below. Choosing to change broker-dealers is a big step. Let us walk with you and make it easier. Connect with us As a fully independent, unbiased, and transparent partner Advisor Outreach gives our clients clear guidance on the best fit for them, instead of leading to a firm that is the best fit for us.  Talk to one of our advisors today to see how we can help you level up. Fill out the form below, and one of our experts will be in touch shortly. Stay Connected Sign up for updates and insights from our team of experts. [email protected] 813.344.28801408 N Westshore BlvdSuite 401Tampa FL 33607 Linkedin Twitter

Top Broker-Dealers Advisors Are Moving to in 2025 The financial advisor landscape continues to evolve rapidly in 2025, and with that change comes movement. Advisors are reevaluating their affiliations in favor of more flexible, tech-forward, and advisor-centric platforms. Here are the top broker-dealers and platforms attracting the most advisor transitions so far this year. LPL FinancialLPL remains a powerhouse in advisor transitions. With significant wins in 2025—including $190M and $450M teams from Osaic—LPL’s blend of autonomy, scale, and strong technology continues to appeal to independent-minded advisors. Their acquisition of Commonwealth, bringing nearly 3,000 advisors and $285B AUM, only strengthens their appeal. Raymond JamesA consistent favorite, Raymond James brought on nine teams totaling $3.6B in AUM by April 2025. Advisors are drawn to its balanced culture, top-tier support, and strong reputation for advisor satisfaction. Cetera Financial GroupCetera is gaining momentum with a wide range of affiliation models and strong M&A strategy. Their recent integration of Securian Financial and targeted recruiting efforts have helped attract advisors seeking scale, support, and semi-independence. Osaic (formerly Advisor Group)Osaic is building a cohesive brand from its multi-firm history and continues to see movement both in and out. Some large teams have departed for more independence, but others are drawn to its resources, backend support, and size. Stifel FinancialStifel continues to recruit effectively from the wirehouses. Recent transitions include a $3B Merrill team and an $873M team from UBS. Advisors appreciate Stifel’s boutique feel with national resources and cultural alignment. Rockefeller Capital ManagementRockefeller is building serious momentum, especially among high-AUM teams. In early 2025, they added $1.5B in new assets via two Merrill Lynch teams in Chicago. Their elite-family-office positioning and client-first values are a major draw. Sanctuary WealthSanctuary is attracting advisors looking for full independence without building infrastructure from scratch. With strong technology partnerships and white-glove transition support, it’s become a top destination for breakaway teams. Kestra FinancialKestra offers flexible affiliation options—both hybrid and RIA support—making it attractive to advisors who want independence with infrastructure. Their focus on technology and advisor support has made them a steady contender in 2025. Morgan StanleyWhile known as a wirehouse, Morgan Stanley continues to attract top-producing teams, like an $875M team from JPMorgan. Their strong platform remains a contender, although some attrition toward independence is noticeable. RBC Wealth ManagementRBC made a splash by onboarding a $5B JPMorgan team and a $500M team from Merrill. With a balance of boutique feel and robust resources, RBC is quietly climbing the ranks for advisors looking for flexibility with support. UBS and Wells FargoThese traditional powerhouses still make moves, with UBS picking up $400M+ teams from Morgan Stanley and Wells Fargo growing its independent channel. That said, both are also seeing outflows to more modern, independent platforms. Key Takeaways Independence wins. Firms like LPL, Cetera, Kestra, and Sanctuary are gaining attention from advisors seeking autonomy, payout control, and flexible tech. Cultural fit matters. Firms with consistent values, leadership, and support structures are pulling ahead. RIA platforms are rising. While not broker-dealers, custodians like Schwab and Fidelity are gaining from the shift toward fee-based independence. Why It Matters For advisors considering a change, these trends offer a real-world roadmap. Looking at where others are going helps you assess what might be right for you. At Advisor Outreach, we track these movements and help advisors transition smoothly, strategically, and confidentially. Explore Your Options with a Free Consultation by Filling Out the Form Below 2025 is already a banner year for transitions. If you’re wondering whether to make a move, we can help you evaluate your options and find the best-fit platform for your next chapter. Connect with us As a fully independent, unbiased, and transparent partner Advisor Outreach gives our clients clear guidance on the best fit for them, instead of leading to a firm that is the best fit for us.  Talk to one of our advisors today to see how we can help you level up. Fill out the form below, and one of our experts will be in touch shortly. Stay Connected Sign up for updates and insights from our team of experts. [email protected] 813.344.28801408 N Westshore BlvdSuite 401Tampa FL 33607 Linkedin Twitter

Meet Chris Meinsen, President of Advisor Outreach As the driving force behind Advisor Outreach, Chris Meinsen leads our team with purpose and integrity. With over 20 years of experience in sales, operations, and scaling businesses, Chris brings unmatched expertise to every advisor transition. He is also a proud father to a great son, whom he hopes to one day pass the business on to—making this mission deeply personal and generational. Chris’s Background & Expertise 20+ Years in Sales & Leadership: Before founding Advisor Outreach, Chris built and led sales and operational teams across various industries—spanning Kansas City, San Diego, Los Angeles, Denver, and now Tampa. Educational Leadership: For 16 years, he excelled in leadership roles within top tech-driven education companies—developing high-performing teams and initiating new programs. Solid Academic Foundation: Chris holds an MBA in Global Management from the University of Arizona, equipping him for international business and advisory roles. Advisor Outreach: Growth & Proven Success Under Chris’s leadership, Advisor Outreach has flourished: A Robust Pipeline: Our team speaks with hundreds of advisors every month, and we help over 20 advisor teams transition each quarter. High Satisfaction & Efficient Results: We often secure competitive offers—so efficient, in fact, that over 90% of advisors accept our first recommended firm, with transitions completed in just a few months. Nationwide Presence: With employees from coast to coast and a national footprint, Advisor Outreach provides broad industry insight with personalized service. Elite Team Building: Chris brings in the best people in the industry and is building a powerhouse team dedicated to delivering exceptional outcomes for advisors. Why Advisors Trust Chris & His Team Independent & TransparentChris ensures that your best interests come first—he’s not tied to any one firm and will only recommend what’s right for you. Expert Guidance at Every StepFrom discovery to negotiation and onboarding, Chris and his team provide strategic support—ensuring you secure the best compensation, tech platforms, and cultural fit. Proven Track RecordWith decades of experience across industries and over hundreds of successful transitions, Chris’s leadership inspires confidence and delivers results. Dedicated Advisor AdvocacyProud father and mentor, Chris infuses every decision with empathy. He acknowledges the emotional weight of transitions and prioritizes advisor empowerment and client wellbeing. Strong, Long-Standing Leadership TeamChris and our Managing Director, Soch Chay, have worked together for over a decade—building trust, consistency, and unmatched coordination for our clients. Ready to Take the Next Step? If you’re thinking about changing broker-dealers—or even just curious about what’s possible—Chris Meinsen and the Advisor Outreach team are ready to help. We offer: Full, no-pressure discovery calls Expert evaluation of offers and firm-fit End-to-end support, from first conversation through post-transition success “I get this privilege each time I help an Advisor or team move to a better broker-dealer or RIA… I find it very rewarding.” — Chris Meinsen Connect with Chris today for a confidential conversation: 📞 813‑344‑2880📧 [email protected] Let Chris’s 20+ years of leadership and the Advisor Outreach team’s proven processes guide your next transition—with confidence, clarity, and results. Connect with us As a fully independent, unbiased, and transparent partner Advisor Outreach gives our clients clear guidance on the best fit for them, instead of leading to a firm that is the best fit for us.  Talk to one of our advisors today to see how we can help you level up. Fill out the form below, and one of our experts will be in touch shortly. Stay Connected Sign up for updates and insights from our team of experts. [email protected] 813.344.28801408 N Westshore BlvdSuite 401Tampa FL 33607 Linkedin Twitter

How to Change Broker-Dealers: A Step-by-Step Guide for Financial Advisors Changing broker-dealers is a major decision that can significantly impact your business, clients, and long-term growth. At Advisor Outreach, we’ve helped hundreds of advisors navigate this transition smoothly and successfully. This guide will walk you through the process, key questions to ask, and how our team can support you every step of the way. Define Your WhyBefore evaluating new firms, ask yourself: Why am I considering a move? What’s missing in my current broker-dealer relationship? What would a better platform offer me and my clients?Understanding your goals—whether they’re financial, operational, cultural, or strategic—will guide every decision that follows. Know Your OptionsThere are three primary paths: Join another independent broker-dealer Join or launch an RIA Hybrid structuresEach model has trade-offs related to payouts, compliance, freedom, and support. We break down these options for you during our free consultation. Ask the Right Questions When Vetting FirmsUse this list when speaking with prospective broker-dealers or RIAs: What are your transition support services like? How are payouts structured—and are there any hidden fees? What technology stack do you offer? How do you support marketing, compliance, and operations? What is your culture like? Are there advisors like me who’ve made this transition successfully? Keep It ConfidentialIt’s essential to protect your current business while you explore your options. We: Sign NDAs with advisors and firms Handle all scheduling and firm outreach anonymously Never share your name or book size without permission Compare Offers StrategicallyWe simplify this part for you: We gather and compare offers from multiple firms Lay them out side-by-side Show net compensation and qualitative fitOur clients accept our first recommendation over 90% of the time. Plan the Transition TimelineWe help you create a customized plan: Timeline for notice, paperwork, and client communication Licensing and compliance checklist Custody and ACAT proceduresMost advisors complete the transition in under 90 days. Don’t Do It AloneChanging broker-dealers is a complex process—but you don’t have to navigate it by yourself. Why Advisors Work with Advisor Outreach: We talk to hundreds of advisors each month We help 20+ teams move every quarter We know where the best-fit firms are hiring now We bring a nationwide presence and elite team support   We’re also led by Chris Meinsen, a 20+ year sales and leadership expert, who built Advisor Outreach to help advisors make confident, high-impact moves. Ready to Explore Your Options? Let’s have a confidential, no-pressure conversation. We’ll help you: Clarify your goals Identify the best-fit firms Handle the heavy lifting 📞 813‑344‑2880📧 [email protected] Change is hard. We make it easier—and more profitable. Connect with us As a fully independent, unbiased, and transparent partner Advisor Outreach gives our clients clear guidance on the best fit for them, instead of leading to a firm that is the best fit for us.  Talk to one of our advisors today to see how we can help you level up. Fill out the form below, and one of our experts will be in touch shortly. Stay Connected Sign up for updates and insights from our team of experts. [email protected] 813.344.28801408 N Westshore BlvdSuite 401Tampa FL 33607 Linkedin Twitter

5 Signs It’s Time to Change Broker-Dealers If you’re a financial advisor questioning whether you’re in the right place, you’re not alone. Thousands of advisors change broker-dealers each year in search of better alignment, independence, or growth opportunities. But how do you know when it’s truly time to make the move? Here are five key signs: Your Firm Limits Your IndependenceAre you constantly jumping through hoops to serve your clients the way you believe is best? If your current firm imposes restrictive product offerings, compliance roadblocks, or unnecessary bureaucracy, it may be time to consider a platform that supports advisor autonomy. You Feel Undervalued or UnderpaidDo you know how your payout compares to industry averages? Are your fees transparent? Many advisors leave broker-dealers that cap their income potential or offer low-value services in exchange for a high cut. If your compensation doesn’t reflect your work, you have options. The Technology is Holding You BackIn today’s environment, advisors rely heavily on digital tools to manage portfolios, onboard clients, and streamline compliance. If your current broker-dealer is using outdated tech or lacks integration, it can limit your productivity and your ability to scale. The Culture Has Changed – and Not for the BetterCulture matters. If leadership shifts, strategic direction changes, or you no longer feel aligned with the firm’s values, that misalignment can impact morale and long-term satisfaction. Trust your gut if the culture feels off. You’re Curious About What Else Is Out ThereEven if nothing is “wrong,” curiosity is often the first signal of change. If you find yourself wondering about other models (like RIA platforms or independent BDs), it’s worth exploring your options with a trusted transition partner.   How We Can Help At Advisor Outreach, we specialize in helping financial advisors change broker-dealers with confidence and clarity. Our process is personalized, confidential, and built around your goals. Schedule a Free Transition Consultation → Let’s talk about whether the grass really could be greener—and how to get there smoothly. Connect with us As a fully independent, unbiased, and transparent partner Advisor Outreach gives our clients clear guidance on the best fit for them, instead of leading to a firm that is the best fit for us.  Talk to one of our advisors today to see how we can help you level up. Fill out the form below, and one of our experts will be in touch shortly. Stay Connected Sign up for updates and insights from our team of experts. [email protected] 813.344.28801408 N Westshore BlvdSuite 401Tampa FL 33607 Linkedin Twitter

Advisors who neglect estate planning as a core service may find themselves at a competitive disadvantage, according to Vanilla’s second annual State of Estate Planning report.

As the provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are set to expire at the end of next year, tax planning this year echoes the uncertainty of 2010, when the Bush-era tax cuts were nearing their scheduled expiration.

As the provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are set to expire at the end of next year, tax planning this year echoes the uncertainty of 2010, when the Bush-era tax cuts were nearing their scheduled expiration.