What this is (and isn’t)
Mergers and platform changes can alter supervision, product shelves, fees, and autonomy. This piece outlines the signals to watch and the questions to ask before you’re forced into a new reality.
Note: This is educational and not legal advice. Treat it as a primer so you can ask better questions of counsel.
Key takeaways
- Consolidation often changes rules and economics first, messaging later.
- Watch supervision, tech mandates, and product shelf changes for early signals.
- Your client experience can drift when platform decisions move upstream.
- Use consolidation events as a decision forcing function: evaluate options now.
- Document every change that impacts clients, fees, or service.
What tends to change
- Supervision and recordkeeping
- Product access and shelf
- Fee schedules and platform charges
- Technology requirements
- Brand and client messaging constraints
Advisor action checklist
- List current pain points and changes in the last 12 months.
- Quantify the economic impact.
- Assess whether changes help or hurt client outcomes.
- Decide whether you’re reacting or choosing.
Disclosure
RIA Confidential is an educational resource center. Nothing on this page is legal, tax, or compliance advice. Consult qualified legal and compliance professionals for guidance specific to your circumstances.
