In this week’s episode, we welcome back Tony Parish, CFA, CQF, Chief Investment Officer at Alphastar Capital Management, for another insightful conversation about the U.S. economy and market trends. This episode offers an exclusive preview of our upcoming State of the Markets presentation.

Stay tuned as Tony sheds light on the overarching theme for 2024: the incredible persistence and resilience of the U.S. economy and markets. Despite global challenges and inflation concerns, the U.S. economy has demonstrated unparalleled strength and recovery, which is reflected in this year’s market performance. Join us as Tony dives into the data, discusses the impact of elections on the markets, and offers insights on inflation trends.

Then, at the end of the episode, he’ll also share some exciting updates from Alphastar, including their new Orion Enterprise Experience, which is launching this year.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• The U.S. economy's impressive resilience and strength in 2024
• The lack of a strong correlation between U.S. elections and market performance
• Common misconceptions surrounding inflation + managing expectations about its impact on daily expenses
• Exciting updates and projects from Alphastar this year

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com

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In this episode, we’re joined by the one and only Dave Hostetler to talk about the evolving world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) for independent financial advisors. He’s here to share the insights he's gained from talking with small business owners, highlighting current trends like friend-to-friend deals and internal succession plans becoming more popular. Join us as we discuss key factors influencing the valuation of advisory practices and provide some helpful insights for buyers and sellers preparing for successful transactions.

This conversation also touches on some broader practice management topics such as team building, talent acquisition, and the importance of structured training programs for new hires. Dave talks about how process manuals and standardized procedures can boost efficiency and create a positive workplace environment. Whether you're considering selling your advisory practice, exploring growth through acquisitions, or optimizing your operational framework, this episode is one you don’t want to miss!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• The increasing trend of internal transactions over open market sales
• Key factors that can enhance a business’ valuation for potential mergers and acquisitions
• The lengthy and complex nature of M&As + ensuring a good fit in terms of values, processes, technology, and more
• The importance of training and process manuals for new staff in financial advisory practices
• The considerations and challenges of hiring associate advisors

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com

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As the financial services industry continues to evolve, staying ahead of the curve means engaging with the next generation of clients and advisors. Today we are joined by FIG’s Chief Strategy Officer, Nicholas Ross, to discuss the transfer of wealth to younger generations and the integration of younger clients and advisors into financial firms.

One key takeaway from this discussion is the importance of understanding what wealth means to the next generation. While incorporating technology into the planning process is crucial for attracting the right talent and clients, it is equally important to understand where younger demographics spend their time and what they value. By asking the right questions, you can develop more comprehensive strategies that resonate with the next generation. Tune in to learn more!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• The evolution of next-gen wealth management
• Engaging with the next generation + understanding their financial needs
• Integrating technology seamlessly into client interactions
• Strategies for attracting and retaining young talent and clients

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com

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For the first ever time, we’re welcoming Keith Burger onto the Retirement Inside Out podcast! He recently joined the FIG team as the Executive Vice President and Head of Institutional Channel Sales. With over two decades of experience in the financial services industry, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the FIG team.

Tune in as we chat with Keith about his extensive background, including his tenure at AIG Corebridge and Luma Financial Technologies, and what led him to join FIG. Then, we’ll dive into the opportunities and challenges facing insurance distribution in the broker-dealer and institutional channels, especially in light of evolving regulations. Join us as he shares his vision for the future and outlines how FIG is working to meet the unique needs of broker-dealers.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Keith's journey to becoming EVP at FIG and his vision for institutional channel sales
• The importance of a broker-dealer-first strategy in today's regulatory environment
• How FIG is helping broker-dealers streamline and enhance their insurance planning models

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com

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Ever wondered what it's like to be on the front lines of the financial services industry as an intern? We’ve got just the conversation for you this week! We are joined by Graham Wald and Paul Matanovic, our 2024 FIG spring interns in today’s episode.

Tune in as we discuss their backgrounds, experiences, and takeaways from their internship here at FIG. From hands-on learning to relationship building, Graham and Paul have gained valuable insights into various aspects of the industry, from product knowledge to communication and networking skills. Stay tuned for a unique glimpse into the importance of internships and early talent development in shaping the future of the financial services industry.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Graham and Paul’s backgrounds + what led them to the financial services industry
• The importance of early talent strategy and internships in the financial industry
• Paul and Graham’s key learnings from this internship experience at FIG
• Staying open-minded, continuously networking, and embracing learning opportunities throughout your career

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com

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Join us for a special episode featuring David McKnight, our partner from Power of Zero. He’s here to talk about the upcoming Heroes of Zero conference in Nashville on May 16th and 17th at the Renaissance Hotel. Stay tuned as David shares the list of incredible financial experts that are going to be featured this year and discusses the details of the event.

From understanding the latest tax law changes to implementing the most effective marketing strategies for your business, this event will bring you some of the most cutting-edge retirement planning education in the industry. This is an excellent opportunity to network with peers, learn from the best, and equip yourself with the knowledge to shield your clients and prospects from the impact of rising taxes. Stay tuned to learn more!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• What is the Heroes of Zero conference and who will be speaking?
• What topics will be covered during the event?
• How can attending the conference benefit financial professionals and their practices?
• How much does this event cost to attend and how do I register?

Register for Heroes of Zero

https://ca.heroesofzero.live/

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com

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In today’s episode, we’re focusing on a topic that is increasingly vital for our clients: long-term care planning. Joining us on the show is Lily Vittayarukskul, the CEO and founder of Waterlily Planning. We’re so excited to partner with Waterlily and introduce you to its innovative approach to long-term care planning.

Lily's personal journey, sparked by her aunt's battle with terminal cancer, led her to develop a solution aimed at easing the financial and emotional burdens of aging care. Waterlily harnesses the power of AI and machine learning to offer clients a better understanding of their long-term care needs, including cost projections and potential family involvement. Tune in as Lily discusses the role of predictive analytics in retirement planning and how Waterlily empowers advisors to better serve their clients' needs.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Lily's journey and motivation for entering the long-term care industry
• What is Waterlily and how does it help advisors with long-term care conversations?
• The importance of holistic planning and incorporating long-term care considerations into retirement strategies
• What’s in the future for Waterlily?

Resources for this episode:

Waterlily Planning

https://www.joinwaterlily.com/

Lily on Linkedin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lily-vittayarukskul/

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com

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Welcome back to the Retirement Inside Out podcast! Hamilton Morales, the Senior Vice President of Social Security here at FIG, is with us for this week’s episode. Amidst a busy start to the year, he has some important updates and insights to share surrounding Social Security.

Listen in to learn how Hamilton assists financial professionals in staying informed about Social Security changes, and the various Social Security events and seminars he is available to host. He’ll discuss the latest adjustments to Social Security for 2024, including increases in maximum taxable earnings and changes to the earnings test exemption amount. He’ll also shed light on the complexities of Social Security taxation and reveal a surprising detail about state taxes on Social Security benefits in certain states. Don’t miss this enlightening discussion!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Getting in touch with Hamilton to speak at your event
• The maximum taxable earnings for Social Security has increased in 2024
• The earnings test exemption amount has increased from $21,240 in 2023 to $22,320 in 2024
• While the COLA dropped from 8.7% in 2023 to 3.2% in 2024, Medicare Part B premiums increased by almost 6%
• Some states impose taxes on Social Security benefits + educating clients on federal and state taxation
• Understanding spousal benefits, widows' benefits, and benefits for children

Learn About FIG: https://www.figmarketing.com

800-527-1155