At Future Proof, we have dedicated countless hours to researching and understanding the trends that will shape the wealth management industry over the next two decades. Through hundreds of conversations with executives at wealth management firms, fintech companies, and asset managers, we’ve explored expert viewpoints on AI and its potential to transform the industry, the implications of an aging workforce, the great wealth transfer, and the importance of understanding younger investors. We’ve also looked at the convergence of public and private markets, industry consolidation, and the competitive forces these changes will bring.
One critical area that often gets overlooked is the role of women. Women are set to play an increasingly dominant role within the industry as next-generation leaders, product builders, and managers. They are becoming the breadwinners of their families and key financial decision-makers in their households. Women will become a central focus for new and prospective wealth management clients. If you want to future-proof your business, this is an area of growth worth planning for.
Let’s unpack why we decided to focus on making the Future Proof Festival the largest annual gathering for women in wealth.
Key Industry Trends Shaping Women’s Role in Wealth Management
The Rise of Women as Financial Decision-Makers
Women are increasingly becoming primary financial decision-makers. Studies show that women control over $12 trillion in U.S. household financial assets, a number expected to rise significantly in the coming years. This shift demands that wealth management firms adapt their strategies to better appeal to and serve women clients.
The Great Wealth Transfer…to Women
The impending great wealth transfer is often discussed in terms of generational change, but a critical aspect is that the majority of these assets will likely transfer to women. According to McKinsey & Company, women are expected to inherit 70% of the wealth that will be transferred over the next two generations. This massive shift means that women will increasingly control a larger share of financial assets, reshaping the wealth management landscape.
Changing Demographics and Education
Women now earn more degrees than men and are entering the workforce in greater numbers, leading to increased earning potential and financial independence. By 2030, women in the U.S. are expected to control much of the $30 trillion in financial assets that baby boomers will possess. This demographic shift is creating new opportunities for wealth advisors to engage with a rapidly evolving client base.
Differences in Investment Behavior
Women investors often prioritize holistic financial planning and are more risk-averse. Wealth management firms that align their services and client experience with these values are more likely to attract and retain clients who are women. Advisors, regardless if they are male or female, need to learn to serve female investors well.
Women in Focus at Future Proof Festival
As the largest annual gathering of women in wealth management, Future Proof Festival features amazing women speakers as well as sessions, activations, and experiences dedicated to them. Here are some of the sessions and speakers I am looking forward to seeing in September:
- The Destiny of Demographics: It’s a Women’s World
This session explores expert strategies for engaging female clients and capturing the growing opportunity among women. As the majority of the U.S. population, women are key decision-makers in household buying and investment decisions. Learn how these trends can impact your practice and discover strategies to effectively serve this influential demographic. - Future-Proofing Wealth Management: Attracting & Retaining the Next Generation
Dive into bold strategies to attract and retain the next generation of financial advisors. This session will cover how embracing emerging technologies and fostering a culture-first leadership approach can transform young talent’s perception of the industry. Learn to entice diverse candidates and career changers, ensuring the profession evolves to meet clients where they are. - The State of the Wealth Management Industry
Gain insights into the latest trends and challenges shaping the wealth management industry today. This session features top industry experts discussing fintech, growth, firm operations, and customer experience, providing strategic insights for staying ahead in a rapidly evolving market.
Shannon Eusey
Co-founder & CEO
Beacon Pointe
Kristie Edling-Day
Executive Vice President,
Chief Information Officer, Advisor Technology
LPL
Molly Weiss
Group President, Wealth Management Platform
Envestnet
Steph Guild
Head of Investment Strategy
Robinhood
Sarah Levy
CEO
Betterment
Lule Demissie
CEO
eToro US
Anna Paglia
Chief Business Officer
State Street Global Advisors
Marlena Lee
Global Head of Investment Solutions
Dimensional Fund Advisors
Laura Combs
Executive Managing Director
Mercer Advisors
Dr. Jean Twenge
Owner
iGen Consulting
Lori Hardwick
Board Member
Cerity Partners; Cetera: Orion, Docupace
Dana Rhodes
Chief Operating Officer
Axtella
Danielle Poli
Managing Director and Assistant Portfolio Manager, Global Credit
Oaktree Capital Management
Andree Mohr
President
Integrated Partners
Natalie Wolfsen
CEO
Orion
Chelsey Goodan
Author
Sandi Bragar
Chief Client Officer, Partner
Aspiriant
Cammie Doder
Chief Marketing Officer, Partner
Aspiriant
Megan Kelly
Head of Research
Fidelity Center of Applied Technology
Samantha Russell
Chief Evangelist
FMG
Tracy Alloway
Podcast Host
Bloomberg
Why You Should Attend
Future Proof Festival isn’t just about showcasing the latest tech innovations in wealth management; it’s about building a modern wealth management industry and that starts by attracting and catering to a diverse financial professional community.
For women advisors and wealth management professionals, there’s no better place to see the latest innovations and engage with a vibrant community of women leaders. Join us at Future Proof Festival and be part of the largest annual gathering of women in wealth management. Together, we can shape the future of the industry.
Whether you’re an advisor looking to better serve female clients or an industry professional interested in supporting and developing female talent, Future Proof Festival is the place to be.
See you there!
Matt Middleton
CEO
Future Proof
PS – Have any questions? Email us at hello@futureproofhq.com
