The featured issue discusses the annual "Ten to Watch," a selection of individuals expected to significantly impact the wealth management industry. Unlike traditional lists, this editorial initiative is not influenced by nominations, submissions, or popularity contests. The chosen individuals are identified through discussions among the editorial team based on their noteworthy contributions or their representation of emerging trends in the industry. The list encompasses a diverse group, varying in age and background, with a slight emphasis on technology players reflecting industry trends. For example, Anne Rhodes of Wealth.com is recognized for her work in trust and estate planning, leveraging AI to reduce friction in the process. Another notable inclusion is Brian Thorp, a seasoned industry veteran who founded Wealthtender, a digital platform addressing opportunities arising from the SEC's new marketing rules. The common thread among these individuals is their role in driving change within the wealth management sector. The issue also acknowledges the evolving nature of the publication itself, as the magazine, which has undergone several name changes, is now transitioning from physical print to a digital format on WealthManagement.com. The decision to discontinue the physical magazine aligns with broader changes in publishing economics. However, the content will persist on the website, supplemented by additional data from the research team at WMIQ, with a continued commitment to print Trusts & Estates, a subscription-based journal for estate planning. The editorial emphasizes the inevitability of change and the dynamic nature of the industry. |