Why Now Is the Moment Advisors Are Taking Control

By Jim Perhacs, Chief Operating Officer

Independence isn’t just a trend; it’s a strategic move for advisors who want more control, more flexibility, and more alignment with their long-term vision. Across the industry, more financial professionals are rethinking traditional models and choosing structures that put them, their clients, and their values at the center.

So, what’s driving the shift—and how can advisors make the move with confidence? Let’s break it down.

What’s Fueling the Move to Independence

A few powerful forces are accelerating advisor movement toward independence:

The independent RIA channel is the fastest-growing advisor model right now.[1]
According to a recent industry movement report, since the start of 2020, nearly 10% of wirehouse reps have migrated to other channels, primarily independent and RIA firms.[2]
In a survey of 629 RIAs, 70% said technology helped them deliver a better client experience, and 64% said tech frees up time to focus on clients, meaning advisors are choosing models where they have both autonomy and tech-enabled scale.[3]

These shifts point to a growing desire for:

Control: The freedom to run a business aligned with your values—not constrained by someone else’s agenda.
Client-first flexibility: The ability to personalize planning, pricing, communication, and service.
Scalable growth: More choice in technology, staffing, marketing, and succession planning.

Advisors want a model that supports both entrepreneurial ambition and strong client relationships—and independence delivers exactly that.

Transitioning With Confidence

Making a move doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. What matters are the resources, clarity, and support behind you. Successful transitions are built on:

Supportive infrastructure: Operational, compliance, marketing, and tech support that lets you focus on client‑service.
Tech and growth tools: As the 2025 RIA benchmarking study shows, firms are investing heavily in technology to drive efficiencies and growth.[4]
Culture & community: A community of seasoned peers, a collaborative mindset, and a philanthropy-oriented mission matter. Advisors tell us culture is a key differentiator. [5]

Why Advisors Are Choosing to Act Now

The timing isn’t driven by a specific year or cycle, it’s driven by conditions that continue to strengthen:

Talent movement is accelerating, especially among next-generation advisors eager for flexibility and autonomy.
Technology is leveling the playing field, giving independent advisors tools once reserved for the largest firms.
Client expectations are shifting toward personalization, transparency, and long-term partnership—areas where independent advisors excel.
Advisor fatigue in traditional environments is rising, pushing professionals to seek models that prioritize alignment, values, and business ownership.

For example, the data shows that younger advisors are the ones most excited to move: nearly 47.6% of advisors who moved were under 40.[6] That means emerging advisors are actively seeking environments that offer flexibility and ownership.

How We Partner With You

At Private Advisor Group, we’re built for the advisor who wants independence and support. When you join our community, you get:

An independent platform with competitive economics, multi-custodial access, and flexible affiliation options that meet you where you are.
A clear path from transition to independence with minimal disruption to clients and revenue.
Top-tier tech stack, marketing templates, and operational support so you spend time where you add most value.
A vibrant community of advisors with real stories, people who were in your shoes and are now running thriving businesses.

Your Next Step

If you’re ready to explore whether independence is the right move and how to make it work, let’s talk today. You’ve built something remarkable. Now imagine what it becomes when you have the flexibility, resources, and support to shape it on your terms.

[1] Charles Schwab Perspectives- Advisors Find Path

[2] Marketsage Big Rep Movement Report 2025

[3] WealthManagement.com Technology a Top Priority for RIA Growth

[4] Charles Schwab RIA Benchmarking Study 2025

[5] Advisor Outreach Top Broker-Dealers Advisors are Moving to in 2025

[6] WealthManagement.com RIA Channel Continues to Attract FA Movers