By Asset Allocator Journal Staff
Alphabet Inc. lost $115 billion in value, per Advisor Perspectives, as Apple’s AI-powered search plans for Safari threaten Google’s revenue stream. Eddy Cue’s testimony to the U.S. Department of Justice noted declining Safari searches due to AI alternatives, impacting Alphabet’s core business. Wealth managers should closely monitor tech portfolios, as AI-driven disruptions may increase volatility in major tech stocks.
Santander rejected NatWest’s £11 billion bid for its UK retail banking unit, deeming it undervalued, per the Financial Times. This reflects confidence in its UK operations amid rising competitive pressures. Wealth managers should watch for banking sector M&A, as consolidation could influence financial stocks and client portfolios with European exposure.
Tech firms are pressing Congress to extend a research tax break set to expire in 2025, per Advisor Perspectives. This provision allows immediate R&D deductions, fostering innovation and job growth. Its lapse could weaken U.S. competitiveness against China, affecting tech performance. Wealth managers should evaluate policy risks for clients with tech-heavy portfolios.
WealthManagement.com’s WealthStack Podcast featured Lauren Clough of Kind Wealth, discussing elder care integration into financial planning. Kind Wealth connects clients to care specialists, addressing healthcare needs for aging clients. Wealth managers can offer holistic services, enhancing client relationships as retirement needs grow.
U.S. stocks climbed as investors awaited U.S.-China trade talks, per Advisor Perspectives. Hopes for tariff resolutions boosted the S&P 500 and Nasdaq, but stalled talks could trigger volatility. Wealth managers should prepare clients for market fluctuations and reassess global equity exposures.
AI is transforming wealth management, reports WealthManagement.com. Jump automates compliance tasks, HighPeak optimizes portfolios with analytics, and Carefull monitors senior accounts for fraud. These tools improve efficiency, enabling wealth managers to scale and meet niche needs like elder financial protection.
Bitcoin and gold ETFs are competing, per Advisor Perspectives. Bitcoin ETFs attract younger investors seeking high-risk returns, while gold ETFs appeal to those prioritizing stability. Wealth managers must align these assets with clients’ risk tolerances and long-term objectives.
A Houston-based RIA added eight partners to finalize its succession plan, per WealthManagement.com. This ensures client continuity and stability, reflecting RIA trends. Wealth managers should prioritize succession planning to maintain confidence and firm value in a competitive landscape.
