Big Picture In Practice

Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/advisor-engagement-strategiesCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletter Questions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

In this episodeThe red flags to watch for when evaluating model portfolios.How private markets could strengthen model portfolios—and the risks involved.Why technology will drive personalization, but human connection with remain key.Additional resources:Catch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletter

In this episode:The tax advantages of ETFs and how they compare to other investment vehicles.How Section 351 conversions enable tax-efficient transitions from SMAs to ETFs.Potential regulatory risks and what they mean for the future of ETF tax benefits.Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/351-conversion-sma-to-etf-white-label-etfCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletter Questions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

Deborah is the chief investment officer of global liquidity markets at Federated Hermes. She joined the Big Picture in Practice hosts to discuss this humble, yet sizable corner of the asset management industry.  Listen now for:  A one-minute history of money market funds.The role of money market funds in cash management and capital preservation.Emerging innovations in money market funds.Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/big-picture-in-practice/money-market-funds-cashCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletter Questions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/asset-management-new-tech-stackCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletter Questions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com

In this episode, Brent Beardsley, head of advisor solutions at Vanguard, explains how modern advisory firms can add value for clients and coexist with new technology.Listen now for:How financial advice has evolved over the last 25 years.What advisors can outsource to free up time for client engagement?What advisor activities truly add value for investors. You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts. Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/financial-advisor-value-propositionCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletter Questions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

AllianceBernstein's Global Head of ETFs, Noel Archard, joins Big Picture in Practice to discuss the evolution of ETFs, their adaptability to changing markets, and the rising demand for tailored investment solutions. From the emergence of active ETFs to the integration of alternative wrappers like interval funds and SMAs, Noel sheds light on how these tools empower financial advisors to better serve their clients.In this episode:The evolution of ETFs and their role in modern investingActive ETFs and their alignment with transparency and cost-efficiencyThe importance of liquidity and tax efficiency in portfolio managementHow interval funds and private credit solutions complement traditional portfoliosYou can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcast/big-picture-in-practice/etf-interval-fund-trendsCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

In this episode: Understand the importance of aligning growth strategies with client needs and preferences.Learn practical techniques to enhance client engagement while pursuing new business opportunities.Explore how prioritizing client satisfaction can lead to sustainable growth in the wealth management sector.Additional resources:Catch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletter Questions or ideas? Email us at [bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com](mailto:bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com).

In this episode: Alternative investments offer unique diversification opportunities.Interval funds provide liquidity and access to private assets.Tokenization could reshape access to alternative markets.Additional resources:Read a summary of the episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcast/big-picture-in-practice/future-of-investing-alternative-assetsCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletter Questions or ideas? Email us at [bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com](mailto:bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com).

In this episode:How advisors can focus on services over products to meet client needs.Why holistic guidance and treating the practice like a small business can help drive success.How staying informed on global trends and embracing continuous learning fosters long-term success.You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/financial-advisor-client-successCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletter Questions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

Dimensional Fund Advisors' Katie Hendrix and Bryce Skaff dive into the firm's new UMA platform.In this episode:Differences between unified managed accounts, separate accounts, and direct indexing.A look inside UMA platform technology.How UMAs address tax considerations.You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts. Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/tax-managed-separate-accountsCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

Schwab's Jason Diefenthaler breaks down the inner workings of tax-exempt investment strategies.In this episode:The basics of tax-managed fixed income.Tax management tactics for separate accounts.Tips to measure client outcomes and manage expectations.You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/tax-managed-separate-accountsCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterDisclosuresThere are risks associated with any investment approach, the Wasmer Schroeder Strategies have their own set of risks. The Wasmer Schroeder Strategies invests primarily in fixed income instruments and as such the strategies are subject to various risks including but not limited to interest rate risk, reinvestment risk, credit risk, default risk and event risk. Fixed income securities are subject to increased loss of principal during periods of rising interest rates. Fixed income investments are subject to various other risks including changes in credit quality, market valuations, liquidity, prepayments, early redemption, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The material provided is for informational purposes only and contains no investment advice or recommendations to buy or sell any specific securities. The statements contained herein are based upon the opinions of Charles Schwab Investment Management, Inc., dba Schwab Asset Management™, and the data available at the time of the presentation which may be subject to change depending on current market conditions. This presentation does not purport to be a complete overview of the topic stated, nor is it intended to be a complete discussion or analysis of the topic or securities discussed. All opinions and views constitute our judgments as of the date of writing and are subject to change at any time without notice. Schwab Asset Management does not accept any liability for any loss or damage arising out of the use of all or any part of this presentation. This report should not be regarded by recipients as a substitute for the exercise of their own judgment and may contain numerous assumptions. Different assumptions could result in materially different outcomes. Please contact Schwab Asset Management for more complete information, including the implications and appropriateness of the strategy or securities discussed herein for any particular portfolio or client.Wasmer Schroeder Strategies are available through Schwab's Managed Account Connection® program ("Connection"). Please read Schwab's disclosure brochure for important information and disclosures relating to Connection and Schwab's Managed Account Services®.Portfolio Management for the Wasmer Schroeder Strategies is provided by Charles Schwab Investment Management, Inc., dba Schwab Asset Management, a registered investment adviser and an affiliate of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”). Both Schwab Asset Management and Schwab are separate entities and subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation.

In the complex world of financial advising, one size doesn't fit all. The diversity among investors is vast, with hybrid investors, millennials, Gen X, and women each bringing unique preferences, concerns, and goals to the table. This presents a powerful yet perplexing challenge to financial advisors: how to tailor their services effectively to each group. Listen to our in-depth conversation with Brie as she shares the distinctive needs of four primary investor cohorts and her views on the digitization and personalization of financial advisory services. Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/serving-diverse-investor-needsCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

In this episode:Benefits and drawbacks of RIA consolidation.What investors want from financial advisors.How financial advisors can explain their value in a sea of sameness.You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/ria-consolidation-rollupsCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

In this episode:• The benefits of model portfolios for advisors and investors.• BlackRock's approach to model portfolios.• How technology is transforming portfolio management.You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/model-portfolios-evolutionCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

Matt Hougan, Bitwise chief investment officer, joined the Big Picture in Practice podcast to explain how advisors should think about bitcoin ETFs and their place in a diversified portfolio.In this episode: How to value bitcoin. How bitcoin ETFs affect the wider crypto landscape. What's next for decentralized finance.You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources: Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/sec-approved-bitcoin-etfs Catch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

In this episode:The rising costs of high education The importance of saving and investing early The versatility of 529 college savings plansYou can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources: Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/529-savings-plan-benefits?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=streaming Catch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

Will Peck, the head of digital assets at WisdomTree, defines tokenized funds and explains their impact on the industry.In this episode:Benefits and drawbacks of real-world asset tokenization.The difference between cryptocurrency funds and tokenized funds.The future of tokenized funds.You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources: Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/blockchain-asset-management Catch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

Lazard Asset Management's Head of Financial Institutions Group, Jen Abate, sat down with Morningstar to discuss the future of investments, the status of intermediary business, and how a solutions-first approach is the foundation of good, long-term client relationships. In this episode:The ever-changing face of the finance industryThe crucial role of solution-focused asset managementThe importance of infrastructure investment You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcast/big-picture-in-practice/investment-solutions-future-of-financeCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

Interval funds have found a foothold in the U.S. private markets, accumulating $48.9 billion in assets under management. PIMCO's Christian Clayton explains some of the benefits and risks of this complex new investment vehicle.In this episode:A clear definition of interval funds.Benefits and drawbacks of interval funds.When advisors should consider alternative investments.You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources:Read a summary of this episode: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/blog/podcast/big-picture-in-practice/private-markets-interval-fundsCatch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

New Edge Wealth's CIO, Cameron Dawson, sat down with Morningstar to discuss the future of investments, the status of active management, and how a holistic, customized approach is the foundation of a good investment philosophy that ensures each decision, whether risk or return, is balanced and ideal for the individual investor.In this episode: How New Edge Wealth approaches their investment philosophyThe 2024 outlook of wealth management and strategyWhere active management stands in today's investment landscape – is it still useful?You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources:Catch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

Alternative investment strategies have become more accessible than ever before with product innovations. Are alternatives a fad or here to stay? According to Franklin Templeton's Tony Davidow, the right education and content can help advisors uncover overlooked opportunities in the private market.

In this episode of Big Picture in Practice, our hosts sit down with Chris to understand Rockefeller Global Family Office and their approach to sustainable practice growth.The value of personal touch in a digital world.Strategies to recruit advisor talent.Approaches to a consistent company culture across geographies.You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.

In this episode, the Big Picture in Practice podcast breaks down retirement spending and saving trends.KC Boas, the head of retirement marketing at BlackRock, shares her outlook on emerging retirement solutions including: Life expectancy and retirement planning. Access and inclusion issues in retirement. Secure Act 2.0 and retirement.You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources:Catch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceCheck out our blog: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/retirement-savings-spending-trends](https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/retirement-savings-spending-trends)Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

The world of investments today isn't the same as what it was 20 years ago. Back then, the services that financial advisors provided their clients were much more 1:1 matched. As Rob Pettman, EVP and head of wealth management solutions at LPL Financial can attest, it was “a bit like being a Home Depot floor worker.”In today's landscape, however, advisors have evolved greatly in how they work with their investor clients on wealth management and exploring opportunities.Rob Pettman joins the Big Picture in Practice hosts to talk about the evolution of the broker-dealer landscape. What it was, what it has become, and what it could be down the line.You can listen to this and other episodes of Big Picture in Practice wherever you stream podcasts.Additional resources:Catch up on previous episodes: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practiceCheck out our blog: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/broker-dealer-landscapeSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterQuestions or ideas? Email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

Even if you live under a rock, you've probably heard the recent buzz around artificial intelligence. In the financial services industry, AI has sparked enthusiasm with its promise to automate tedious tasks and revolutionize efficiency, products, and services. But it's also raised concerns, as financial regulators explore guardrails and practitioners evaluate potential biases. To understand what AI means for wealth management professionals and investors, the Big Picture in Practice podcast went to the experts. Andrew Brzezinski, head of data strategy, business intelligence, and advanced analytics at Fidelity Investments, defines AI and what it means for the future of financial services. You can listen to this and other episodes of Morningstar's Big Picture in Practice podcast on a variety of platforms. Keep up with the latest episodes by subscribing to our Big Picture in Practice Newsletter.If you have questions or ideas for future topics, email us at bigpictureinpractice@morningstar.com.

Want to dive deeper? Check out these additional resources:Subscribe to the Big Picture in Practice newsletter and get each episode delivered straight to your inbox: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterRead our blog summary: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/etfs-reshape-capital-marketsExplore past episode of Big Picture in Practice: https://morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice

Want to dive deeper? Check out these additional resources:Subscribe to the Big Picture in Practice newsletter and get each episode delivered straight to your inbox: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletterRead our blog summary: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/sec-rules-ai-proposalExplore past episode of Big Picture in Practice: https://morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice

How can advisors keep up with the evolving expectations of investors? In this episode of Big Picture in Practice, our hosts, Ben and Julie, sit down with Mike Van Wyk, director of customer research and insights at Capital Group, to explore what financial advisor firms need to target to see high growth, client reach, and long-term scalability. Want to dive deeper? Check out these additional resources: Subscribe to the Big Picture in Practice newsletter: https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/big-picture-in-practice-newsletter Read our blog summary: https://www.morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice/financial-advisor-growth-best-practices Explore past episode of Big Picture in Practice: https://morningstar.com/views/podcasts/big-picture-in-practice

In the season 1 finale of Big Picture in Practice, Julie Willoughby and Syl Flood interview Sandy Kaul about how disruptive technology like digital assets and AI will impact the future of the investment and wealth management industry. Sandy is the senior vice president of Franklin Templeton.

As the demand for personalization at scale increases, direct indexing and separately managed accounts are also becoming more popular. Tune into the latest episode of Big Picture in Practice to hear Syl Flood and Julie Willoughby discuss these strategies with guests Kaitlin Hendrix and Shawn Jaberzadeh.

In this episode of Big Picture in Practice, Julie Willoughby and Syl Flood discuss the role of behavioral finance as a science in managing wealth client relationships. Joining them are guests Sarah Newcomb, Director of Financial Psychology for Morningstar, and Stan Treger, a behavioral insights advisor with Northern Trust.

In this episode of Big Picture in Practice, Julie Willoughby and Syl Flood discuss how advisors can reach the next generation of investors. Joining them are guests Chanelle Pattinson, a Chartered Financial Planner and cofounder of Money Means, a financial planning subscription platform, and Ollie Smith, the senior editor of Morningstar's European editorial team.

In this episode of Big Picture in Practice, Julie Willoughby and Syl Flood dive into ESG regulations with guests Aron Szapiro and Bryan McGannon. Aron is the head of retirement studies and public policy at Morningstar, and Bryan is the director of policy and programs at US SIF: The Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment.

In this special two-part episode of Big Picture in Practice, Julie Willoughby and Syl Flood discuss the impact of cryptocurrency and digital financial assets on advice. First, they interview Morningstar Research Services analyst Madeline Hume on the current cryptocurrency landscape. Next, they interview Hashim Mitha, CEO of MeetAmi, on the challenges and opportunities that cryptocurrency provides for advisors. 

Matt and Julie interview Shila Wattamwar and Danika Waddell about sustainability. Shila is the Global Head of Retail and Wealth ESG Strategy and Strategic Partnerships at Morningstar Sustainalytics. Danika is the founder and president of Xena Financial Planning.

In this special, live episode of Big Picture in Practice, Julie Willoughby and new co-host Syl Flood interview Tanja Hester on sustainability, wallet activism, and advice for advisors who want to engage with the new generation of investors. Tanja Hester is an award-winning author and activist.  

Matt and Julie interview Eric Purple and Shreya Matt, partner at Stradley Ronon and director of product management at Morningstar respectively, about  the impacts of the SEC marketing rule and how advisors can position transparency as a competitive advantage. 

Harness the power of data and analytics to deliver a consistent and personalized experience across different mediums. Matt and Julie interview Rich Smith, the COO of global distribution from American Century Investments, about omnichannel engagement.  

What's driving demand for direct indexing and how advisors are embracing technology to balance personalization at scale. Matt and Julie interview Cindy Galiano and Zach Hamilton about direct indexing. Cindy is the head of product, investment management at Morningstar. Zach serves as a financial advisor at Alterra Advisors.

Featuring Matthew Radgowski, Head of Morningstar's Advisor Solutions, and Julie Willoughby, Head of Enterprise Sales and Integrated Client Coverage, Americas.