Editor-in-Chief
Financial Planning
Brian has enjoyed a wide-ranging career in journalism and marketing, from covering Illinois government and politics and the largest casinos in the world, to the halls of higher education and agricultural science. He has earned awards for an in-depth series on homelessness in Connecticut and for a series of events that engaged communities in conversations about science, among others. He is currently guiding a staff in developing advisor-centered content for Financial Planning at Arizent.
This fireside chat provides a grounded look at where AI meaningfully fits into modern financial planning. A leading expert will break down the most practical applications currently in use—from client onboarding and portfolio construction support to workflow automation and compliance monitoring. The conversation will also cover upcoming and innovative technologies and use cases, including agentic AI, and offer clarity on what is hype versus what is truly transformative.
Attendees will gain a realistic understanding of how AI is reshaping advisor efficiency, enabling deeper client insights, and setting the stage for the next generation of planning tools.
As AI becomes more integrated into advisory practices, finding the right balance between technology and personal connection is essential. This panel explores how firms can leverage AI to enhance efficiency and decision-making without compromising the trust, empathy, and personalized guidance that define successful client relationships.
Experts will discuss:
Attendees will walk away with a framework for using AI to elevate—not replace—the human advisor.
This session examines how agentic AI—AI that can take autonomous actions within set guardrails—can deliver hyper-personalized experiences at scale.
Panelists will explore how these systems generate tailored recommendations, streamline ongoing portfolio maintenance, personalize communications, and adapt to client goals in real time.
The discussion will also address implementation considerations such as data readiness, model oversight, compliance requirements, and how to ensure advisors remain in control.
Attendees will learn how agentic AI can become a powerful differentiator for firms aiming to deliver bespoke service efficiently and responsibly.
This session explores how financial advisors can confidently introduce alternative assets—such as private equity, real estate, digital assets, collectibles, and specialized funds—to a broader range of clients. Panelists will discuss practical education strategies, clear communication frameworks, and compliance-friendly methods for explaining both upside potential and inherent risks. Advisors will learn how to set proper expectations, segment which clients may benefit most, and build trust by offering transparent, accessible guidance on this growing asset class.