InvestmentSense

Like the namesake of my hometown in Arizona, the conference-planning industry is still rising from the ashes of the pandemic. Anyone who has delivered in-person events has been monitoring the evolving trends as to how conferences are delivered during our “new normal.” In the advice industry alone, we’ve seen various innovations, including outdoor expositions, hybrid live and livestream programs, and fully on-demand programs. In-person events range from intimate, invite-only gatherings to large-scale conventions.

Some programs draw lots of attendees – like Schwab’s Impact conference, which re-surfaced last Fall after three years and a merger with TD Ameritrade. Others are still waiting for the rebound. According to a recent survey by the American Society of Association Executives, professional member conferences in 2022 experienced a 30-40% drop in attendance over 2019 numbers.

So, what does this mean for the future? Four trends seem evident:

2020 served as a new Renaissance for learning & development. But like all periods of great expansion, there are opportunists whose efforts degrade the field, rather than improve it.

2020 served as a new Renaissance for learning & development. But like all periods of great expansion, there are opportunists whose efforts degrade the field, rather than improve it. This article is part 1 of three series that addresses best practices if you are developing and delivering credentialed solutions for professionals, and what to watch for if you are seeking professional development.

Continuing education is important not only to our industry but to consumers. Our industry is constantly changing, we have seen the industry evolve over the last 70 years greatly; from new technologies, and products to portfolio management theories. Continuing education is necessary for our industry and for financial advice professional to stay current with the latest developments, skills, and new technologies. Not only that, studies have shown that continuing education can boost confidence and...

Recently, The Wall Street Journal criticized the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP Board) regarding the integrity of their search directory for CFP^® professionals that resulted in a lot of commentary and confusion. As a certifying body like the CFP^® Board, the Investments & Wealth Institute would like to clarify some misconceptions brought to light by the article.