Navigating the Future: Our Journey at iCapital CONNECT
Boca Raton, FL - March 27th, 2025
Author: Dirk Hall
Chief Operating Officer
This past week, I had the opportunity to attend the iCapital CONNECT Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, with Andrew Mescon, our CEO. The conference focused on innovation, technology as well as the most compelling private market strategies, and brought together some of the brightest minds in the finance and wealth management industries. It provided an exceptional opportunity to delve into emerging industry trends, share insights, and network with peers.
Here is a summary of key takeaways from the conference:
More investment options in alternatives are not always a good thing: it was clear from the conference that there are an increasing number of managers offering an increasing number of private market strategies. This expanding universe of alternative investments makes identifying and diligencing the right strategies and managers more complex. This increasing complexity demands specialized knowledge and smart technology to help identify and access the right opportunities for each client.
Uncertain times require more stable solutions: as the US undergoes a fundamental shift in economic policy, market volatility will likely continue until there is more visibility into the consequences of this shift. Private investments are better at insulating investors from some of the risks associated with uncertainty (specifically, market risk) and are increasingly sought after by individuals looking to stabilize portfolio returns.
Asset location matters: while diversifying across investment strategies is a fundamental aspect of prudent investing, managing the different structures you invest through is equally important. Placing investments in a trust, IRA, Roth, Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI), or taxable account can significantly impact after-tax, risk-adjusted returns.
Tax efficiency determines what money you keep. Maximizing after-tax returns requires sophisticated planning. Balancing performance with tax efficiency is key to long-term success.
My attendance at the iCapital CONNECT Conference reinforced the idea that the wealth management sector is evolving rapidly. As we integrate these insights into our approach, we're not just adapting to change—we're helping to lead it.
Our focus on technology, mentorship, and proactive client engagement exemplifies a forward-thinking approach that will enable us to remain a trusted partner for both current and future generations of clients. Here at BRPW, our team are inspired to incorporate these insights into our strategies, ensuring that we are well-prepared for the future of our industry.