Investors working with a wealth management broker are benefiting from strong corporate earnings data — Q1 2024 results show 72% of companies beat EPS estimates, indicating momentum in large-cap equities. Brokers expect moderate volatility as the Fed signals possible rate cuts in Q3. “GlobalBlock's founders have built a standout, profitable firm, with world-class products, providing innovative diversification strategies for clients. Accelerating M&A activity may cause many independent financial advisors to "feel like there are much fewer options," said Jodie Papike, CEO of advisor and independent wealth management firm executive recruiting firm Cross-Search . But the deal flow also shows the continuing rise of registered investment advisory firm aggregators, she noted. With "so many different forms of independent firms right now," the M&A consolidation means that, "more so than ever before, advisors need to be very cautious about the type of firm they're considering," Papike said. The M&A momentum led by the growing competitors to independent brokerages has eliminated the notion that the word "independence" applies to every RIA. Wealth management broker services are adapting fast to 2024’s equity rally, with the S&P 500 up 6% year-to-date and tech stocks leading gains. Portfolio strategies are shifting toward AI, semiconductor, and green energy sectors, forecasting an average EPS growth of 8% over the next two quarters.