AssetMark 2025 Advisor Succession Survey Insights

This report presents the findings of AssetMark's 2025 Advisor Succession Survey, which gathered insights from financial advisors in the independent broker-dealer and RIA channels regarding succession planning. The survey highlights key trends, including the focus of advisors across different age groups, with 42% prioritizing growth through acquisition, while 10% are focused on selling or transitioning. A significant finding is that 57% of advisors intending to sell lack a formal succession plan, indicating a gap between intent and execution. The report details preferences of buyers and sellers, revealing that 67% of sellers prefer full-book sales, while 85% of buyers are open to partial-book acquisitions. The survey emphasizes that succession planning is increasingly recognized as a lifecycle strategy rather than a singular retirement event, with advisors seeking flexible transition options. The methodology involved 174 respondents from 33 firms, covering a range of ages and assets under management, providing a comprehensive view of current succession planning trends.