The Future Proof Festival in Huntington Beach, now in its fourth year, brought together a vibrant mix of the people and ideas shaping the future of wealth management. Our presence at the event gave us a front row seat to the energy and trends driving growth in financial services.
Here’s what we discovered.
Advisors Are Pumped
This year’s highlight was the energy. Future Proof is always a good time, but this time we felt a distinct enthusiasm in the air. It wasn’t long ago that advisors fretted over the specter of flat organic growth and market volatility. Those challenges have not vanished, but advisors from firms of all sizes were eager to discuss how technology, especially generative AI, inspires new possibilities in marketing and client engagement.
One advisor shared how they were experimenting with AI to personalize client newsletters, not to replace human insight but to strengthen it. Another asked how marketing strategy is shifting as clients grow more curious (and sometimes cautious) about these tools. These in-person conversations showed how quickly innovation is reshaping advisory practices.
Creativity Wins Attention
One of the most rewarding parts of Future Proof is reconnecting with our network. We caught up with clients including Tidal Financial Group, Altruist, Wealthspire, AssetLink, MyVest, Vanilla, and many more. There is nothing like being face-to-face with the people who are pushing our industry forward.
Our clients also stood out with creative programming. Tidal Financial Group hosted Taxes and Toast, a morning event spotlighting critical tax considerations for ETF issuers, including a deep dive on 351 conversions delivered by a stellar panel. Altruist drew crowds with two conversations led by CEO Jason Wenk, one with Ritholtz Wealth and another with Bone Fide Wealth. These events highlighted the forward-thinking leadership and collaborative spirit that make Future Proof such a valuable gathering.
Equally important were the conversations we had with members of the media. Over coffee, on the boardwalk, and between sessions, we caught up with reporters we typically engage by phone and email. They told us, point blank, what they are curious about, how they are covering the industry, and where they see stories developing. These relationships allow us to guide our clients with more on-target media outreach.
Beyond the Booth
The casual, boardwalk setting of Future Proof has always set it apart from other financial services conferences. The ocean breeze, outdoor stages, and relaxed conversations created space for meaningful dialogue.
Gregory FCA is proud to attend events like Future Proof and actively partner with clients to ensure their voices are heard and their presence makes an impact. If you are an advisor, fintech leader, or industry professional looking to elevate your voice and presence at events like Future Proof, let’s talk.