Focus Financial, Edward Jones Execs Talk Alts Adoption

Core Insights - Major players in the wealth management space, Edward Jones and Focus Financial, are actively discussing the adoption of alternative investments during the CAIS Summit in Los Angeles [1] Edward Jones - Edward Jones is introducing alternative investment options to its 20,000 advisors, many of whom lack experience with alternatives, due to the firm's traditional client base [2] - The firm has partnered with CAIS to expand alternative options while launching Edward Jones Generations, a private client service for U.S. high-net-worth investors [2] - Chubak highlighted the challenge of varying advisor readiness, with some needing minimal tools to engage with alternatives while others require extensive education [3] - The firm is segmenting its advisors to focus on those with the greatest opportunities, rather than attempting to engage all 20,000 advisors at once [4] Focus Financial - Focus Financial's CEO, Nathanson, noted that firms within its network already cater to high-net-worth investors with significant allocations to private markets, providing insights for broader expansion into this asset class [4] - Nathanson emphasized the importance of holistic advice and adapting to market changes, stating that moving into private markets is a recognition of current realities [5] - The firm views the adoption of alternatives as a necessary evolution to remain competitive in the changing market landscape [5]