The retirement planning landscape is shifting from product-based to outcome-based approaches, with clients seeking integrated plans that address longevity, health care, income and tax risks. This shift is driven by increased awareness of longevity and the limitations of Social Security, prompting openness to income solutions and long-term care products. Advisers must evolve by expanding conversations beyond accumulation and collaborating with other professionals to provide comprehensive retirement guidance.

Expatriation planning is gaining traction among Americans, driven by political polarization, remote work and lifestyle aspirations, with the number of expatriates surging 102% in the first quarter of 2025. International estate tax attorney Ada Colomb highlights the misconception that moving abroad eliminates US taxes and notes the legal and financial challenges, including the exit tax and ongoing tax obligations, that Americans face when leaving the country.

Key person life insurance is an important yet underused tool for small businesses facing the risk of losing key employees or owners. Keith Wallace of Trucordia highlights the emotional and perceived complexity barriers to purchasing this insurance and notes that modern policies now offer living benefits for critical illnesses.

To attract and retain financial advisers, firms should foster independence, generate dynamic leads and develop strong support structures, writes Chris Taylor. Taylor highlights the importance of allowing advisers to build practices uniquely, utilizing technology for lead generation and creating support systems that combine automation with human support.

Financial advisers are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence to enhance client communication, with 63% believing AI will have the greatest impact in this area, a Morningstar survey indicates. Advisers currently use generative AI for internal productivity, client communications and idea generation. Despite concerns about market conditions and private investments, 41% of advisers feel optimistic about the market.

Financial advisers have mixed opinions on the Securities and Exchange Commission Marketing Rule, with some viewing it as a compliance challenge that creates bottlenecks in review, disclosures and recordkeeping, while others say the issues stem from interpretation rather than the rule itself. Neal Albritton of Albritton Financial Services, Rick Ohlrich of RFG Advisory and Samuel Diarbakerly of Generation Capital Advisors share their experiences and strategies for navigating the rule.

Recent changes to the federal deduction limit for state and local taxes could lead to larger refunds for some filers this year. The tax and spending legislation passed in 2025 increased the so-called SALT cap to $40,000, although there is a phaseout for income above $500,000.

Aging is often seen as either a period of decline or a time of continued vitality, but most people experience it as a mix of both. A 2024 survey found that aging well is defined by being active, independent and engaged, rather than just the absence of illness. Experts say advisers can help emphasize the importance of adapting to new limitations with dignity, without clients comparing themselves to others or to their younger selves.

A FinanceBuzz study finds that at least 85% of adults 65 and older receive Social Security in 43 states, with South Dakota having the highest rate at 96.3%. Mississippi is the most reliant on Social Security for income, with benefits comprising nearly half of seniors' income.

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Registration is now open for the FPA Spring Residency 2026 program taking place June 12-17, at the Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Conference Center in Aurora, Colorado. This highly acclaimed, experiential learning program immerses new and soon-to-be CFP® professionals in the real-world practice of financial planning through case-based role playing, individualized mentorship, and peer collaboration. Plus, you can earn 28 CFP® continuing education credits or three months of CFP Board experience toward your certification requirement. Sign up today!