The Great RIA Shift: Why Advisors Are Choosing Independence

From Wirehouse Walls to Freedom

For decades, financial advisors operated within the walls of large wirehouses, believing stability, credibility, and resources were the keys to success. But a quiet revolution is underway. Advisors are leaving the constraints of traditional firms in search of something more—independence.

The Draw of Independence

Rob Mooney, Managing Partner and CEO of Snowden Lane Partners, has seen this transformation up close. Independence allows advisors to break free from corporate bureaucracy, giving them the freedom to focus on personalized client service. It’s about replacing a one‑size‑fits‑all playbook with tailored financial strategies designed for each client’s unique needs.

Why This Shift Matters

This movement isn’t just about professional autonomy—it’s about meaning. Advisors who own their business are more invested in their results, which drives a higher caliber of service. Independence aligns the advisor’s success with their clients’ success, creating a partnership built on trust, accountability, and shared goals.

Snowden Lane’s Role in the Trend

Snowden Lane Partners has embraced this shift, building a model that empowers advisors while keeping client satisfaction at the center. Their commitment to flexibility, support, and innovation has earned them a consistent spot among the top RIA firms in the country.

The Future of Wealth Management

As more advisors choose independence, the wealth management landscape will continue to evolve. The firms that thrive will be the ones that offer advisors both the tools to grow and the freedom to build something meaningful—on their own terms.

These insights are inspired by the latest episode of Next Mile podcast featuring Rob Mooney, Managing Partner and CEO of Snowden Lane Partners. Dive deeper into this transformation and explore why more advisors are making the leap to independence. Listen to the full episode here and explore more articles in this series.