Wealth management firms are rapidly adopting artificial intelligence, but many are finding their data infrastructure unprepared for advanced AI applications. Garrett Oakley of Alpha FMC notes that while tools like AI notetakers offer quick productivity gains, the lack of a structured data layer limits their effectiveness. Oakley advises firms to develop a comprehensive data strategy before expanding their tech stacks further.

Effective estate planning requires intentional communication to avoid ambiguity and potential conflict among family members, writes Shelby Anderson of Clark Capital Management Group. Anderson stresses the importance of setting expectations and assigning responsibilities through ongoing dialogue with trusted advisers and loved ones.

Cognitive decline is becoming a significant risk as the US population ages, threatening retirement strategies for both individuals and their caregivers, writes Corey Walther of Allianz Life Financial Services. With Alzheimer's and other dementias on the rise, financial professionals are urged to address this risk proactively by helping clients plan for potential decision-making challenges, financial vulnerability and increased exposure to elder fraud.

Estate planning is poised for significant changes over the next two years, with clients increasingly demanding comprehensive plans and younger generations viewing estate planning as essential. Daniel Michaelsen of EncorEstate Plans predicts a shift from the traditional checkbox mentality to more proactive and collaborative approaches, involving advisers, attorneys and technology. Advisers will need to navigate state law variations and manage rising software costs, while digital assets will become a critical part of estate planning.

Financial advisers can help clients who feel lonely during the holidays by taking a proactive approach, writes Bryce Sanders, president of Perceptive Business Solutions Inc. Sanders suggests that advisers can help clients by inviting them to events, taking them to lunch, and reaching out to their families.

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority's 2026 Regulatory Oversight Report highlights the risks posed by inaccurate AI-generated information, which FINRA said will be a major focus during next year's exams. FINRA emphasizes the need for firms to supervise AI tools as rigorously as human employees, including documenting reviews and archiving AI outputs. The report also underscores rising cybersecurity threats, particularly those involving vendors, and ongoing challenges with Regulation Best Interest and Form CRS compliance.

The Treasury Department and the IRS have released guidance on expanded health savings account eligibility under the recently passed tax and spending legislation. The guidance covers tax benefits related to telehealth, remote care and direct primary care service arrangements. The public comment period will run until March 6.