As the financial advisory space continues to evolve, Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) are leaning heavily into technology to drive growth and efficiency. Orion’s 2025 Wealthtech Advisor Survey reveals how today’s top-performing firms are investing in RIA software and reshaping their client experience strategies.
Whether you’re evaluating your tech stack or looking for ways to deepen client engagement, these findings offer valuable insights to guide your next move.
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Advisors Expect Growth in 2025 — But Time Is the Top Constraint
Half of financial advisors expect their growth rate to improve this year — a clear sign of optimism in the industry. But time remains the biggest hurdle, with 51% citing constraints like administrative overhead and time spent on small accounts as their top barriers.
RIAs using integrated wealth management software and automated workflows are better positioned to overcome these time challenges and focus more on client acquisition and financial planning.
Curious how your peers are solving time constraints with tech?
RIA Firms Are Doubling Down on Advisor Tech in 2025
2025 is set to be a year of increased investment in advisor technology, especially in:
- AI-powered tools
- Integrated tech workflows
- CRM systems and secure document storage
Compared to 2024, significantly more RIAs are enhancing their RIA software stack to solve persistent issues like disconnected systems and rising operational costs.
Orion-affiliated firms report higher average utilization of their tech stack — 67% vs. 54% — thanks to more seamless integration.
Want to see which technologies are trending up in 2025?
Clients Still Value Peace of Mind — But Many Don’t Know What You Offer
According to the survey, clients primarily want:
- Peace of mind that their investments are being managed
- Personalized financial advice
But many clients don’t realize their advisor offers services like tax planning, charitable giving strategies, or estate planning — leading to missed opportunities for deeper engagement.
RIA software that centralizes client communication and clearly presents service offerings can bridge this gap and strengthen the advisor-client relationship.
Ready to communicate your value more clearly?
Advisors Go Digital, But Clients Still Want a Human Touch
While most RIAs plan to increase digital communication — through email, video calls, and app-based messaging — the survey shows that many investors still prefer in-person meetings and quarterly check-ins.
The takeaway: use RIA technology to enhance, not replace, personal connection. A blended communication strategy will be key in 2025.
Looking for the right balance in your client communication strategy?
Final Thoughts: 2025 Is the Year of Smart, Integrated RIA Software
The most successful RIAs in 2025 will be those that:
- Eliminate operational inefficiencies
- Invest in technology that actually integrates
- Deepen client relationships through personalized, transparent service
Technology is no longer just a back-office solution — it’s a strategic growth engine.
