Schwab Advisor Services released its 2026 Independent Advisor Outlook Study on 29 October 2026, a survey of 1,235 independent advisers managing $497 billion, which found 49% are investing in AI to improve workflows and 37% offer private market investments, with another 13% planning to within three years, according to the Schwab advisor outlook study. The findings land days after Schwab invested in Nevis, the AI platform for wealth managers, in a $70 million round that Fintechbits covered on 27 October 2026. Being a fiduciary was the top benefit of independence, chosen by 64%.

What else the survey found

Advisers expect referrals (70%) and service (60%) to drive growth over three years. Among firms offering alternatives, real estate (72%) and private equity (71%) lead. Jon Beatty, head of Schwab Advisor Services, said the fiduciary model “guides how RIAs adapt”. Schwab has also been building its own AI for retail clients, as Fintechbits reported.