How Can an OCIO Make an RIA More Attractive to Buyers?
Most RIA owners assume buyers are primarily purchasing assets under management, recurring revenue, and client relationships. Those elements certainly matter. However, sophisticated buyers also evaluate how dependent the business is on a small number of […]
Why Some RIAs Become More Dependent on Investments As They Grow and Why That’s a Problem
Many RIAs assume growth naturally makes a firm stronger. In many ways, it does. More clients, additional advisors joining, and increasing assets under management usually reflect years of hard work and successful client relationships. Growth, […]
Why the Fastest-Growing RIAs Are Reallocating Advisor Time
Most RIAs assume growth requires additional advisors, more staff, and expanded infrastructure. While those investments may become necessary over time, many of the fastest-growing firms are taking a different approach. Rather than immediately adding capacity, […]
The Hidden Cost of Hiring an In-House CIO (That Most RIAs Miss)
Most RIAs don’t miscalculate the cost of a CIO; they underestimate the risk behind it. On paper, hiring a Chief Investment Officer looks straightforward. You budget for salary, add a few tools, and expect stronger […]
RIA M&A Is Breaking Investment Consistency: Here’s How OCIO Fixes It
RIA mergers and acquisitions continue to move forward in 2026, with valuations remaining elevated and private equity capital still active. However, in our experience at Cornerstone Portfolio Research, we’ve seen how RIA M&A introduces diverse […]
The OCIO Due Diligence Framework: How RIAs Should Actually Evaluate a Partner
Many RIAs start the evaluation process with a familiar checklist: performance, fees, and a few high-level questions about services. That seems reasonable on the surface, but it tends to miss key aspects of how an […]
How OCIOs Help RIAs Integrate Alternative Investments Without Taking On Excess Risk
Alternative investments have moved from niche allocations to more common portfolio components. Increased access through model portfolios, interval funds, and even retirement plan options has made it easier for advisors to incorporate these strategies. But […]
Why Is the OCIO vs TAMP Comparison So Often Misunderstood?
Many independent RIAs begin the OCIO versus TAMP decision by comparing fees. That’s understandable, as pricing is easy to measure and feels like the most objective place to start. Platform costs, model fees, and service […]
Why Portfolio Complexity Is Outpacing Most RIA Investment Models
Portfolio construction has changed. What used to be a relatively straightforward mix of equities and fixed income has evolved into something far more layered. Today’s portfolios may include alternatives, tax overlays, multiple managers, and client-specific […]
How Insurance Agents Can Integrate OCIO Services Into Their Existing Insurance Practice
Building a successful insurance agency requires years of earning trust and fostering long-standing client relationships. No doubt, you’ve worked hard to guide families through complex decisions while helping them protect their assets. It’s only natural […]