Menu

More about the author: Thomas Balis

Thomas holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from Ohio State and has since earned the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) designation as well as the Accredited Portfolio Management Advisor (APMA®) and Chartered Mutual Fund Counselor (CMFC®) certifications.
The OCIO Due Diligence Framework: How RIAs Should Actually Evaluate a Partner

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

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?

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

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

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 […]
Client-Centric Financial Planning: How an OCIO Deepens the Insurance Agent–Client Relationship

Client-Centric Financial Planning: How an OCIO Deepens the Insurance Agent–Client Relationship

For insurance agents, long-term business growth comes down to the strength of your client relationships and providing professional planning advice. But for many agents, keeping up with constantly changing financial markets while providing personalized attention […]
Build an Investment Platform for Less: The Cost-Effective Solution for Insurance Agencies

Build an Investment Platform for Less: The Cost-Effective Solution for Insurance Agencies

When insurance agencies consider expanding investment oversight, the real question isn’t whether they can build in-house, it’s whether the cost makes sense long term. What starts as a reasonable idea often turns into a series […]
Scaling Your Insurance Agency: Grow Wealth Management Revenue Without Increasing Overhead

Scaling Your Insurance Agency: Grow Wealth Management Revenue Without Increasing Overhead

Growing wealth management revenue inside an insurance agency sounds appealing in theory, but it’s also complicated to put into practice. Your clients already rely on you for asset protection and planning, and many want increased […]
OCIO 101: What Is an OCIO and Why It Matters for Insurance Agents

OCIO 101: What Is an OCIO and Why It Matters for Insurance Agents

As an independent insurance agent, you know client conversations rarely stop at policy options. More than ever, clients are asking about market volatility, retirement accounts, and how their investments fit alongside annuities and life insurance. […]
Insurance Agents & Fiduciary Duty: Navigating Wealth Management Compliance With an OCIO

Insurance Agents & Fiduciary Duty: Navigating Wealth Management Compliance With an OCIO

Expanding investment and research services within an insurance agency can substantially change both your business model and the way clients view your role. As clients ask questions about retirement assets, market exposure, and portfolio structure, […]