This summer, NAPFA stands at a unique intersection, where technological innovation meets our enduring values of integrity, transparency, and personal connection. This month’s NAPFA Advisor issue explores “financial technology and compliance,” a timely theme that reflects both the promise and responsibility of today’s advisory landscape.
Choosing the right platforms has never been more critical. From CRMs to portfolio management tools, financial advisors must now vet not only feature sets but also compliance readiness and client privacy standards. Yet amid all the dashboards and digital efficiencies, one truth remains clear: the human element of financial planning is irreplaceable. As you’ll read in this issue, the best tech still requires thoughtful application; tools should serve your relationships, not replace them.
Internally, NAPFA is gearing up for one of our most important events of the summer: the Summer Leadership Meeting. This gathering brings together regional board members, committee leaders, and the national board to chart the strategic direction of the organization. These volunteer leaders are essential to advancing NAPFA’s mission and ensuring our work reflects the needs, ideas, and energy of our membership. Their commitment keeps NAPFA moving forward with clarity, purpose, and impact.
We’re also preparing for our Fall National Conference, scheduled for September 3–6, at the Grand Hyatt Washington in Washington, D.C. With a robust lineup of sessions focused on innovation, regulatory insight, and client engagement strategies, it’s a must-attend event. It's also a prime opportunity to earn Continuing Education (CE) credits as you prepare for year-end requirements.
A quick reminder for NAPFA-Registered Financial Advisors (NRFAs): To maintain your designation, you must earn 60 NAPFA CE hours between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2025. Our educational offerings—from conferences to webinars to our expanded IAR CE programs—are designed to help you meet this requirement while upholding the highest standards of professionalism.
Let this month be your reminder that leadership, learning, and human connection are still at the heart of everything we do.
Spencer Bone - Managing Director of Member Experience, NAPFA