The state of the wealth management industry 2026 research report

How leaders are pursuing growth in a complex environment.

Wipfli surveyed 124 wealth management executives to understand their economic outlook, strategic priorities and top challenges for 2026. These leaders are pursuing ambitious growth goals amid economic uncertainty and persistent operational and technological pressures. Many respondents view digital transformation, AI and data analytics as essential to growth — even though their roadmaps are still taking shape.

In this survey, we learned:

• Growth expectations are high: Nearly all respondents expect revenue growth in the next 12 months, and 63% expect gains of 8% or more.
• Digital is driving growth: Data analytics, digital customer engagement and automation were the top-ranked growth strategies — regardless of firm size. 
• Cybersecurity is a persistent concern: For the third year in a row, cybersecurity ranked as a top-three concern.
• Technology is reshaping firms: Nearly two-thirds of respondents said cybersecurity, data privacy measures and account management platforms are affecting how they operate.
• AI strategies are still forming: Most respondents report implementing AI solutions or having a comprehensive AI roadmap — but far fewer have achieved enterprise-wide government or the measurement needed for true maturity.  

This full report pairs survey findings with insights from Wipfli to explore how wealth management firms can sustain their confidence, manage complexity and achieve their goals.