Dear Members

Over the years, I have often reflected on a simple but important question:

What will define the next decade of Independent Wealth Management?

Or rather:

What kind of industry are we building for the next generation?

It is unlikely to be defined solely by investment expertise. Markets move in cycles, products evolve and technology continues to reshape the way advice is delivered. Artificial intelligence will become more powerful and deeply embedded in financial services; regulations will continue to evolve; clients will have access to more information than ever before.

Trust cannot be automated. Judgement cannot be outsourced. The ability to understand a family’s aspirations, navigate complexity and provide objective advice through changing market conditions will continue to define the value of an Independent Wealth Manager and Adviser.

That is why our Association exists.

Our role is not simply to organise events or create networking opportunities. We exist to strengthen an ecosystem – to raise professional standards, encourage the exchange of ideas, foster collaboration across our industry and represent the collective voice of Independent Wealth Managers in Singapore. Throughout the years, I have been encouraged by how our community has matured. Firms that were once focused primarily on growth are increasingly investing in governance, talent, technology, succession planning and operational resilience. These are encouraging signs of an industry that thinks beyond today’s opportunities and preparing for tomorrow’s responsibilities.

At the same time, our industry must continue to evolve. We should challenge ourselves not only to keep pace with change, but to help shape it. Whether through embracing innovation responsibly, nurturing the next generation of professionals, or strengthening collaboration with regulators and industry partners, we all have a role to play in building a stronger profession.

As you know, this year is an election year for the AIWM Committee, marking an important period of renewal and transition. I warmly encourage Ordinary Members who are passionate about the future of our industry, to put themselves forward and join the next Committee. Your experience, fresh perspectives and ideas can help spark transformative conversations, create new opportunities for collaboration and shape the next chapter of growth as we navigate an AI-enabled world together.

Thank you for the continued trust, support and commitment to our Association. As we enter the second half of 2026, we look forward to bringing you a range of exciting activities & events designed to bring our community together to exchange ideas, deepen engagement and relationships and inspire new perspectives.

And while our industry will undoubtedly keep us busy, I hope you enjoy this edition of our newsletter – and, for football fans, the excitement and camaraderie that the FIFA World Cup brings!

Warm regards

Jolene Tan
AIWM President