Driven by rapid technological advancements, including artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and digital banking, the U.S. financial system has undergone significant shifts in recent years. These innovations have disrupted traditional services, offering consumers faster, more transparent, and more accessible financial solutions.
The potential introduction of central bank digital currencies and the growth of decentralized finance could further reshape payments, lending, and investing. As the financial system evolves, cybersecurity and regulatory adaptation will be key to maintaining resilience and trust in a digital-first financial landscape.
Growth in IAR CE requirements
With all this, it can be challenging to keep up, much less get ahead. To ensure that consumers receive the best possible advice from their advisors, many states require wealth management professionals to earn a number of Investment Advisor Representative Continuing Education credits (IAR CE) each year. These credits ensure that investment advisors maintain the highest level of professionalism and the most up-to-date knowledge of the financial industry.
When the North American Securities Association introduced the IAR CE rule in 2022, it was a significant step towards ensuring that investment advisors maintain the highest level of professionalism and the most up-to-date knowledge of the financial industry. This rule made it mandatory for advisors to develop specialized skill areas, such as retirement planning, tax-efficient investing, or ESG investing. Initially, only three states mandated this rule, but by the end of 2024, 15 more states had followed suit, with additional states considering it. Many states and advisors view this as a value-added benefit, providing advisors with knowledge and enhancing client communication.
This map highlights in blue the states that have already made IAR CE courses effective and in green those that will do so this year.
Investors are more likely to trust and stay with advisors who prioritize ongoing education and professional development. Knowing that a wealth management firm is committed to staying current and finding trends inspires investor confidence.
Education and training courses for advisors
The SS&C Learning Institute is a division of SS&C Technologies that provides education and training to our clients. Its flagship, the GAMMA Library, is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering over 250 online courses spanning over 25 topics in financial markets. These eLearning courses, accredited for various industry CPE credits, including CIMA®, CFP®, CPA®, and IAR CE, are designed to equip advisors with the information and skills they need to thrive.
From online courses approved for CPE credits to timely articles and videos on hot topics, the Learning Institute helps firms develop their greatest asset – their people.
Discover how the Black Diamond® Wealth Platform and the SS&C Learning Institute can help you stay ahead with cutting-edge tools and IAR CE courses designed to elevate your expertise and client relationships. Request your personal demo today or contact the team via phone (1-800-727-0605) or email info@advent.com.
