Trivia Question❓

Which major razor brand sparked a subscription boom after proving that consumers would sign up for automatic refills of everyday essentials delivered straight to their door?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

The Subscription-Based RIA: Could Recurring Revenue Be the Future of Your Practice?

As fee compression continues and AUM-based pricing faces growing scrutiny, many RIAs are taking a hard look at whether their existing business model truly supports long-term growth. One alternative is gaining meaningful traction across the industry: subscription-based financial planning.

Rather than charging clients a percentage of their assets, advisors are packaging their expertise into monthly or quarterly flat-fee bundles—similar to how consumers pay for platforms like Netflix or Spotify. This structure doesn’t just create predictable, recurring revenue for your firm. It also expands your reach to a wider group of individuals who want high-quality financial guidance but may not yet have accumulated significant investable assets.

A subscription model can be customized to fit the unique needs of different audiences. Young professionals might pay $150 per month for foundational coaching, budgeting guidance, and goal tracking. Retirees could subscribe at $500 per month for more advanced services such as tax planning, required distribution strategies, and legacy design. Business owners may prefer a tiered program that offers quarterly reviews, integrated planning, and ongoing access to strategic financial advice. These offerings are highly scalable and can be streamlined using client portals, collaborative planning software, and automated billing tools like AdvicePay.

Clarity is critical. Each tier should include well-defined deliverables that demonstrate consistent value—such as monthly check-ins, quarterly planning calls, customized reports, access to a curated library of educational materials, or real-time messaging for quick questions. When structured effectively, this model can strengthen retention, stabilize cash flow, and elevate the overall client experience.

Most importantly, a subscription-based approach positions your practice for the future. As digital-first clients continue to prioritize transparency, personalization, and on-demand support, this model provides a modern way to deliver advice without tying your revenue directly to market fluctuations. By offering a predictable and service-rich experience, advisors can create stronger client relationships while building a more resilient business.

Your Advisor's Edge Team

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💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Dollar Shave Club—its simple monthly refill model helped popularize modern subscription services across a wide range of industries.

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