The wealth management industry is seeing a resurgence in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity in 2024, following a slight decline in 2023, according to Echelon Partners' 2024 RIA M&A Deal Report. InvestmentNews reports that this year's market appears particularly favorable for sellers, especially those with profitable operations, robust growth, experienced management teams, and skilled financial advisors.

However, InvestmentNews also reports that, despite the high volume of transactions, the RIA market remains fragmented. The total number of RIAs has grown by 18 percent since 2019, presenting significant consolidation opportunities for investors. Major firms such as CI Financial and Creative Planning participated in some of the most notable deals last year.

Echelon attributed the rebound in dealmaking to improved macroeconomic conditions compared to 2023, coupled with private equity's aggressive push for acquisitions. InvestmentNews also reports that, as competition intensifies, sellers can expect rising valuations and creative deal structures in the evolving marketplace.

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