Updated
Updated · Wealth Management · Jul 13
Carson Group Splits Sales Teams Into 2 RIA Channels as W-2 Offices Reach 48
Updated
Updated · Wealth Management · Jul 13

Carson Group Splits Sales Teams Into 2 RIA Channels as W-2 Offices Reach 48

1 articles · Updated · Wealth Management · Jul 13

Summary

  • Carson Group has carved its home office into dedicated W-2 and independent RIA teams, splitting sales and recruiting so each group focuses on growth in a single channel.
  • 48 integrated W-2 offices now operate nationwide after FFR Wealth Team’s transition last week, giving Carson enough scale to formalize separate business lines.
  • Scott Conroy will lead the independent channel, while CEO Burt White said Carson is recruiting an outside RIA executive to run the newer W-2 business.
  • White said Carson aims to stay roughly two-thirds integrated and one-third independent as more 1099 advisors seek W-2 moves amid high valuations, higher rates and succession pressures.
  • More than 400 RIA M&A deals could close in 2026, according to MarshBerry, and Carson argues its dual model supports acquisitions without relying as heavily on debt.

Insights

Are independent advisors trading entrepreneurial freedom for a corporate safety net by joining mega-RIAs?
With most roll-up strategies failing, how will Carson's new structure escape the industry's graveyard?