MENU

Five Takeaways From LPL Focus 2026

Scaling for Growth: What We Heard from Advisors at FOCUS 2026

Jeff Buchbinder | Chief Equity Strategist
Last Updated: August 11, 2026

As advisors gathered at FOCUS 2026, conversations at the LPL Research booth highlighted a common theme: advisors are looking for ways to scale their businesses, enhance portfolio implementation, and deliver increasingly sophisticated strategies for clients. LPL broadly, and LPL Research specifically, have expanded offerings to help advisors do just that.

Five Takeaways From LPL Focus 2026

  1. OCIO Services Generating Strong Advisor Interest. As advisory practices grow and client expectations evolve, many advisors are increasingly focused on how to scale investment management capabilities while maintaining personalized client experiences. That trend, and a shout out from Chief Wealth Officer Aneri Jambusaria on the main stage, help explain the growing interest in OCIO solutions at LPL Focus. OCIO services can provide access to institutional research, portfolio construction support, manager oversight, and ongoing investment management resources. Conversations with advisors suggest they increasingly view OCIO not only to enhance operational efficiency, but also as a potential catalyst for growth, helping them deepen client relationships and allowing more time for business development.
  2. Building Block Models Spark Curiosity. Many advisors stopped by the Research booth to learn more about the newly launched Building Block models (again, a shoutout on the main stage is an effective way to drum up interest in new offerings). Discussions with advisors centered on flexibility, customization, and blending their own market views with LPL Research portfolios. Interest in these models underscores a desire for scalable solutions that still allow for personalization and differentiation. They allow for greater control over asset allocation than multi-asset models while also freeing advisors from spending a lot of time selecting individual investments.
  3. AI Can Be a Multiplier for Growth. Another theme that emerged throughout FOCUS – and this one will be no surprise to anyone – was the growing role of artificial intelligence in advisory practices. Advisors expressed strong interest in how AI can help improve efficiency, streamline workflows, and create more time for meaningful client interactions. This aligns closely with LPL Research’s “Mind + Machine” approach, which combines the power of technology with human judgment to help deliver investment outcomes. While AI can enhance productivity and allow advisor offices to do more with less, we recognize that trust, relationships, and personalized advice remain at the core of the client experience and aren’t going away. For more on LPL’s new agentic AI tool for advisors, read this recent press release on the future of advice.
  4. ETF Adoption Continues to Accelerate. Another frequent topic of discussion among advisors and LPL Research was the continued shift from mutual fund-based models to ETF-based models. ETF model assets managed by LPL Research grew 44.4% year over year compared with 9.9% for mutual fund models. If current growth trends persist, ETF model assets could surpass mutual fund model assets within two years. While the exact timing remains uncertain, positive ETF flows and higher growth rates suggest the transition toward ETF-based implementation is likely to continue.
  5. LPL Advisors Pleased With Path Research Is On. Feedback we’ve received so far at the Research booth has been very positive. Advisors appreciate our responsiveness. Our breadth of portfolios. Our resources (talent and tools). Our Midyear Outlook publication. Our new interactive performance dashboard. Our equity research capabilities, including focus lists and individual company tear sheets. And, finally, our accessibility.

We pride ourselves on that last one. We hope LPL advisors have experienced that. We are here to help. If there is something we’re not doing that you would like us to do, just ask. Our team is now about 70 talented professionals strong. With mind and machine together, we can do much more. You’ll hear more about it later this morning when Chief Investment Officer Marc Zabicki takes the main stage. Last year at this time in our Focus takeaways article, we referred to LPL Research as a team on the rise. At this point, we think it’s fair to say the team has arrived.

On behalf of LPL Research, to all LPL advisors, thank you for your partnership and enjoy the rest of the LPL Focus conference whether you are there in person or watching online.

Important Disclosures

This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, please consult your financial professional prior to investing.

Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk.

Indexes are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and does not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

This material was prepared by LPL Financial, LLC. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however LPL Financial makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.

Unless otherwise stated LPL Financial and the third party persons and firms mentioned are not affiliates of each other and make no representation with respect to each other. Any company names noted herein are for educational purposes only and not an indication of trading intent or a solicitation of their products or services.

Asset Class Disclosures –

International investing involves special risks such as currency fluctuation and political instability and may not be suitable for all investors. These risks are often heightened for investments in emerging markets.

Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity.

Municipal bonds are subject and market and interest rate risk and potentially capital gains tax if sold prior to maturity. Interest income may be subject to the alternative minimum tax. Municipal bonds are federally tax-free but other state and local taxes may apply.

Preferred stock dividends are paid at the discretion of the issuing company. Preferred stocks are subject to interest rate and credit risk. They may be subject to a call features.

Alternative investments may not be suitable for all investors and involve special risks such as leveraging the investment, potential adverse market forces, regulatory changes and potentially illiquidity. The strategies employed in the management of alternative investments may accelerate the velocity of potential losses.

Mortgage backed securities are subject to credit, default, prepayment, extension, market and interest rate risk.

High yield/junk bonds (grade BB or below) are below investment grade securities, and are subject to higher interest rate, credit, and liquidity risks than those graded BBB and above. They generally should be part of a diversified portfolio for sophisticated investors.

Precious metal investing involves greater fluctuation and potential for losses.

The fast price swings of commodities will result in significant volatility in an investor’s holdings.

This research material has been prepared by LPL Financial LLC.

Not Insured by FDIC/NCUA or Any Other Government Agency | Not Bank/Credit Union Deposits or Obligations | Not Bank/Credit Union Guaranteed | May Lose Value

For Public Use – Tracking: #1158061

Source

Steve King

Certified Public Accountant with Meyerowitz and King

Steve has been working in the accounting and tax field for over 20 years.  He is passionate about working with families and businesses guiding them through tax and financial issues.  He specializes in individual, partnership, corporate, and trust taxation. Steve is an EY alumni where he began his career after graduating from the University of Louisville.  Prior to co-founding Meyerowitz and King, PLLC Steve worked in the tax and financial areas of three global organizations. When working with his clients, if he sees they could benefit from the services of a financial planner, Mr. King refers his clients to the Louisville Financial Group.

One of Steve’s key responsibility is preparing individual returns of executives with diversified investments, various K-1’s, closely held investments which often create taxation issues and significant tax planning.

Steve devotes a significant amount of time serving on several boards and committees.  He has served on committees with the KY Society of CPAs, several boards for non-profits, and is treasurer of his local high school booster club.  He has also lectured on various tax and financial topics in the community.

Steve and his wife, Stacey, have been married since August 1997 and have two children, Justin and Jason.  Steve’s hobbies include spending time with his family, volunteering, traveling, and reading.

The tax services offered by Mr. Meyerowitz and Mr. King are separate and unaffiliated with LPL Financial. The CPA Strategic Alliance allows Mr. Meyerowitz and Mr. King to offer clients the opportunity to access resources and services provided by Louisville Financial Group. Mr. Meyerowitz and Mr. King are members of and work for Meyerowitz & King, PLLC, which is a separate and independent business and legal entity from Louisville Financial Group, LPL Financial, Mr. Manthey, and Mr. Durham. Mr. Meyerowitz and Mr. King are not partners, owners, managers, and/or members with Mr. Manthey and/or Mr. Durham nor with Louisville Financial Group or LPL Financial.

Victor M. Meyerowitz

Certified Public Accountant and Tax Attorney with Meyerowitz and King

He is a member of the Kentucky Bar Association, and the Kentucky Society of Certified Public Accountants.

He earned his Baccalaureate in History from the University of California in Irvine (1991), his Juris Doctor from Tulane Law School (1994), and his accounting credentials from the University of Louisville (1999). He is a member of the Phi Beta Kappa academic fraternity, graduated cum laude, and was recognized by the Kentucky Society of CPAs for having passed all four parts of the CPA examination on the first attempt.

Mr. Meyerowitz has been an Advanced Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor since 1999.

Mr. Meyerowitz focuses his practice on helping clients with their tax and accounting needs. When working with his clients, if he sees they could benefit from the services of a financial planner, Mr. Meyerowitz refers his clients to the Louisville Financial Group. He has represented numerous clients before the IRS and various State & Local Tax Agencies. His experience includes resolving complex tax problems and also managing Income, Payroll, and Sales Tax Audits. A significant amount of his time is spent helping closely held businesses with business consulting. This includes choosing the correct entity for tax purposes, being properly trained in using accounting software, implementing proper accounting procedures and safeguards, understanding financial statements, and advising on tax benefits to help make important business decisions.

In addition, prior to starting Meyerowitz & King, his experience included working with small and large businesses as a controller/CFO and as a tax consultant in a major global accounting firm. He has also published articles in the newspapers and has lectured numerous times at educational seminars.

Mr. Meyerowitz is an active member of the US Masters Swimming and has been ranked in the top 20 in the United States for his age group in the 1500m freestyle. He has also been the Cross Country Head Coach, winning numerous State Titles, at Dunn Elementary School, Kammerer Middle School, and Ballard High School.

Mr. Meyerowitz has been married to his lovely wife Sandra since 1997 and together have two wonderful children.

Mr. Meyerowitz has been a Licensed Registered Representative in Investments since August 21, 2003

The tax services offered by Mr. Meyerowitz and Mr. King are separate and unaffiliated with LPL Financial. The CPA Strategic Alliance allows Mr. Meyerowitz and Mr. King to offer clients the opportunity to access resources and services provided by Louisville Financial Group. Mr. Meyerowitz and Mr. King are members of and work for Meyerowitz & King, PLLC, which is a separate and independent business and legal entity from Louisville Financial Group, LPL Financial, Mr. Manthey, and Mr. Durham. Mr. Meyerowitz and Mr. King are not partners, owners, managers, and/or members with Mr. Manthey and/or Mr. Durham nor with Louisville Financial Group or LPL Financial.

Bradley S. Manthey

Managing Wealth Advisor, LPL Branch Manager, Managing Principal

Since graduating from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University with a B.S. in Finance, Brad has been guiding clients through individualized plans to pursue their financial goals.

Brad is proud to be an independent advisor, which is why he affiliates himself with LPL Financial. The firm serves as an enabling partner, supporting his goal of protecting and growing his client’s wealth. Brad believes that each client deserves a thorough and prompt response to every question. He takes personal interest in the individuals and families he advises, and he helps each one develop a comprehensive financial plan that will help them move toward their goals and dreams.

Outside his professional life, Brad strives to serve people through a strong commitment to his church and community. He was involved in the planting of Revolution UMC, where he served as the Finance Chairman and leader of many small group studies. He proudly served on the Board of Pensions to the KY Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, and is currently a member of Southeast Christian Church, where he and his wife volunteer as pre-marital mentors. He actively supports Go Ministries, Inc., Bernheim Forest and The Parklands. Happily married for 30+ years to his wife Lori and proud father of their son, Carter. His hobbies include golf, hiking and reading.

Contact
ACCOUNT VIEW

M. Brent Durham

President, LPL Financial Advisor

As President and co-founder of the Louisville Financial Group, Brent has been in the financial services field since 1999. After beginning his career at one of the largest financial planning firms in the United States, he decided to start his own wealth management firm along with his partner Brad Manthey. His background includes a Bachelors of Science Degree in Finance and in Economics from Campbellsville University.

After talking with several clients in regards to their goals and their previous financial representatives, Brent developed a principle in what he believed he would want in an advisor. As a financial representative, Brent has always adhered to the principle that his clients trust, financial well-being, and life goals are as important to him as they are to his clients. His belief in this principle has led him to develop a goal oriented, on-going investment planning process that keeps him in constant contact with his clients.

Outside his professional life, Brent enjoys being outside and spending time with his family. Brent and his wife Linda enjoy traveling to new destinations. Their two sons are now young adults. Christian shares a love of history and travel, while Owen is always up for a round of golf with his dad. Brent is also a swim fan, cheering Owen and his teammates on with the University of Cincinnati.