Wealth advisors, family offices, and portfolio managers convened in Scottsdale for Markets Group’s Private Wealth Southwest Forum — a full-day program examining how Southwest allocators are positioning portfolios for 2026 amid a shifting macro backdrop.
Conversations centered on liquidity pressures, portfolio resilience, client education, and how high-net-worth households are adapting in a year defined by rate uncertainty, uneven market leadership, and increased demand for personalization.
Speakers outlined where opportunities may emerge across public markets, private credit, direct deals, alternatives, and yield-oriented strategies, as advisors sharpen allocation frameworks heading into the new year. A recurring message throughout the day: stronger governance, scenario planning, and clearer communication will be essential as wealth channels expand and competition intensifies.
🔥 Request the agenda for the 11th Annual Private Wealth New England Forum in Boston on March 5, 2026.
Insights ‘From the Sidelines‘
Markets Group’s Andreas Fofana captured real-time reactions from the sidelines — quick, candid takeaways filmed immediately after sessions wrapped. Advisors emphasized several standout themes shaping their 2026 positioning: the importance of liquidity for nonprofits navigating funding gaps, renewed urgency around financial resiliency, and how wealth leaders are interpreting the macro landscape as opportunities shift across U.S. and international markets.
Throughout the day, delegates emphasized how peer exchange is becoming even more valuable in an environment where uncertainty remains elevated — from rate expectations to market concentration risks and evolving client behavior.
Watch the exclusive video interviews
These conversations offer a direct look into what Southwest wealth leaders are prioritizing heading into 2026 — filmed live from the sidelines.
- Bobbie Meola, Managing Director, Stratos Wealth Partners
- Roman Brent, Chief Investment Officer, Aerie Advisory Group
Looking ahead
The conversations in Scottsdale underscored a clear priority for 2026: helping clients navigate volatility with sharper frameworks, stronger governance, and a more intentional approach to private markets. Advisors emphasized the need for deeper due diligence, scenario testing, and dynamic allocation models as households seek stability in an environment shaped by policy shifts, slowing growth, and evolving opportunity sets.
As firms refine strategy heading into the new year, the insights raised at the forum will continue to guide portfolio construction and client conversations across the Southwest.
🔥 Request the agenda for the 11th Annual Private Wealth New England Forum in Boston on March 5, 2026.
