August Blog

Raymond James Annual Summer Development Conference 2024

My family and I attended the annual Raymond James Summer Development Conference in Orlando, FL, from July 16th to July 19th, 2024. Being in attendance for a conference of this magnitude was a privilege to witness. This year’s theme, “Unleashing the Power to Transform Lives,” resonated deeply with all attendees, as it highlighted the profound impact financial planning can have on individuals and communities.

A Gathering of Financial Planning Superheroes

The conference was a unique opportunity to meet and learn from some of the industry’s most respected figures, often referred to during the conference as the superheroes of financial planning. These professionals shared their insights and experiences, inspiring advisors to elevate their practice and better serve their clients. One of the highlights was hearing from senior leaders at Raymond James. Their presentations provided valuable perspectives on the company’s vision, strategic initiatives, and the evolving landscape of financial services. These sessions were not only informative but also motivating, reinforcing the importance of our roles as financial advisors on our client’s lives.

Learning About Potential Estate Law Changes & National Create a Will Month

The breakout sessions also offered multiple in-depth sessions on potential changes in estate laws in December 2025. These sessions were crucial for advisors looking to stay ahead of the curve and helping ensure their clients’ plans remain robust and compliant. The professional-led discussions provided actionable insights and practical advice on navigating these changes. The review of potential estate law changes was very timely as we celebrate National Create a Will Month during the month of August. This is a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of having a will in place to help ensure that your assets are transferred according to your wishes upon your passing. While creating a will may not be the most pleasant task to think about, it is a crucial step in planning for the future and providing a sense of well-being for you and your loved ones.

Having a will is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, a will allows you to specify how you want your assets to be distributed after your death. Without a will, your assets will be distributed according to the laws of your state, which may not align with your intentions. By creating a will, you can help ensure that your loved ones are taken care of and that your assets are distributed in the way you see fit.

Furthermore, having a will can help to minimize estate taxes, ensuring that more of your assets are passed on to your beneficiaries. By planning ahead and creating a will, you can take proactive steps to protect your assets and provide financial confidence for your loved ones.

As we observe National Create a Will Month this August, take the time to consider the importance of having a will in place. While it may be a difficult topic to broach, creating a will is a responsible and necessary step in planning for the future and ensuring that your assets are transferred according to your wishes. Consult with a legal professional to help you draft a will that accurately reflects your intentions and provides confidence for you and your loved ones.

Community Impact

Crescent Advisory Partners was honored at the Summer Development Conference with the Raymond James and Associates Community Impact Award. This prestigious award recognizes individuals and branch offices that have made a significant difference in their communities through philanthropic efforts and community involvement.

Crescent Advisory Partners was one of three national winners chosen for their outstanding contributions to the community. The award highlights their team’s dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in the lives of those around them. The Raymond James and Associates Community Impact Award is a testament to Crescent Advisory Partners' commitment to serving others and their dedication to making their community a better place.

Final Thoughts

Attending the Raymond James Summer Development Conference was a truly enriching experience. The opportunity to learn from industry leaders, stay updated on critical changes, and connect with fellow advisors was invaluable. The theme, “Unleashing the Power to Transform Lives,” was a fitting reminder of the significant impact we can have through our work. As we can gleam from the conference’s theme this year, it’s the perfect time to apply these principles to our own financial health. By leveraging the knowledge and strategies shared by industry leaders, you can help ensure your financial plans are robust, adaptable, and aligned with your long-term objectives. Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and making a difference in the lives of our clients!

The 2024 Raymond James Community Impact Award recognizes one winner from each division involved in charitable efforts making a positive impact on their community and was released on 7/18/2024. This award is not based in any way on the individual’s abilities in regards to providing investment advice or management. This ranking is not indicative of the advisor’s future performance, is not an endorsement, and may not be representative of individual clients’ experience.

Any opinions are those of Crescent Advisory Partners and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinions are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Every investor’s situation is unique, and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investment. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.