Ep 63: How to Evaluate and Optimize WealthTech Stacks for RIAs

Episode 63: How to Evaluate and Optimize WealthTech Stacks for RIAs

Guest: James Cantwell

Overview

Welcome to the Financial Advisors Want to Know Podcast! I’m Catherine Tindall, CPA with Dominion Enterprise Services, where we help financial advisors navigate income tax planning and compliance.

Today’s guest is James Cantwell, a WealthTech expert with 25+ years of experience in investment management and technology consulting. As founder of The Cantwell Advisory and creator of WealthTech Select, James specializes in helping RIAs optimize their technology stacks, improve efficiency, and enhance client service.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Start with Pain Points, Not Products – Avoid "shiny object syndrome" when selecting technology. Focus first on your firm's specific needs and workflows.

✅ Data Quality is Paramount – Good data and strong processes matter more than individual tech tools. Ensure your team effectively utilizes applications for optimal results.

✅ Beware the “Frankenstein” Tech Stack – Many RIAs piece together tech solutions over time, creating integration gaps and inefficiencies. Regular evaluations prevent a disjointed system.

✅ Process Before Technology – Analyze internal workflows before adopting new technology. Identify inefficiencies in client onboarding, meeting prep, and engagement first.

✅ Data Structure Drives Insights – Organize data strategically to track success, client demographics, and revenue. Don't rely solely on pre-built reports—customize for meaningful insights.

Connect with James Cantwell

🌐 Website: The Cantwell Advisory
🌐 WealthTech Select: WealthTech Select
🔗 LinkedIn: James Cantwell

Connect with Catherine

🔗 LinkedIn
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🌐 Dominion Enterprise Services
📧 Email: admin@dominiones.com

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