XYPN launches alternative independence route to typical broker-dealer relationship

XYPN launches alternative independence route to typical broker-dealer relationship
New program offers technology and back office support.
OCT 17, 2024

Advisors planning to go independent have a new route to launching their business that promises an alternative to a typical broker-dealer or corporate RIA relationship.

Montana based firm XY Planning Network has launched Sapphire as an RIA-affiliation option for fee-only advisors that provides the technology, support and resources needed for an independent practice, but without the asset minimums, constraints or fees that they might expect.

Advisors retain full ownership of their business and can transition to another platform at any time and operate as independent contractors with the freedom to run their business as they wish.

“Too often, advisors strike out on their own so they can run their businesses how they want to, but then they join a corporate RIA only to end up back at square one, many times with even less control,” said XYPN CEO and co-founder Alan Moore. “We created Sapphire because many of our members asked for this option. They wanted a program that would allow them to focus on clients, not compliance and regulations. With the addition of Sapphire, fee-for-service planners have two paths to independence, and whichever one they choose, they can have the confidence of knowing that they are in control of their time and businesses.”

The two paths include the firm’s existing premium membership model Emerald and the new Sapphire RIA-affiliation option.

XYPN Sapphire is an SEC registered RIA so new affiliates can be registered and ready for business in a few days rather than waiting for state-level registration in their own right. This also benefits those who operate in more than one state.

The new option expects to onboard two to three advisors each month with a target of 50 by the end of 2025.

XYPN recently announced a tie-up with Elements to offer the more than 1,800 independent financial planners affiliated with XYPN privileged access to Elements' financial diagnostics technology at reduced rates.

Latest News

The 2025 InvestmentNews Awards Excellence Awardees revealed
The 2025 InvestmentNews Awards Excellence Awardees revealed

From outstanding individuals to innovative organizations, find out who made the final shortlist for top honors at the IN awards, now in its second year.

Top RIA Cresset warns of 'inevitable' recession amid tariff uncertainty
Top RIA Cresset warns of 'inevitable' recession amid tariff uncertainty

Cresset's Susie Cranston is expecting an economic recession, but says her $65 billion RIA sees "great opportunity" to keep investing in a down market.

Edward Jones joins the crowd to sell more alternative investments
Edward Jones joins the crowd to sell more alternative investments

“There’s a big pull to alternative investments right now because of volatility of the stock market,” Kevin Gannon, CEO of Robert A. Stanger & Co., said.

Record RIA M&A activity marks strong start to 2025
Record RIA M&A activity marks strong start to 2025

Sellers shift focus: It's not about succession anymore.

IB+ Data Hub offers strategic edge for U.S. wealth advisors and RIAs advising business clients
IB+ Data Hub offers strategic edge for U.S. wealth advisors and RIAs advising business clients

Platform being adopted by independent-minded advisors who see insurance as a core pillar of their business.

SPONSORED Compliance in real time: Technology's expanding role in RIA oversight

RIAs face rising regulatory pressure in 2025. Forward-looking firms are responding with embedded technology, not more paperwork.

SPONSORED Advisory firms confront crossroads amid historic wealth transfer

As inheritances are set to reshape client portfolios and next-gen heirs demand digital-first experiences, firms are retooling their wealth tech stacks and succession models in real time.