AI Is Freeing Up Advisors for What Matters Most: Purposeful Conversations and Philanthropic Strategy
Jun 05, 2025by Philanthropic Futurist, Betsy Cohen
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the wealth management industry, one of its most promising contributions is the automation of data-heavy tasks—think risk modeling, tax optimization, and performance forecasting. With AI efficiently handling these analytical functions, financial advisors are gaining back what they’ve long needed more of: time. And not just any time—quality interpersonal time. The kind that allows for deeper, more strategic conversations with clients about long-term goals, family values, and legacy planning. For high-net-worth individuals and family foundations, this opens the door to meaningful discussions about philanthropy—conversations that don’t just clarify purpose but also strengthen trust and relationships across generations.
But this shift isn’t just transforming advisor-client dynamics. It’s creating new growth opportunities within firms themselves.
As more advisors lean into philanthropic advising, wealth management firms are well-positioned to build or expand internal teams dedicated to charitable planning, mission alignment, and impact investing. This isn’t just good client service, it’s smart business. Firms can create entry points for next-gen professionals eager to work at the intersection of finance and social change. These new roles might support the evaluation of philanthropic ventures, track ESG and impact investment performance, or conduct research to inform giving strategies. They also help meet the growing demand for high-touch, purpose-driven advice.
For senior advisors, this is a strategic moment to deepen their offerings. Facilitating the creation of family philanthropy mission statements or customized impact frameworks can anchor a family’s giving and create a shared vision across generations. It’s a way to show up as a long- term, values-aligned partner—not just a financial expert.
In a competitive landscape, the firms that treat philanthropic advising not as a bonus feature but as a core part of their value proposition will stand out. They’ll retain clients, engage the rising generation, and attract talent aligned with today’s evolving expectations around wealth and purpose.
AI may be changing the tools—but the heart of advising remains the same: helping people use their resources in ways that matter.
