BizTimes: How will Annex Wealth Management adjust to coming changes in your industry?
Dave Spano: “The biggest shifts I see are the Great Wealth Transfer and the rapid rise of AI. Clients will expect seamless technology and values-driven advice, while AI tools might help handle data analysis and routine work.
At Annex, we’re exploring giving our advisors sharper insights so they can spend more time on complex, personal conversations. We’re also building multigenerational teams and digital tools to help the next generation feel at home with us. Our in-house team model already delivers the holistic advice clients want, so we’ll enhance it with technology rather than replace the human relationships that have always defined Annex.”
BizTimes: What are some challenges you face as CEO of Annex Wealth Management?
Spano: “One major challenge is attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive market while preserving our close-knit culture as we grow. We address this by investing in professional development, creating clear career paths, and fostering an environment where people feel respected and part of something meaningful. Another challenge is leaning into new technology without losing the personal, relationship-driven approach clients expect. We’re meeting this by carefully examining our tech stack to create better insights and efficiency, while keeping human judgment and empathy at the center of every client relationship.”
BizTimes: What do you see as the biggest threats to the wealth management industry as a whole?
Spano: “The greatest threats I see for the industry are failing to adapt to AI and losing clients during the wealth transfer. Many firms may struggle to blend technology with genuine human advice. Fee pressure from fintech and larger institutions could continue, and firms that treat advice as a commodity rather than a relationship might lose ground. Talent shortages and the risk of heirs firing their parents’ advisor are also real concerns. Firms that remain purely transactional instead of becoming truly holistic and client-centered are likely to face the toughest headwinds.”
BizTimes: What makes a team successful in your opinion?
Spano: “A successful team shares a clear purpose and works collaboratively across disciplines. At Annex, our strength comes from investment, tax, estate, and planning professionals who communicate daily and put the client’s full picture first. Success also requires accountability, mutual respect, and the willingness to challenge ideas constructively. When everyone understands how their role contributes to better client outcomes and feels empowered to act in the client’s best interest, the team performs at a high level.”
BizTimes: What does a good team culture look like to you?
Spano: “A good team culture feels respectful, supportive, and focused on continuous improvement. People speak openly, celebrate wins together, and learn from setbacks without blame. At Annex, we value knowledge, integrity, and ownership. A strong culture means team members feel trusted to make decisions, supported in their growth, and genuinely excited to help clients. When people enjoy coming to work and believe their contributions matter, it shows in the quality of advice and service we deliver every day.”
17950 West Corporate Drive, Suite 300 • Brookfield, WI 53045
262-786-6363 • annexwealth.com
