Top 3 Industry Trends in 2025 – How to Navigate Market Volatility, Business Sales, and Wealth Transfer

In today’s business landscape, the only constant is change.

Whether you’re a business owner, investor, or someone planning for the next big financial move, staying ahead of industry trends can mean the difference between thriving and merely surviving.

Here are three pivotal trends you can’t afford to ignore — and how I can help you navigate each one.

1. Market Volatility: The New Normal

Market volatility isn’t just a phase; it’s a feature of modern investing. We’re seeing fluctuations driven by everything from global conflicts to technological disruptions. If you’re feeling the whiplash of rapid market changes, you’re not alone.

How I Can Help: I focus on what I call “risk budgeting” — determining the exact level of risk you need to take to achieve your financial goals. In my recent conversation with Patricia Baranowski Schneider, I emphasized that many clients come to me thinking they need a 10% return when, in reality, a 4% return is sufficient to hit their targets. Why chase risky returns when a more stable path will get you where you need to go?

I’ll work with you to assess your current portfolio and identify areas where we can reduce risk without sacrificing growth. This isn’t about playing it safe — it’s about playing it smart.

2. The Business Sale Boom: Is Your Exit Strategy Ready?

The market for selling businesses is heating up, but many business owners aren’t prepared to capitalize on it. Whether you’re aiming to retire, pivot, or cash out, a robust exit strategy is essential. The key? Planning early.

How I Can Help: I guide business owners through the entire sale preparation process — from structuring key employee agreements to ensuring financial controls are rock-solid. As I mentioned in a recent conversation with Patricia, it’s like trying to drive to St. Louis without a map. You know where you want to go, but without a plan, you’re likely to get lost along the way.

Together, we’ll conduct a full business audit, identify potential pitfalls, and implement strategies to maximize your business value before you even talk to a buyer. Think of it as setting the stage for a standing ovation before the curtain even rises.

3. Generational Wealth Transfer: Protecting Your Legacy

We’re on the cusp of the largest wealth transfer in history, with trillions set to pass from one generation to the next. But without proper planning, much of that wealth could be eroded by taxes, legal fees, or poor financial decisions.

How I Can Help: I help families think beyond just the numbers. It’s about aligning your wealth with your values and ensuring your legacy is protected. In my conversation with Lynde, we discussed how many business owners overvalue their companies, making plans based on inflated figures rather than realistic valuations. My goal is to provide a clear-eyed, numbers-backed approach to estate planning — from trusts to tax strategies to family governance.

I’ll walk you through every step, from setting up trusts that protect assets to creating a legacy plan that reflects your life’s work and values. It’s about more than just avoiding taxes; it’s about creating a roadmap for how your wealth can positively impact the next generation.

Ready to Take Action? Let’s Talk.

Navigating these trends isn’t easy, but you don’t have to go it alone. I’ve spent over 30 years guiding business owners and families through financial transitions, and I’m here to help you do the same. Let’s sit down, map out a plan, and ensure you’re positioned not just to survive — but to thrive.

Got questions? Let’s talk. Reach out to schedule a conversation. I’m here to help.