McCartney argues volatility is structural due to Fed regime change (less forward guidance), geopolitical ping-pong narratives, and midterm elections. She sees tailwinds from AI-driven earnings and a coming wave of liquidity from private-company exits, creating both opportunity and fragility. Clients are flush but planning for volatility.

Perry notes that AI wealth generation is fostering new company creation. Carta sees a broad range of startups beyond AI (brick-and-mortar). The company has done five acquisitions in nine months, integrating CRM and legal services into its platform.

Dell argues the 1% AUM fee is corrosive to long-term wealth. Domain Money targets the 'emerging affluent' (avg. $1.3M net worth) with a flat-fee model combining a dedicated CFP with digital planning tools. Clients care about life decisions (vacation, school) not Sharpe ratios.

Ellsworth created Poppy to solve a personal health problem, got a deal on Shark Tank, and sold to PepsiCo for ~$2B. She is launching a new beverage in fall 2024, using her own capital and seeking strategic partners. Key lesson: professionalize the business early and hire people smarter than you.