Michael Shribman is president and founder at APS Global Partners Inc. and Medias Health Inc.
In a world where change is constant, the way we manage money is changing too. Traditional investing—balancing stocks and bonds and hoping for steady returns—is no longer enough for some people. Markets are more complex. Investors are more informed. And the tools we use are smarter than ever.
I’ve spent the last 15-plus years building and investing in businesses across different sectors. Along the way, I’ve worked closely with advisors, managed my own portfolio and explored everything from traditional stocks and bonds to alternatives like private equity and real estate. So, my view on investment management comes from both sides: as someone who’s had to grow and protect wealth, and as someone who’s helped others think through how to do the same.
Recently, I’ve noticed that investment management has moved beyond simply growing wealth. Instead, many investors are focused on clarity, purpose and building a strategy that works in real life—not just on paper.
Investors are considering new strategies.
Inflation, rising interest rates and unpredictable markets are driving some investors to look beyond traditional options. Many are turning to alternative investments—things like private equity, real estate or even collectibles. These assets can offer protection from stock market swings and add diversification.
What’s more, people want their investments to reflect their values. More money is flowing into portfolios that focus on sustainability and social impact—not just profits.
ESG is becoming a standard, not a trend.
Environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing has gone mainstream. What started as a niche approach is now central to how many investors think. And it’s not just because it feels good—there’s growing evidence that ESG investments can reduce risk and deliver solid returns.
Still, not all ESG options are equal. Some funds use the label without doing much. To avoid greenwashing, my recommendation is to look beyond the surface. Transparency and real-world impact matter more than buzzwords.
Younger generations, especially, want to invest in a way that aligns with their beliefs. For advisors, that can mean helping clients find options that are both values-driven and financially sound.
Behavior often hurts returns more than the market.
Markets go up and down. But one thing stays the same: Investors often hurt their own results by making emotional decisions. Buying high, selling low or reacting to headlines can cost more than any market crash. This is often known as the “behavior gap.” According to Morningstar, it’s one of the biggest reasons why average investors underperform their own portfolios.
I think one possible solution for businesses is to build systems that help people stay disciplined. That might mean offering tools like automatic rebalancing or financial advisor services during tough times. In today’s market, managing emotions can be just as important as managing money.
Tech is helping—but humans still matter.
Technology has made investing easier and more accessible. Platforms like Wealthfront, Betterment and Empower use technology to help build and manage portfolios.
“Robo-advisors” can be great for many people, especially those starting out. But they don’t replace human judgment. In my experience, the best models combine automation with advice. A computer can build a portfolio, but only a person can truly understand an investor’s goals, fears and life story.
Even regulators like the SEC are paying close attention to algorithm-based advice, recognizing its growing role in financial services.
Personalization is growing more important.
In today’s investing world, I’ve found the most important question isn’t, “What’s the best stock?”—it’s, “What’s the best strategy for me?”
Many people want plans tailored to their lives, not just cookie-cutter portfolios. That’s why I’ve noticed many top advisors are focusing on personalized strategies, goal-based planning and investments that adjust as life changes.
As the saying goes, “The best financial plan is the one you can stick with.” Many investors are focusing on strategies that fit with their risk tolerance, reflect their values and help them sleep at night.
What is the bottom line?
I think investment management in 2025 is more flexible, more personal and more human than ever. It’s not about chasing trends or guessing the next big thing. It’s about building a plan that works—for investors’ goals, values and lives.
With the right mix of technology, behavior coaching and thoughtful planning, investors can face uncertainty with confidence. In my experience, the smartest strategies don’t just grow wealth; they give investors control, clarity and peace of mind.
The information provided here is not investment, tax, or financial advice. You should consult with a licensed professional for advice concerning your specific situation.
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