National RIA Day
Fast Facts
- WHEN
- Celebrated on the third Wednesday in February
- FOUNDER
- Schwab Advisor Services, a leading provider of custody, trading, technology, wealth management solutions, and business support services to more than 17,000 independent RIA firms.
- WHAT
- Recognizes independent advisory firms built on uncompromising commitment to putting clients' best interests first
- VIBE
- Gold standard of independent financial advice
NATIONAL RIA DAY
Celebrate the gold standard of independent financial advice on the third Wednesday in February for National RIA Day! This annual observance recognizes Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs)—the independent advisory firms across the nation built on a steadfast, uncompromising commitment to putting clients' best interests first.
#NationalRIADay
A Registered Investment Advisor is a specialized financial professional who helps individuals and families plan for, transition into, and manage their wealth during retirement. These highly-skilled individuals use designed strategies to design strategies to build wealth using tax-advantaged accounts, convert retirement savings into a sustainable "paycheck" during retirement, help maximize long-term income and ensure smooth wealth transfer to heirs and charities.
For decades, the independent RIA model has fundamentally reshaped wealth management in America. Built around a strict fiduciary standard, RIAs offer objective, uncompromised guidance tailored entirely to the unique needs of individuals, families, and small business owners. They are the financial backbone for millions of Americans while managing trillions of dollars in assets a year.
National RIA Day
An annual rallying point for independent advisors and showcases the profound impact these independent businesses have on local communities.
Unlike traditional product-focused models, independent RIAs are legally and ethically bound to put their clients' interests above all else. Independent RIAs own their practices, giving them total freedom to choose the best technology, research, and financial solutions for their clients without corporate quotas or proprietary products. Independent advisory firms are dynamic small businesses that create jobs, mentor talent, and invest deeply in the growth of their local communities.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL RIA DAY
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Share what client-first, independent advice means to your firm. Use social media, podcasts, and client newsletters to explain the RIA difference.
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Partner with local colleges, universities, and business schools to host panel discussions, guest lectures, or open houses that introduce students to careers in independent wealth management.
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Host a community financial wellness workshop or highlight your firm’s local philanthropic efforts to show how independent advice drives local impact.
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Connect with fellow advisors, custodians, and industry leaders using the official hashtag #NationalRIADay.
NATIONAL RIA DAY HISTORY
National RIA Day was submitted by Schwab Advisor Services on behalf of the independent advisory industry. The inaugural observance is set for February 17, 2027 and marks 40 years of advisor independence and launching a long-term platform for talent development, legislative advocacy, and public awareness.
The Registrar at National Day Calendar approved the day to be celebrated each year on the fourth Wednesday of February, beginning in 2027.
About the Founder
Schwab Advisor Services has been a leading provider of custody, trading, and support services to over 17,000 independent firms for over 40 years. The firm safeguards nearly $6 trillion in client assets and supporting the need with more than 3,000 dedicated professionals.
Charles Schwab was founded in 1971 and is one of the largest financial services firms in the U.S. The company offers a wide range of investment and wealth management services for individuals, advisors, and institutions, including online brokerage services, financial planning and investment, retirement planning, and banking and lending services. Schwab’s clients range from beginner investors to high-net-worth individuals with an emphasis for ease of access, low fees, and educational resources.
Charles Schwab also founded National Investing Day in 2025. This observance is celebrated each year on May 1.
Media Contacts:
Schwab Advisor Services | |
Kelly Cook | Liz Shaw |
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