Helping your clients reach their financial goals is the refrain that we hear constantly repeated in the advisory industry. But that's only part of the story. For advisors in this competitive world finding those clients is just as difficult-if not more so. That's why in On Wall Street this month we examine an underserved client market in our cover article, "Same-Sex Couples."
In this feature, contributor Elizabeth Wine brings to life the unique needs of one gay couple, speaking with them, their advisor and other experts. What struck me is how much advice gay and lesbian couples need because federal and state laws differ so much from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. This is a growing market, Wine notes. And we see that financial advisors who take the time to specialize in clients who have unmet and complex needs find both opportunity and success.
No matter who your clients are, they are all looking for investing strategies and tactics that will increase their portfolios. In our Wealth Industry story, Associate Editor Mason Braswell takes on the conventional wisdom in "Dividend Stocks: Pay Out or Played Out?" One expert wonders if the popularity of these stocks is now creating a bubble, while others believe dividend yields may dip.
Managing Editor Lorie Konish dug deep into the issues surrounding the $40 million deferred compensation settlement between former Merrill Lynch advisors and the firm. Speaking to a bevy of lawyers, some of whom have related arbitrations and lawsuits, Konish delves into some of the terms of deal (which is awaiting final court approval) in "A Questionable Settlement." The attorneys note that Merrill Lynch, even with this settlement, could still face considerable litigation from advisors who opt out of the class action.
There is much more in this issue on topics ranging from changes in the annuities market to the benefits of alternative exchange-traded funds to how your clients should be planning for their futures in light of this year's uncertain and contentious presidential election. As always, feel free to weigh in on the stories in this issue at onwallstreet.com.
