Ann Marsh

These advisory hubs appeal to those to want both independence and a corporate structure.

Acquisition of Hokanson Associates is just the start, Aspiriant CEO Rob Francais says: “We are open for business.”

United Capital anticipates adding $1.5 billion in assets in buying Select Financial Group and PSA Insurance & Financial Services.

The fiduciary rule would significantly change how advisors are compensated and is part of a global trend to increase investor protection, researchers say.

Serving public shareholders conflicts with LPL's ability to serve advisors and clients, says David Pickler, who has moved to Commonwealth Financial.

As Cetera is shopped around by Lazard, the IBD’s advisors say they want to stay with the firm but will leave if they must.

Bijan Mohseni and David Townsend, who managed $150 million in client assets, enticed to Raymond James by firm's reputation and its back-office support.

More advisors are affiliating with larger firms through richly resourced super OSJs that offer a close-knit working environment.

Lee Dana Weiss and his firm Family Endowment Partners face numerous cases from clients as well.

Merger of two LPL practices seeks to expand a new niche; banks seek non-interest, fee-based income from independent planners.

Focus Financial facilitates a three-way marriage of family office veterans who plan a bicoastal growth strategy.

By taking a 6.3% stake in LPL, activist investor Marcato Capital is expected to push for big changes, as it has at public companies such as BNY Mellon and Sotheby's.

The industry regulatory organization remains close to hitting a historic high on financial penalties. Regulator is focusing on "bread-and-butter type issues," says expert, who expects more cybersecurity and anti-money laundering fines.

Lure of large trust department, bank name recognition, more persuades five advisors in Redondo Beach, Calif., to switch.

The advisor opted not to fight FINRA, saying the allegation against him is without merit.

Steve Dunlap is one of at least six top leaders who have lost jobs at Cetera or its troubled parent, RCS Capital, during last ten months.

The independent Fidelity division can never be the same without its founder, but could still grow into a juggernaut, some planners say.

Edmond Walters's departure takes Fidelity by surprise, and throws plans for eMoney Advisor Summit next month into disarray.

Serving as an RCS Capital director proved too great a distraction from Larry Roth's role as Cetera CEO, a regional Cetera leader says.

Historically private on recruiting specifics, LPL hopes to attract new advisors by publishing names of advisors who've just joined.