Bank Channel

The 25 largest bank-owned broker dealers produced almost $22 billion in fixed and variable annuity sales last year, or 57% of the total sold by all banks and credit unions.

Interest rates are still at zero, and banks will still be OK — though they may have to do a little scrambling. That could mean a shift away from short-term, rate-sensitive assets, or yet another round of cost-cutting.

Banks are closing branches and relying more heavily on technology to serve customers. Concerns that online and mobile banking don't reach all customers could leave banks open to allegations of discrimination.

First National Bank of Bemidji in Minnesota is looking to add advisors and clients.

The 30-year industry veteran joined from Bank of the West.

Few banks consistently earn more than four stars in the Apple and Google App Stores. The rare high performers listen to users and pioneer new features.

Community banks could be vulnerable to increased funding costs, particularly rates tied to retail deposits. Technology, and improved modeling, could help them hold onto more deposits.

New advisor will focus on ultrahigh-net-worth clients mostly in the Miami area.

The Tuscaloosa, Ala.-based credit union selected Cetera Financial Institutions to help it grow its investment services program, which has approximately $40 million in brokerage assets.

There are ways to find new advisors besides hiring from competitors—here are some of them.