Career moves

A federal judge agrees with Merrill that deferred compensation is a bonus used to reward employee loyalty rather than a retirement benefit protected by federal law.

Looking back at the past five years of Financial Planning's regional 40 under 40 list offers insights on advisor success — and firm struggles.

Also this week, Captrust scoops up a $1.4 billion RIA, and Mercer Global adds a head of M&A.

The dispute shows Edward Jones has become emboldened in taking legal actions against advisors perceived to have inflicted harm on its business interests by leaving for another firm, one industry recruiter said.

John Hicks, the chief marketing officer of Ausdal Financial Partners, sees his firm's lack of private equity ownership as a big part of its appeal.

Also this week, Cetera closes on its purchase of Concourse Financial Group, and Raymond James appoints a head of AI.

Across the last five years of Financial Planning's 40 under 40 list, a few key insights have emerged about where the industry is at — and where it's headed.

The hiring comes roughly a month after Ida Liu resigned and the firm embarked on a regional restructuring.

Kevin Keller prides himself on the growing public awareness of the CFP mark while warning that his successor is likely to face increased competition from other groups.

Also this week, LPL pulls a big team from Raymond James, Merrill from Morgan Stanley and Dynasty from CIBC.