Practice

Readers are split over using Excel for financial planning. Some extol the simplicity of spreadsheets, others are firmly of the view that financial planning software is necessary for advisors to remain relevant.

As the fiduciary rule pressures firms to develop products and platforms, they must realize I.T. has a seat at the table in the decision process, says Putnam Investment's new chief technology officer.

The timeline for implementation is extended, and proprietary products won’t be effectively banned.

Voices: Abuses in investment advice need to be stopped. But a law without teeth is worse than no law at all.

At the end of the day, manager selection is all about damage control.

Ways the DoL's new fiduciary plan is expected to directly affect advisors; plus, how clients can contribute to a Roth IRA if they're already retired.

Examining these issues may take the guesswork out of a client's estate plan.

The men "plotted to overcharge their clients by millions of dollars," according to U.S. Attorney Carmen Ortiz in Boston.

The benefits will have no impact on their former spouse's retirement benefits; plus, what clients need to know about their IRAs.

Three former advisors at the wirehouse accuse Merrill of failing to provide them with adequate support to serve international clients.