Practice

The variable annuities sector stabilizes as issuers find a balance between provider risk and client protection.

It's important to understand your strengths and weaknesses. If you're not getting the level of success you want, it may be time to investigate a new type of firm.

Forging real relationships -- in person and not just online -- builds not only long-term friendships, but business to boot, says one marketing expert.

CFP Board makes new push into academia with plans for a center at its headquarters and an academic journal

Many states have updated their trust laws, providing simpler techniques to help trustees deal with the challenges of irrevocable trusts.

Retiree optimism is an encouraging improvement and most likely correlates to a stronger stock market and the prospect of higher interest rates in the future, says Wells Fargo executive.

Expected in August, the Labor Department's new draft of a fiduciary proposal for retirement-plan advisors involves taking a more "clear, direct and nuanced" approach to the education vs. advising question, says Assistant Secretary of Labor Phyllis Borzi.

The so-called Crummey technique has the IRS concerned, so planners might want to alert HNW clients before the opportunity is reined in.

Securities America and Triad, both divisions of Ladenburg Thalmann, slapped for "failing to supervise the use of consolidated reporting systems resulting in statements with inaccurate valuations being sent to customers."

Advisors and their HNW clients too often shy away from difficult conversations about inheritance planning. Here are some ideas for advisors to help start the dialogue.