Headcount dropped by 413 brokers year-over-year, but productivity per FA jumped by 29%.

CEO Jim Cracchiolo says the firm’s headcount is poised for growth again following a stagnant year.

Headcount is down by 200 compared to a year-ago.

CEO is right to resist the temptation of a more drastic overhaul.

The former underdog is settling into its role as one of Wall Street's more well-balanced firms.

Wealth management has “only increased in relevance as it’s continued to grow,” CFO Jon Pruzan said.

The firm also reported that its advisor ranks were up 2% year-over-year, boosted by its training program.

Fourth-quarter profits ticked up a modest 1% year-over-year to $659 million even as number of advisors dropped 2%.

While banks will likely benefit from the lower rate, the new law requires charges in the near-term.

One strategy to enhance financial prospects is to get a part-time job via the gig economy.