Portfolio

BlackCrown tried to call foul on Schwab’s anticipated acquisition, asserting it would become an “unlawful monopoly” and stifle innovation in the custodial marketplace.

Higher-than-anticipated health-care costs are among the most unexpected expenditures clients face in retirement.

The firm commission-free platform already included all Vanguard mutual funds and ETFs as well as thousands of third-party funds.

While advisors have embraced cheaper trades, the move may have long term effects on strategies for client portfolios.

With astute maneuvering, advisors can add money to a clients’ college-fund kitty without jeopardizing financial aid.

Although passive has steadily lured cash from active, this year assets in indexed equity funds topped those in active stock funds for the first time ever.

Financial planners should at least consider modeling early retirement to prepare clients for the possibility of uncertainty, says Morningstar.

Some 225 funds traded for the first time over the past 12 months, down for a second-straight year.

"Keep records and watch the statute of limitations. The usual IRS statute of limitations is three years after you file your tax return," an expert writes.

Contributing to these accounts makes sense for clients who anticipate higher tax rates in the future.