Charles Schwab

Planners — and RIAs that want to hire them — have faced hurdles tied to client solicitation rules.

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

Even as new technology and changing client demands force firms to constantly upgrade, advisors have potent defenses to help them stay competitive.

Who wins, loses after the massive BD merger crosses the finish line?

After acquiring TD Ameritrade, Schwab’s custodial division would grow to about twice the size of its closest competitor.

The robo advisor is also pursuing more banking business.

Tom Bradley, known as an advocate for independent advisory firms, was hired to support advisors with under $100 million in assets.

The firm has the edge in “unaided awareness”— a crucial metric in understanding a firm’s significance to the lives of potential clients.

In search of new sources of revenue now that it has slashed fees on stock trades, the brokerage giant could use the influx of deposits to grow its loan portfolio and add new banking services.