Commonwealth Financial Network

In an earnings call, LPL's CEO said his efforts to woo Commonwealth advisors have extended to a "rain-soaked" bike ride and wine-tasting tour.

The industry conflict of interest takes many common, controversial or outright confusing forms. Here's what financial advisors and investors should know.

The LPL CEO says Commonwealth advisors have almost nothing to lose and much to gain by joining a firm whose headcount is fast approaching 29,000. (Plus, experts say he'll be writing big checks.)

More planners are dropping their FINRA registration but keeping some ties to independent wealth management firms once thought to be in a different channel.

The number of certified financial planners reflects competition for talent and a profession navigating questions about conflicts of interest.

The giants of the channel grabbed most of the spots in the rankings, but some of their smaller or midsize rivals are also expanding quickly.

The trio of financial advisors cited the needs of ensemble advisory practices, succession resources and the option to convert to a hybrid RIA model someday.

The wealth management giant questions if there has ever been so large a civil sanction handed down in response to "negligent mistakes" made in an attempt to comply with "unwritten rules."

An aging advisor base, continuing consolidation in M&A deals and shrinking organic growth are causing teams to consider changes, J.D. Power said.

One of the largest independent wealth management firms faces a big potential SEC judgment in a case that sheds light on industry revenue-sharing practices.