Commonwealth Financial Network

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.

LPL Financial, Cetera Financial Group, Raymond James, Ameriprise and other industry giants drove a much bigger volume of transitions this year.

These 10 firms have the most certified financial planners among their advisors, highlighting the channel's ongoing shift away from sales to advice.