Charles Schwab

The custodian has made three big announcements. The connection between the three may not be obvious, but together, they indicate what I think could be a brilliant strategy.

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.

The success of automated advice will depend on its ability to transform from a direct-to-client platform into a bionic advisor toolkit.

While the acquisition still needs regulatory approval, combining the two companies could be considered “anti-trust” in a different way.

Among immediate changes, Tim Hockey resigned as chief executive of TD. Here's what else advisors can expect.

Planners who manage less than $100 million in client assets question their future at Schwab.

Planners who manage less than $100 million in client assets question their future at Schwab.

Planners who manage less than $100 million in client assets question their future at Schwab.

America’s original discount broker will now have even more sway over the sector it pioneered nearly a half-century ago.

The deal would combine two of the biggest companies running platforms used by independent financial advisors.