RIAs

"We're seeing more inquiries like this," says Dynasty president and CEO Shirl Penney. "As the opportunity presents itself, we think more teams will see the advantage of joining to achieve scale, size and get more bang for their buck."

Independent broker-dealer network Advisor Group has a new CEO with big goals. First on the list: Find acquisitions.

More emphasis on incentive pay, bonus pools and flexibility as firms scramble to lure and keep talent.

At the highest- performing firms, incentive pay and equity are becoming key components of advisor compensation.

Broker-dealers have managed to control the terms of the regulatory debate. Advisors: It's time to watch your language.

Lack of scale and the heavy investment wealth platforms require may have prompted the bank holding company to sell its RIA business, says one industry consultant.

Esther Stearns is working with financial software maker Guide Financial in its quest to "carry the NestWise torch."

As four officials begin terms as volunteer chairmen of CFP Board councils, a former panel chairman highlights the challenges they may face.

'There will be absolutely no pressure to sell any of our products,' says RCS chairman Nicholas Schorsch, who built a fortune on nontraded REITs but has recently been acquiring several big independent B-Ds.

A survey of 500 mass affluent investors by an industry association finds -- conveniently -- high awareness and use of nontraded REITs.