Subject Root Tag

Bank of America said Friday it would pay $2.43 billion to settle a shareholder lawsuit over its purchase of Merrill Lynch, in an expensive effort to resolve one of many problems it faces from the financial crisis.

Most advisors are accustomed to the idea that, for the sake of growth and development, it's important to think of their practice as a business. But, many forget that this makes them the CEO and requires a particular mindset.

Conventional wisdom says there are three generations of workers, at least - here's a guide on the differences and how to approach them.

After 28 years in the Social Security Administration, Jack Butler, an advisor with HTLF Investment Services, takes his knowledge to the bank channel to educate clients on what they can expect from the program.

In sharply worded speech to the Exchequer Club last month, the outspoken regulator said some executives "fail to grasp" the public's mistrust in banks.

Increasing stability and high levels of per-capita growth in far-flung global economies have created investment opportunities for intrepid investors.

The Pittsburgh company is among several banks aiming to boost visibility on college campuses in hopes of attracting young consumers who many not have a dime to their names now but could be high earners down the road.

The Birmingham, Ala., regional banking company has quietly consolidated its investment-related groups under one wealth management group. The restructuring was partly spurred by the company's sale of Morgan Keegan earlier this year.

Though banks have always measured customer satisfaction, there is a greater focus now on understanding exactly what drives the customer experience and how it can help the bottom line.

Hindsight isn't really 20/20 because there's a good chance one could misinterpret what happened. And if we connect the dots incorrectly and claim a pattern that isn't there, then we've gone through the pain without learning anything. And we're bound to repeat the same mistakes someday.

The search for global investments has become at once more far-reaching and fundamental. Expanding the search geographically can glean opportunities in essentials like food, water and energy. Population growth and higher labor costs also play a part in global investing. But be warned: Your clients will need nerves of steel.

As the global markets limp slowly toward stability, the natural resources sector will be an area of opportunity for clients.

Eliminate the surprise of taking a new job that's not a good fit - your due diligence will help make your next move a fulfilling one.

Hirings this month include Merrill Lynch adding Lee Miller, Andrew Pleat and Mark Kean from UBS and Morgan Stanley hiring nine advisors including UBS's Keith Munera and John Wildemore.

The explosive growth of alternative exchange-traded funds has raised the question of whether they've met the expectations of their investors.

The director of financial planning at R.W. Baird, Tim Steffen, discusses the upcoming elections, what changes to the fiscal landscape are possible, and how advisors should steer clients through the uncertainties and tax issues.

Exemptions and the chance to opt out have lawyers predicting the $40 million proposed deferred compensation plan settlement will not cease litigation against Merrill Lynch.

The ultimate test of leadership is the way you handle employees' reactions to innovation.

Our legal analyst explores commission sharing and FINRA disclosure rules.

How to sell a high-priced tier of service to clients and describe how that service is different and more valuable, like front-row seats at an event.