Financial planning

People who decide to retire early share common traits that others don't have, such as having a happy marriage; Plus, a better way to help your clients tap their retirement savings.

A team formerly with Lincoln Financial Advisors will join an LPL-affiliated hybrid RIA.

The Internal Revenue Service has agreed to change its policy on identity theft and provide victims with copies of the fraudulent tax returns that have been filed under their names by scammers.

Comparables, such as multiples of revenue or cash flow, may not be most important because they could mean an oversimplified valuation.

The human touch is still needed in the foreseeable future because advisors can approach complex situations with customized solutions, says one MIT professor.

Newly appointed CFO has 18 years of industry experience; replaces Dan Arnold.

Shortfalls in contributions have prompted many public pension plans to take enormous investment risks to increase their returns; Plus, two retirement plan options for entrepreneurs and self-employed clients.

A top lawyer for the industry regulator says it would be happy to help after a congressman calls on the agency to assume advisor exams.

How one bank reinvested in its online banking channel, after devoting much of its attention to its mobile apps over the past few years.

You wouldn't advise clients to use outdated technology--be just as diligent on their paperwork.

With the right buying and selling strategy, your clients can convert interest income into capital gains and slash their tax bills.

Potential rate increases are keeping income investors skittish. Here's how to deliver smart strategy and informed advice.

After a 6-year bull run, many client portfolios have grown nicely. But cashing out -- or even rebalancing -- may have a downside. See how these advisors are working to minimize the pain.

A 60/40 mix won't offer full diversification. Seeing the historical performance of various asset allocation models can help advisors make better choices for clients.

A promising app from Finance Logix could help engage clients in the planning process. But there's one key aspect that may prove controversial.

A new set of players have shaken up the independent broker-dealer landscape, showing that there's more than one way to throw your weight around. See this year's top players.

While the biggest independent B-Ds have been fairly quiet, the deal-making has shifted to other players. See who's in focus now.

"Advisors that know their clients can smell when something's up," says regulatory and compliance consultant Daniel Bernstein.

The more money elderly high-net-worth clients have, the more they may worry that beneficiaries won't use it wisely.

Two federal agencies have charged William Quigley, Trident Partners' ex-compliance chief, with using his position to defraud overseas investors.