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Over the past 18 years, the independent brokerage channel of the industry has surged massively while also evolving significantly.
September 19 -
MML Investors Services, ONESCO and Integrity Alliance (formerly Brokers International) top the list as independent brokerages compete for financial advisors.
September 3 -
The group of rapidly expanding firms includes mainstays like LPL Financial, but also smaller upstarts that are enlarging their footprints at a notable clip.
August 27 -
The numbers don't reflect much change in the low representation of female wealth management professionals, but there are some signs of progress.
August 20 -
Each of the biggest firms in the channel grew substantially in 2024, but LPL's giant M&A deal to buy Commonwealth for $2.7 billion has further consolidated the ranks.
August 13 -
Find all of the figures from Financial Planning's latest annual study of brokerages whose financial advisors aren't employees of the firms.
August 12 -
Independent financial advisors are getting more tools at an accelerating rate in timing and capital investment. Here's how experts say they can adapt and overcome the fear of replacement.
August 12 -
The number of certified financial planners reflects competition for talent and a profession navigating questions about conflicts of interest.
September 10 -
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.
September 4 -
Rising financial advisor productivity came with much better pay at these independent brokerages.
August 27 -
These 12 independent wealth management firms are setting a higher bar than their peers, but they and the industry still have a very long way to go.
August 20 -
Slight shifts in the makeup of the biggest firms in the channel reflect a more complicated picture than sheer dominance by the giants at the top.
August 15 -
Find all of the figures from Financial Planning's latest annual study of brokerages whose financial advisors aren't employees of the firms.
August 14 -
The largest firms enjoy distinct advantages, to be sure. But many small and midsize independent wealth management firms have an edge, too.
August 14 -
These 10 firms have the most certified financial planners among their advisors, highlighting the channel's ongoing shift away from sales to advice.
October 11 -
These 10 firms are driving the ongoing shift in the industry to fiduciary advice and away from sales commissions.
September 27 -
Amid continuing underrepresentation and a lack of disclosure, these independent brokerages stand out from the rest in their hiring of female representatives.
September 20 -
Find all of the figures from Financial Planning's latest annual study of brokerages whose financial advisors aren't employees of the firms.
September 12 -
Despite falling stock and bond values last year, firms operating in the channel collectively boosted their business. These are the biggest companies among them.
September 12 -
Independent branches are playing a pivotal role in the industry — regardless of anyone's opinion or awareness of them.
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