IBD Elite

The presidents of two RIAs that use outside broker-dealers discuss how independent wealth managers are morphing in an effort to keep up with a fast-changing industry. Where do brokers fit in the future of wealth management?

As part of a long-term industry shift, firms like Ameriprise, Commonwealth and Northwestern Mutual get most of their business from advisory fees.

Despite the slow pace of change on the representation of women, there are some standout independent wealth managers and some signs of progress.

Find all of the figures from Financial Planning's latest annual study of brokerages whose financial advisors aren't employees of the firms.

These are the largest firms with financial advisors who work with broker-dealers but aren't their employees.

The word 'broker' carries negative connotations. But to many wealth management professionals, commission-based shops are valuable to a transforming industry.

Independent broker-dealers can find examples for how best to serve, hire, support and promote a historically underrepresented group after a year marked by hate.

20 planners and executives offer starkly different views in the wake of a national spate of racial prejudice and violence targeting the group often typecast as the "model minority."

Find all of the data from FP’s annual survey of the industry and ranking of firms by yearly revenue.

The delicate balance between the No. 1 IBD and its ‘critical clients’ is evolving as the industry changes.