IBD Elite

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.

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.

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

The largest firms enjoy distinct advantages, to be sure. But many small and midsize independent wealth management firms have an edge, too.

These 10 firms have the most certified financial planners among their advisors, highlighting the channel's ongoing shift away from sales to advice.

These 10 firms are driving the ongoing shift in the industry to fiduciary advice and away from sales commissions.

Amid continuing underrepresentation and a lack of disclosure, these independent brokerages stand out from the rest in their hiring of female representatives.

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

Despite falling stock and bond values last year, firms operating in the channel collectively boosted their business. These are the biggest companies among them.

Independent branches are playing a pivotal role in the industry — regardless of anyone's opinion or awareness of them.