Going independent

No RIA has ever custodied with TD Ameritrade when opting into the Dynasty Network.

Some advisory firms are rethinking whether absolute independence is still the best — and most cost-effective — option.

The No. 1 IBD will roll out the new option for advisors as it competes with other firms in its sector, platform providers and consolidators.

The private equity-backed IBD and its breakaway channel added teams managing $380 million in client assets.

The No. 1 IBD’s Focus conference drew 4,000 advisors, but it faces friction ahead in its ongoing expansion.

Sounds simple in theory, but when it comes to naming an RIA there are plenty of options to consider.

The discount brokerage says the advisor’s primary duties after his notice of resignation were to “make himself available” to help transition his clients to other brokers.

A financial planner serving entrepreneurs decided to become an entrepreneur himself.

Advisor Chuck Cooper says he hopes the new practice will be a home for breakaway wirehouse and IBD-affiliated advisors.

The new recruits come from Merrill Lynch and Stifel, with $165 million in total client assets.

One team wanted more flexibility and time to manage their clients’ financial needs.

The new recruits join the firm’s employee channel from both wirehouses and the independent space.

The new recruits came at the expense of wirehouse rivals Merrill Lynch and Wells Fargo.

The practice made the move as reps say they're more likely to breakaway now than at the end of 2018.

An improving economy is boosting an exodus from wirehouses to RIAs.

These firms scored big with advisors managing $1 billion or more.

The firm's chief has led growth to an expected $1 billion in revenue this year from $7 million in 1998 when she joined. It's a matter of embracing the sector's evolution, she says.

It’s not as easy as hanging out a shingle. Advisors and back-office employees need to master certain traits.

Twelve advisors join the Atria-owned IBD after logging just over a year at their old firm.