Independent advisors

Life Brokerage Financial has 80 advisors and 40 full-time staff and will join the firm next month.

CEO Jim Cracchiolo says the firm’s headcount is poised for growth again following a stagnant year.

Advisor Group set a record for its recruiting in 2017, and Securities America announced more than a dozen fourth-quarter grabs.

Kris Chester led two major business reorganizations in her time at Wells Fargo Bank.

Compliance and technology hurdles have snarled firms’ efforts to address a longtime gripe.

‘This move highlights the increasing regulatory burdens faced by independents and the solutions that Stifel can offer,’ regional director Kevin Ortmeyer says.

Advisors reported significant growth in assets under management and expect more of the same in the coming months.

The IBD’s parent has increased its investments in advisory services while other insurers exit the space.

Independent Financial Group has grabbed 14 practices with 44 advisors from NPH firms since the LPL deal.

Kestra Financial’s James Poer offers advisors his three predictions for the new year.