Independent BDs

A rare appearance by one of the investors reshaping the IBD sector drew questions from rivals — and insights into the firms’ approach.

Faced with the retention risk from the RIA-only channel, firms are trying to alter their company cultures and questioning traditional approaches.

I don't need outside credentials to bolster my credibility — I have my own.

The recent moves display the stakes of the competitive recruiting fight, which has led to firms like AmeriFlex seeking to give advisors greater flexibility and resources.

CEO Dan Arnold describes the firm’s tech-fueled advisor strategy.

Jim Cracchiolo predicts the number of advisors will go back up, but he says the firm places more importance on boosting the size of their businesses.

The IBD advocacy group expects no letup in enforcement by the regulator — with wide ramifications across wealth management hanging in the balance.

The custodial giant is aiming to cut down on the time involved with opening accounts — which advisors often view as a drain.

If these black financial advisors meet the goal, it will defy the industry's stark racial disparities: early career growth at that level just “doesn't happen in our demographic,” one partner says.

The No. 1 IBD adapted the Envestnet planning software to its digital advisor workstation as it looks for ways to maximize advisors’ efficiency.