Independent BDs

Mainstays of the sector like Commonwealth, Cambridge and Northwestern Mutual are contributing to it, but smaller firms are also driving change.

The No. 1 IBD aims to triple its potential target market reach, in part by adapting some aspects of employee services to independence.

The ex-CEO of a tax-focused firm acquired by the network in 2012 now leads HD Vest and 1st Global following the $180-million deal.

The BD’s employee channel is attracting more independent reps through offerings like technology and practice acquisition support.

Independent broker-dealers have changed with the times. Our annual ranking has, too.

The new player aims to disrupt the sector despite losing some 300 reps to other firms.

Despite a great year, firms don't see fit to rest on their laurels. Instead, they're preparing and adjusting to falling traditional revenue and rising expenses.

This interactive tool provides the full collection of data from Financial Planning's 34th annual study of the largest firms in the space.

The majority of the top 25 firms boosted their business by double digits in 2018, and five of them reeled in more than 20% growth.

Carson Group has recruited $1.2 billion in client assets this year across 13 different firms.