Patrick Funke & Associates' decision to join Commonwealth Financial Network suggests that despite its pending purchase by LPL, Commonwealth still appeals to advisors seeking a smaller setting.

A consulting firm's report on the future of the channel reveals the ambivalence and frustration many feel about the impact of M&A consolidation.

Jamie Price of Osaic says attrition at his firm was below expectations during its recent internal consolidation of nine separate brokerages and that not having a self-clearing and self-custody business is an advantage these days.

The deal marks the purchase of one private equity-owned firm by a much larger one with majority private equity backing.

Industry experts say there's theoretically no reason why firms can't keep getting bigger through recruiting deals. But a lack of good M&A prospects could make growth harder for LPL and other independent broker-dealers.

Experts say that there are pitfalls, rules and procedures that departing financial advisors should know. Problem is, too many act first and consult lawyers later.

With more than $8 billion in assets under advisement, Simon Quick can comfortably serve high net worth clients. And it's managed to get there without private equity.

Regulators discovered Julie Darrah had been siphoning millions from elderly clients after WEG bought her practice in 2021.

In a consolidating industry, perpetual growth may seem like the only way forward, but financial advisors still have options.

Despite the notable flows and valuations, some sellers get locked into an ill-fitting parent firm without many options for getting away.