Practice management

Failing to have a solid succession plan is one of many risk factors that can tank an advisory practice's selling price, industry pros warn.

Whether by partnering with outside professionals or gaining additional certifications or qualifications, advisors have been adding guidance on insurance, health care, taxes, estate planning and more.

It's never too early to school future heirs on the mechanics and productive uses of family wealth.

Insurance, emergency savings and estate planning documents are among the topics advisors should consider reviewing with clients.

Part of clients' anxiety about this issue stems from the uncertainty of how much or how long such health care expenses will be incurred.

The many technical skills and professional requirements get most of the attention. But experts say a transition also requires a great deal of time and other capabilities.

Advisors say it's important to help clients plan ahead of time in order to survive and ultimately rebuild after an emergency.

The emotionally and financially taxing process of a separation demands careful planning, multifaceted form-filing to the IRS and, probably, an advisor for each spouse.

CEO Ted Pick said nearly half of net new assets Morgan Stanley brought in last year landed in fee-generating accounts — and that's right where he wants them.

Top deals from Q4 include Wealth Enhancement Group's deal with Levy Wealth Management Group and Cetera's bid for Concourse Financial Group Securities.