Practice management

The vast majority of boomers are not prepared for retirement and have put saving on hold until the economy turns around.

More than eight in 10 (85%) are saving less than 10% of their income for retirement.

Affluent and millionaire investor confidence rose in October, according to research from Spectrem Group. Meanwhile, millionaire investors see mostly advantages to working with advisors.

Former SEC chairman Arthur Levitt called the lack of an adequate backup plan a “body blow” to the reputation of the New York Stock Exchange. NYSE Euronext called his comments “appallingly and irresponsibly wrong.”

In a continued push to reform regulation for advisors, five independent financial firms have joined the Financial Services Institute.

If your goal is to win new clients and influence bank trust officers, then you have to learn how to talk the talk-first lesson, be sincere.

The financial advisor industry is facing a looming crisis. Advisors are getting older, and there aren't enough talented young people entering the field to take the reins as these older advisors retire.

Your clients may not fully understand their motivations—but as an advisor, you need to delve further into their psyches.

Advisors have to walk a tightrope when retired clients show signs of dementia. How do you follow your clients' wishes and also do what's best for them when those two things begin to diverge?

A run-down of the stories in this issue, including Credit Suisse's expansion plans, tips on avoiding the biggest estate planning mistakes, making account opening more efficient, and a discussion of senior fraud with Don Blandin.

Steps you should take if you are terminated.

How long must a broker-dealer keep records of accounts that have left the firm?

What every advisor should know about government insurance to better serve clients.

Inefficiencies in account opening irk advisors and potential clients alike.

Are firms doing all they can when it comes to handling material non-public info?

The president and CEO of Investor Protection Trust discusses issues facing seniors and the special problems for which advisors should watch, including protecting them against fraud.

Anthony DeChellis, Credit Suisse's CEO of Private Banking Americas, has big plans for hiring and expanding assets.

A better approach is needed for training advisors.

The academic landscape for financial planning is shifting rapidly. Here's where to find the next generation of advisors.

If your firm's home page looks like it's stuck in the 1990s, you're likely driving away prospects and employees. Here are 7 rules for making an upgrade.