Professional development

As access to and interest in alternative investments grow, financial advisors could differentiate themselves by earning the CAIA mark.

A record high in attendance and backers like LPL, Morgan Stanley, Carson Group and FPA highlight how the industry has taken notice of the SER Summit.

MML Investors Services, ONESCO and Integrity Alliance (formerly Brokers International) top the list as independent brokerages compete for financial advisors.

Also this week in Advisor Moves, Fifth Third reels in a big team from BNY Mellon, and MAI Capital Management doubles its AUM with a big acquisition deal.

The question has turned into something of a paradox because of the related, but different, rise of RIAs and how that has affected independent brokerages.

Financial Planning's latest continuing education quiz offers subscribers the chance to earn credit, sharpen professional knowledge and brush up on relevant skills.

Siblings, spouses, children and parents in the wealth management industry have found fulfillment and success going against this common wisdom, though it can present challenges.

Also this week, Raymond James picks another team from Commonwealth amid its purchase by LPL, and Cetera recruits from B. Riley Wealth Advisors.

The numbers don't reflect much change in the low representation of female wealth management professionals, but there are some signs of progress.

Only about 4% to 6% of advisors switch firms in a given year, for any number of reasons. Here's how growing advisory teams add to their ranks.

Plus, UBS loses a pair of advisors from a prominent team to Morgan Stanley, while SageView and Corient make big acquisition deals.

Financial advisors can multiply their reach, the value of their business and their client services by tapping new employees. Finding the right fit is a careful dance.

Also this week, both Arax Investment Partners and Aspen Standard Wealth add RIAs with $1B in AUM.

Nearly one-third of affluent investors don't have an estate plan, according to an Escalent survey. For advisors and clients alike, estate planning conversations can be difficult but essential.

Niche smart, market human and outsource wisely: insights for financial advisors looking to grow, from the Morningstar Investment Conference.

Social media and other digital technologies have fundamentally altered the process and, experts say, often distract financial advisors from the most successful methods.

Being a financial advisor with ADHD comes with challenges. But it can also lead to positive change.

Also this week, the tech-driven RIA Farther boosts its AUM total to over $13 billion with a recruiting blitz, Mercer adds an RIA with more than $1 billion in assets and Cresset fills out its C-suite.

The American College of Financial Services and RISR are collaborating as a BNY Wealth report showcased the planning complexities of owner succession deals.

The question looms especially large for startups breaking into the field, but there are no straightforward answers. Here's a guide for financial advisors.