Wealth Think

It's not just conventional wisdom, upbeat advisors really can do better, research shows.

Some client gifts never lose their value. Event tickets, investment books and personalized items can actually help build stronger relationships.

While much of the financial industry is undergoing transformation, the traditional brokerage industry has resisted technological change so far. But newcomers offering mobile options for customers show there is a faster, low-cost alternative.

Analysis: Smaller firms may sometimes require more due diligence for advisors considering a move. Here's what to look for.

Commentary: All signs point to the need for advisors to change, simply in order to remain relevant to clients and prospects.

Commentary: Firms can more effectively compete with digital upstarts and grow AUM by adopting new strategies that scale the business at a much lower cost.

After termites gorged on her home, advisor Carolyn McClanahan found that the challenge of rebuilding taxed her practice and her finances.

Commentary: No human, no matter how sophisticated, can operate as consistently, quickly or as efficiently as the technology powering an automated investing service.

Analysis: The case of the one-time billion-dollar advisor who was barred from the industry gives cause for wealth managers to make sure they are within the bounds of the rules.

While rising rates may temporarily improve net interest margin and profits, they will not increase bank stock prices for at least three reasons, according to banking industry consultant J.V. Rizzi.