Happy Friday, PLANADVISER readers. Today’s announcement that Merrill Lynch is underscores the tremendous pressures bearing down on advisory and brokerage businesses, stemming from deep regulatory change and a shift in client expectations. Collected below you will find articles and analysis identifying the top challenges and opportunities advisers face.
Enterprise-level adviser technology providers are just fine with winning new business behind the scenes; two industry executives explain why “traditional advisory firms” should embrace them.
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Internal investment product wholesalers are pursuing advanced degrees and designations to improve their image as “knowledge partners” in the eyes of advisers, according to new Cerulli Associates research.
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More than half of broker/dealers surveyed by the LIMRA Secure Retirement Institute believe some of their advisers will retire rather than sell under the new.
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A confluence of generational, technological and consumer preference trends is driving a sea change in the traditional investment advisory business, according to J.D. Power researchers.
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Advisers polled said their top three concerns are, first, a lack of focus on driving firm value, followed by the inability to grow client AUM/revenue and the inability to change client demographics.
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The U.S. faces a $4 trillion retirement savings gap heading in the new year, but both public and private solutions are coming online to help more people prepare adequately for life after work.
A survey also found nearly half of employees prefer to have a mix of investments and lifetime income over either traditional pensions or investments alone.
Wealthspire’s leadership calls the acquisition “a significant opportunity to plant a flag on the West Coast and demonstrate our growing national scope.”
The lawsuit claims the veterinary hospital network’s retirement plan, which has more than $500 million in assets, should have paid lower fees for recordkeeping and administrative services.
Portfolio Evaluations adds senior fiduciary consultant; Voya Investment Management to acquire Tygh Capital Management; and Alan Biller and Associates makes key promotions.
