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 number of Department of Labor investigations of financial advisers has steadily increased over the years; here is a primer on the DOL’s sources of authority, and what to expect when examiners come knocking.
