Starting your own investment firm requires you to ensure you have a good team working with you. One of the ways you can do this is by offering an attractive executive compensation package. You must ensure that your firm can comfortably handle what you're offering. You should remember that some p...
When you started working for a large financial firm, you certainly signed a contract. At the time, you liked the stability that this contract gave you. You wanted to know exactly what your obligations were, how much you would be paid and other terms of your employment. Having that in writing was ...
Despite massive advances in technology and changes to how we work, it still pays to give all your employees an employee handbook when they start. Whether you print it or keep it virtual is up to you, but ensure you get a signature to say they have read it. What can it achieve? If well written, it...
You have finally decided to make that big leap and start your own RIA firm. However, uncertainties generally associated with starting on your own abound. While you can't expect to have it easy, there are some challenges you need to be aware of and ensure you have efficient and effective solutions...
Along with the lucrative career of a registered investment advisor (RIA) comes a number of potential pitfalls, some more serious than others. Advisor Perspectives has outlined some of the biggest professional risks prevalent in the investment industry, which include: Inadequate insurance coverage...
As you prepare to open your new business, one of your key focuses will be hiring the right professionals. This may be something you don't have much experience with. One situation that can be a source of concern is having to rescind a job offer. Sometimes a business owner or someone on their team ...
People who turn to anyone for help with their finances will count on that person to remain quiet about what's going on. When you're career is in the financial industry, you must be careful not to violate a client's trust. Anyone who's starting their own firm should pave the way for this by using ...
A compliance audit is a stressful event for a registered investment advisor (RIA.) Whether you have been in business for a while or have recently broken away from another firm, here are a few of the key compliance challenges you may face. Knowledge of problem areas can help you avoid the costly c...
As an investment advisor with a large firm, you've probably enjoyed some sense of stability. This might be the career you've dreamed of, but suddenly you want more. If you're thinking about leaving a big-name firm, you should be sure that it's really what you want. There are some signs that sign...
When working in the financial industry, either running a firm or as an investment advisor, it's very important to always put the goals of the investors first. When they came to you to help them with their money, that is the type of service that they agreed to buy. They expect nothing less. One w...
Most business partnerships run into conflict from time to time. However, disputes do not necessarily need to escalate to levels that seriously damage your economic interests. Thankfully, there are measures that can be applied to reduce the risk of severe business conflicts. Outlined below are thr...
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) ensures that the broker-dealer industry operates fairly and honestly. This is done to protect investors against dishonest practices which may cause them to lose their hard-earned money. Therefore, if you receive a Rule 8210 letter from FINRA, i...
Becoming a breakaway RIA is a big decision. Consequently, it is vital to fully understand what this move entails. Perhaps among the most crucial considerations is the terms of your contract. A breakaway that follows without a comprehensive understanding of your contract could result in legal iss...
Thinking of leaving a wirehouse to establish your own firm? You are not alone. The number of registered investment advisors breaking away from corporate positions to go independent has increased in recent years. Many who are thinking about going the independent route worry whether they can afford...
When you decide to leave a corporate environment to form a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) from scratch, you probably expect to put in a lot of work. However, it is also wise to anticipate any challenges that may arise to block your way. When you prepare for the worst, you have a much better ...
Generally, most newly registered investment adviser (RIA) firms require custodians. Following the enactment of the 1940 custody of rule of the Investment Adviser Act, every investment adviser is required to use a “qualified custodian” or be subjected to additional regulatory compliance requiremen...
Going independent should never be a snap decision. After all, starting a firm from the ground up is no small task. However, with the proper guidance and information, the rewards are yours to enjoy. Taking the big leap and starting your RIA firm could be the most important decision you'll make in ...
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) is a non-profit regulatory organization in which individuals in the financial industry take up membership. FINRA operates as requested with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and has the authority to impose penalties, including fi...
Now is the time to start working on a stronger relationship with your current employer, clients, co-workers as well as investigating requirements and options. This season of due diligence will pay dividends down the road when it comes time to make the leap to your own RIA. This is the single larg...
Getting ready to branch out on your own as a new RIA can be an exciting time. You have spent years developing your skills and knowledge, and now you are interested in creating your firm. While many people are seeking your assistance as a registered financial advisor, it is essential to have an id...
Brokers, dealers and financial advisors that are considering leaving large wirehouses to go independent or join another Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) are often plagued with questions about the pros and cons of doing so. They may find themselves echoing that old song that goes, “Should I sta...
This month, President Biden announced that he's planning to sign an executive order that would limit the use of non-compete agreements. While the specifics of the order weren't announced, it would involve asking the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to develop new rules. Those in the advisory and br...
Diversity and inclusion are two concepts that individuals in organizations of all types and sizes across the nation are discussing and implementing from the highest levels on down. There are differing ways that firms are doing this. Most agree, however, on the importance of making each and every ...
As someone who works in the financial advising industry, you're likely well aware that there's no real cap on income. You likely know that your ability to continue generating income is contingent upon your ability to keep a steady flow of customers coming in your door, though. Interest in securin...
Opening the mail to discover someone is trying to sue you can make you wish you had never gone into business. You will go through a range of emotions, from surprise to anger to distress. The important thing is to realize that your first reaction might not be your best one. Avoid taking any action...
Breakaway Partners is committed to answering your questions about RIA Formation, Practice Migration, Financial Industry Dispute Resolution, Employment Issues, and Business & Commercial Litigation issues in California. We offer consultations, and we'll gladly discuss your case with you at your convenience. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.