An Expected Acquisition Trend in Broker-Dealer Industry

Posted on May 16th, 2014 at 9:00 AM

From the Desk of Jim Eccleston at Eccleston Law Offices:

According to a report from InvestmentNews, given the higher cost in the broker-dealer business over the past few years, some broker-dealers that don't have strong capital behind them may have no choice but to look for an exit strategy. In 2014, six to eight broker-dealers are expected to be acquired by larger entities.

Advisors who work for a broker-dealer that is being acquired need to assess acquisition. For example, doesthe acquiring firm plan to leave the broker-dealer as a stand-alone or roll it up into another broker-dealer? Advisors need to keep a watchful eye on it, because even if the acquirer announces a plan to leave the firm as a stand-alone, it could change the plan quickly after due diligence. In addition, advisors need to understand possible administrative changes. For example, advisors who are working in a smaller broker-dealer where they enjoy the accessibility of key senior management may find that if the firm is purchased by a larger firm with plans for a roll-up, the new situation may not suit them.

Likewise, advisors need to do their own due diligence to clarify if the new culture, technology, clearing platform, business model, and compliance/supervision structure etc. are a good match for themselves.

If due diligence shows that the firm acquiring the broker-dealer will add value and fulfill the adviser's needs and wants, then the change could be beneficial. If the new firm doesn't offer that, another firm may be a better fit.

The attorneys of Eccleston Law Offices represent investors and advisers nationwide in securities and employment matters. Our attorneys draw on a combined experience of nearly 50 years in delivering the highest quality legal services.

Related Attorneys: James J. Eccleston

Tags:

Return to Archive

TESTIMONIALS

Previous
Next

As a financial advisor with over 20 years of experience, I feel fortunate to call Jim my attorney and friend. He is a fantastic lawyer and trusted advisor. He is skilled in the matters necessary to do the job well. He uses his thoughtful approach and calm demeanor to achieve a positive outcome for the client. If you want to feel confident that nothing will be missed and that you will be represented in a highly professional manner, call Jim Eccleston.

Bill C. and Dan M.

LATEST NEWS AND ARTICLES

December 5, 2024
SEC Charges Boca Raton Advisor with $2.1 Million Fraud Scheme

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has charged David Kushner, a Boca Raton, Florida resident, and his company, La Mancha Funding Corp., with defrauding nearly two dozen investors out of approximately $2.1 million.

December 4, 2024
Wells Fargo Advisors Ordered to Pay $500,000 for Misuse of Former Advisor's Name

Wells Fargo Advisors must pay nearly $500,000 in damages to Nicholas Takahashi, for allegedly using his name on their website long after he left for a competitor.

December 3, 2024
Client Associates Sue Firms Over Discrimination and Wrongful Termination

Three former client associates have accused major financial institutions—Charles Schwab, Morgan Stanley, and Ameriprise Financial—of wrongful termination.