The independent financial advice channel has grown considerably over the past decade and "if you believe that is a trend, and not a fad, why would we not be doing this?" an executive said.

The organization also added new independent advisors to replace two leaving.

The government reopening is just a temporary reprieve, and advisors looking to go independent may want to consider other options beyond SEC registration, in case another shutdown occurs.

The acquisition of the $500 million Summit Planning Group is the second foray the firm has made in Wisconsin in a bid to become a nationally branded RIA.

Wells Fargo has made 10 big-ticket hires over the past two years to prove it has changed. Previously, it historically promoted from within.