News

Here are all of the comments RR heard from Merrill Lynch brokers. A "[Merrill does a good job at] keeping client interests first. What is the right thing to do? We’re very conservative, we’ll say ‘No’ to things in gray...

Merrill Lynch is placing “a major emphasis on teams” this year, offering brokers more training programs, best practices guidelines, sample business plans, and prototype contracts to help when brokers are establishing a partnership...

Here are all of the comments RR heard from A.G Edwards brokers. A "We focus on client rather than product. We’re a conservative firm so there is no focus on technology and that’s not necessarily a bad thing." B "Overall, not too many...

Here are all of the comments RR heard from Prudential brokers. A No comments. B "Our entire pricing strategy is confusing to the client and the broker." C "Overall, it’s pretty good here. It’s not the best. There’s always room...

Here are all of the comments RR heard from First Union brokers. A "They are highest level in terms of investment consulting research/fee-based programs. Only one or two firm comparable in whole country." B "Doesn’t support new brokers very...

An impressive list of African-American business leaders and entrepreneurs, including Black Entertainment Television Chairman and CEO Robert Johnson, today announced a call for the repeal of the estate tax. The group's perspective on the tax will...

Morgan Stanley is today saying that it will not lay off any brokers. The firm is responding to a Wall Street Journal story in today’s paper that says the firm is considering eliminating 1,000 brokers--7% of its brokerage force--as well as...

Oddlots Random samplings of new affecting the estate planning industry Compiled by Christopher Weems, Associate Editor Send an e-mail with your news item State Taxes are Major Factor in Retiree Relocation Decisions REDDING, Conn. -- As tax season...

Oddlots Random samplings of new affecting the estate planning industry Compiled by Christopher Weems, Associate Editor Send an e-mail with your news item Asset Managemement Firm Still Sees Opprtunity in Stock Market, Calls for Increase in Equity...

Morgan Stanley Dean Witter officially became Morgan Stanley on Monday, shortening its name because the firm considered it “unwieldy.” The firm decided to change its name in January as part of a global branding initiative, pending a...