Guide to Long-Term Investment Strategies. Senior portfolio manager Chris Fasciano shared a comprehensive overview of investment strategy knowledge, including advantages of long- and short-term investing, whether or not inflation impacts it, and strategies to achieve long-term success. MoneyGeek, 10/11/24

Expert Insights on Average US Retirement Savings. Matt Powers, vice president, strategic retirement solutions, shared his expertise on the average American’s retirement savings. He explained the correlation between education level and retirement in the U.S., savings tips for retirement at 60, and advice for those starting to plan for retirement. MoneyGeek, 10/10/24

Commonwealth Launches Direct Indexing, UMA Capabilities. Commonwealth announced the next evolution of the Preferred Portfolio Services (PPS) Select asset management program at the 2024 National Conference. Peter Essele, SVP, head of advisory solutions, spoke about its new capabilities, including personalized indexing designed to help manage client investments and put advisors in the driver’s seat. Financial Advisor IQ, 10/8/24

Bloomberg Intelligence, Israel Talks, China Markets. Several of Commonwealth’s experts shared insights on their various areas of expertise in the Bloomberg Intelligence podcast, including Rob Kane, director, alternative investments, Chris Fasciano, senior portfolio manager, and Peter Essele, SVP, head of advisory solutions. CIO Brad McMillan discussed how Commonwealth has continued to guide advisors through market fluctuations for more than 45 years. Bloomberg Intelligence Podcast, 10/8/24

Wall Street Breakfast: Payrolls In Focus. In the Wall Street Breakfast podcast, Sam Millette, director of fixed income, shared his perspective on the estimated nonfarm payrolls number—a reaction to the Labor Department’s closely watched nonfarm payrolls report. Seeking Alpha, 10/4/24

The High Cost of Luring Business. Becca Hajjar, managing principal and chief business development officer, discussed the importance of differentiating your firm to prepare for succession. She shared how Commonwealth has achieved this by embracing next-gen talent, providing virtual support, best-in-class coaching, and development programs, and serving niche clients. Financial Advisor Magazine, 10/1/24

Pending IRA rules, inflation woes and other retirement planning issues. In light of the IRS’ final regulations on required minimum distribution rules, Heather Zack, director of high-net-worth solutions, explained the uncertainty that the “stretch” strategy presented for financial advisors. Financial Planning, 9/27/24

Commonwealth Nabs Two Osaic Advisors, Spotlights Partners’ Growth. Aegis Consulting, a Florida-based firm formerly affiliated with Lincoln Financial, credited its near-doubled assets to joining Commonwealth. ThinkAdvisor, 9/24/24

Commonwealth Brings Pooled Employer Plan to Advisors. To meet the increasing demand from affiliated advisors for simplified retirement plan solutions, Commonwealth launched a new pooled employer plan with the help of its partner, Vestwell. This plan will impact more than 2,000 advisors, many of whom have been looking for more accessible plan options with streamlined processes and reduced administrative burdens. Wealth Management, 9/20/24

Commonwealth Boosts FA Training for HNW Wealth Transfers. As seen in Financial Advisor IQ, Commonwealth has partnered with Legacy Capitals to provide training and education programs for advisors serving high-net-worth clients. Karen McColl, SVP, wealth management, spoke to the intention behind these new offerings. Financial Advisor IQ, 9/18/24

Q2 2024 Earnings Season Review: Beating Expectations Isn’t Enough. Rob Swanke, senior investment research analyst at Commonwealth, shared his perspective on second-quarter earnings in a football-themed “season review.” He covered the Magnificent Seven, activities in the market beyond the top names, and what a mixed quarter means for the future. Advisor Perspectives, 9/12/24

2 reasons why markets will face ‘constrained volatility’ ahead. [video] Commonwealth’s CIO Brad McMillan discussed the state of the U.S. market, explaining that it is “still looking to adjust to a more defensive posture” as economic growth slows. He also predicted volatility driven by the constraints of a lagging economy and an interest rate cut. Yahoo! Finance, 9/9/24

Stock Market News, Aug. 27, 2024: S&P 500 Inches Higher, Not Far Off Record. As the consumer confidence index rises and inflation eases, economists see a bright spot in the market. Commonwealth’s CIO Brad McMillan spoke about how interest rates may be cut soon. The Wall Street Journal, 8/27/24

Navigating the Regulatory Landscape for Investment Advisers. Scott Wilkinson, manager, RIA compliance consulting, discussed his many years of experience helping busy advisors navigate the complicated world of compliance, highlighting regulatory focus areas for today’s landscape. Advisorpedia, 8/26/24

Three things to get right to attract HNW clients. Learn strategies for attracting and retaining high-net-worth clients from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 8/19/24

Commonwealth Recruits $300 Million Team From Northwest Mutual. Commonwealth welcomed the Wisconsin-based Sentinel Advisory Group in August, bringing more than $300 million in assets. Managing principal and chief business development officer Becca Hajjar spoke about the chemistry between the two, stating the Sentinel team “recognized a natural fit between their core values and the Commonwealth culture, and we’re honored that when they were ready to make a change, they trusted us with their business.” Wealth Solutions Report, 8/12/24

Stock Market Sell-Off: What to Expect Next. After an alarming downturn in August, Commonwealth CIO Brad McMillan outlined his predictions for the market, sharing a look back at the past that painted a brighter picture for the future. Rethinking65, 8/6/24

Commonwealth Financial Acquires Sentinel Advisory Group. Sentinel Advisory Group joined Commonwealth’s network of independent financial advisors with $300 million in client assets. Their decision to choose Commonwealth came down to support. Cofounder Peter Shulla shared, “We needed unified technology systems that could both ease how we do business now and enable us to extend our range of services over time while leveling up our client experience.” 401K Specialist, 8/4/24

Commonwealth Adds $300M Wisconsin Team from Northwestern Mutual. Sentinel Advisory Group, managing $330 million in client assets, has joined Commonwealth from Northwestern Mutual. The Wisconsin-based team was drawn to Commonwealth’s unified technology systems and strong transition support, which they believe will enhance business operations and the client experience. Wealth Management, 7/31/2024

Mag 7 must perform 'incredibly well' to justify valuations. Commonwealth’s CIO Brad McMillan warned of “a threat of more pressure” on the Magnificent Seven due to high valuations and slow earnings growth. Despite these concerns, McMillan remained optimistic about consumer health, citing robust job market conditions and continued wage growth. Yahoo! Finance, 7/24/2024

Commonwealth Using 'Softer' Touch, Expanding Alts to Attract HNW Clients. Commonwealth is advancing its services for high-net-worth clients through soft skills training and expanded alternative investment offerings. CEO Wayne Bloom explained that initiatives include partnerships that aim to improve comprehensive wealth management for all client levels. Financial Advisor IQ, 7/16/2024

Buffer ETFs Provide Comfort at a High Cost, Advisors Say. Rob Swanke of Commonwealth noted the appeal of buffer ETFs, which manage risk and reduce short-term volatility. Despite higher fees, such as the 0.69 percent for the Calamos S&P 500 Structured Alt Protection ETF, Commonwealth values these ETFs for their stability and predictability, especially amid market uncertainty. Financial Advisor Magazine, 7/11/2024

Commonwealth, Stifel, Raymond James top advisor satisfaction rankings; Wells Fargo Advisors' score jumps by triple digits. Commonwealth Financial Network continued to excel in J.D. Power’s U.S. Financial Advisor Satisfaction Study, maintaining its leading position due to its strong leadership, supportive culture, and effective technology. This consistent ranking underscored Commonwealth’s commitment to providing a supportive environment that resonates well with financial advisors. Financial Planning, 7/10/2024

Traders hesitant to make directional bets ahead of Fourth of July holiday. Commonwealth’s CIO, Brad McMillan, observed trader caution due to a slowing economy ahead of the Fourth of July. He remained optimistic, highlighting the importance of the upcoming U.S. jobs report and consumer confidence data in evaluating the economy’s health. MarketWatch, 7/1/2024

Commonwealth swipes $300M planning team from Osaic. Commonwealth has successfully recruited Terramar Wealth, formerly with Osaic, to its network of affiliated advisors. The move marked their first affiliation change in 22 years. InvestmentNews, 6/26/2024

Tech undergoing ‘continued growth story’ despite Nvidia drag. [video] Commonwealth’s CIO Brad McMillan joined Yahoo! Finance to share his views on the tech sector’s pullback and inflation. He also discussed opportunities in small-cap stocks and consumer staples. Yahoo! Finance, 6/24/2024

Women are built for this business. Commonwealth’s Becca Hajjar, managing principal and chief business development officer, explained the importance of recognizing women’s contributions to the industry. InvestmentNews, 6/18/2024

How This Bank Rep Took the Leap to Independence. Rebecca Boyd, CEO of Kin Wealth, left Frost Bank to join Commonwealth. She and advisor Collin Fabac chose Commonwealth for its supportive community and resources. Think Advisor, 6/12/2024

WSR Honors Inaugural FAR 10 – Top Financial Advisor Recruiters. Wealth Solutions Report’s FAR 10 list recognized leading financial advisor recruiters, including Becca Hajjar, managing principal and chief business development officer. Hajjar has set new recruiting records and supports initiatives like the Women of Commonwealth. Read her comments that emphasize the importance of “tuck-ins” to grow advisor teams. Wealth Solutions Report, 6/11/2024

EMEA Morning Briefing: Stock Futures Lower, Euro Falls After EU Vote. Following the EU elections, European stock futures declined. Brad McMillan, CIO, noted that despite the political shifts, the strong U.S. jobs report suggests an earnings-led recovery buoyed by robust employment and consumer confidence. Market Screener, 6/10/2024

Preventing the Second Home Dream from Becoming a Nightmare. Vance Barse of Your Dedicated Fiduciary™ pointed out that high interest rates and rising mortgage costs have dampened interest in second home purchases. He advised thorough financial planning to address the potential strains of maintaining such properties. Financial Advisor Magazine, 5/30/2024

Raging Bull's Bishop: 'If this is not the top, we've got to be very close.' [audio]. Sam Millette, director of fixed income, recently joined Chuck Jaffee to discuss the market's response to the Fed's decision to delay rate cuts. He explained why this could potentially enhance market performance in the latter half of the year. Money Life with Chuck Jaffee, 5/24/2024

Targeting Wealthy Clients, Commonwealth Teams With iCapital on Alts Offerings. As seen in ThinkAdvisor, Commonwealth has partnered with iCapital to streamline alternative investment options for high-net-worth clients, improving service efficiency and expanding investment choices. Karen McColl, senior vice president of wealth management, emphasized the strategic importance of this initiative. ThinkAdvisor, 5/21/2024

The Shifting Sands of the Market: A Challenge for Asset Allocators. Portfolio manager Chris Fasciano discussed adjusting portfolio asset classes and focusing on large-caps' dominance and smaller-caps' changes. His article guides asset allocators through today's challenging financial landscape. Rethinking65, 5/16/2024

Stock Indexes Book Records After Inflation Eases. The S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq Composite all closed at record highs after a report showed easing inflation, sparking investor optimism. Brad McMillan, chief investment officer, noted the shift in investor sentiment, reflecting increased confidence in the market. The Wall Street Journal, 5/15/2024

The Fed will get inflation down, 'and if there's damage, so be it': Brad McMillan [video]. Commonwealth CIO Brad McMillan joined Fox Business's Mornings with Maria to share insights ahead of the Fed's meeting this week. Fox Business, 4/29/2024

Sure, I Know What Direct Indexing Is. In Financial Advisor IQ’s weekly newsletter, Deconstructed, senior vice president of investment management and research, Peter Essele, discussed the Commonwealth Preferred Portfolio Services (PPS) Select Program and making direct indexing available to affiliates. Financial Advisor IQ, 4/10/2024

Treasury Yields Hit 2024 Highs. In an interview with MSN, chief investment officer, Brad McMillan, emphasized the disconnection between the market expectation on inflation and current economic trends. MSN, 4/8/2024

Ways to network better with CPAs. Kristine McManus, chief advisor growth officer, discussed the importance of cultivating strong relationships with CPAs to leverage their influence and expand client networks in her latest piece for InvestmentNews. InvestmentNews, 4/8/2024

Stock Market Today: Stocks rebound on 'Goldilocks' jobs data. Rob Swanke, senior equity strategist, mentioned how the Fed will remain patient in adjusting rates unless the jobs report exceeds expectations. Yahoo! Finance, 4/5/2024

A Review of the IBD Universe And Its Systemic Evolution. Commonwealth has once again been ranked by Financial Advisor Magazine for having the highest average gross revenue per advisor among independent broker/dealers. This recognition underscores Commonwealth's commitment to supporting its advisors and enhancing their business success. Financial Advisor Magazine, 4/4/2024

Biden admin cancels plan to refill emergency oil reserve amid high prices. CIO Brad McMillan joined Maria Bartiromo on Mornings with Maria to discuss the effects of the Baltimore bridge disaster. Fox Business, 4/3/2024

What's next for the S&P 500 after its best run since 2011. Rob Swanke, senior equity strategist, discussed the importance of market and Fed alignment and emphasized the need to consider valuations in a higher interest rate environment. Yahoo! Finance, 3/28/2024

Simplifying the Path to Becoming a Fee-Based Advisor [audio]. In a VettaFi podcast, Alex Hanson, senior vice president of RIA compliance, discussed the personal considerations involved in switching to a fee-based model, outlining potential benefits and drawbacks for practices. VettaFi, 3/27/2024

Fed stands pat on rates and view on 2024 cuts, in face of elevated inflation. In an interview with Yahoo! Finance, Sam Millette, director of fixed income, explained how relatively strong overall economic growth in the first quarter could affect the Fed’s decision to cut rates. Yahoo! Finance, 3/20/2024

Stock Market Today: S&P 500 extends run, eyes 5,200, after jobs report: Bitcoin tops $70K. Rob Swanke, senior equity strategist, highlighted various aspects of the February jobs report and its impact on the Fed potentially cutting rates. Yahoo! Finance, 3/8/2024

Lingering Rate Uncertainty May Lead to Choppy Trading On Wall Street. In a recent interview, Sam Millette, director of fixed income, explained why the January consumer price report brought investors some relief. Business Insider, 3/1/2024

Commonwealth Financial welcomes $384M trio. As covered by InvestmentNews, “We inevitably chose Commonwealth because of the technology, culture, and leadership,” said Les Benzak of Tupelo Wealth Partners. Read the full article to see what else attracted the firm to Commonwealth. Investment News, 2/28/2024

S&P 500 record highs paper-over Fed risks and bond market signals. Senior equity strategist Rob Swanke discussed inflation's impact on the Fed's decision. MSN, 2/24/2024

Commonwealth Continues Strong Recruiting, Looks for More in 2024. In an in-depth interview with ThinkAdvisor, Becca Hajjar, managing principal and chief business development officer, discussed our second year of record recruiting results and our ambitious 2024 goals. Read more to learn how we’ve prioritized our product offerings and advisor culture to maximize momentum. ThinkAdvisor, 02/14/2024

What advisors should consider before participating in awards season. During award season, opportunities are plentiful. Chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, works through the pros and cons of entering the award pool. Investment News, 2/13/2024

Wealth Managers Work to Deliver 'Seamless' Tech Experiences: Commonwealth Prez. [video] Trap Kloman, president and chief operating officer, shared why data management and creating indispensable experiences for advisors are top priorities among firms. FundFire, 02/06/2024

Fed won't cut rates the way the market expects. [video] CIO Brad McMillan joined Maria Bartiromo on Fox Business’s Mornings with Maria to discuss market earnings, the Fed’s first policy meeting of 2024, and his expectations for the fourth quarter. Fox Business, 01/25/2024

5 things to know before the stock market opens Tuesday. Brian Price, head of investment management, discussed the effects of the Dow Jones Industrial Average hitting an all-time high. CNBC, 01/23/2024

ESG Portfolios Must 'Reflect' Marketing: Commonwealth Prez. [video] Commonwealth president and chief operating officer Trap Kloman discusses environmental, social, and governance strategies in a recent interview. FundFire, 01/22/2024

Wall Street celebrates record highs for stocks as 2 of the 3 major indexes hit new peaks, and some analysts see room to run. Rob Swanke, senior equity strategist, explained why stock market valuations have been rising and why there’s still room to go even higher. Yahoo! Finance, 01/19/2024

American consumers haven't been this upbeat about the economy since 2021. In a recent interview, Sam Millette, director of fixed income, shares his thoughts on improving of consumers’ views on economic conditions. Business Insider, 01/19/2024

RightCapital conversions from MoneyGuidePro are a catalyst for Commonwealth’s move to put paraplanners at advisor fingertips. In a recent RIABiz article about Commonwealth’s Virtual Paraplanning Program, CEO Wayne Bloom and SVP of wealth management, Karen McColl, outlined the benefits of this program. RIABiz, 1/19/2024

Clients Have So Many Financial Needs. What’s an Advisor to Do? “Commonwealth’s virtual paraplanning program is just the latest reflection of everything that we are doing to bolster all the different ways we support our advisors,” shared Karen McColl, SVP of wealth management, in an in-depth conversation with ThinkAdvisor. ThinkAdvisor, 1/11/2024

Housing costs were still the largest factor in the latest CPI rise. But are there signs of hope? Director of fixed income, Sam Millette, shares his prediction on shelter inflation ahead of the latest CPI release. Yahoo! Finance, 01/11/2024

3 ways to jump-start your growth in 2024. “What lies ahead is yet to be determined, but if you’re an advisor looking to grow, there are always things you can do that are within your control.” Kristine McManus, chief advisor growth officer, discusses how three growth activities help jump-start the new year. InvestmentNews, 01/10/2024

Market volatility ticks up: Where do Fed rate cuts fit in? [video] In an interview with Yahoo! Finance, Brad McMillan shared his insight on “the fear” the stock market is having to process. Yahoo! Finance, 01/08/2024

Survey: Here’s how experts see Fed policy hitting stocks in 2024. CIO Brad McMillan discussed the potential impact of Fed policy on the stock market for 2024. Yahoo! Finance, 12/19/2023

Why Stocks Could Blow Past Record High and Keep Soaring. In a recent interview, Sam Millette, director, fixed income, discussed how markets reacted positively to the Fed holding rates steady for the third consecutive meeting. MSN, 12/13/2023

3 things to consider when selecting a niche. How can advisors capture business from the market segment they want to serve? Kristine McManus, chief advisor growth officer, discussed how advisors can develop a niche and gain growth opportunities. InvestmentNews, 12/12/2023

Stock Market Today: Stocks stall, Treasury yields higher ahead of huge week on Wall Street. Brad McMillan, chief investment officer, shared his thoughts on how the U.S. economy is still headed for a soft landing. MSN, 12/11/2023

November jobs data: Strategist eyes Treasury yield movement. [video] Brad McMillan joined Yahoo! Finance to shine a light on the 10-year Treasury yield and explained why this is the metric to monitor. Yahoo! Finance, 12/8/2023

Commonwealth Expands Model Portfolio Platform. Head of investment management, Brian Price, explained the benefits of our expanded in-house model portfolio platform service, PPS Select. WealthManagement.com, 12/05/2023

Meet the 2023 LUMINARIES Winners. We are proud to be named the Think Advisor LUMINARIES winner in the Firm - Executive Leadership category. ThinkAdvisor, 11/30/2023

Commonwealth Recruits $3 Billion Advisor Team. Commonwealth recruited its largest advisor firm to date, San Diego-based Mammini Company. Read more to see how they plan to leverage Commonwealth’s tools and technology as they seek to expand their business. Barron’s, 11/28/2023

Here’s When the Fed Will Cut Interest Rates, According to Experts. Sam Millette shared his prediction of what interest rate cuts could look like in the first half of 2024. Money.com, 11/26/2023

Investing veterans break down their outlook for the year ahead as markets return to pre-2008 conditions. Head of investment management, Brian Price, explained why Commonwealth believes the 60/40 portfolio will become more attractive than it has been for some time. Business Insider, 11/18/2023

Wall Street Celebrates Strong Inflation Report: Dow, S&P 500 Surge To 2-Month Highs. In a recent Forbes article, Sam Millette explained that the S&P 500 tally can be attributed to investors’ belief that the Fed will be less likely to hike interest rates at future meetings. Forbes, 11/14/2023

To connect with clients, embrace the holiday season. “Every party you attend or host and every gift delivered can move your brand forward, strengthening and building relationships,” explained Kristine McManus in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 11/7/2023

Meet the CPWA, a key designation for serving HNW clients. “Advisors had been asking for more support in growing their practices organically, and Commonwealth chose the CPWA for the level of ‘technical depth’ it offered,” explained Kenton Shirk, vice president of practice management. Financial Planning, 11/6/2023

Live updates: The latest on markets, the jobs report and the economy. In a recent interview, CIO Brad McMillan discussed the status of the jobs report, explaining, “Slower growth is still growth, and this jobs report is still in the sweet spot.” CNN Business, 11/3/2023

To boost your advisory brand, answer these 11 questions. In a recent article for Financial Planning, Angela Streba, director, advisor brands, explained the 11 key questions to ask yourself as an independent financial advisor to boost your advisory brand. Financial Planning, 11/1/2023

10-Year Treasury yield tops 5%: What investors need to know. In an interview with Yahoo! Finance, Brad McMillan, CIO, explains why he's not worried about the rising Treasury yield just yet. Yahoo! Finance, 10/25/2023

Broker-Dealers Ramp Up Advisor Recruitment & Retention Strategies. "We believe that Commonwealth is the destination for advisors who want to grow and expand their practices, yet we understand that the path to achieving their vision for success may mean many different things to different advisors," explained Matt Chisholm, senior vice president, business solutions. Wealth Solutions Report, 10/24/2023

Commonwealth to Open, Hire Staff for New Home Office. CEO Wayne Bloom explains our multipronged strategy to "keep growing and making sure we provide great service to our advisors" in his interview with ThinkAdvisor. ThinkAdvisor, 10/20/2023

Commonwealth Targets Big 'Enterprise' Teams, Next-Gen FAs with Expanded Tools. In a recent interview with Financial Advisor IQ, Kenton Shirk, vice president of practice management, explains that “Commonwealth wants to be 'a destination for enterprise firms' and the growth partner of choice for these more professionalized practices." Financial Advisor IQ, 10/20/2023

Treasury Auctions Are Usually Boring. Why Today's Could Shake the Stock Market. As seen in Barron's, Sam Millete, director of fixed income, discusses how the 20-year Treasury auction will serve as a test of investors' confidence in the U.S. government. Barron's, 10/19/2023

Game-time play: Know your value as a financial advisor. As an advisor, do you believe you can truly make a difference in your clients' lives? Chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, discusses the importance of articulating your value proposition in her latest article. InvestmentNews, 10/18/2023

Commonwealth Eyes Recruiting Stream from Employee Channels, RIAs. Members of Commonwealth's leadership team joined Financial Advisor IQ and our president and COO, Trap Kloman, shared ways we're seeing greater diversity in our recruiting. Financial Advisor IQ, 10/16/2023

Commonwealth Adds Services to Attract Affluent Clients, Expand RIA Presence. "Wealth management is your competitive advantage," Karen McColl, senior vice president of wealth management, explained to National 2023 attendees. Read more on ways we are enhancing our offerings and adding tools to support our advisors in attracting affluent clients. Financial Advisor, 10/13/2023

Commonwealth's Plan: Enable FAs' Practice Growth, Target HNW Clients. From the main stage of National 2023, we announced we're "doubling down" on the support we provide to help our advisors grow their practices. Read more. Financial Advisor IQ, 10/13/2023

IBD Elite 2023: What the Heck is an OSJ? We're proud to rank highest in average advisor payout among IBDs and equally gratified to deliver on the trust our advisors place in us as they build and scale their independent businesses. Financial Planning, 10/12/2023

Former Brinker CEO Noreen Beaman Joins Commonwealth Board. Seeking new perspectives, insights, and wisdom, Commonwealth announced the expansion of its advisory board with the addition of seasoned wealth management professional, Noreen Beaman. WealthManagement.com, 09/26/2023

The money value of spending time with clients. How can advisors grow their practice and spend their time wisely? Chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, discusses how prioritizing clients can promote firm growth in her latest article. InvestmentNews, 09/25/2023

UAW strike has already cost the US economy $1.6B. [video] Brad joins Maria Bartiromo on FOX Business's Mornings with Maria to discuss what impact the UAQ strike could have on the economy. FOX Business, 09/22/2023

Commonwealth expands college ties to stem succession challenge. In an interview with Financial Planning, David Israel, vice president of field outreach, expands on our latest Talent Exchange initiative, which aims to build strategic partnerships with higher-learning institutions and connects students and alumni with our advisors. Financial Planning, 09/19/2023

Targeting $1B, advisor team drops Avantax for Commonwealth. "Over the years, we have worked tirelessly to create a culture that promotes the success of our advisors and fosters a high level of entrepreneurialism—R&R Wealth Management, LLC, will bring its like-minded spirit to our community of independent advisors," said Becca Hajjar, managing principal, chief business development officer. Read more on why the R&R Wealth team chose Commonwealth. Financial Planning, 09/18/2023

US inflation climbs more than expected in August as gas prices surge. Director of fixed income, Sam Millette, explains what impact the Consumer Price Index has on inflation. New York Post, 09/13/2023

Paragon Financial Joins Commonwealth From LPL. With nearly 25 years as a referral-based business, Paragon Financial, LLC, takes client service to heart. Moving its business to Commonwealth will usher in a new era, expanding the team's success and offering flexible service models. Financial Advisor, 09/12/2023

Wealth Management Industry Awards 2023 Finalists & Winners. We're honored to be named the Service winner in the Broker/Dealer category and grateful for this special recognition for our NextGen Business Development Group. We commend our fellow nominees for bringing excellence, innovation, and support to the advisors who count on us! Informaconnect.com, 09/07/2023

How Advisors Can Help (Not-So HNW) Clients Maximize Asset Protection By Assessing Strategies, Tools, And Education. "When these clients turn to their advisors for guidance on what asset protection measures may be prudent, many advisors find themselves at a loss for sound recommendations that make sense financially for their clients." David Haughton, advanced planning specialist at Commonwealth, presents options for advisors and their (not so) high-net-worth clients in his latest article for Michael Kitces' blog. Nerd’s Eye View, 09/06/2023

Plan On Going Fee-Only, Even If It's Down the Road. Advisors crave the flexibility to run their businesses and serve clients on their own terms. So, what support do they need when going fee-only? In her latest article, Becca Hajjar, managing principal, chief business development officer, explains the importance of choosing the right partner firm. Financial Advisor, 08/15/2023

Building a strong culture to inspire your team. How can a firm achieve a successful workplace culture? Chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, discusses the importance of a clear mission in her latest article. InvestmentNews, 08/10/2023

Trap Kloman on How to Continue Success in an Unpredictable and Evolving Market. [audio] If you're not thinking ahead, you're already behind. Trap Kloman, Commonwealth president and COO, recently sat down with Suzanne Siracuse and WealthManagement.com’s "Focused on the Future" podcast for a conversation on recruiting next-gen advisors, cultivating a winning workplace culture, and partnering with advisors to build their businesses. WealthManagement.com, 08/09/2023

Markets Continue to Climb a Wall of Worry, and That Will Likely Continue [video]. CIO Brad McMillan spoke with Jill Malandrino and explained why he remains positive when it comes to the economy, markets, and inflation. Nasdaq, 08/01/2023

Commonwealth's Price says emotional tug-of-war will keep market, economy flat [video]. Brian Price, head of investment management, joined Money Life with Chuck Jaffe to share his thoughts on the market and his expectation for economic growth. Money Life with Chuck Jaffe, 07/26/2023

The Secrets Behind Commonwealth's Award-Winning Advisor Satisfaction. In an in-depth, transparent interview with ThinkAdvisor, CEO, Wayne Bloom, shares what he considers to be our "secret sauce" and the reason we've been ranked #1 in independent advisor satisfaction by J.D. Power for 10 consecutive years. ThinkAdvisor, 07/14/2023

Considering an equity ownership structure? Here are 4 questions to consider. Are you considering an equity ownership structure at your practice? If so, it's important that the strategy aligns with the firm's growth goals. Chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, discusses the key questions to ask before mapping out a plan in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 07/12/2023

Markets And Economy Off to a Good Start for Summer. Recent market and economic performance have been surprisingly strong. So, what's the bad news? Such strong growth can cause inflation to heat up, but in his latest for Forbes, CIO Brad McMillan says the data is still moving in the right direction. Forbes, 07/06/2023

Advisor satisfaction with firm hinges on time spent with clients: J.D. Power. Wayne Bloom, Commonwealth CEO, explains, “Time is our advisors' most valuable commodity. Little things like technology integration that only requires advisors to enter client data once, or integrating reporting technology with calendar and CRM software to automate reports, help advisors accomplish their required tasks better and faster.” InvestmentNews, 07/05/2023

2023 Midyear Outlook: Do Equity Markets Warrant Caution Ahead? Portfolio manager Chris Fasciano explains what investors could expect from equities in the second half of the year. Advisor Perspectives, 06/29/2023

Can the Fed Pull Off a Soft Landing? CIO Brad McMillan explains that the markets are functioning as they should, and the outlook is much better than the headlines suggest. Forbes, 06/23/2023

We're seeing tremendous labour hoarding by companies. Brad McMillan, CIO, joined BNN Bloomberg to discuss the U.S. jobs report, the economy, and his thoughts on the chance of a recession. BNN Bloomberg, 06/21/2023

How Mentoring Programs Can Empower Next-Gen Advisers—and Their Firms. “Mentoring has proved so beneficial that 71 percent of Fortune 500 companies offer mentoring programs to their employees.” David Israel, vice president, field outreach, explains how to create an effective mentoring program in his latest article. Journal of Financial Planning, 06/20/2023

Are IBD And RIA Channels Converging? In a recent interview, CEO Wayne Bloom explained, "Throughout a more than 40-year fee-based journey, Commonwealth's platform has evolved to compete on a multidimensional, competitive field that includes IBDs, RIAs, pure-play technology firms, and major custodians." Wealth Solutions Report, 06/19/2023

Commonwealth Adds $881M Firm From Securian. Christopher J. Hackley, president and managing partner of Foundations Financial Partners, explains how he plans to use Commonwealth's offerings to find an acquisition pace that would double his firm's assets and advisor number within five years. WealthManagement.com, 06/14/2023

May CPI Report: What the Experts Are Saying About Inflation. Peter Essele, head of portfolio management, explained to Kiplinger that he believes the likelihood of 3 percent inflation by year-end is within reach. Kiplinger, 06/13/2023

Retiring advisors seek greater flexibility in their succession plans. As more advisors start creating their succession plans, flexibility has become a bigger topic of conversation. Kristine McManus, chief advisor growth officer, explains the pros and cons of a retire and remain strategy in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 06/07/2023

10 IBDs with the most CFPs in 2022. According to InvestmentNews, 43.2% of our advisors have achieved the CFP® certification, a higher percentage than other independent broker/dealers. It's another testament to how hard our advisors work to do what's best for their clients, and it makes us proud that they've chosen to partner with us. InvestmentNews, 05/26/2023

How qualified expenses for 529 plans have expanded in the past decade. Do you know about the recent changes to 529 plans and how they could affect planning for future expenses? Learn more about this change from David Haughton, team lead, advanced planning, in his recent article. InvestmentNews, 05/26/2026

Commonwealth Recruits Megateam from Rival Lincoln Financial. Commonwealth lands its largest recruitment so far in 2023. Read more about the $1.2B team, Aegis Consulting Group, LLC, and how they plan to grow their practice nationally with Commonwealth's resources, technology, and support services. Barron’s, 05/23/2023

10 IBDs with the highest average payouts in 2022. We're thrilled to be recognized again for offering the highest average payout per advisor. Check out the InvestmentNews 2023 Independent Broker-Dealer Survey to see the numbers. InvestmentNews, 05/18/2023

High-Net-Worth Clients 'Are Not Monolithic' [video]. With more than 40 years of experience working with high-net-worth clients, Ryan Fleming of Commonwealth-affiliated Armstrong, Fleming and Moore, Inc., says there's one key factor to helping them. Financial Advisor IQ, 05/16/2023

Plan for the Clients You Have, Not the Clients You've Had. Are you prioritizing your clients' values as well as their balance sheets? In his latest article, David Haughton discusses the importance of individualizing the client experience. Journal of Financial Planning, 05/11/2023

Creating an equity ownership track: Look before you leap. Has your firm created an equity ownership track? Chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, explains the importance of considering your options before making the leap in her latest article. InvestmentNews, 05/10/2023

Some banks will 'fail' in the next year: Brad McMillan. [video] CIO Brad McMillan joined Fox Business's Mornings with Maria to discuss the rebound of regional bank stocks and more. FOX Business, 05/08/2023

Will It Be a Rocky May for Markets? Is the economy growing? Is a recession still on the horizon? And what's next for markets? CIO Brad McMillan addresses these questions in his recent article. Forbes, 05/04/2023

Build (Customized) Flexible Estate Planning Strategies In a Constantly Changing Political Landscape. In a constantly changing political landscape, advanced planning consultant, David Haughton, shares estate planning techniques and solutions with a focus on flexibility in a guest contributor article on Michael Kitces' blog. Kitces.com, 05/04/2023

How advisors can better understand their scale and capacity. Learn how financial advisors can free up capacity and achieve strategic growth from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, in her latest InvestmentNews article. InvestmentNews, 04/19/2023

Governor Healey Signs Executive Order Establishing Judicial Nominating Commission and Appoints Commissioners. Peggy Ho, general counsel and chief risk officer, was appointed to the Judicial Nominating Commission by Massachusetts' Governor, Maura Healey. EIN Presswire, 04/12/2023

Seven Ways New Advisers Can Fine-Tune Their Skills to Position Themselves for Success. New financial advisors can achieve growth and success by refining their professional skills. Learn how from Kristen Terpstra, manager, advisor HR consulting, in a recent article. Journal of Financial Planning, 04/11/2023

IBDs Invest In Reps' Succession. Ranking highest in average gross revenue per advisor is a testament to the advisors we support. They push us to improve, so they can better serve clients and run their businesses on their terms. See the full ranking in Financial Advisor. Financial Advisor, 04/01/2023

Bond markets are pricing in an upcoming recession, says Commonwealth Financial Network's McMillan. [video] Is a recession inevitable? Commonwealth CIO Brad McMillan thinks so. Learn why in this quick clip of his interview with CNBC. CNBC, 03/24/2023

Market Focus Moves From the Fed to Financial Crisis. With the banking crisis continuing, markets are worried less about the Fed and more about another financial crisis. Is this a solvable problem? Brad McMillan assesses the risk in his latest article. Financial Advisor, 03/23/2023

M&A Is Slowing. Advisors Need to Plan for Succession Well in Advance. In a Barron's featured story, our practice management expert, Kenton Shirk, explains that the winds in the M&A space are changing and shares how important it is for succession-minded financial advisors to chart a course toward their eventual exit. Barron's, 03/22/2023

Bank Failures, the Fed, and a Financial Crisis Rerun? As the fallout from the bank failures continues, how will the Fed react? And could we see a rerun of the Great Financial Crisis? Commonwealth CIO Brad McMillan sheds light on these questions in his latest for Forbes. Forbes, 03/17/2023

Beyond Zip Codes: How a Virtual Mindset Creates Prospecting Opportunities. Learn how a shift in mindset creates room for growth from Kristine McManus, chief advisor growth officer, in her recent article. Wealth Solutions Report, 03/17/2023

How advisors can achieve growth in difficult markets. What's the best path for achieving growth in challenging markets? Learn more from Kristine McManus, chief advisor growth officer, in her latest article. InvestmentNews, 03/17/2023

Will the Bear Market Come Roaring Back? With so much uncertainty in the air, what (really) matters for the economy and markets? CIO Brad McMillan says it comes down to four key signals. Read his insights. Financial Advisor, 02/28/2023

Commonwealth's Hajjar On Keys to Recruiting Success. In an interview with Wealth Solutions Report on keys to recruiting success, Becca Hajjar, chief business development officer, said, "As a leading independent RIA with broker-dealer and insurance capabilities, Commonwealth is well-positioned to provide greater choice and flexibility for its advisors." Wealth Solutions Report, 02/23/2023

Commonwealth Sets Recruiting Record in 2022. As covered by ThinkAdvisor, Commonwealth experienced its strongest recruiting year in its 43-year history—with new assets nearly doubling from 2021—and welcomed advisors from across the wealth management spectrum. ThinkAdvisor, 02/16/2023

Commonwealth Transforming Into Large National RIA With B-D Platform. In a recent interview about Commonwealth's record recruiting year in 2022, Becca Hajjar, chief business development officer, explained, "The thing that differentiates Commonwealth is that we will help advisors evolve as they grow and change their methods of affiliation if they want." Financial Advisor, 02/16/2023

Consumers are 'going to keep feeling good' through boosted retail, experiential spending: Strategist. CIO Brad McMillan joined Yahoo Finance! Live to discuss consumer confidence and the Fed's interest rate hike outlook. Yahoo! Finance, 02/15/2023

Inflation Report: Don't Believe the Hype. What’s all the hype around the January inflation report? In his latest for Forbes, Commonwealth CIO Brad McMillan takes a closer look. Forbes, 02/14/2023

Commonwealth exploring how best to help family-run firms. With a growing number of family-run firms affiliated with Commonwealth and many interested in support for such teams, our practice management offering is expanding to help advisors navigate family dynamics in their practices. Financial Planning, 02/14/2023

What do firms need to keep growing? A move beyond client referrals. If you're looking for ways to continue growing your firm, are referrals enough? Learn more from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 02/09/2023

Could a Recession Be a Positive for the Markets? No one wants a recession, but could it be a positive for the markets? In his latest for Forbes, Commonwealth CIO Brad McMillan puts the recession risk into perspective. Forbes, 02/02/2023

Commonwealth Launches Certificate Program to Help Advisors Land HNW Clients. In an interview with Financial Advisor IQ on our newly launched CPWA® program, Kenton Shirk, VP, practice management, shares, "Our intent was to provide an educational program to help our most seasoned advisors be even more competitive in the high-net-worth space." Financial Advisor IQ, 02/02/2023

Recession And Debt Ceiling Fears Loom Large for Investors. Could a recession and debt ceiling confrontation lead to a systemic collapse? In his latest for Forbes, Commonwealth CIO Brad McMillan puts current worries into context. Forbes, 01/20/2023

The U.S. Hits the Debt Ceiling (Again): Now What? With the U.S. hitting the debt ceiling (again), do investors have cause for concern? In a recent article, Commonwealth CIO Brad McMillan discusses the risks and where we go from here. Financial Advisor, 01/19/2023

Commonwealth Recruits Advisors With $1 Billion From Edward Jones. Breakaway $1 billion firm Cedarwood Financial Partners goes independent with Commonwealth to gain freedom, flexibility, and top-notch support as they look to broaden their capabilities, optimize client experience, and grow their footprint. Barron’s, 01/17/2023

Kol Chu Birke on Choosing Technology that Works for You. It can be challenging to figure out which tech solutions meet your business needs. Kol Chu Birke, managing principal for community and technology engagement, discusses tools that improve efficiency and build client trust. WealthManagement.com, 01/17/2023

How advisors can take control of their success in 2023. Learn how to attract and retain next-gen talent for your firm from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 01/11/2023

Is the Debt Ceiling a Real Risk for The Markets? What would a debt ceiling crisis mean for the economy and markets? In his latest for Forbes, CIO Brad McMillan assesses the risk. Forbes, 01/10/2023

Fed: Easing inflation 'a question of when, not if,' strategist says. [video] CIO Brad McMillan joined Yahoo! Finance to share his thoughts on the markets, future rate hikes, and what bank earnings can tell investors about the economy. Yahoo! Finance, 01/09/2023

December Jobs Report Beats Expectations: What the Experts Are Saying. Commonwealth's head of portfolio management, Peter Essele, spoke with Kiplinger about the December jobs report and what it could mean for the markets in 2023. Kiplinger, 01/06/2023

Commonwealth Nabs FA Team from Cambridge. Strategic Planning Group, Inc., joins Commonwealth's network of financial advisors, looking to Commonwealth’s sophisticated technology solutions and investment management expertise to bolster its customized approach to optimize client outcomes. Financial Advisor IQ, 12/28/2022

Commonwealth: Next Gen Advisors Idealistic, Social And Savvy. What next-gen advisor trends are driving change in our industry? Kristine McManus, chief advisor growth officer and lead of Commonwealth’s NextGen Business Development Group coaching program, sheds light on this topic in a recent Q&A. Wealth Solutions Report, 12/26/2022

Is the Market Pullback an Opportunity for Investors? In his latest for Forbes, Commonwealth CIO Brad McMillan says while current market volatility is worrisome, it's also both normal and necessary. Forbes, 12/16/2022

Investors remain 'defensive, but hopeful' as Q4 wraps up: Brad McMillan. On the heels of a weaker-than-expected November retail sales report and a Fed rate hike, CIO Brad McMillan joined FOX Business's Mornings with Maria and shared his reaction and outlook for 2023. FOX Business, 12/16/2022

Commonwealth Finds Its Stride With Fee-Only Advisors. Alex Hansen, SVP, RIA compliance, and Brian Lampron, VP, RIA services, spoke about the growth of Commonwealth's fee-only and RIA business. Financial Advisor Magazine, 12/13/2022

Trap Kloman on the Value of Community. [video] Want a recipe for success in multigenerational organizations? Watch COO Trap Kloman's interview to learn how inviting veteran staffers to give back to junior teammates builds community. WealthManagement.com, 12/12/2022

Commonwealth Leadership on Accelerating Growth. [video] Commonwealth experts share how advisors can increase business growth. Learn tips from our leadership panel for evaluating your client value proposition, defining your mission, and more. WealthManagement.com, 12/12/2022

Nancy DiBattista on Making Transitions Successful. [video] Financial advisor transitions have changed over the years as businesses have expanded. In this interview, Nancy DiBattista, senior vice president of transition, explains how and details the steps for making a move. WealthManagement.com, 12/12/2022

Kristine McManus on Having a Next-Gen Focus. [video] Practices must plan for the aging of both advisors and their clients. Kristine McManus, vice president of business solutions and practice management, presents the benefits of a next-generation view. WealthManagement.com, 12/11/2022

Matt Chisholm on How Outsourcing Can Work for You. [video] Outsourcing offers many benefits, including helping advisors maximize efficiency. Matt Chisholm, senior vice president for RIA services and practice management, describes three perks of using this approach. WealthManagement.com, 12/11/2022

Karen McColl on the Changing Roles of Financial Advisors. [video] How can financial advisors become holistic coaches? Karen McColl, senior vice president of wealth management, discusses how an expanded tool set can serve clients. Watch her interview. WealthManagement.com, 12/10/2022

Kenton Shirk on Building Enduring Advisory Businesses. [video] Today, many practices adopt enterprise models to drive value and growth. Vice president of practice management, Kenton Shirk, describes five critical factors in making this approach work. Watch his interview. WealthManagement.com, 12/10/2022

Justin Duft on a Consultative Approach to Client Service. [video] For advisors looking to deepen client relationships, Justin Duft, vice president of advanced planning, suggests a holistic approach. Watch as he offers strategies for increasing client retention in the new year and beyond. WealthManagement.com, 12/9/2022

Heather Zack on the Power of Charitable Planning. [video] The giving season is upon us, but charitable planning presents a unique opportunity to expand an advisor's client base year-round. Watch Heather Zack, manager of advanced planning, share insights. WealthManagement.com, 12/9/2022

Peter Essele on Inflation and Fixed Income Investments. [video] What’s the outlook on inflation, and why are longer-term fixed income investments becoming more attractive? Watch our own Peter Essele share his thoughts. WealthManagement.com, 12/9/2022

Brad McMillan on Communication Strategies for Uncertain Times. [video] CIO Brad McMillan talks about the importance of maintaining strong communication with clients in volatile times. Watch as he explains how we help our advisors better support their clients during challenging markets. WealthManagement.com, 12/9/2022

Sharing and Transparency Between Financial Advisors. Following our National Conference, Trap Kloman, president and COO, joined AdvisorHub's Industry in Transitionpodcast to talk about several topics, including the significance of community across our advisor network. AdvisorHub, 12/9/2022

Mukund Ravipaty on Implementing a Better Cybersecurity Process. [video] Cyber threats are more sophisticated today, breaching security walls and wreaking havoc on financial institutions. Mukund Ravipaty, chief information security officer, outlines five steps to safeguard advisors and their clients in a recent interview. WealthManagement.com, 12/8/2022

3 ways you can attract next-gen advisers. Learn how to attract and retain next-gen talent for your firm from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, in her recent InvestmentNews article. InvestmentNews, 12/7/2022

Commonwealth cuts RIA custody fee, toggles Fidelity and Schwab as sub-custody and co-custody partners, and explains why its model puts $1 trillion of (mostly) RIA assets in reach. In an interview with RIABiz, CEO Wayne Bloom speaks candidly on Commonwealth's major strategic initiatives "in the context of continuing to transform the company into what amounts to a national RIA." RIABiz, 12/7/20222

Slowdown Ahead? A Jobs Report Preview. Expectations for job growth are down, but CIO Brad McMillan says Friday's jobs report might spell good news for the markets. Forbes, 11/30/2022

Market 'has some legs' headed into the holidays: Brad McMillan. CIO Brad McMillan discussed what a Fed pivot on rate hikes would do for the markets when he joined FOX Business's Mornings with Maria. FOX Business, 11/23/2022

Have We Reached Peak Inflation? In his latest for Forbes, CIO Brad McMillan says inflation has peaked here in the U.S., which has many positive implications for the economy and the markets. Forbes, 11/21/2022

InvestmentNews' 2022 Women to Watch Award. Commonwealth home office leaders Jessica Fougere, SVP, community, and Scarlett Abraham Clarke, chief diversity and inclusion officer, were named Allyship Champions at the InvestmentNews' 2022 Women to Watch awards. InvestmentNews, 11/21/2022

Commonwealth becomes latest IBD to invest in adviser firms. Commonwealth became the latest IBD to invest in adviser firms; it plans to buy minority stakes in the firms that use its brokerage and RIA. InvestmentNews, 11/21/2022

Minnesotans managing $750 million join Commonwealth from Lincoln. The five-adviser firm, Ryan Financial Group, is a family-run business that has been around for more than 70 years and has offices in Hibbing and White Bear Lake. InvestmentNews, 11/21/2022

Commonwealth Now Aiming for $1T in Assets. Commonwealth has set a strategic goal of reaching $1T in assets under management. This was one of three new major business growth initiatives disclosed to advisors at its annual National Conference. ThinkAdvisor, 11/17/2022

Commonwealth Sets $1T Growth Goal As It Leans Into RIA Market. CEO Wayne Bloom discussed our expanded suite of services for advisors and plans in the RIA market. WealthManagement.com, 11/11/2022

How to give gifts that will delight clients. Discover how to make your yearly client gifts stand out and leave a lasting impression from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 11/10/2022

Commonwealth Execs Lay Out Plan to Quadruple Assets. In an interview with Financial Advisor IQ, Commonwealth executives shared more details about major business growth initiatives announced at its annual National Conference. Financial Advisor IQ, 11/10/2022

Where Does Inflation Go From Here? Will inflation be high for years to come? CIO Brad McMillan takes a look back at inflationary trends to figure out where we go from here. Forbes, 10/28/2022

The road to loyalty is paved with exceptional customer experiences. Discover how to drive growth and create loyalty with the power of client experience from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 10/12/2022

Technology Trends that are Reshaping the Advisor Profession. In the latest Advisor Perspectives podcast, Patrick Daniel, director, advisor technology solutions, talks about how the right tech platform with the right integrations and support is critical to the success of an advisor's growth and client engagement. Listen now. Advisor Perspectives, 10/11/2022

Stocks End Month With Worst Losing Streak in 20 Years. Sam Millette, fixed income strategist at Commonwealth, provides his thoughts on the higher-than-expected increase for the Consumer Price Index in August. Barron’s, 09/30/2022

Rates to Blame for Recent Market Volatility? The headlines are warning the bear market is back, and the average investor is worried that current volatility could get worse, which is a valid concern. CIO Brad McMillan shares where we go from here. Forbes, 09/30/2022

5 Money Managers Share Top Strategies for Navigating a Bear Market. Head of portfolio management, Peter Essele, shares his tips for navigating bear markets. Business Insider, 09/28/2022

Markets React to Inflation Surprise. The latest inflation numbers drove markets down, but CIO Brad McMillan sees signs of improvement ahead, according to his latest article. Financial Advisor Magazine, 09/24/2022

No Doves In Sight At Latest Fed Meeting. In his latest for Forbes, Commonwealth CIO Brad McMillan breaks down what the Fed's focus on inflation could mean for the markets and economy. Forbes, 09/22/2022

The Fed is 'building in a lot of uncertainty' while fighting inflation: Strategist. Brad McMillan weighs in on the latest Fed rate hike and its effects on fighting inflation. Yahoo! Finance, 09/21/2022

How Emotional Intelligence Can Deepen Your Client Relationships. In her recent article, Kristine McManus, chief advisor growth officer, discusses how advisors can better serve their clients using the power of emotional and social intelligence. Journal of Financial Planning, 09/15/2022

When Will Inflation Return to Normal? Peter Essele, head of portfolio management, discusses the potential impact of declining oil prices on the economy. Forbes, 09/13/2022

How women advisers can create white space for new ideas. Learn about how women advisors can help their ideas shine by creating "white space" in their schedules from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 09/12/2022

Financial Planning IBD Elite 2022. Commonwealth was ranked #1 in advisor payout by Financial Planning in their latest IBD study, which is a testament to the success of our advisors (more than 85 percent of advisor revenue is fee-based) and our sophisticated solutions. Financial Planning, 09/12/2022

WealthManagement.com Recognizes Top Companies at 2022 Industry Awards. Commonwealth’s innovative, in-house Virtual Transition Support program wins a 2022 Wealthies award. WealthManagement.com, 09/09/2022

Why Is the Market Going Down? CIO Brad McMillan answers the big market question that is on everyone's mind in his latest article. Advisor Perspectives, 09/01/2022

Is the Labor Market Moving Ahead? A Jobs Report Preview. With recession worries rising, all eyes are on this Friday's jobs report. What should we expect? CIO Brad McMillan provides a preview in his latest article. Forbes, 08/31/2022

Commonwealth Snags New Privacy Chief and Counsel from LPL. In an article on Michelle Kelley joining Commonwealth, Peggy Ho, SVP, general counsel and chief risk officer, shares, "Her expertise will be invaluable as we continue to position ourselves at the forefront of an evolving regulatory landscape and industry." Financial Advisor IQ, 08/30/2022

How Will Markets Fare At the End of Summer? [video] Brad McMillan joins Paul Sweeney and Matt Miller on Bloomberg Radio to talk about the markets and investing. Bloomberg Radio, 08/16/2022

Commonwealth adds firm's largest incoming recruit of the year. In an interview, Larry Witzel of Strategic Financial Solutions discussed his motives for bringing his billion-dollar retirement plan and wealth practice to Commonwealth and how he and his team intend to grow revenue as part of our new partnership. Financial Planning, 08/16/2022

Commonwealth Lures $165M Team from Securities America. According to Commonwealth, Censia is a fiduciary and mainly a fee-based business. It provides investment management and retirement planning guidance, specializing in serving clients who are nearing or already in retirement. Financial Advisor IQ, 08/11/2022

Investors 'can't really separate' inflation and job market prints: Strategist. [video] Brad McMillan, CIO, discusses new inflation and CPI data, earnings season, and the semiconductor industry. Yahoo! Finance, 08/10/2022

Is the Yield Curve Warning of Recession Ahead? Is a recession imminent? In his latest for Forbes, CIO Brad McMillan says the yield curve indicates that we may have more time on the clock. Forbes, 08/10/2022

Outsourcing can increase firms’ scale and efficiency. Learn how advisors can grow their practice by taking advantage of different outsourcing options from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 08/09/2022

Tech sector has two 'unique' paths to prosperity: Market expert. [video] CIO Brad McMillan reveals what unique features could catapult the technology space to higher profits on The Claman Countdown. FOX Business, 08/05/2022

Looking Back at the Markets in July and Ahead to August 2022. July saw a significant rebound in markets, even as economic fears grew. So, what does this mean for August? CIO Brad McMillan takes a look ahead. Advisor Perspectives, 08/04/2022

Earnings Numbers Aren’t Great—But Are They Good Enough? In his recent article, Brad McMillan says that the latest earnings numbers aren't great, but they may be more than good enough. Forbes, 07/27/2022

Commonwealth Launches New Community Business Unit. In a recent interview, Wayne Bloom spoke about our new Community business unit, how it's a "point of differentiation" for the firm, and what its dedicated team sets out to achieve for our independent advisors. WealthManagement.com, 07/22/2022

Housing market slows in June as sales, mortgage demand tumble. Head of portfolio management, Peter Essele, discusses how consumers are combating inflation with tighter budgets and the effect it's having on the housing market. The Washington Post, 07/20/2022

Does the 60/40 Portfolio Still Make Sense? After a terrible start to the year, does the 60/40 portfolio still makes sense for investors? In his latest for Forbes, Brad McMillan says that a return to a normal cycle is key. Forbes, 07/15/2022

Nothing is saying recession at this point: Brad McMillan. [video] CIO Brad McMillan reacts to a report that states there is more than a 50 percent chance of recession on The Claman Countdown. FOX Business, 07/11/2022

Brad McMillan Drive to Close. [audio] Are inflation and interest rate woes behind us? Brad McMillan, chief investment officer, discusses investing and the markets with Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec. Bloomberg, 07/07/2022

Human Capital Roundtable: Fun Summer Internships Yield Serious Results. Jane Moyer, CHRO, joined an exclusive human capital roundtable hosted by Wealth Solutions Report to discuss the value of summer internship programs. Commonwealth's program continues to evolve while remaining a vital part of our overall hiring and growth strategy. Wealth Solutions Report, 07/06/2022

J.D. Power's 2022 financial advisor satisfaction rankings. J.D. Power ranks Commonwealth #1 in independent financial advisor satisfaction among financial investment firms, nine times in a row. Financial Planning, 07/06/2022

How financing options can help advisers drive growth. Learn how independent advisors can grow their businesses by using flexible financing options from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 07/06/2022

'Trend Is In the Wrong Direction': Experts React to Consumer Expectations Hitting 9-Year Low. Brian Price, head of investment management, shares how Americans are struggling with rising credit card and mortgage rates and what this means for the Consumer Price Index. Business Insider, 06/28/2022

Are Politics a Problem for the Markets? Do politics have the power to derail the markets? In his latest for Forbes, CIO Brad McMillan gets to the truth of the matter. Forbes, 06/24/2022

Meet the LUMINARIES Class of 2022 Finalists. We’re honored to be recognized by ThinkAdvisor as a 3x Luminaries Class of 2022 Finalist. ThinkAdvisor, 06/22/2022

Succession plan services gain traction as tool for recruiting, making acquisitions. Kenton Shirk, vice president of practice management, shares the importance of having a strategic partner firm that independent advisors can look to for navigating their succession or driving growth through acquisitions. InvestmentNews, 06/21/2022

Should Investors Keep Calm and Carry On? [video] CIO Brad McMillan joins Nasdaq TradeTalks to discuss the current decline and why it is fairly typical in market history. Nasdaq, 06/21/2022

Commonwealth Details New Financing Suite. In a recent interview, Matt Chisholm, SVP, RIA services and practice management, shares his take on the advantages of our new suite of flexible financing options and how it will help our advisors with succession planning and growth. Wealthmanagement.com, 06/16/2022

The Key Drivers of Advisor Recruitment. Listen to our chief business development officer, Becca Hajjar, give her take on advisors navigating the transition to a new firm while seeking better outcomes for their clients. Advisor Perspectives, 06/15/2022

S&P 500 closed in bear market, losing nearly 4% in one day as investors ready for a Fed meeting this week. Brian Price, head of investment management, explains why he's keeping an eye on buying into the bond sell-off. Yahoo! Finance, 06/13/2022

More Than One-Third of Advisors Plan to Leave Industry in Next Decade. Based on findings from a Cerulli Associates study, Kenton Shirk, vice president of practice management, explains that successful independent firms are thinking about the legacy they will leave behind for their clients and adopting business models designed to endure. Barron’s, 06/13/2022

Beware of the Bear? Are we headed for a bear market? In this latest article, CIO Brad McMillan looks to interest rates for answers. Forbes, 06/09/2022

‘The commission business is a dying business’: Commonwealth eyes RIA-only advisors. In a recent interview, CEO Wayne Bloom discusses our ongoing efforts to attract and support RIA-only advisors. Citywire, 06/09/2022

How advisers can drive growth in any environment. Learn more about how advisors can achieve growth by using the power of connection from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 06/08/2022

Inflation, Fed blackout period, CEOs' doom and gloom. Peter Essele, head of portfolio management, explains that the jobs release sent affirmation to investors that the recovery is in full force, but the flip side is that inflation will continue to be an issue. Yahoo! Finance, 06/05/2022

Looking Back at the Markets in May and Ahead to June 2022. There was good news for the markets in May, but can we expect more of the same in June? In a recent article, CIO Brad McMillan takes a look ahead and likes what he sees. Advisor Perspectives, 06/03/2022

WealthManagement.com Announces 2022 'Wealthies' Finalists. We are thrilled to be named a 3x Wealthies finalist in the WealthManagment.com 2022 Industry awards. WealthManagment.com, 06/01/2022

Managing the DC Plan Investment Menu. In a recent webinar, Mat Powers, director of retirement consulting services, explained that it's early days for including lifetime income products and advised plan sponsors to examine the participant demographics when considering including one. PLANSPONSOR, 05/25/2022

Retirees seeking income clarity, better communication most of all. [video] Becca Hajjar, managing principal and chief business development officer, explains that advisers need to educate their clients, especially when it comes to income streams in retirement and charitable giving. InvestmentNews, 05/24/2022

‘This business is built for women’: Commonwealth’s Hajjar. [video] Managing principal and chief business development officer, Becca Hajjar, discusses how the pandemic sparked virtual success as Commonwealth adapted its new women’s career development programs to a series of online events and tools. InvestmentNews, 05/24/2022

10 IBDs with the most CFPs. A whopping 42.3 percent of Commonwealth advisors hold the CFP Board certification, the standard of excellence in financial planning. That's the highest percentage among firms, according to the InvestmentNews 2022 independent broker-dealer survey. InvestmentNews, 05/24/2022

‘Put your money where your heart is’: Commonwealth’s McManus. [video] Chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, discusses how clients urgently want to support causes and charities that resonate with their values, communities, and investing priorities. InvestmentNews, 05/20/2022

Is It Time to Check Our Assumptions? In his latest for Forbes, CIO Brad McMillan says in a world that's constantly changing, checking our assumptions can help identify both risks and opportunities. Forbes, 05/17/2022

Bitcoin slides, Dow, S&P 500 drop but Nasdaq rebounds late to end higher. Brian Price, head of investment management, discusses the dramatic pullback seen in growth stocks, particularly in tech. USA Today, 05/12/2022

Worries Rise as Markets Drop. How low can the markets go? In a recent article, CIO Brad McMillan says that much depends on what happens with stock valuations and interest rates. Advisor Perspectives, 05/11/2022

4 top planning needs for sophisticated advisory firms. Learn more about the importance of community and conversation among COOs from our chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus. InvestmentNews, 05/11/2022

Duo managing $380 million at Wells Fargo Advisors joins Commonwealth. Dana Pollard and Justin Mishacoff of Lumitas Wealth Strategies of Woodbury, Minnesota, bring more than 40 years of combined experience in financial services and wealth management to Commonwealth. InvestmentNews, 05/10/2022

Wall Street, dragged down by tech stocks, racks up more heavy losses. Head of investment management, Brian Price, explains that positive developments on the geopolitical front or a weaker-than-expected consumer price index report could help turn the tide for investors. The Boston Globe, 05/09/2022

Extreme Market Volatility Demands Engagement. Chief investment officer, Brad McMillan, shares that April was a hard month for the markets, with growth stocks being hit the hardest. PLANSPONSOR, 05/06/2022

Commonwealth: Advisor Adoption of Brand Studio Has ‘Exceeded Expectations’. In a recent ThinkAdvisor article, Sarah Howes, VP of advisor marketing, explains that Brand Studio was designed to help advisors drive business growth through optimized marketing that attracts ideal prospects and converts them to clients. ThinkAdvisor, 05/06/2022.

Infuse meaning in milestones to attract, retain women clients. During the InvestmentNews Women Adviser Summit, Kristine McManus, chief advisor growth officer, explained that women advisors understand that clients don't just want their money in the bank, they want it to do something for them. InvestmentNews, 05/05/2022

Mindy Diamond on Independence: An Inside Move from IBD to RIA. On a recent podcast episode, Commonwealth advisor, Andy Harris, president and wealth manager of Evergreen Wealth Solutions, shares his story of transition from IBD to RIA and provides key learnings for advisors considering this move. WealthManagement.com, 05/05/2022

The vital role of financial advisors in stopping fraud and elder abuse. In a webcast for the North American Securities Administrators Association, Heather Murphy, deputy chief AML officer, discusses how advisors and their firms can work together to mitigate the exploitation of the elderly. Financial Planning, 05/04/2022

10 IBDs with the highest average payouts. Commonwealth tops the list as the #1 independent broker-dealer with the highest average payout per advisor, according to the InvestmentNews 2022 Independent Broker-Dealer Survey. InvestmentNews, 05/04/2022

How Will the Stock Market Respond to a 0.5% Increase? Brad McMillan explains how the markets reacted historically to rate hikes and offers investors a glimpse at how markets will react this time. Investor’s Business Daily, 04/29/2022

Why Is the Market Going Down? Commonwealth's Brad McMillan addresses why the market is going down and if it will continue. Financial Advisor Magazine, 04/26/2022

U.S. Stocks Finish Volatile Session With Gains. Head of investment management, Brian Price, shares his take on the market, growth stocks, and interest rates. The Wall Street Journal, 04/25/2022

To Connect with Clients, Stop Using Jargon. Kristine McManus, chief advisor growth officer, explains that for advisors to achieve good communication, they must eliminate jargon from their language to better help clients. Journal of Financial Planning, 04/18/2022

Higher gasoline prices flatter U.S. retail sales; consumers remain resilient. Head of portfolio management, Peter Essele, provides commentary on U.S. retail sales and the potential for a slowdown in consumer demand in the latter half of 2022. Reuters, 04/14/2022

Are We Close to Peak Inflation? Chief investment officer, Brad McMillan, discusses if we’re close to peak inflation and what it means for investors. Forbes, 04/12/2022

Why women make great financial advisers. Chief advisor growth officer, Kristine McManus, celebrates women in this industry and explains why women make great financial advisers. InvestmentNews, 04/08/2022

No Doves Here: Fed All In On Higher Rates. CIO Brad McMillan explains that the economy still has substantial momentum, and the labor market is stronger than it has been in the past decades. He encourages readers to be watchful but not to don’t panic about a recession anytime soon. Forbes, 04/07/2022

WSR Names Commonwealth's Peggy Ho Woman General Counsel of the Year. Peggy Ho, SVP, general counsel and chief risk officer, was named Woman General Counsel of the Year. She shares thoughts on the current legal challenges facing our industry, the path that brought her to Commonwealth, and the importance of investing in areas that make it easier for internal clients and advisors to work with our Legal and Risk teams. Wealth Solutions Report, 04/05/2022

Financial Advisor Magazine's 2022 Independent Broker-Dealer Ranking. Commonwealth tops other independent broker-dealers for the highest gross revenue per advisor, according to the 2022 Financial Advisor Magazine Independent Broker-Dealer Ranking. Financial Advisor Magazine, 04/01/2022

The Big Blur. Commonwealth was named one of the top 10 broker-dealers by Financial Advisor Magazine. Andrew Daniels, managing principal of community engagement, explains how Commonwealth is a nationally registered investment advisor with an accommodative broker-dealer built in. Financial Advisor Magazine, 04/01/2022

Women-owned $220 million hybrid shifts to Commonwealth from Triad. A female-owned hybrid managing $220 million has moved its broker-dealer affiliation to Commonwealth. InvestmentNews, 03/30/2022

Stock Market Today: Stocks' Win Streak Snapped Despite Good Jobs News. Peter Essele, head of portfolio management, discusses the job growth witnessed in the natural resources and mining sector and what it could mean for the long term. Kiplinger, 03/30/2022

Key part of yield curve inverts, blaring recession warning. Anu Gaggar, global investment strategist, discusses the yield curve inversion and the growing concerns about the future state of the economy. Yahoo! Finance, 03/30/2022

What Is Inflation...and Where Is It Going? Our CIO, Brad McMillan, takes a look at what inflation actually is and where it’s going. AdvisorPerspectives, 03/28/2022

Broker-Dealers Keeping Clients Engaged Through Mobile Apps. Miriam Manning, senior vice president and chief information officer, discusses how our mobile app has features that keep advisors and their clients informed and connected. Financial Advisor IQ, 03/25/2022

US durable goods orders slip in February, marking first decline in 5 months. Peter Essele explains that it’s too early to determine the impact the war in Ukraine will have on global supply since most economic indicators are still in robust territory. FOX Business, 03/24/2022

US will suffer from oil and food shock, but will be fine 'overall'. (video) Brad McMillan discusses inflation and rising energy prices. FOX Business, 03/23/2022

Five Ways to Take Charge of Your Productivity. Interested in spending more time with your clients but not sure how to drive productivity and maximize efficiency? Kenton Shirk, VP, practice management, shares 5 steps that may help you run a more efficient practice. Wealthmanagement.com, 03/21/2022

Getting Real About Interest Rates. In his latest for Forbes, CIO Brad McMillan talks about interest rates, plans from the Fed, and what investors can expect for the rest of the year. Forbes, 03/18/2022

The Russian Invasion of Ukraine: A Lesson in Stakeholder Capitalism? Our own Peter Essele offers his view on the world pivoting toward a stakeholder capitalism model. Harvard Law School Forum on Corporate Governance, 03/16/2022

Deliberating Growth vs. Value, Interest Rate Hikes and Decarbonization. Peter Essele, VP of investment management and research, discusses growth versus value, interest rate hikes, and other timely questions for advisors seeking expert insights. Wealthmanagement.com, 03/16/2022

Commonwealth Demonstrates Rapid Diversity Progress Is Achievable. Scarlett Abraham Clarke shares the diversity progress Commonwealth has made since she joined. The interview also covers our initiatives to invest in women and develop successful DEI programs to support our community. Wealth Solutions Report, 03/14/2022

What Do the Markets Make of The Ukraine War? Despite the headlines and the tragedy unfolding in Ukraine itself, markets have largely shrugged off the conflict so far. Brad McMillan, CIO, addresses the details in this recent article. Forbes, 03/10/2022

Another Inflation Jump Resumes Stocks’ Tumbling Ways. Peter Essele addresses Wall Street’s reaction to inflation’s continued increase. Chief Investment Officer Magazine, 03/10/2022

Creating connections: How answering the ‘why’ can attract prospects. As an advisor, it’s important to highlight your strengths and create value for your prospects—but is there a secret to standing out? Learn how to lean into your "why" from business development expert Kristine McManus in her recent article. InvestmentNews, 03/08/2022

When Planning Gets Complex: Meeting the Needs of High-Net-Worth Clients. HNW clients require new tools but bedrock advisory skills. Justin Duft, VP, advanced planning, shares how advisors should tap into their firm partner's diverse and comprehensive expertise to drive sustainable organic growth. Barron’s, 03/07/2022

Lessons from Turmoil: Taking Advantage of Volatility. In a recent Q&A, Peter Essele shares his expert analysis on current events affecting market volatility, including the Russian invasion, anticipated interest rate hikes, and his latest thoughts on ESG investing. Advisor Perspectives, 03/04/2022

Market strategist details sectors best positioned to combat inflation. (video) Anu Gaggar joins Yahoo! Finance Live to discuss the market outlook and inflation amid the Russia-Ukraine war. Yahoo! Finance, 03/03/2022

Commonwealth Rolls Out Virtual Admin Program. As seen in ThinkAdvisor, our new Virtual Administration Program pairs advisors with in-house support specialists, giving them time back to focus on clients and other core needs. Read more on how the program works and will continue to grow. ThinkAdvisor, 03/01/2022

Russia-Ukraine crisis, Powell testimony, jobs report: What to know this week. Our head of investment management, Brian Price, explains how the ambiguity regarding the situation in Ukraine will continue to challenge risk assets. Yahoo! Finance, 02/27/2022

Key inflation gauge hits 6.1%, highest level since 1982. Peter Essele, vice president of investment management and research, shares his thoughts on the inflation gauge and what this means for consumers. CBS News, 02/25/2022

Markets Do Well During Wartime. (video) Commonwealth's CIO Brad McMillan discusses how the Russian invasion of Ukraine will impact markets. FOX Business, 02/24/2022

Market Expert Reveals ‘Diamonds in the Rough’ as Geopolitics Roils Portfolios. (video) Our global investment strategist, Anu Gaggar, joined Liz Claman on The Claman Countdown to discuss the effect of geopolitical risks on the U.S. economy and the ongoing market volatility. FOX Business, 02/22/2022

Five Ways the Right Partner Helps You Master Efficiency in Independence. Kenton Shirk, vice president, practice management, shares five ways the right firm partner can help you master efficiency in independence. Advisor Perspectives, 02/22/2022

Could Things Get Worse for the Stock Market? In his latest article, CIO Brad McMillan says the current market volatility is typical—but that doesn’t mean it can’t get worse. Forbes, 02/18/2022

What Will Rising Interest Rates Do to the Market? CIO Brad McMillan looks into rising rates, market expectations, and the recession risk in his latest Forbes article. Forbes, 02/16/2022

Overcoming imposter syndrome: Why advisers deserves success. When it comes to growing a business, even a seasoned CEO can struggle with insecurity. Practice management expert, Kristine McManus, discusses why advisors deserve their success. InvestmentNews, 02/11/2022

ESG Demand in the Early Stages. Peter Essele, vice president of investment management and research, discusses the dramatic increase in interest for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing over the past decade. Advisor Perspectives, 02/10/2022

Why IBDs Are Changing Their Recruiting Deals. Citing that Commonwealth is more like a national RIA than it is a broker-dealer, CEO Wayne Bloom shares this new method better “reflects how we do business today.” ThinkAdvisor, 02/09/2022

Why some investors are getting the jitters when it comes to tech street. (audio begins at 3:15) Our CIO Brad McMillan was recently invited to speak on NPR’s Planet Money, discussing tech stock performance, inflation, and economic implications. NPR’s The Indicator from Planet Money, 02/09/2022

Commonwealth Rolls Out Business Development Program for Next-Gen Advisors. Our practice management expert, Kristine McManus, discusses how our new NextGen Business Development program will help advisors, who may take over a firm one day or be part of a succession plan, succeed by giving them the skills they need. WealthManagement.com, 02/09/2022

Commonwealth Starts Business-Building Program for Next-Gen Advisors. Practice management expert, Kristine McManus, shared how the next-gen program offers equal parts strategic guidance, peer reinforcement, and accountability. ThinkAdvisor, 02/09/2022

Wordle, Investing, and Russia/Ukraine: What’s the Connection? What’s your Wordle strategy—and could you apply it to investing? CIO Brad McMillan explains this connection. Financial Advisor Magazine, 02/08/2022

Russian Invasion of Ukraine Would Have Wider Geopolitical Implications. (video) Anu Gaggar, global investment strategist, discussed how global supply chains could be disrupted even further by an armed conflict in Ukraine. Cheddar News, 02/03/2022

Commonwealth Draws $110M Husband-Wife Team from LPL. 4th Quarter Wealth Management, led by husband-and-wife team Mike and Aimee Hebert, moves their bespoke financial advisory practice to Commonwealth. Financial Advisor IQ, 02/02/2022

Will Chinese Equities Roar In the Year of the Tiger? Will a shift in China's monetary policy see Chinese equities roaring in the coming year? In a recent article, our global investment strategist, Anu Gaggar, considers the factors in play. Financial Advisor Magazine, 01/28/2022