Insight September 2005 Monthly Update

The September issue of Insight presents Investor Economics’ third report on the banks’ branch advice networks, the distribution channel that we expect to post the strongest compound average annual growth through 2014. For the first time we rank the branch advice networks by assets. We also delve deeper into the qualifications of the advisors and this channel’s strategic positioning. Our last report on this topic—in June 2004—was titled “Branch advice bears fruit.” Now, after investing considerable resources and effort, bank executives tell us their channels have been built and populated with people and product. And though refinement and development continues, the banks are now looking forward to harvesting that fruit. Effectively, the creation phase is over and the concept is now expected to deliver on its objectives.