Retail Brokerage and Distribution Report Summer 2015

FA Channel Navigates Regulation and Economic Challenges Over the past 12 months, the financial advisor channel has been one of the faster growing areas in the financial services landscape. Operating in an environment of new regulatory requirements, shifting economics, and a distribution paradigm which is becoming increasingly crowded and competitive, the channel has been preparing to tackle these challenges. While adjusting to the shifting landscape may take time, the emergence of fee-based programs, changes in product shelf and platform moves have propelled the channel forward. This feature research delves into the details of the financial advisor channel and examines the trends that are currently affecting the dealers operating in the space. This is an important read for manufacturers looking to understand the forces shaping one of the primary distributors of investment fund products, and for distributors looking to assess changes occurring across the competitive landscape.