What to do with the consolidation of hybrid Broker/Dealer & RIA firms

With the continued consolidation of hybrid Broker/Dealer & RIA firms, it is becoming more challenging for independent financial advisers to find a firm that aligns with their business and ethical values.

Financial advisers are already positioned in an unenviable landscape. The challenges they face today present a complex landscape that represents the major reason for consolidation at the firm level. Increased regulatory scrutiny, rapid technological advancements, and evolving client expectations means advisers and firms must remain agile or get out of the way. Moreover, building and maintaining trust in an era of heightened cybersecurity threats and economic uncertainty requires strong client relationships and transparent communication.

So, is consolidation, possibly even monopolization, a good thing for financial advisers who have built a business and service where their values are the constant with everything else being variable? Most likely not, as larger, monolithic firms will be unable to honor individual values by their very nature.

The good news is that there are still a few smaller, independent firms left. Prior to responding in resignation and signing with the big firms, it would be prudent for financial advisers to seek out the smaller firms that have already weathered this major storm for at least a conversation. As an example, take a look at what the president of a small firm out of Kokomo, Indiana (yes that’s a real city) recently had to say:

“We believe that the service we provide our financial advisers must, at a minimum, match the level of service he or she provides his or her clients.” ~ Brent Owens, President CFD Companies

It's worth a call to see if CFD aligns with your values.

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I continue to work with cfd Investments because they are leading edge. The officers attend several conferences every year. They not only know what is currently working and the trends this year…they know what the trends will be in 5 years. The goal of cfd Investments is to grow with the adviser.

Terry May • Greenville, OH

Leaving a major wirehouse to join cfd was the best decision of my career and my only regret is not doing it sooner! This organization is truly special for many reasons, but it all starts with the people who work here; The cfd team is filled with incredibly kind, talented, and knowledgeable people who consistently go above and beyond to serve their advisers while cultivating a familial environment. From a business standpoint, cfd offers top-of-the-line technology, compliance support, and regulatory guidance to keep pace with our constantly evolving line of work, while still giving advisers autonomy over their businesses in a way that is unmatched in the industry. I am so grateful to be a part of the cfd family and can’t recommend it enough to anyone looking for a new opportunity to work with a broker dealer that truly values their advisers; There is no place I’d rather be!

Nolan Dill • Bowling Green, Ohio

With the depth and complexity of industry offerings and the ever-changing nature of the industry itself, knowledge is power. And cfd puts that power at their advisers’ fingertips...

Lisa Raderstorf • Logansport, Indiana

Many years ago we spent three hours with Mick and Brent Owens and decided that cfd Investments was the place for us. It has been the BEST career move of my life. What a pleasure it is to be involved with a company that ALWAYS puts you first.

Gene Griffin • Terre Haute, Indiana

One of my favorite sayings is, “You Win with People,” a quote from Coach Woody Hayes. Coaches aim to put their players in the best position to win, and this is the culture at CFD. They equip advisers with all of the tools they need to succeed.

Coming from a national Broker Dealer, I was initially concerned that business processing efficiency at CFD would be a step back. However, I found that I am running my business MORE efficiently, and I am receiving more personal service, with CFD than I was the case with a large firm. The responsive service allows me to serve clients with a new level of excellence. I have been delighted to find that CFD leadership & the team make following through on their promises a way of life.
Ben Forgrave • Newark, Ohio

When looking for a new broker-dealer, my search targeted small, non-corporate, independent institutions. I came from the large corporate environment, and it drove me insane. I was a number. Service, the advisors, and the clients were secondary to corporate policy and the bottom line. With CFD, the advisors and the clients come first, and that is proven every day. It’s been two years now that I selected CFD to assist me in serving my clients. They have helped me put the past behind me, and continue to show me the future is bright in their organization. I am a member of the family, and they demonstrate so at every turn.

Dan Ballister • Basking Ridge, New Jersey

Our Commitment In Action

Discover stories, updates, and milestones that highlight the growth of the CFD Family.

Increased Partnership with Kingdom Advisors

November 4th, 2024

CFD Companies Announce $300M in new AUA, Increased Partnership with Kingdom Advisors...

New York Stock Exchange opening bell with Inspire

December 17th, 2024

CFD Companies President, Brent Owens, was invited by the Inspire ETF team to join them in ringing the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange.

The Heart of CFD: A Culture Rooted in Family

January 15th, 2025

Learn how our firm’s family-centered culture goes beyond business to build meaningful relationships and a supportive, values-driven community.

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We're available when you are. Fill out the form below so we can get to know you and your business. We are always looking for Advisers to "Grow With Us". If you feel the CFD Companies family is a good fit, we invite you to come for a visit on us. We look forward to hearing from you.

- Zachary Covert, Director of Business Development

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