How to Conduct an Annual RIA Compliance Meeting
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) imposes rigorous compliance rules on registered investment advisors (RIAs). In addition to developing written compliance policies, you’re also expected to hold, and document in writing, an annual compliance meeting. If you’re a newly established RIA, a little preparation can make the process of conducting this meeting a smooth one.… read more…
How to Conduct a Mock Compliance Audit for Your RIA
Registered investment advisors (RIAs) are subject to examination by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and/or state regulatory agencies. These exams typically take place every three to five years, and they’re intended to ensure that RIAs consistently meet compliance requirements. And conducting an RIA mock audit can help you feel more prepared when it’s time… read more…
Client Service Agreement Template for Financial Planning
Taking on new clients is an exciting prospect when you’re focused on growing your financial planning business. Drafting a client agreement is an opportunity to set expectations and clarify what services you’ll provide. Developing a new document each time you onboard a client takes time; it also isn’t necessary if you’re using a template that… read more…
Class A vs. Class C Stock: Differences and Examples
Not all shares are created equal when it comes to buying stock. For example, Class A shares often come with more voting power, while Class C shares may offer limited or no voting rights but can still grant access to dividends or capital gains. These classifications can affect how much influence shareholders have over corporate… read more…
Editor's Picks
CFA vs. CFP®: Which Do You Need?
Chartered financial analyst (CFA) and certified financial planner (CFP) are common certifications for individuals working in finance, namely financial advisors. These are designed to tell a client (or employer) that the holder has received education in certain types of financial… read more…
5 Tips for Choosing a Wealth Management Firm
Wealth management firms are all different, with their own specializations and services. As a result, the process for choosing a wealth manager is a very personal one. Wealth managers work closely together with their clients to identify financial goals and… read more…
Why First Homes Could Be Investment Properties
If you’re young and looking to purchase a new home to live in, you may want to consider turning it into an investment property. While most people wait until after they’ve bought their first or second home to begin investing in… read more…
Is Social Security Income Taxable?
Social Security income is generally taxable at the federal level, though whether or not you have to pay taxes on your Social Security benefits depends on your income level. If you have other sources of retirement income, such as a… read more…
Data Articles and Studies
Renting vs. Buying: How Housing Costs Compare Across America – 2025 Study
The cost of housing isn’t just limited to the price tag of your monthly rent or the cost of financing the purchase price of your home. On the rental side, the cost of utilities can add a consistent, considerable amount to your costs. For homeowners, mortgage costs are padded not only by utilities but homeowners’… read more…
Where Home Values Increased and Decreased Most – 2025 Study
Sharp changes in home values can have many ripple effects throughout the local economy. In the short term, both potential homesellers and homebuyers may be impacted by changes in local competitive forces and affordability. Over time, these changes can affect the city’s tax base, current homeowners’ refinancing options, demand in the local job markets, and… read more…
Where Americans Earn the Most From Investments – 2025 Study
Net capital gains, the profits from selling assets like stocks, real estate, or businesses, are a key measure of investment success and regional wealth. These gains are realized only upon sale and are taxable at preferential rates when held for a year or longer: 0%, 15% or 20%. Other investment incomes, such as ordinary dividends… read more…
Where Rent Increased Most – 2025 Study
Most experts agree that the United States is millions of housing units short of meeting the needs of Americans at an affordable price. This can put a lot of pressure on prices, but supply and demand dynamics may not look the same in each city – or each snapshot in time, for that matter. Regardless,… read more…
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