Advocating for the independent

As an organization, Schwab began as an independent alternative to wirehouses. Today, both our retail and institutional businesses continue this commitment as industry leaders and we’re dedicated to honoring our heritage by promoting the industry and its advisors.

The Age of Independent Advice

In honor of its 20th Anniversary, Schwab Institutional, in conjunction with industry experts, historians, and current and former Schwab employees, has published The Age of Independent Advice, a book that chronicles the history, growth, and evolution of the Registered Independent Advisor (RIA) industry.

Chapter 1: Investing with a Difference, (115K, PDF)
Chapter 2: Birth of a Profession, (119K, PDF)
Chapter 3: Stirrings Beneath the Surface, (132K, PDF)
Chapter 4: Dark Clouds with a Silver Lining, (129K,PDF)
Chapter 5: An Industry Comes of Age, (138K, PDF)
Chapter 6: At the Crossroads, (139K, PDF)
 

Trends shaping the RIA industry

As part of our 20th anniversary celebration, Charles Goldman, Executive Vice President of Schwab Institutional, moderated a panel discussion with top New York advisors about the growth and future of the RIA industry. Topics included the success of RIAs in recent years, why RIAs are so valuable to affluent people facing retirement and how the industry continues to grow.

Excerpts of the discussion appear below.


Listen to RIA Nicholas Nicolette, Principal, Sterling Financial Planning, discuss the development of the financial planning profession.

 

(1207-1464)

Independent Advising in the News

Part of being an advocate for the industry is drawing media attention to RIAs. Here are some of our recent and upcoming mentions online, in print and on TV.

  • Investment News details new support services offered by custodians including Schwab Institutional. (June 2008)
  • Investment News article examines the evolution of the custody industry and the impact of internet communications and technological advances. (June 2008)
  • Investment Advisor magazine talks to Charles Goldman, Executive Vice President of Schwab Institutional about advisors growing their business. (May 2008)
  • Dow Jones article looks at brokers turning independent and working with Schwab. (April 2008)
  • Investment News describes Schwab Institutional as “Ahead of the Pack.” (April 2008)

(0708-0839)