Thomas M. Kostigen

A number of online wrap account providers have sprung up offering managed accounts to do-it-yourselfers. But so far the programs have attracted few assets.Fees ranges from 110 to 125 basis points (depending on...

Dain Rauscher is teaming up with Detroit-based Comerica, a national bank and trust company, to launch a new trust and estate service. The venture will establish dedicated offices around the country.Beginning this...

Estate planning helps preserve a client's bequests, but an adviser's role doesn't end at death. Reps can provide a lot of help to heirs in sorting out the assets. Account transfers, tax issues and trading advice are...

Morgan Stanley Dean Witter is encouraging reps to open more online accounts. And to boost productivity, MSDW producers are being urged to move smaller, inactive accounts to MSDW Online, the discount unit.Meanwhile...

Steve Booren, Capital Consulting, Englewood, Colo. Steve Booren doesn't like to take time away from serving his clients. "You won't hear me on the radio or see me on TV," he says. Nor will you find him doing much...

The growth of nondiscretionary fee accounts and discount options has created a potential regulatory trap for brokerage firms. So in November, the SEC proposed a rule to solve the problem.As full-service firms separate...

These days, being an expert in estate planning, tax planning and retirement planning is expected. Yet smart brokers realize that they can't be all things to all people. So what do you do?If you're like Bob Kennedy, a...

Bill Noonan honors his heritage every day. He has developed a book of business that draws on the strengths of his forefathers' country--Ireland.His interest in the Emerald Isle goes way back. As a second generation...