AdvisorTrends - The 3xEquity Podcast

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Today we’re talking about some major rumblings in the wealth management world. Word is, LPL Financial—the industry's undisputed recruiting juggernaut—may be acquiring Commonwealth Financial Network, one of the most respected boutique firms in the space.

Now, if you’re a Commonwealth advisor, you’re probably paying close attention to this. And you should be.

Let’s zoom out for a second.

LPL has been on a serious hot streak. Over the last couple of years, they’ve built a value proposition that’s incredibly appealing to a broad range of advisors. Their tech, their scale, their service model—it’s working. And we’ve helped a lot of advisors make the move to LPL. For many, it’s been the right choice.

But here's the key point: they chose it. They didn’t get swept up in an acquisition. They didn’t wake up one morning and find out their business was now part of a much larger machine.

They made a move—on their terms.

That distinction matters.

When LPL acquired Atria, many Atria advisors had a decision to make: go along for the ride, or chart their own course. And a surprising number of them chose to explore their options. They got offers from other broker-dealers, looked at how the economics lined up, compared support models—and many made a move that better fit their needs and goals.

Why? Because choice is power.

If you’re a Commonwealth advisor listening to this right now, you might be thinking, “Well, if I end up at LPL, what’s the big deal?” And the truth is, for some of you, that may be a great outcome.

But if you had gone to LPL on your own—if you had initiated that move—you would’ve likely received a transition bonus, additional onboarding support, and more negotiating leverage. In other words, you would’ve benefited from the move.

That’s not always the case when your firm gets acquired.

We get it—change can be overwhelming. But it’s also an opportunity. And at 3xEquity, we’re here to help you turn that uncertainty into advantage.

We make it easy, confidential, and zero-pressure to get transition offers from multiple top broker-dealers—so you can see what your business is truly worth in today’s market.

Even if you decide to stay put, the process gives you clarity. It gives you options. And, most importantly, it puts you in control.

Because at the end of the day, no one knows your business better than you. And no one should be making career decisions on your behalf.

So whether this LPL–Commonwealth deal goes through or not, don’t wait to see what happens. Take action. Own your next move.

Thanks for tuning in to AdvisorTrends. If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe, share it with a colleague, and visit 3xEquity.com to start exploring your options today.

Until next time—keep growing, keep leading, and remember: the power is in your hands.

Learn more at 3xEquity.com

Welcome to AdvisorTrends, the podcast where we explore the moves, strategies, and insights shaping the future of financial advising. I’m your host, and today, we’re talking baseball.

That’s right—baseball season is back next week, and with it comes the kind of optimism that financial advisors know well. It’s the feeling of fresh starts, tight game plans, and looking for the edge that’ll help you win all season long.

And speaking of strategy—there’s a new biography climbing the New York Times Best Sellers list that caught our attention. It’s called Earl Weaver: Baseball’s Relentless Genius, by John W. Miller. Now, if you’re a student of the game—or just remember the golden age of the Orioles—you know the name. Earl Weaver was the legendary manager of the Baltimore Orioles from the late ’60s through the mid-’80s. Fiery, brilliant, ahead of his time.

But here’s the thing. As a financial advisor, there’s a lot you can learn from how Earl Weaver managed a baseball team. In fact, his philosophy feels like a playbook for running a modern advisory practice.

Let’s dig in.

First off—know your numbers cold. Weaver didn’t trust gut feelings. He tracked stats, matchups, and tendencies on handwritten index cards. He was using data before data was cool.

Sound familiar? The best advisors today are numbers-driven. They use CRMs, planning software, portfolio analytics. They understand which clients are growing, which segments are profitable, and what their real margins are. Data drives better decisions—for your clients and your business.

Next—stick to a winning philosophy. Earl had one: pitching, defense, and the three-run homer. No bunts. No wasted outs. Just high-percentage plays that moved the needle.

Your version might be planning, risk management, and tax-smart strategies. Whatever it is—know it, own it, and execute it. Advisors who try to be everything to everyone often end up losing focus, and clients can tell.

Third—maximize matchups. Weaver was a master at this. He’d shuffle the lineup, bring in pinch hitters, and play the odds.

For advisors, it’s about fit. Are you working with the right clients? Are you in the right environment to thrive? Is your broker-dealer giving you the support, tech, and freedom you need to deliver your best performance? If not, that’s a bad matchup—and it may be time to rethink the lineup.

Now—say it straight. Weaver didn’t sugarcoat. He was direct, but his players respected him. They knew he had their backs.

Clients want that same honesty. They want an advisor who tells them the truth, even when markets are rocky or the plan needs adjusting. That kind of candor builds long-term trust..

And speaking of backing your team—Weaver was legendary for getting ejected from games to defend his players.

As an advisor, you’re in your clients’ corner. Whether it’s helping them navigate a major life event, a bear market, or a tough tax year, you’re the one stepping up to bat for them. That advocacy? It matters more than you think.

Now here’s one more thing—consistency wins. Weaver never had a losing record in his first 14 years. He didn’t just have good seasons—he built a system that worked year in and year out.

That’s what we’re all aiming for as advisors. Not just a good quarter. Not just a solid AUM number. But a practice that performs, delivers, and scales consistently—over time.

But let’s be real. Not everyone’s in the right place to make that happen.

Earl Weaver only ever managed one team: the Baltimore Orioles.. And for many financial advisors, that’s the story too.

When the fit is right...

But what if your story is different?

What if your current firm no longer has the technology you need? What if your growth feels capped? What service and support aren’t what they used to be?

That’s when it’s time to talk to a transition consultant like 3xEquity. We help advisors get clarity, explore new opportunities, and secure transition offers—confidentially and without commitment.

Learn more at 3xEquity.com.

A recent Reddit post titled “Would you switch firms in this market?“ caught our eye. It’s a great question and likely one that’s on the mind of many advisors—whether they were mid-process on a transition or were considering dipping their toe in the water. With markets experiencing increased volatility, the timing of a move can feel uncertain. But in reality, waiting for the “perfect” moment is often a losing game.

In fact, market turbulence can present unique opportunities. Clients are more likely to take your calls, as they’re actively seeking reassurance and guidance. A transition, when positioned correctly, isn’t just about a move—it’s about upgrading your ability to serve your clients. If a new firm offers better technology, superior products, and improved resources, that can be a game-changer in helping clients navigate uncertainty with greater confidence.

Consider this: just a few weeks ago, markets were at their peak. Could stability come just as quickly? Will you wish you were further along in the process in a few weeks? The reality is that trying to time a move—just like trying to time the markets—is nearly impossible. What matters most isn’t when you move, but why you move. If an opportunity is the right fit for you and your clients, that’s what should drive your decision.

And when making a move in volatile times, working with a transition consultant becomes even more valuable. The right consultant takes care of the heavy lifting—handling securing offers (while keeping you anonymous), meeting logistics, and much more—so that you can stay focused on what truly matters: your clients. Keeping them informed and reassured through a transition is critical, and with expert support behind you, you’ll be free to have those conversations without distractions.

At the end of the day, the question isn’t just whether you should switch firms in this market—it’s whether the right opportunity is on the table for you to move to. If it is, waiting for the “perfect” time could mean missing out on the best fit for you and your clients.

Curious to get started?  3xEquity is ready to help you find your best fit. Follow this link to begin.

Learn more at3xEquity.com.

The past few weeks have been, simply put, chaotic. The speed of domestic and global events has accelerated, making it harder to keep up—let alone plan for the future. Technological advancements in AI and breakthroughs in medical and pharmaceutical fields are moving at a phrenetic pace. Meanwhile, geopolitical shifts and economic uncertainty have many financial advisors fielding more client calls than ever before.

If you had 2025 circled as the year to consider a transition, you’re not alone—but you might also be feeling that now is not the right time to focus on making a move. The sheer volume of information, market shifts, and client concerns may have you thinking that staying put is the easier choice.

But here’s the reality: the world isn’t slowing down. If anything, the pace of change is only increasing. And in times like these, making the right move is even more critical for the long-term success of your practice. That’s where 3xEquity comes in.

We understand that your priority is serving your clients—especially in turbulent times. That’s why partnering with a transition consultant like 3xEquity is crucial. We do the legwork so that you can focus on what you do best: managing and growing assets.

Here’s how we make the transition process seamless:

✅ Securing Multiple Offers: We leverage our industry expertise and extensive network to bring you the best transition deals available—without you having to chase them down.

✅ Arranging & Analyzing Meetings: We coordinate meetings with top broker-dealers, take notes, and provide analysis so you can make informed decisions without losing time.

✅ VIP Visits & War Room Strategy: We schedule VIP visits and then guide you through a strategic, war room-style decision-making process to ensure you’re choosing the best fit for your future.

Despite the chaos, one thing remains constant: competition for top advisor talent is still fierce. Broker-dealers are offering some of the biggest transition packages in years, and you don’t want to miss your chance to capitalize on these opportunities.

The world may be moving fast, but that doesn’t mean your transition has to be overwhelming. With 3xEquity by your side, you can stay focused on your business while we secure the best path forward for you.

Reach out to 3xEquity today and take the first step toward your next chapter—without missing a beat.

Let Us Handle the Heavy Lifting Don’t Miss Out on the Largest Transition Packages in Years

Learn more at 3xEquity.com.

Turns out, if you build an exit ramp and start pushing people toward it, they might just take the hint. Who could have seen that coming?

As reported by AdvisorHub, UBS executives are sending mixed signals to their advisors. On one hand, they’re openly acknowledging that the firm is bracing for a wave of broker attrition following its recent compensation changes. On the other, those very changes are actively pushing out a critical segment of their workforce: advisors generating between $500K and $750K in annual revenue. While UBS frames the adjustments as a strategic realignment, the message to advisors in this revenue range is loud and clear—you’re not the priority anymore.

For many, UBS has been a comfortable home, providing brand recognition, a strong platform, and the resources to support their clients. But now, those same advisors are being squeezed by payout reductions and the elimination of key incentives like the teaming bonus. If you’re in that sweet spot between $500K and $750K in production, you have to ask yourself: Does UBS still want me here? The firm’s actions suggest otherwise. And if they don’t want you, why stay?

While UBS may be tightening the screws, other broker-dealers are rolling out the welcome mat. There are plenty of firms that would love to add experienced advisors with strong books of business to their rosters. And they’re willing to put serious money behind those efforts.

But making a move isn’t something to rush into blindly. That’s where 3xEquity comes in

https://3xequity.com/blog/bd-shocked-advisors-exiting-through-door-it-built

Learn more at 3xEquity.com.

The latest Cerulli Associates report paints a complex picture of the wealth management industry: advisor headcount is stagnant, top talent is scarce, and broker-dealers are competing fiercely for a shrinking pool of professionals. For advisors curious about their future, these findings offer both challenges and opportunities—but only for those willing to elevate their game.

With advisor headcount growing by a mere 0.2% over the last decade, the talent pool remains shallow. Broker-dealers, sensing this scarcity, are increasingly willing to overpay for top talent. The independent broker/dealer (IBD) and RIA channels are making significant gains in market share, further fueling the competition. For advisors, this means the potential for lucrative offers has never been higher.

The numbers tell the story:

Despite these gains, the wirehouse channel continues to control over a third of industry assets, even as its headcount is projected to decline further. This intense competition for talent is driving broker-dealers to sweeten the pot, particularly for experienced advisors managing substantial assets.

While broker-dealers are willing to pay top dollar, only advisors who distinguish themselves as exceptional—not merely competent—will command the most significant paydays. The Cerulli report reveals that 67% of assets are managed by practices with more than $500 million in AUM, with half of these practices open to acquisitions. These are the practices that broker-dealers are targeting.

So, what separates a “good” advisor from a “great” one?

If you’re an advisor eyeing a transition, here’s how to position yourself for success:

The Cerulli findings make one thing clear: the financial advisor landscape is changing, and those changes present both challenges and opportunities. Broker-dealers continue to overpay for top talent like its a precious metal, but only those advisors who stand out as industry leaders will reap the rewards. For good advisors, now is the time to focus on becoming great. By growing your practice, refining your skills, and preparing for the future, you can position yourself for the industry’s

READ MORE

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Google’s data rarely lies, and last week, searches for “how to quit Edward Jones” were up an eye-popping 1,563%. While we can’t confirm every search came from an Edward Jones advisor Googling their way out the door, it paints an interesting picture—one that shouldn’t come as much of a surprise.

Edward Jones has long been a solid launchpad for advisors entering the business. And for some, it’s even a long-term haven: the structured environment, the lifestyle, and the proverbial free-flowing Kool-Aid suit their needs perfectly. But for many others, especially those who’ve reached a plateau, the cracks in the facade become harder to ignore. And those cracks often widen at this time of year.

The end-of-year/beginning-of-year period is prime time for reflection and fresh starts. It’s no coincidence that advisors across the industry tend to pop their heads up like curious meerkats, scanning the landscape for greener grass. At Edward Jones, the itch to move often stems from:

First, don’t panic. You’re not alone. Here’s what we recommend:

At 3xEquity, we specialize in helping advisors like you navigate the transition process. Whether you’re ready to move now or just exploring your options, we can provide you with multiple offers, confidentially and hassle-free. The end of the year is the perfect time to reflect on your career, but let’s make sure your web searches are less about how to quit Edward Jones and more about where your next chapter begins.

Oh, and while you’re at it, save some bandwidth for vacation destinations and big game predictions. After all, a fresh start deserves some well-earned relaxation and a winning strategy.

Why Advisors Are Looking Around: What To Do If You’re Googling “How to Quit Edward Jones?”Why Not Let Us Help?

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Welcome to another episode of AdvisorTrends, 3xEquity's podcast on advisor transitions and strategies for growing your practice. It’s New Year’s, and for many of you, that means it’s time for your local Polar Bear Plunge. In this episode, we’ll dive into how this icy tradition is the perfect analogy for exploring a transition to a new broker-dealer. Grab your coffee and let’s go!

If you’ve ever taken part in a Polar Bear Plunge, you know it’s an experience like no other. On the morning of New Year’s Day, you and hundreds of others gather at the edge of a freezing lake. You’re bundled up, questioning your life choices, but you’re committed. On the count of three, you strip down to your swimsuit, brace yourself, and charge into the water.

Sounds exhilarating, right? Well, maybe once it’s over. But here’s the truth: the plunge is 98% mental. The thoughts running through your head beforehand are the real challenge. “It’s too cold.” “What am I doing?” “This is going to be awful.” And yet, as soon as you’re in, you realize it’s not as bad as you’d imagined. In fact, the water is often warmer than the air, and the real cold part comes when you’re running back to find your towel in the mud.

Now, how does this relate to transitioning to a new broker-dealer? It’s all about the mindset. Just like the Polar Bear Plunge, making a move is mostly mental. The hardest part is overcoming the fears and doubts that keep you stuck. Will it be too hard? What if it’s not the right fit? What if I regret the decision?

Here’s the thing: once you take the leap, you’ll find that the transition is often easier than you’d expected. Sure, there are adjustments, but you’ll also get that adrenaline rush that comes from making a bold move—from doing something that can significantly impact your year and your career for the better.

At 3xEquity, we’re here to help you take that plunge. If you’re thinking about exploring a transition in 2025, we’ll guide you through the process, ensuring your needs and goals are met. We’ll help you find the best fit and maximize your transition package, all while keeping you 100% anonymous until you’re ready to engage directly with a broker-dealer. And the best part? Our services are completely free to you. You’ll get expert advice and assistance without paying a dime.

So, whether you’re standing on the shoreline of a freezing lake or weighing the pros and cons of a move to a new broker-dealer, remember this: the hardest part is committing to take that first step. Once you do, you’ll be surprised by how quickly things start to fall into place.

Before we wrap up, here are three quick tips for those of you gearing up for an actual Polar Bear Plunge:

Happy 2025! Where will you grow this year? Thanks for tuning in to this episode of AdvisorTrends. Until next time, keep challenging yourself and growing your practice with bold moves.

Learn more at 3xEquity.com.

Undoubtedly, lots of good things will happen in 2025 and we don’t want to skip over it completely, but 2026 might be where it's at, especially for advisors who are eyeing a transition. As we close out 2024, here are key reasons why 2026 should already be on your radar:

 Get on the Glide Path

The best transitions aren’t rushed; they’re planned. Although some transitions can take just weeks, most require a few months, and the most seamless moves can take up to a year or more. Starting your journey early—by exploring opportunities and securing offers now—positions you to act with clarity and confidence. Knowing where you stand allows you to:

Takeaway: Begin exploring your options now to ensure you’re in control when the time is right.

Grow to Increase Your Payout

BDs continue to reward top-producing advisors with outsized transition packages. If maximizing your payout is a priority, use 2025 to focus on growth. The earlier you expand your book of business, the more it will reflect in your trailing 12-month production (T12), which most BDs use to calculate their offers.

Consider strategies to:

Takeaway: Treat 2025 as your runway for growth and watch your 2026 opportunities soar.

The Best Defense Is a Good Offense

The financial industry has been shaken by mergers and acquisitions in recent years, leaving many advisors displaced or working under a BD they didn’t choose. By proactively planning your transition, you gain control over decisions that appear beyond your control.

When you’re already moving towards a transition:

Takeaway: Proactively plan your move to stay ahead of industry shifts.

Partner with a Transition Consultant to Maximize Your Potential

A smooth and successful transition starts with expert guidance. That’s where a transition consultant like 3xEquity comes in. By working with 3xEquity, you can:

With 3xEquity, you’re not just reacting to opportunities; you’re controlling the conversation about your career.

Takeaway: Collaborate with experts to ensure a smooth and successful transition.

As the clock ticks down on 2024, don’t just look forward to 2025. Think bigger. Think 2026. The groundwork you lay today can create opportunities beyond what you’ve imagined. Ready to take the first step? Let 3xEquity help you turn your plans into reality. The future is closer than you think—start building it now.

Learn more at 3xEquity.com

As we close out another year marked by significant transition activity in the financial advisory space, it’s clear that for many, the decision to move isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s about satisfaction, growth, and building a better future.

Still, skepticism lingers among advisors weighing their options. If you’re one of them, let’s take a look at the numbers.

One of the biggest concerns for advisors is the time and disruption a transition might bring. However, recent data from LPL Financial should put some of those worries to rest. In 2023, the average transition took just 45 days. Even more encouraging, advisors were able to transfer an average of 87% of their AUM within the first two months.

For those who value speed and simplicity, services like 3xEquity offer a game-changing advantage. They provide a faster path to multiple offers from top broker-dealers, empowering advisors to take control of their careers with less hassle.

The short answer? Yes.

According to Fidelity, nearly all advisors (92%) who transitioned in recent years report being happy with their decision. But it’s not just about personal satisfaction. A significant majority (80%) say they are in a better financial position post-move.

And the numbers back it up: advisors who’ve been with their new firms for three to five years saw an average AUM increase of 59%—jumping from $105M pre-move to $167M post-move. That kind of growth is not just career-altering; it’s life-changing.

Perhaps most telling of all, satisfaction skyrocketed after the move. Before transitioning, only 8% of advisors reported being satisfied with their firm. After making the leap, that figure surged to 67%.

For those still on the fence, the good news is that the process doesn’t have to be daunting. Transition consultants, like those at 3xEquity, remove the hassles, helping you remain laser-focused on serving your clients. Their expertise turns an intimidating process into an empowering experience, offering you tailored solutions and support every step of the way.

As 2025 approaches, it’s worth asking yourself: Am I truly satisfied where I am? If the answer is no, the data tells a compelling story—it might be time to take the leap. Because while money might not buy happiness, moving to the right firm just might.

The Transition Timeline: Faster Than You ThinkIs the Grass Greener on the Other Side?Making the Move Easier