NAIBD beefs up programs to meet growing interest

By Staff Writer

Commentary April 29, 2009 at 08:00 PM

Share & Print

In response to a surge of interest in the independent advisory business, the National Association of Independent Broker/Dealers (NAIBD) says it's bolstering its independent broker/dealer advocacy programs.

The NAIBD cites statistics that one in four advisors are considering going independent, and says it wants to increase focus on servicing the growing channel.

The organization launched its health insurance program last July for members, employees, and families, including 1099 financial advisors. Since then it says it has also expanded its educational outreach by offering free Webinars on industry issues with direct access to board members and speakers.

In April, NAIBD increased its advocacy initiatives to ensure that new regulations are fair by educating lawmakers and regulators on the potential impact on the IBD community.

The Member Advocacy Committee (MAC) generated political awareness of the small firm broker/dealer community when board members Lisa Roth and Jim Williams traveled to Capitol Hill to meet with a key member of Congressman Paul Kanjorski's staff, as well as other lawmakers representing the districts in which they live, to discuss proposed amendments to the bill H.R. 1212 and concerns of raised fees if the PCAOB (Public Company Accounting Oversight Board) were to eliminate the non-public category of the PCAOB registration.

NOT FOR REPRINT