Time value of money Inflation eats away at value of dollar. A simple example is cost of a movie ticket, just a $1 in 1969 and today you could pay as much as $15. Just imagine what your movie ticket will cost in 10, 20,30 years. Your money today, invested today, could keep pace or even outpace inflation with careful planning and investing.

To determine which broker/dealer is best for your business, it is recommended that you evaluate broker/dealers based on pre-determined criteria. In order to make a sound decision you will need to take a hard look at specifics. You will want to look over marketing materials, speak to financial consultants of firm that you are considering, and even visit broker/dealer’s headquarters. If it is feasible, you might consider talking to their clearing firm or even some financial consultants to get a complete perspective. As you evaluate each broker/dealer, you will want to consider following:

Corporate Culture. First, and perhaps foremost, have a discussion with several individuals associated with broker/dealer to determine if they will be a good fit for you and your business. This includes looking at vision and reputation of broker/dealer’s management, experience and background of support staff and goals and targets of other consultants in firm. Consider size of firm and their modus operandi to determine whether you will become just another number or a bona fide business partner. Finally, take a look at company as a whole. Is their main objective to support your business, or work for their own success?

Compliance. Arguably, most essential service a broker/dealer offers is compliance. In an environment where compliance requirements change frequently, financial consultants require expert assistance to help them stay right course. To ensure that your broker/dealer will offer support you need, ask about experience, training and responsiveness of compliance team.