June 2004

Dealers’ Report Card

Most planners see the bureaucratic headaches as a necessary evil

Dramatic jump may be partly a result of consolidation; spending is paying off

Improved marks for account statements show firms are listening to long-standing complaints

Investment policy statements, letters of engagement ensure advisors and clients keep to the original deal

Research material gets the highest jump in marks in this year’s report card

Planners say they’re paying out more and getting back less

Most firms becoming more co-operative when planners decide it’s time to part company; IG still blocks client transfers

Many phone calls, many questions produced a winner — and some surprises

Planner wins for fifth time in six years, but ratings fall in 14 categories; Manulife Securities, Laurentian Financial gaining fast

Average AUM has barely budged in the past year, moving to $18.3 million from $18.1 million