In The News

Raymond James Rising

Wed, 1 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

New RJA President Tash Elwyn discusses his new role, his past experience and the Morgan Keegan acquisition. "Raymond James and Morgan Keegan are focused on where we going to be six to 12 years from now and not six to 12 months from now," Elwyn said.

Raymond James Execs Court Morgan Keegan Advisors

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James hosted meetings between its top executives and 80-plus Morgan Keegan branch managers and administrative staff. “These meetings have helped to show our managers that Raymond James is run a lot like Morgan Keegan,” said Bill Geary, head of the private-client group for Morgan Keegan. “We’re confident that Raymond James offers the kind of environment where our financial advisors can be very successful.”

Raymond James Financial Advisors Get Social

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Financial advisors at Raymond James are now able to use social media tools including LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter through the Actiance compliance tool, Socialite. Advisors also have optional access to a library or pre-approved content and tools to measure engagement.

How Some RIAs are Starting to End Up with Raymond James as Their Custodian

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James recently lured RIAs from Harold C. Brown & Co., a Buffalo, N.Y.-based broker-dealer that is closing its doors after 80 years.

Raymond James Picks Up Four New RIA Firms

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James’ custody unit has picked up four new RIA firms with more than $400 million in assets. The additions made December the best recruiting month ever for its custody unit, said Mike DiGirolamo, head of the investment adviser division.

Broker Report Card 2011: Raymond James Takes Top Spot

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James & Associates took first place in Registered Rep.'s annual broker report card survey for the second year in a row, relegating Edward Jones once again to second place. Their advisors are clearly pretty happy where they are, with 93.1 percent saying they will very likely still be working for the firm two years from now, the highest percent of FAs compared with the rest of the firms.

Raymond James Taps New Heads of Independent, Employee Units

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James has named a new executive to run its independent-advisor channel as Dick Averitt prepares to retire, and a new head for its employee-advisor channel, as Dennis Zank moves into the COO slot at the parent company. Scott Curtis will assume the role of president of Raymond James Financial Services (now led by Averitt) and managing director of its independent-contractor division, and Tash Elwyn will become president of Raymond James & Associates’ private-client business, which is currently headed by Zank.

Raymond James Expands Executive Ranks

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James has appointed four executives in information technology and operations. "These recent appointments underscore Raymond James' client-first philosophy," COO Chet Helck said.

Raymond James makes its social-media move

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial Inc. has become the latest financial services firm to help minimize the compliance barrier to wider use of social media.

Raymond James Hopes New Training Program Will Appeal to Women

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James recently launched a two-year, mentor-type training program for new advisors, and it hopes the program will be more conducive to attracting and retaining women, although the program is not solely targeting women. Raymond James’ entire advisor force is about 17 percent women, but the inaugural class of the Advisor Mastery Program is already 34 percent female.

Raymond James Gets Social Media Right

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

“It sounds as if Raymond James and Actiance have struck the perfect balance between compliance and social–which are naturally at odds with each other. It seems to provide pre-approved and crowd-sourced content for those less experienced with social media while at the same time providing flexibility for those more comfortable with social media platforms.”

Raymond James allows financial advisers to go social

Wed, 2 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James's advisers are now allowed to use Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Raymond James will be using a platform from content management firm Actiance, which will ensure compliance with Financial Industry Regulatory Advisory regulations. Advisors will also be able to use pre-approved and pre-written messages or create their own, which will be filtered and checked for language and content before going live.

Raymond James to ramp up custody unit

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James is taking steps to boost the profile of the firm's custody unit, and hinted at things to come. In the works are a pricing revamp that will cut trading costs for advisors' clients, and a no-transaction-fee exchange-traded-fund program.

Raymond James Hires Morgan Stanley Advisor in Texas

Mon, 3 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Cheryl Peschke has moved to Raymond James from Morgan Stanley Smith Barney after finding the firm's values were a match for her practice. “I chose Raymond James because it is a successful, conservatively managed firm that cares about its clients first and offers its advisors great support,” Peschke said.

At Women’s Symposium, Raymond James to Boost Training, Women’s Programs

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James (RJF) executives discussed a new training program, series of women’s conference and other steps to keep the company on a controlled growth path during the firm’s annual Women’s Symposium being held in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Raymond James Hires Four-Member Baird Team

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James has hired a four-member financial advisor team that was previously producing more than $3.6 million in annual fees and commissions at Robert W. Baird & Co. The team, based in Peoria, IL, now operates under the name Hilltop Wealth Management at Raymond James, targeting clients including business owners, corporate executives, families, institutional clients and physicians

Three Make Barron’s Top 100 Independent Financial Advisors List

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to Gerry Klingman (No. 78), Mal Makin (No. 83) and Van Pearcy (No. 84). This is the fourth consecutive year these three advisors have made this prestigious list. One of Barron’s four annual lists of top advisors, this ranking of independent advisors is based on assets under management, revenue generated for an advisor's firm and quality of practice.

Raymond James Expands with New Boston Branch

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James has hired three former wirehouse brokers to establish a new office in Hingham, Mass. Gary McGovern, John Flaherty and Frank McDonnell come to Raymond James as senior vice presidents

Raymond James Adds HNW Advisor from UBS

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial Services, the independent broker/dealer of Raymond James, added financial advisor Troy H. LeBlanc to a branch office in Baton Rouge, LA. Before joining Raymond James, LeBlanc spent the last spent eight years as a senior vice president at UBS Financial Services. Raymond James Financial Services, the independent channel of Raymond James (RJF), added financial advisor Troy H. LeBlanc, formerly of UBS, to a branch office in Baton Rouge, La., the company said early Friday.

Raymond James Hires BofA Merrill Lynch Team With $114M in Assets

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Robert “Bob” Brooks officially joined Raymond James in Tallahassee, Fla. on July 22, along with his financial advisor son Wyatt Brooks, who has worked for him for 13 years. Together, they previously oversaw $114 million in client assets and had more than $600,000 in annual fees and commissions.

America’s Top 100 Independent B/D Advisors

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Twenty-four Raymond James advisors were named to Registered Rep.’s list of America's Top 100 Independent Broker/Dealer Advisors. More advisors were recognized from Raymond James than any other firm

Raymond James Exec Upbeat on FA Growth

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James expects its advisor headcount to continue to expand this year, generally through the hiring of individual advisors and teams, according to Dennis Zank, president of Raymond James & Associates, the firm’s employee-advisor broker/dealer.

Raymond James Nabs $500 Million Morgan Stanley Team

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James announced it recruited a $500 million team from Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. The wealth management team of Thomas A. Seiler and his brother Patrick M. Seiler joined the Newtown, Pa., office of Raymond James, according to Dennis Zank, president of Raymond James & Associates, the employee broker/dealer of Raymond James.

Raymond James Advisor Count Up Amid Tough Recruiting Environment

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James added 20 advisors in the U.S. during the fiscal third quarter despite a tough recruiting environment for regional firms. CEO Paul Reilly said the firm was helped by its acquisition of brokerage firm Howe Barnes Hoefer & Arnett Inc. at the beginning of the quarter, but retention packages keeping advisors at other firms did affect advisor growth.

Raymond James' Elwyn on FAs and Satisfaction of Volunteering: Weekend Interview

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Tash Elwyn, the head of Raymond James’ employee-advisor division in the Atlantic region, just wrapped up organizing the first Raymond James Cares Month. The effort included almost 300 volunteers from 15 branch offices in an equal number of states, who dedicated more than 1,000 hours to helping their communities.

Top 100 Women Financial Advisors 2011

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James advisors Judith McGee, Margaret Starner, Lynn Faust and Sherri Stephens were named to Barron’s 2011 list.

2011 Broker Survey: Ranking the Full-Service Contenders

Tue, 10 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James beat out six national full-service brokerage firms, including Edward Jones, to be ranked first in SmartMoney's annual Broker Survey.

Raymond James to focus on growth rather than mergers and acquisitions

Mon, 09 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Company officers made it clear that they are more interested in expanding the firm organically than by acquisition. In fact, Raymond James would need to find a perfect fit for them to do a deal.

Raymond James Hires MorganStanley Team in Southern California

Mon, 02 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James & Associates has hired a three-person team from Morgan Stanley in Westlake Village, California.

Raymond James Tops Estimates in Second Quarter

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial topped analysts' second-quarter sales and earnings estimates Wednesday, posting a profit of $80.9 million, or 64 cents a share, on sales of $852 million.

Raymond James Hires Two From Morgan Stanley

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James announced the hiring of two financial advisors - Martin Gelb and Sonya Gelb Choeff. The father-daughter team joined the new Miami Beach branch of Raymond James.

Raymond James Completes Acquisition

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial has completed its acquisition of Howe Barnes Hoefer & Arnett, Inc. The acquisition extends Raymond James’ capital markets reach within the financial institutions segment. Also, Raymond James will take over private wealth management for more than 5,000 clients with more than $1.7 billion in assets under management.

Weapons of Mass Instruction

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Three years ago Raymond James created a program consisting of personal coaching, invitation-only workshops and a robust website with more than 300 practice management tools. David Lee, director of practice management for Raymond James Financial Services, has a term for this: Weapons of Mass Instruction.

On Wall Street Announces Annual Top 10 Branch Managers

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Michael Hines and Thomas Walrond of Raymond James are recognized as top branch managers of the year.

Raymond James Adds Two UBS Advisor To S.C. Office

Wed, 08 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James & Associates has added two financial advisors from UBS to its Mount Pleasant, S.C., office. Roy Seay and Carolyn Edwards, who together managed $125 million in client assets, will operate as the Seay/Edwards Group.

Raymond James Named One of the World’s Most Admired Companies

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James was ranked as the fourth most admired securities company in the world.

Compensation 2011

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

For the 5th year in a row Raymond James & Associates had the highest payout in the industry for million-dollar producers.

RJ picks up two teams with $460M in total assets

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James has added two advisor teams with annual production of more than $2.8 million to form an independent branch office in Spokane Valley, Wash.

Raymond James Nabs Morgan Stanley, Wells Fargo FA Veterans

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James announced Wednesday that it recruited two Baton Rouge, La.-based financial advisors, Tom Breaux and Ian James, both of them veterans of large wirehouse firms.

Raymond James picks up $150M team from RBC

Tue, 13 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Investment Advisors Division has recruited a $150 million in assets team from RBC Wealth Management.

Raymond James to Acquire Chicago Middle-Market Brokerage

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James announced that it has agreed to buy Howe Barnes Hoefer & Arnett, a Chicago-based middle-market brokerage firm.

The Big Comeback

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Advisors at Raymond James & Associates put their firm at the top of Registered Rep.’s Annual Broker Report Card, with perennial top scorer Edward Jones in second place. Wirehouses, some of whose advisors are still unhappy over integration issues from the mergers that followed the financial crisis, trailed behind.

Five Questions With Dennis Zank

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT

The president of Raymond James & Associates discusses the firm’s residency program for training advisors as well as the industry trend toward bank ownership of brokerages.

2010 Advisor Hall of Fame

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Stephen W. Johnson, Mitchell Kauffman and Bryan Sweet from Raymond James were inducted into Research magazine’s 2010 Advisor Hall of Fame.

Raymond James Lures 27-Year Veteran

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Thomas P. Hirsch, a 27-year veteran of the financial services industry, was hired by Raymond James as manager of its Kentucky branch complex. Hirsch began his financial career with Merrill Lynch, spending 17 years as a director and another 10 years as managing director of the firm’s Louisville complex.

RaymondJames Leverages Conservatism

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James is launching a new campaign, “Tales of Financial Pragmatism,” from Minneapolis advertising agency Martin/Williams. The campaign plays up the company’s values of integrity, responsibility and pragmatism through storytelling.

Raymond James: 15% Growth Goal for Independent Advisors

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Speaking at the 16th-annual Women’s Symposium, Raymond James Financial Chairman Tom James and other executives told the audience of more than 100 female advisors that the firm had several competitive advantages over rivals and would, at least in the independent channel, like to boost annual sales 15% a year over the next five years.

Realizing Advisors Are Free Agents

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Dennis Zank, the president of Raymond James & Associates, said both its employee and independent channels, performed relatively well during the financial crisis and afterward without TARP funds because “we remained who we are.” The firm is a private client business first and foremost, insisted Zank and Dick Averitt, chairman and chief executive officer of Raymond James Financial Services.

Raymond James Raymond James CEO Paul Reilly Speaks on Reforms and Recruiting

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Speaking at the 16th annual Women’s Symposium in St. Petersburg, Fla., Paul Reilly said the firm is tackling issues, including auction-rate securities, and positioning itself for further growth. He also told the audience of over 100 female advisors that expected regulatory changes should not have much impact on how Raymond James does business.

Raymond James CEO Wants to Take Firm to a New Level

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Paul Reilly, who recently took over as chief executive officer of Raymond James Financial, said he wants to take the company to a new level, building on its reputation for having 90 consecutive quarters of profitability, in order to attract top-performing financial advisors from other firms and create new programs to aid the advisors already at Raymond James.

Raymond James Hires Two Advisors from Wells Fargo

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Advisors Tony Noisom and Chris Musino joined Raymond James from Wells Fargo in Coral Gables, Florida. “Joining Raymond James is one of the best decisions we’ve made—both for our clients and us,” said Noisom. The team has more than $87 million combined in assets under management.

Raymond James to Host Annual Women’s Confab

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

More than 100 female financial advisors across the firm’s different channels are scheduled to attend. Educational sessions will focus on asset management, practice intelligence, insurance and annuities and information technology, other activities include top advisor presentations, performance coaching and networking.

Raymond James Puts Killgoar in Charge of “Client Experience”

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Tim Killgoar joined Raymond James Financial two years ago as an assistant to Tom James, the current chariman and former chief executive officer. In his new role, Killgoar will focus on several strategic initiatives aimed at improving money management processes for retail investor clients, and the financial advisors that they work with.

Raymond James Swoops in on Brokerage Firms’ Million-Dollar Team

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

The team of Eileen Lamchick and Susan Rutrough joined Raymond James as vice presidents of investments at the firm’s Coral Gables, FL office. “Raymond James offers us the support and freedom to make recommendations based solely on our clients’ best interests,” said Lamchick.

Top 100 Indie B/d Advisors 2010: Savoring Independence

Sun, 01 Aug 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James placed 31 advisors on this Top 100 list.

Raymond James Advisors Post Strong Sales, Income

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial met earnings expectations on Wednesday, July 21, and beat revenue estimates on strong performance in its private-client operations. “The Private Client Group results were largely driven by past (’08-’09) recruiting success,” said CEO Paul Reilly. “That’s the real story of the quarter.” Though the recruiting environment has cooled off from where it was 18 months ago, “It remains a good recruiting environment,” said COO Chet Helck, head of the PCG.

Raymond James aims to broaden Western Presence

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial has 89 consecutive quarters of profits and has emerged from the near meltdown on Wall Street with strong financial resources. ”Expanding during a downturn, if you have financial capital, is really good,“ CEO Paul Reilly said during a visit to its Las Vegas branches. ”The last real push is out West,“ Reilly said.

Raymond James Wants More Financial Advisors

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Paul Reilly, the financial-services firm’s new chief executive, said Raymond James Financial Inc.’s private client group has less than a 3% share of registered investment advisor assets, and he sees tremendous opportunity for growth there. The goal for its private client group is to continue with 15% growth per year—half through recruiting and half through production, Reilly said at the Sandler O’Neill Global Exchange and Brokerage Conference.

Trading Independence

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Seeking stability and a wider safety net, many independent investment consultants are moving over to banks. John Houston, managing director of the financial institutions division at Raymond James in St. Petersburg, Fla., says about 10% of the 200 banks and credit unions he works with have hired or teamed up with independents. “I don’t know that there’s a huge trend,” he says. “But it’s a good way for the bank investment programs to expand their reach in their communities.” Based on his conversations with bankers, he estimates that 25% to 40% of the banks that work with broker-dealers like Raymond James might more “seriously explore this opportunity.”

The Top 20 Program Managers

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Bank Investment Consultant ranked the managers of the most productive advisors in bank brokerage. Raymond James led way with 12 of the top 20, including first through sixth.

Raymond James Makes Leadership Transition: Reilly Becomes CEO; James Remains Chairman

Thu, 06 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT

The leadership team of Raymond James Financial shares its thoughts on having a new CEO, Paul Reilly, and how it can build on its record ’09 recruiting efforts.

Thirty for Thirty

Tue, 04 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Chairman of the board and former CEO Tom James was named to Investment Advisor’s list of the 30 most influential individuals in and around the planning profession over the last three decades.

40 Years of Tom James

Sat, 01 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT

After 40 years at the helm of Raymond James, Tom James reflects back as he prepares to welcome Paul Reilly as CEO. This feature story in a special 40th Anniversary issue includes comments from COO Chet Helck, Tom James and Paul Reilly as they discuss the past, present and future of the company.

Looking back

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Chairman of the board Tom James talks about changes at Raymond James and in the financial advisory industry over the past 40 years as he prepares to step down as CEO.

Profits Surge at Raymond James

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James reported that second quarter earnings rose to $55.6 million, or 45 cents a share, from $6.1 million, or a nickel per share, a year earlier. Net revenue increased 26% to $734.4 million and total revenue rose 27% to $750 million. Analysts had expected a profit of 42 cents per share on $703 million of revenue. Analysts said they expect assets to increase as Raymond James continues to attract top advisors from competitors.

Raymond James Ranks in Top 10 of Best Places to Work

Sun, 21 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT

“What makes a great workplace? Employees helping one another. Sense of purpose. Pride and loyalty. Attention and care from top managers. A healthy dose of fun. Most of all, a clear mission and confidence in leaders,” wrote Times Business columnist Robert Trigaux. In a survey of 17,000 workers, the St. Petersburg Times ranked Raymond James a 2010 Top Workplace in the Tampa Bay area in the large company category. Tom James was named the best business leader in that category.

On Wall Street Announces Branch Managers of the Year

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James branch managers Frank Consalo and Dan Kraus win 2009 awards.

People on the Move: Spotlight on Paul Reilly

Wed, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT

A brief chat with Paul Reilly about taking over as CEO on May 1.

Paul Reilly to Replace Tom James as Raymond James CEO on May 1

Wed, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT

The board of Raymond James Financial confirmed that Paul Reilly will succeed Tom James as CEO on May 1, as was first announced by the company in March 2009; Reilly became president of the company in May 2009. The board also declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.11/common share, marking the 25th consecutive year that Raymond James has paid a dividend.

Raymond James: Recruiting Wirehouse and Other Advisors with $1 Billion in Total AUM

Mon, 14 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT

“Recruiting for both traditional employees and independent contractors has certainly slowed from the record levels of early 2009,” says Chet Helck, Raymond James COO and head of the firm’s private client group. “But we are still attracting top tier advisors who recognize that Raymond James is a stable firm, where they can put their clients’ interests first, own their own book of business, access superior resources and research, all while receiving the highest levels of client service.”

Ex-Smith Barney Branch Manager Goes Independent with Raymond James

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT

After spending 28 years working at wirehouses, Glenn Fischer said he was ready for a change, but he certainly didn’t want to change everything. What’s more, he wanted to be bigger than everyone else in the independent channel. “After working at the wirehouses for my entire career, I thought that there must be a better way to do business,” he said. “The wirehouse environment provides a lot of products, services and resources that are difficult for the independent business model to compete with, but by working with Raymond James I am hoping to find a happy medium and be able to provide the best of both worlds.”

Investment News 20 of 2010 – Broker dealers: Paul Reilly

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 07:00:00 GMT

The Investment News 20 is a group of people who will have a big influence on the financial services industry in 2010. Advisers think Paul Reilly, who will take the reins of Raymond James Financial Inc. from chief executive Tom James this spring, has the background to keep the firm on the path of steady growth.

Raymond James adviser: ‘We owe it to our clients’

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 07:00:00 GMT

A group of financial advisers from a giant national firm moved to Raymond James in September. The move reflects a national trend to smaller organizations by financial experts who deal mostly with individuals, says David Niswonger, an investment manager who had been with the other firm for 25 years. “We felt a growing distance between where they were going and how that impacted the individual client world we work in.”

RJFS’s FID: The Top 50 Bank Reps

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT

RJFS’s FID division surpassed all competitors with 11 advisors ranked in this year’s BIC Top 50, including the #1 spot.

RJ Advisor named to Hall of Fame for 2009

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT

RJFS’s Mark Smith has been recognized by Research Magazine in its annual Advisor Hall of Fame for 2009. Now in its 19th year, the hall has become a benchmark of excellence for financial advisors.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race for Financial Adviser Firms

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:00:00 GMT

Finance firms are hiring financial advisers and wealth managers in droves. Lack of exposure to toxic debt and solid financials is making Raymond James an appealing partner for both investors and advisers. “Last year, highly respected places saw their financial credibility being questioned,” said Chet Helck, COO of Raymond James. “That put a lot of financial advisers in mode of looking around, looking at their options. We didn’t have the exposure to subprime issues. We didn’t have to take government assistance.”

Raymond James Recruits 750-Plus Financial Advisors

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial says its two broker-dealers hired over 750 veteran financial advisors with more than $35 billion in assets and over $250 million in historical gross revenue in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009.

Raymond James Tops Boomer Market Advisor

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James was named the 2009 Broker/Dealer Excellence Award winner in the Large Independent Broker/Dealer category for the second consecutive year.

RJFS raises minimums for new RIAs

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James is raising minimums for new RIAs who want to custody assets on its RJFS-IAD platform from $30 million to $50 million. The firm said the move will both help it cut the cost of serving RIAs and also act as a draw for bigger RIAs, who tend to want to work with other RIAs of similar size.

Retirement Planning a Major Focus at Raymond James’ 15^th Annual Women’s Symposium

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Working effectively with the nation’s nearly 80 million baby boomers, whether retired or contemplating retirement, was a major focus of the Raymond James 15^th Annual Women’s Symposium, sponsored by the firm’s Network for Women Financial Advisors.

Passing the Torch at Raymond James

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Leadership transitions are high-stakes affairs. In hiring his own replacement, Tom James has adopted a phased-in succession. As James prepares to pass the torch to Paul Reilly, he’s created a more gradual succession plan that takes into consideration the fact that Reilly hasn’t grown up in the company’s culture.

Raymond James Hiring Advisors to Offset Asset Losses

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Chet Helck, the chief operating officer of its private client group, said assets under management at Raymond James have declined at “less than half” of the global rate in the past year because the assets brought by the new advisors have helped offset losses. “We have had our most successful year in terms of attracting and retaining financial advisors,” he said.

Three High-Producing Advisor Teams Join Raymond James

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Three financial advisory teams, which had a combined $4.25 million in revenue, have joined the independent broker-dealer subsidiary of Raymond James Financial.

Career Moves: The Call of Independence

Tue, 03 Sep 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Wirehouse reps are increasingly looking beyond Wall Street firms these days. The proportion of wirehouse advisors switching to another has fallen steadily over the past year, while the number going to independent b/ds and RIAs, as well as to regionals like Raymond James, has risen, according to data from Discovery.

Bremer Bank to partner for services

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Bremer Bank will utilize Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. to offer clients investment and wealth management services.

America’s Top 100 Independent Advisors

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 10:00:00 GMT

38 Raymond James advisors made the list.

60 Seconds with Paul Reilly

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Reilly became president of RJF in May and will add CEO to his title when founder Tom James steps down next year after 41 years as chief executive. Registered Rep. talked with Reilly about his new role at the firm.

Getting Productive

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Raymond James has begun hiring bigger and better quality advisors. “If we look at the last three or four years at Raymond James, we didn’t hire many large producers,” says Bill Van Law, senior vice president and director of business development at Raymond James Financial Services. “But that is a major focus now.”

Raymond James Nabs Wirehouse Refugees

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial Inc. added 150 financial advisers in its fiscal third quarter, ended June 30, as part of what the company described in its earnings release as a continuing effort to “add producing personnel of all types aggressively.” “We expect this positive recruiting trend to continue for the rest of the year,” said Chet Helck, chief operating officer for Raymond James’ private-client group.

The Lure of Independence

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 08:00:00 GMT

For 14 years, Jason DiLauro was the epitome of the Merrill Lynch financial advisor who was devoted to the firm. DiLauro says of Merrill, “I never ever imagined leaving there. I kind of considered myself the poster child for the firm.” No longer. Nearly three months ago, DiLauro picked up and left. He set himself up as an independent through Raymond James Financial Services four miles from his previous office. If he was once the poster child for Merrill, he is now the profile of the new independent financial advisor.

Stepping It Up

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 08:00:00 GMT

There are many reasons why technology is an important factor in choosing a B-D (or evaluating your own): one of them is that the survival of B-D itself may depend on it, the second is that there is a trickle-down effect to you. Raymond James is hard at work delivering new and improved technology solutions to its representatives. According to Mike Shelly, VP of Technology Practice Management at Raymond James, all Raymond James advisors will have access to a “lite” reporting package through PNC/Albridge, similar to those offered by other B-Ds, at no charge.

Raymond James Nabs Two Big-Producing Smith Barney Teams

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James & Associates has recruited two veteran advisor teams from Smith Barney to join its Jacksonville, Fla., branch. The teams generate a combined $4.2 million in fees and commissions.

Bank Investment Consultant’s Top 20 Program Managers

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Based on average production per rep, Raymond James advisors won four of the top ten spots in Bank Investment Consultant’s 2009 “BIC Top 20 Program Managers” competition.

Raymond James has been named best full-service broker in SmartMoney’s June 2009 issue

Tue, 19 May 2009 15:45:00 GMT

A repeat winner from last year, St. Petersburg, Fla.-based Raymond James knocks out the competition in two categories: customer satisfaction and brokerage statements. The 47-year-old Raymond James, which took on more than 300 new brokers last year, says it’s also scooping up new customers from full-service outfits with riskier balance sheets and uncertain futures.

Raymond James Recruits Million Dollar Producers from Goldman, Citi, and Merrill

Mon, 04 May 2009 15:45:00 GMT

“In these turbulent times in particular, financial professionals are looking for the stability a conservatively managed firm like Raymond James provides, yet one that allows them the independence to manage their own practice while putting clients’ interest first,” said Bill Van Law, national director of business development.

Raymond James Scores High Marks From Bank Investment Consultant

Fri, 01 May 2009 15:45:00 GMT

Rated on 22 factors, including banking knowledge, sales management and marketing, Raymond James came in second in Bank Investment Consultant’s survey of third-party marketers.

Raymond James Euphoric Over Recruiting

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:42:00 GMT

Given the prevalence of chaos in the marketplace, economy and on Wall Street, CEO Tom James says, many advisors have been contacting Raymond James about a possible affiliation. “We can’t see the FAs who are calling, because we don’t have enough time for such a large number of meetings.”

Raymond James, Jeffries Keep Their Focus

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 04:42:00 GMT

These shops have kept their focus on the difficult but necessary regimen of blocking and tackling that originally made Wall Street great.

Raymond James predicts record recruiting year

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:25:00 GMT

Advisers from wirehouses feel let down, explained Jim Fulp, executive vice president and managing director at Raymond James. “They really feel betrayed. They are angry. They’re looking for a place where they can once again relax and say, ‘I don’t have to worry about the company.’”

The CEO patriot pledge: just say no to more layoffs

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:00:00 GMT

CNBC’s “On the Money” highlights Raymond James’ CEO as an example for other CEOs. Tom James’ base salary was less than 20 times the amount of the lowest paid worker at his company. As compared with the average CEO salary, which is 262 times that of the lowest paid worker.

David Macchia Interviews: Tom James

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Chairman and CEO share his perspectives on the recent economic crisis and the benefits of the firm’s conservative operating philosophy.

How volatility breeds opportunity

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 10:00:00 GMT

You’ll have to forgive Jeffrey Saut if he savors 2008 a little longer than the rest of us. For in a year during which the S&P 500 fell a stunning 38.5%, venerable investment banks crumbled, and 401(k) plans from Tacoma to Tampa were vaporized, the chief strategist at Raymond James was one of those few market gurus with a legitimate claim on the four sweetest words in the Wall Street vocabulary: “I told you so.”

The 10th Annual Recruiters Roundtable

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 10:00:00 GMT

OWS: Is any particular regional firm going to do really well recruiting in the next 12 months?... Diamond: Regionals have always differentiated themselves by having the horsepower of a wirehouse–but a smaller, more-nimble, flexible culture. Raymond James has done a fabulous job of that.

The Power Players

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Tom James was featured, along with Ken Lewis, James Dimon and others, as one of On Wall Street’s “Power Players”.

Debriefing Tom James

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Raymond James CEO sounds off on the term “bailout,” government regulation and lessons learned over his career. forbes.com]]>.

Stability enhances loyalty

Sun, 07 Dec 2008 10:00:00 GMT

According to the results of a study to be released this month by Cogent Research LLC of Cambridge, Mass., more than half the nation’s top 23 financial services firms suffered losses in loyalty among their affluent clients. ...Raymond James & Associates Inc. of St. Petersburg, Fla., boasted double-digit gains, according to the study.

Raymond James Upbeat about Recruiting

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 10:00:00 GMT

For many broker-dealer firms, 2008 is a year to forget. But that’s not the case for Raymond James. “This will probably be the most successful recruiting year ever in terms of the momentum and pace we’ve seen in the candidates meeting with us in all channels,” says Raymond James Financial President and COO Chet Helck.

2008 Advisor Hall of Fame – Margaret Chow Starner

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Margaret Chow Starner, Coral Gables , Fla. Through the League of Women Voters, Starner had met highly educated women who were savvy about community and political affairs – but had no grasp of their own finances. Starner, who was to become widely recognized as a trailblazer in the financial planning industry, was about to change that.

Raymond James Expands (scroll down when story loads)

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 9:15:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial Inc. is expanding amid other firms’ travails. While many of its peers are laying off workers in a bid to weather the credit crisis, the St. Petersburg, Fla., company is looking to boost its market share by snagging brokers, traders and bankers from these troubled firms. In an October conference call, Chief Executive Tom James said Raymond James had 5,045 financial advisers as of the end of September, up from 4,758 a year earlier.

Raymond James’ CEO scoops Entrepreneur Award

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Thomas A. James, the chairman and chief executive officer of Raymond James Financial, Inc., enjoyed his night at the Ernst & Young awards.

Going Indy

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Many broker-dealers are feeling the benefits of advisors’ push toward independence. Though St. Petersburg, Fla.-based Raymond James was already having what it considered to be a very good year, Senior Vice President and National Director of Business Development Bill Van Law was happy to see the company’s growth revenue from new advisors up 45% year-to-date through August. Lead flow is up nearly sixfold.

Tech-savvy indies a draw for some advisers

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Joe Amalfitano left New York-based Smith Barney in March to go independent and said that technology support was one of the key reasons he chose to affiliate with Raymond James. “When I got over here I was shocked how comparable, if not superior, Raymond ---James’ technology was to that of Smith Barney,” he said

America’s Top 100 Independent Advisors

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

27 Raymond James advisors made the list.

2008 Broker/Dealer Excellence Awards

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Advisors are extremely impressed with the house that Tom (James) built. “If I were to leave my current b/d, I’d take a hard look at Raymond James” is a phrase we constantly hear

Raymond James snags high-earning Merrill team

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 12:00:00 GMT

A veteran Michigan-based brokerage team at Merrill Lynch & Co. Inc. that produces $2.7 million in fees and commissions has bolted to Raymond James & Associates Inc., saying its clients are concerned about the financial stability of Merrill.

Raymond James CEO says firm gaining from crunch

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:00:00 GMT

It may not have the biggest household name, but regional brokerage Raymond James Financial Inc is now one of Wall Street’s largest independent securities firms and among the industry’s top performers.

Catching up with... Dick Averitt

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial Services’s (RJFS) national conference, in Washington in late August, drew an impressive 968 advisors.

Survey: RJ tops in service

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Raymond James ranked ”Highest in Employee Advisor Satisfaction Among Financial Investment Firms in a Tie“ in J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Financial Advisor Satisfaction StudySM]]> – adding to the firm’s recent investor satisfaction recognition. Read more about the ranking here.

Wall St. woes don’t worry smaller firms

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 12:00:00 GMT

”The rest of the world is being reeled back into the kinds of conservative business decision making that we’ve always used,“ said Chet B. Helck, president and chief operating officer of Raymond James Financial Inc.

Wirehouse Brokers Want Out

Tue, 22 Sep 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Mr. Helck stressed that Raymond James, which has 4,716 brokers and advisers across various business channels, is seeing interest from advisers with a variety of firms, not just Merrill Lynch & Co. Inc. "The more this dislocation occurs, the more it really validates our business model," he said.

Raymond James Grabs Two Top Teams

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Brokers formerly with Merrill and UBS make the move to Raymond James.

Solomon's firm kicks it up a notch

Thr, 9 Sep 2008 12:00:00 GMT

But Murray Solomon has more than 500 clients with which he can share the recent news that the firm for which he works, Raymond James Financial Services.

The Other Surprise in Tampa Bay

Tue, 25 Aug 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Raymond James had a top showing in Barron's most recent ranking of brokers' stock recommendations. Read more about the results in this article.

]]>For the twelve months ended June 30th]]> 2008, Raymond James recommended61 securities through its Focus List]]>. Of these 28 advanced and 33 declined. Performance includes dividends and a 1% trading commission on additions and deletions. The Focus List]]> returned -2.9% during this period, whereas the S&P 500 returned -13.1%. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks. Investors cannot invest directly in an index.Individual results will vary and an investor would incur commissions (and interest charges if transacted in a margin account) to transact these recommendations. A complete record of all Focus List]]> recommendations during this period is available upon request.The results presented should not and cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.The market value of securities fluctuates and investors may incur profits or losses.

]]>Raymond James & Associates (RJA) makes a NASDAQ market in the shares of Pharmaceutical Product Development. RJA co-managed a follow-on offering of WLT shares in June 2008. The returns for Continental Resources were extraordinary and not likely to be duplicated in the future. The closing prices on Friday August 29, 2008 for the stocks recommended by Raymond James which were mentioned in the article were: CLR $50.17; PPDI $40.80; WLT $93.80.

Raymond James Nabs $3 Million Team from Smith Barney

Thr, 14 Aug 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Geegan says the small firm culture at Raymond James persuaded them to make the move. “We saw it as a way to get back to our roots. Bigger is not necessarily better,” he says.

Raymond James tops client satisfaction rankings

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Read more about the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Full Service Investor Satisfaction StudySM]]> in this article.

Raymond James profit up 2 pct, commissions rise

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Raymond James reported a 2 percent increase in quarterly profit on Tuesday. Read more about the third quarter earnings in this article.

A Stock and a Hard Place

Tue, 1 Jul 2008 12:00:00 GMT

St. Petersburg brokerage Raymond James had virtually no exposure to the subprime mortgage market. Chairman and CEO Tom James elaborates in this article.

Breaking Free

Tue, 1 Jul 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Now that their golden handcuffs of wirehouses aren't so arresting, more advisors will be looking to go independent. On Wall Street profiles two advisors who made the move to the Raymond James Independent Contractor division.

The Perfect Fit -- The Key to Find the Right Broker

Sun, 1 Jun 2008 12:00:00 GMT

SmartMoney Ranks Raymond James No. 1 Among Full-Service Brokers

RJFS unit scores big win

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Financial stocks we love

Fri, 2 May 2008 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James is one of just six firms -- and the only brokerage -- to make this list of stocks expected to perform well despite the troubled financial climate.

Chairman and CEO Tom James Interview on CNBC

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 21:30:00 GMT

CEO Tom James discusses earnings and the company’s position in the marketplace on “Closing Bell”

Top 50 Independent B/D Advisors

Tue, 1 Jan 2008 08:00:00 GMT

19 Raymond James Advisors -- more than any other firm -- placed on the Registered Rep Top Independent B/D Advisors List

Leader of the Band

Tue, 1 Jan 2008 08:00:00 GMT

Jeff Oster’s financial career gives him the freedom and business know-how to be a player in the entertainment arena.

CEO Tom James Provides Subprime Perspective

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Tom James appeared on the PBS Nightly Business Report Tuesday, December 18. In the interview he discussed the subprime industry meltdown, how Raymond James fared and the firm's commitment to staying independent.

2007 Advisor Hall of Fame: Van Pearcy

Sat, 1 Dec 2007 08:00:00 GMT

Since joining Raymond James, Pearcy’s asset base has more than tripled - a result he attributes in large measure to a team approach that encompasses his own in-house team [including his wife, Donna, a vice president] and insurance, tax and estate planning specialists allied with Raymond James.

Migration Time

Sun, 11 Nov 2007 08:00:00 GMT

Not only are advisors changing firms, but also many who do so are going over to the investment advisory side of the business. “The volume of [resumes we receive] increases in the fall, winter, and spring,” says Bill Van Law, laughing because as senior VP of business development at Raymond James Financial Services, he’s based at the company’s headquarters in St. Petersburg, Florida. But it seems that interest from representatives from wirehouses has spiked.

America’s Top 100 Independent Advisors

Sun, 11 Nov 2007 08:00:00 GMT

There are close to 90,000 independent broker/dealer reps in the industry, more than any other channel. Here are the Top 100 ranked by assets under management. 6 Malcolm A. Makin; 7 Gerard A. Klingman; 11 Van Pearcy; 15 Mark Smith; 25 David Tanner; 31 Charles Morris; 32 Sherri Stephens; 33 Judith A. McGee; 35 Carl Stuart; 38 Stephen W. Johnson; 48 Daniel Gavin; 50 John Moore; 67 Todd Sanford; 69 Marilyn Gunther; 76 Robert Bjork; 78 Kalita Blessing; 81 Craig Noel; 82 Robby D. Harfst; 83 Scott A. Wigren; 93 Nancy K. Caton

Recruits in the Driver’s Seat

Thu, 1 Nov 2007 08:00:00 GMT

At Raymond James, the number of advisors recruited so far this year is already about 80 percent ahead of where it was last year

Private client services, investment banking drive gains at Raymond James

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial said net income for the fourth quarter was $63 million, or 53 cents a share, a 24 percent increase from the same period in 2006.

How to Swim Upstream

Mon, 1 Oct 2007 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James advisors Kalita Blessing and Greg Ghodsi discuss their growth in high net worth clients along with Chip Bauder of Raymond James Wealth Solutions department.

Women Making Impact at Raymond James

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 08:00:00 GMT

Tracey Longo reports from the 13th Annual Raymond James Women’s Symposium

Raymond James Attracts 71, Adds ’07-’08 Bonuses

Sat, 1 Sep 2007 08:00:00 GMT

During the second quarter of 2007, Raymond James Private Client Group recruited 71 new financial advisors, with 40 joining its employee channel - Raymond James & Associates - from 18 firms, such as A.G. Edwards, Smith Barney and Merrill Lynch

Independent-Broker Dealer Round Table: Transcript

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial Services’ Bill Van Law participated in a candid round table discussion of issues affecting independent broker/dealers.

Raymond James unit gives bonuses to big producers

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 08:00:00 GMT

In an effort to charge up its top registered representatives and financial advisers, Raymond James Financial Services Inc. is giving bonuses to its biggest-producing brokers.

Wachovia deal lifts Raymond James, other brokers

Fri, 1 Jun 2007 08:00:00 GMT

Following Wachovia/A.G. Edwards announcement, speculation about Raymond James as takeover target, put to rest by Chairman & CEO Tom James.

Raymond James: Company Committed To Staying Independent

Thu, 31 May 2007 08:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK (Dow Jones)--Raymond James Financial Inc.’s (RJF) chief executive said the firm remains committed to staying independent in the wake of a merger announced by rival A.G. Edwards Inc. (AGE).

Raymond James recruits recruiters

Mon, 14 May 2007 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James Financial Services Inc. is adding major clout to its recruiting effort, bringing on board half a dozen recruiters, including two top executives from rival independent-contractor firms, investmentnews.com reported Friday.

Raymond James & Associates lands bigger producers

Mon, 9 Apr 2007 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James & Associates Inc. recruited 36 registered representatives during the first quarter ... according to Dennis Zank, the firm’s president.

Customer Service Champs

Mon, 05 Mar 2007 08:00:00 GMT

Raymond James earns top honors for anticipating and exceeding client needs.

FP50: On the Cutting Edge

Thu, 01 Jun 2006 08:30:30 GMT

Four broker-dealers have found success by creating their own unique business models.

New VA requirements for Raymond James

Fri, 05 May 2006 08:30:30 GMT

Raymond James Financial Inc. has created new requirements for the variable annuities the firm’s nearly 5,000 employee and independent-contractor registered representatives sell, the company announced today.

Raymond James Gets Results

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 08:30:30 GMT

Could lower costs be next for variable annuities?

Raymond James names new recruiting chief

Tue, 12 Sep 2006 08:30:30 GMT

Raymond James Financial Services Inc. of St. Petersburg has settled at last on a new head of recruiting, reaching out to its sister firm, employee broker-dealer Raymond James & Associates Inc., to make its pick.

Testing the Glass Ceiling

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 08:30:30 GMT

Women are working to raise their numbers—and their profile—in financial planning.

Hearing Women Reps Roar

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 08:30:30 GMT

There were very few men present at the two big industry conferences devoted to women that recently took place: the 2006 Raymond James Women’s Symposium and Deutsche Bank’s Women on Wall Street.

Specialization said to pay off

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 08:30:30 GMT

A Washington-based research firm has released a survey of consumers’ top 10 firms in the financial services industry in terms of excellence in their area of expertise.

HALL OF FAME – Malcolm A. Makin

Fri, 01 Dec 2006 08:30:30 GMT

At the start of his career, Mal Makin worried about being “found out.” In fact, long before he even had a secretary, Makin dressed well and outfitted his office in nice furniture so that he would appear successful.

Women’s Work

Fri, 01 Dec 2006 08:30:30 GMT

For the first time since becoming an advisor 15 years earlier, she realized that her survival meant dramatically changing the way she was running her advisory practice or quitting entirely.

“Who PICKS the Best Stocks”

Sat, 01 Apr 2006 08:30:30 GMT

Raymond James ranks near the top for stock picking in this article from Kiplinger’s

“Choosing a Chooser”

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 08:30:30 GMT

Worth article names Raymond James as top stock picker

Penn State Study

Fri, 24 Oct 2003 08:30:00 GMT

A recent study by a Pennsylvania State University professor has shown that returns from our stock recommendations ranked first among 26 leading firms during the 10 year period ending December 31 2002.