Largest independent broker-dealer in the US, supporting over 21,000 financial advisors across the country.
I was sold a vision of bespoke wealth management but what I received felt more like a standardised service with a premium price tag. My so-called personalised portfolio looks suspiciously similar to their model portfolios. Returns have been below benchmark. Currently considering switching to a different provider.
Pros: Initially impressive onboarding
Cons: Standardised service at premium price, below-benchmark returns
The advice from LPL Financial is sound and well-researched. However, the total costs including management fees, fund charges, and platform fees add up to more than I expected. Performance has been decent but after fees, the net return isn't dramatically different from what I could achieve with low-cost funds.
Pros: Professional advice, well-researched recommendations
Cons: Total costs reduce net returns significantly