May 2001

Brokerage Report Card

Quotes from the industry

Brokers say in-house research still isn't improving. But there's a wealth of information on the Internet

"I moved once and I'll never do it again," says one broker. Indeed, recent industry trends have made moving books even harder

More brokers are under the thumb of their firms, but many seem to like it

Some progress in technology, but many brokers complain it's too slow

"One broker, one office" approach has made Edward Jones No. 1 on our list, but it is also a source of controversey among competitors

Now "validators" who make use of both full and discount service dominate the market

Brokers want more, and firms want to pay less, with neither side ever satisfied it has won the battle

Ownership provides stability, but it is also hurting morale and client relationships, many brokers say

Quotes from the industry

They're "a bunch of hooey," says one broker. But others say they're important for keeping up to date

Experience and size of book matter, but don't guarantee you'll like the brokerage you work for

Independence and recent bull markets may have something to do with it. Edward Jones is No. 1