On compliance

“A lot of things slip through the cracks and then they try and tighten up afterwards.”

A BMO Nesbitt Burns broker

 

On strategic focus

“We’re stealing a lot of brokers from bank-owned firms because we do the big deals but we’ve kept our nimble, small-shop, easy-access-to-management style.”

a Canaccord broker

“Sometimes it isn’t beneficial to be affiliated with a bank.”

A CIBC Wood Gundy broker

 

Should advisors have a designation?

“No, I think they should have morals.”

A TD Evergreen broker

 

On being bank-owned

“I don’t like the bank. They’re cheap.”

A ScotiaMcLeod broker

 

The worst aspect of RBC DS

“I would like them to be more client-focused, and to involve us more in decisions. If we are going to survive we have got to protect the relationships we already have with clients.”

a broker at RBC Dominion Securities

 

On joining forces

“The transition has created some low morale.”

a Raymond James broker commenting on the purchase of Goepel McDermid

 

On public image

“The firm should work on its image, really. The Quebec-based brokers need to realize that there is more to the world of National Bank than Montreal.”

a National Bank financial broker

 

Merrill’s best aspect

Well, the firm is a lot different from what it was when it was Midland [Walwyn Capital Inc.]. The Merrill people have higher compliance standards and there is more focus on what they are trying to accomplish.”

a broker at Merrill Lynch Canada

 

The worst aspect of the Edward Jones

“The company’s rules shouldn’t be so strict and our pay-out could be higher.”

an Edward Jones broker