Are these scenarios familiar?
John is a top producer at a major firm who, by any standard, is doing very well as an investment advisor. His practice consists of managing large portfolios and doing financial planning for his numerous, wealthy clients. John has three associates working for him; (one is registered, two are administrative assistants.) He has trained his well-oiled team to perfection. Unfortunately, John is so stressed and tired that he is on the verge of burning out.

Sound familiar? (more…)

We were honored to interview Kelly McCarthy for this issue’s Lookout department. A veteran investment banker who has completed more than 20 public offerings as well as numerous private placements, corporate governance and investor advisory assignments, Ms. McCarthy is president and founder of InfusionCapital, LLC, a consulting firm that specializes in helping small-cap companies access the public capital markets and advising them on corporate governance and communications to the Wall Street community. She can be reached at 407-301-2131 or KELLY@infusioncapital.com

Kelly, how did you get into the financial industry? (more…)

by Skip Moen, PhD

Compliance is now a no-option legislated requirement. The risks associated with non-compliance are so enormous, and the penalties so severe, that only an alien could ignore these rules. With the potential expansion of Sarbanes-Oxley and ever more stringent AML protocols, everyone in the industry has scrutiny on the brain. (more…)

EXCERPTS COURTESY OF … www.bdcompliance.com

CRD
If you have not logged on to Web CRD, IARD, Regulation Filing Application or the NASD contact system since 8/30/04, you will be required to migrate your CRD account prior to accessing the Renewal Statement.

On 11/1/04 the NASD launched the re-design of the new nasd.com website. The new site offers faster searches, easier navigation and a comprehensive site map. (more…)

Finding great talent is vital to building great organizations. Most candidates who apply for a position feel they are the right person for the job. It is during the interview process where mistakes can be avoided. Highlighted here are some common problems with the interview process and some instant solutions for busy managers who are looking to improve their interview skills. (more…)

Does it Really Matter
Which Direction the Dollar Swings?

Trying to feel the pulse of the financial markets is a practical ambition. There are many indicators out there that can help predict nascent trends. In the macro global world, economists often use the relative value of the greenback to make a prognosis on the health of the U.S. economy. The health of the economy has a direct impact on the financial markets. Theoretically, the relative value of the dollar should be important to stockbrokers as well. In practice it is not; nevertheless, when the dollar swings swiftly in either direction, economists cry foul. (more…)

WHAT´S FOR DINNER?
This is one of the world’s most common questions. For most of history, the answer has been whatever one caught, found growing, or cultivated. Today we have more choices than ever, and we make our selections based on a variety of factors, such as health, taste and price. But do we know how to choose and prepare unfamiliar foods? It is a similar situation for investors, brokers, managers and brokerage firm owners, who, faced with a smörgåsbord of alternative investment options, are asking, “What investments are available? Do I understand them? What should I let my reps sell? What should I show to my clients?” Stocks and bonds may be the meat and potatoes of the investment industry, but it can be very unhealthy to rely on them for every meal. (more…)