October 27, 2010
The SEC has indicated that allowing broker-dealers to compete based on sales charges and the services they provide will create a level playing field and lead to reduced costs. I disagree. I am concerned that allowing broker-dealers to compete based on the commissions they charge and the services they provide will lead to a race to the bottom causing mid and small market investors to be overly focused on price and ending up without access to valuable advice and ongoing account services. As broker-dealers slash their fees in an effort to gain market share, it will no longer be financially feasible for registered reps to continue to provide the level of individualized advice and services currently offered. Investors who can afford assets-under-management arrangements or higher cost/higher service classes of shares will continue to receive personalized investment advice, while mid and small market investors will be deprived of the guidance they need and deserve.