LPL Financial

LPL Financial is a leading independent broker-dealer and investment advisor in the United States, providing a comprehensive platform of services and technology to financial advisors and institutions nationwide. The firm empowers financial professionals to deliver personalized investment advice, wealth management, and financial planning solutions to their clients. LPL Financial's offerings include robust investment research, advanced technology, compliance oversight, and business consulting, enabling advisors to build and manage their practices effectively without the pressure of selling proprietary products.

The firm was established in 1989 through the merger of two brokerage firms, Linsco (founded in 1968) and Private Ledger (founded in 1973). The founders envisioned an alternative to traditional Wall Street models, focusing on supporting financial professionals in serving their clients' best interests. This foundational principle continues to guide LPL Financial as it evolves its technology, operations, risk management, and investment management services.

LPL Financial has strategically expanded its capabilities through key acquisitions, including National Planning Holdings (2017), AdvisoryWorld (2018), Lucia Securities (2020), and Blaze Portfolio (2020), which enhanced its technology and advisor network. In 2021, the firm acquired Waddell & Reed's wealth management fund, and in 2025, it acquired Commonwealth Financial Network, significantly boosting its advisory and brokerage assets. These acquisitions underscore LPL Financial's commitment to strengthening its position as a leader in the wealth management industry.

The leadership team at LPL Financial, headed by CEO Rich Steinmeier and President and CFO Matt Audette, is dedicated to advancing solutions that enable advisors and institutions to prosper and grow. The team comprises experienced professionals across various domains, including growth, client relations, human resources, technology, wealth management, and legal affairs, all working to support the firm's mission of empowering financial advisors to deliver objective guidance to millions of Americans.