Rusty Gebhard is encouraged by how his partnership with LPL Financial has evolved over 15 years

When Russell “Rusty” Gebhard opened his office in Houston, Texas, in 2005, he had seven empty desks and an “aha” moment that LPL could be the partner he needed to make a difference in people’s lives. 

“The big surprise coming from a wirehouse was the commitment LPL showed, from upper management down, in helping me turn this into a successful business,” Rusty explains.

Rusty is the founder and a partner of Sovereign Wealth Advisors LLC, a Hybrid registered investment advisor (RIA) under LPL Financial. Rusty did experience a few bumpy years with LPL, noting that as the firm grew, “it lost a little of that magic” he’d seen early on. 

However, Rusty and his team are encouraged by the changes they’ve seen in recent years. 

“There’s been a dramatic change in tone and attitude,” Rusty says. “And that starts with Dan Arnold.” 

"The big surprise coming from a wirehouse was the commitment LPL showed, from upper management down, in helping me turn this into a successful business."

Supporting the team

Rusty has seen enhancements in the services and tools that support his business. 

“The Service Center’s knowledge level and ability to resolve questions has steadily improved,” he says. 

With technology, Rusty is seeing a positive impact on advisors and staff in his practice. 

“My team’s ability to open and service accounts efficiently has improved. This has to do with the way LPL evolved,” Rusty says.

LPL Research is another area that’s provided value for Rusty. 

“LPL’s Research group has been a joy to work with, and has always done a great job at our large client events,” he says. 

The team’s ability to fit right in with clients makes a difference for Rusty’s team and their clients.

Overall, the most positive change for Rusty has been “to see LPL going back to what made them successful—providing extraordinary support for independent advisors.”

 

The views and opinions expressed by the Financial Advisor may not be representative of the views of other Financial Advisors and are not indicative of future performance or success. Neither LPL Financial nor the Financial Advisor can be held responsible for any direct or incidental loss incurred by applying any of the information offered. This material is intended for Financial Professionals.

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC.  Investment advice offered through Sovereign Wealth Advisors LLC, a registered investment advisor. Sovereign Wealth Advisors LLC and Sovereign Investment Group LLC are separate entities from LPL Financial.