Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total assets increased to a record $1,900 billion, with organic net new assets of $21 billion representing a 5% annualized growth rate [6][15] - Adjusted EPS for the quarter was $4.51, an increase of 16% from a year ago [7][17] - Adjusted pretax margin was approximately 38%, with gross profit at $1,304 million, up $32 million sequentially [17][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Recruited assets for Q2 were $18 billion, contributing to a total of $161 billion over the trailing twelve months [10][15] - Traditional independent market added approximately $15 billion in assets during Q2, maintaining industry-leading capture rates [10] - Total Advisory and Brokerage assets were $1,900 billion, up 7% from Q1 [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Overall asset retention remained industry-leading at 98% for Q2 [11] - Client cash revenue was $414 million, up $5 million from Q1, while client cash balances ended the quarter at $51 billion, down $2 billion sequentially [18][19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be the best firm in wealth management, focusing on pursuing novel strategies, creating an extraordinary employee experience, and leading with operational excellence [8][9] - The acquisition of Commonwealth Financial Network is expected to enhance the firm's scale and capabilities, with a retention target of 90% for advisors [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to navigate macroeconomic uncertainties and market volatility, highlighting strong business performance despite challenges [5][6] - The company anticipates continued organic growth and improved operating leverage, with a focus on enhancing advisor experience and technology [14][25] Other Important Information - The company completed the conversion of Atria Wealth Solutions, which had seven distinct broker-dealers [11][12] - Corporate cash at the end of Q2 was $3.6 billion, up $3 billion from Q1, with expectations to return to a target range of approximately $200 million post-acquisition [23][24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on Commonwealth acquisition and advisor retention - Management highlighted strong engagement with Commonwealth advisors and expressed confidence in achieving the 90% retention target, emphasizing the unique culture and support offered [28][29][30] Question: Expense optimization and long-term targets - Management noted good momentum in efficiency efforts, indicating potential for further improvements in operating margins and client experience [39][40][41] Question: Modest outflows in the independent RIA channel - Management attributed modest outflows to regulatory ambiguity and noted a shift towards corporate RIAs, with ongoing efforts to strengthen offerings for independent RIAs [44][47][48] Question: Capital allocation post-acquisition - Management reiterated plans to maintain a leverage ratio of 2.25 times post-close, with a focus on organic growth and M&A opportunities [76][78] Question: Volatility in sweep cash and yield-seeking behavior - Management explained that cash volatility was driven by seasonal factors and overall AUM growth, with expectations for organic growth to remain stable [84][86][88]