FSI Adds New Advisor Members From 2 Firms

"[FSI is] the only organization that advocates on behalf of independent financial services firms like us—dually registered and hybrid," Blisk continued. "FSI shares our values and commitment to education and public awareness by representing Spire with our regulators, legislators and the investing public. Without FSI, the best interests of our wealth advisors and clients would not be served."

Antonio Camejo, CEO and co-chair of Miami-based Portfolio Resources Group, which is a privately owned broker-dealer serving clients globally, also recognizes the significance of FSI for its advisors.

"As a firm, we realized the importance of being part of an organization like FSI that gives voice to the interests of our specific sector of the financial services industry," said Camejo in a statement. "Small independent advisors provide a critical service to the small investor, an investor who might otherwise be disenfranchised from professional financial advice. We look forward to a close collaborative effort with FSI to improve best practices in the industry and to reform, where necessary, misguided and burdensome regulatory mandates that negatively impact the ability of small firms to provide quality service."

Paulitz touted FSI's work in delaying the Department of Labor's fiduciary rule and protecting advisors' privacy as a couple of the big issues where FSI's advocacy has been influential.

"We've been advocating for all financial advisors for years," Paulitz said, "and they want to help fund our advocacy."

Since 2004, FSI has promoted a more responsible regulatory environment through involvement in FINRA governance as well as constructive engagement in the regulatory and legislative processes, according to the organization.

In addition to advocacy, FSI financial advisor members receive access to analyses of regulatory and legislative proposals; an Advocacy Action Center and all-in-one mobile app to easily communicate with legislators and regulators and keep up with industry news; opportunities to visit Capitol Hill and educate lawmakers; and access to FSI's Financial Advisor Summit and the group's publications and communications. —Emily Zulz