UBS to Overhaul Broker Compensation Amid Rising Attrition

June 17th, 2025, 3:00 PM

According to AdvisorHub, UBS Group Chief Financial Officer Todd Tuckner reaffirmed the firm's commitment to reshaping broker compensation as part of its broader cost-cutting strategy.

AdvisorHub reports that Tuckner maintains there is "broad support" for UBS's strategic direction, which prioritizes integrating wealth management and investment banking services and holding leadership accountable for growth and profitability targets.

While Tuckner's remarks echoed previous statements, they signaled UBS's resolve to stick with its strategy in the face of broker attrition. In February, Tuckner warned that advisor departures could intensify in 2025 as compensation changes take hold. Recent data shows headcount within UBS Wealth Americas has dropped 3 percent year-over-year, with more experienced teams leaving for competitors.

AdvisorHub reports that one of the more contentious adjustments includes eliminating brokers' ability to collect trailing commissions on mutual funds effective July 1. UBS had initially delayed the change but now appears poised to move forward. Additionally, the firm announced cuts last November to a favored team bonus structure and altered its grid-based payout system in ways that disproportionately impacted lower producers. Recruiters report these moves have unsettled some large teams and junior advisors whose compensation took a direct hit.

Financial Advisor Transitions consults advisors nationwide to explore employment transition options and to preserve and protect their practice in any transition that they make.

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Blog

UBS to Overhaul Broker Compensation Amid Rising Attrition

June 17th, 2025, 3:00 PM

According to AdvisorHub, UBS Group Chief Financial Officer Todd Tuckner reaffirmed the firm's commitment to reshaping broker compensation as part of its broader cost-cutting strategy.

AdvisorHub reports that Tuckner maintains there is "broad support" for UBS's strategic direction, which prioritizes integrating wealth management and investment banking services and holding leadership accountable for growth and profitability targets.

While Tuckner's remarks echoed previous statements, they signaled UBS's resolve to stick with its strategy in the face of broker attrition. In February, Tuckner warned that advisor departures could intensify in 2025 as compensation changes take hold. Recent data shows headcount within UBS Wealth Americas has dropped 3 percent year-over-year, with more experienced teams leaving for competitors.

AdvisorHub reports that one of the more contentious adjustments includes eliminating brokers' ability to collect trailing commissions on mutual funds effective July 1. UBS had initially delayed the change but now appears poised to move forward. Additionally, the firm announced cuts last November to a favored team bonus structure and altered its grid-based payout system in ways that disproportionately impacted lower producers. Recruiters report these moves have unsettled some large teams and junior advisors whose compensation took a direct hit.

Financial Advisor Transitions consults advisors nationwide to explore employment transition options and to preserve and protect their practice in any transition that they make.

Return to All