RJF

Raymond James Financial (RJF) returned nearly $2 billion to shareholders over the trailing 12 months through dividends and share buybacks, while maintaining strong capital positions to support organic growth and strategic acquisitions. The company announced an 8% dividend increase and repurchased 9.8 million shares, supported by solid earnings growth projections of 13.8% for fiscal 2026 and 17.1% for fiscal 2027. However, regulatory capital requirements and elevated expenses remain risk factors.

The article examines Carillon Mutual Funds as an alternative to larger mutual fund families, highlighting their diversified lineup and active management strategies. Three funds are recommended based on Zacks rankings and performance metrics: Carillon Eagle Small Cap Growth (HSIIX), Carillon Clarivest International Stock (EISIX), and Carillon Chartwell Small Cap (UMBHX). All three funds offer positive multi-year returns and low expense ratios, though investors are cautioned to consider expenses, risk, and performance consistency before investing.

Four financial advisory practices—Capital Waypoint, Citrus Wealth Management, IMPACT Financial Strategies, and Rooted Wealth Management—have joined Ascentis Independent Advisors, bringing over $1 billion in combined client assets. The practices, previously operating as a unified Raymond James branch in California and Colorado, made the transition to access expanded planning capabilities, investment solutions, and operational support while maintaining Raymond James as their primary custodian.

LPL Financial announced that three independent financial advisory firms from Texas—Burnett Financial Services, Fowler Investment Services, and Carlile Investment Services—have joined its broker-dealer and RIA platforms. The three firms collectively manage approximately $430 million in assets and were previously affiliated with Raymond James. The advisors cited LPL's technology, platform familiarity, and advisor-focused culture as key reasons for the move.