"If some retainers expire, that will add to it, but I think in general the markets are beginning to get better and investors are more positive again," Pirker said. Some advisers were sitting on the sidelines while the going was tough, he said. "You don't want to burden your clients with a move and tough markets. So as the sun rises, people get more motivated and clients might be more inclined to move with their advisor. It may be a good time to make the change before the markets fully swing back."

Advisors may also be more inclined to move while some of the big firms are still offering attractive hiring bonuses, Pirker said.

For example, one broker, who used to work for Merrill Lynch and moved to Morgan Stanley at the beginning of 2009, said his deal was 120% of production upfront with a nine-year commitment, with the chance to earn about another 100% in deferred compensation if he meets all the hurdles.

"They won't stay high forever. Some in the neighborhood of 300% have been rumored," said Pirker. "When you hire with those terms, it also means that the profitability of that relationship is not off to a good start. You're advancing three years' production before the guy's even on board. You want to use [such offers] to attract top producers, and you certainly don't want to have those offers out there forever; they'll come off the table as the migration slows down."

The fact that the Securities and Exchange Commission has its eye on up-front signing bonuses could also speed recruiting. SEC Chairman Mary Schapiro has expressed concern about how huge advisor bonuses might be affecting service to clients.

Says Waldert, "If you want a big recruiting package, you better go now before they regulate it."

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