Nationwide Financial Network, the retail channel for Nationwide Financial Services, this week announced it merged its two broker-dealer units. By combining 1717 Capital Management Company and Nationwide Securities, Inc. into one entity called Nationwide Securities, LLC, the Columbus, Ohio-based company said the move broadens its product mix, streamlines operations and cut costs.

The combined broker-dealer network will support and oversee all variable life insurance products and variable annuities, along with nonproprietary mutual funds and general securities offered by its registered reps.

All broker-dealer operations are now housed in Nationwide's office in Dublin, Ohio.