Fidelity Investments has introduced a tool that helps reps plan out the transition to an RIA practice.
   The online guide is available at ria.fidelity.com and includes "a check-list and timeline for addressing virtually all of the critical areas associated with establishing a new RIA practice," according to Fidelity.
   The tool provides help on areas ranging from financial projections and registration to compliance and opening accounts, according to Fidelity.
   "The increase in new RIA practices over the past few years has become unprecedented, with many of these new entrants establishing wealth management practices," says Scott Dell'Orfano, executive vice president of Fidelity Registered Investment Advisor Group. "Based on our experience with new entrants, much of this movement is, among other things, driven by a desire to manage and build equity in their own business."