A wirehouse is a full-service broker-dealer that is typically one of the larger players in the industry. Generally a wirehouse will have a wide variety of products to offer their clients such as investment banking, asset management, wealth management, capital markets, research and trading, and access to private equity and venture capital. It will also typically have significantly more financial resources than the average regional brokerage firm.

The primary advantage of working with a wirehouse is the breadth of services they offer. You can get an extensive integrated approach to your finances that combines investment advise, banking and estate planning. Most wirehouses will also provide access to an extensive list of third-party investment vehicles such as mutual funds and ETFs. Many of these firms also specialize in retirement planning and long-term savings strategies, providing integrated solutions across multiple areas of your personal finances.

Wirehouses have traditionally been considered a safe choice for investors, particularly those who require advice on more complex investments. The size of a wirehouse allows for better economies of scale when it comes to their staff and resources, so you can typically expect more personalized attention from more experienced professionals. Furthermore, these firms are usually well-capitalized and offer a full suite of services, which can be particularly important for wealthy investors that require more comprehensive financial advice.

On the downside, the services of a wirehouse come at a premium. In addition to charges for services, many wirehouses will also require significant initial deposits and carry high account minimums. There is also the potential for conflicts of interest, as most wirehouses receive commissions and income from the products they sell, which could encourage the firm to focus on maximizing their own profits rather than the best interests of their clients.

Ultimately, whether or not a wirehouse is the right choice for you depends on your financial objectives, risk profile and the type of advice you are seeking. A wirehouse can provide access to a wide range of services and experienced professionals, but you should always carefully consider the costs and potential conflicts of interest before you make your final decision.