Note 5 - Advances to Registered Representatives (Details) - Advances to Registered Representatives (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Balance, October 1, 2013	$ 811,000
Provision for doubtful accounts	(553,000)	96,000
Balance, June 30, 2014	1,199,000
Advances to Registered Representatives [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Balance, October 1, 2013	811,000
Advances	1,109,000
Amortization or repayment of advances	(489,000)
Provision for doubtful accounts	(232,000)
Balance, June 30, 2014	$ 1,199,000