Business Combinations

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2011

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Business Combinations

Note 2: Business Combinations

We regularly explore opportunities to acquire financial services companies and businesses. Generally, we do not make a public announcement about an acquisition opportunity until a definitive agreement has been signed. For information on additional consideration related to acquisitions, which is considered to be a guarantee, see Note 10.

      In the first half of 2011, we completed two insurance brokerage business acquisitions with combined total assets of $4 million. At June 30, 2011, we had four acquisitions pending, two of which closed on July 1, 2011 consisting of a channel finance business with total assets of approximately $354 million and an insurance brokerage business with total assets of approximately $18 million. We expect to complete the two other acquisitions during the remainder of 2011. Additionally, during second quarter 2011 we announced the divestiture of our H.D. Vest Financial Services business. We expect to complete the sale during fourth quarter 2011.