InvestmentNews Honors Top Financial Planners of 2025

Recognizing Excellence in Financial Planning Amid Industry Challenges

April 14, 2025
By Leo Almazora

In a time when the demand for quality financial advice is surging and a significant advisor shortage looms on the horizon, InvestmentNews is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 Five-Star Financial Planners Special Report. This prestigious recognition highlights ten exemplary financial planners from across the United States who are rising to meet the growing needs of clients.

Addressing the Advisor Shortage

Recent reports indicate that the financial advice industry may face a shortfall of 100,000 advisors over the next decade. This gap comes as the number of affluent households—defined as those with at least $500,000 in investable assets—is predicted to expand by 4 to 5 percent annually, exceeding the growth rate of the general population. In this environment, clients are increasingly seeking not just financial advice, but holistic, values-driven guidance that addresses their complex financial landscapes.

As Scott Van Den Berg of Century Management in Texas stated, “We don’t just create a one-time plan – we stress-test it against multiple what-if scenarios." His firm offers tailored advice to a diverse clientele, including retirees, individuals, and small business owners. Van Den Berg’s client-centric approach highlights the commitment to going beyond mere numeric calculations, emphasizing clarity and confidence in life’s financial decisions.

The Rising Demand for Holistic Advice

The growing need for comprehensive financial planning is underscored by findings from McKinsey & Company, which revealed that 52 percent of investors sought holistic financial guidance in 2023, a substantial increase from 29 percent in 2018. This shift towards values-based financial advice indicates a demand for professionals who can provide a nuanced understanding of both wealth and the personal values tied to it.

Robert Westley of Northern Trust reflects this sentiment, noting the complexities of working with high-net-worth families. He finds satisfaction in the intricate financial arrangements often more complex than some multinational corporations. “I really like the puzzle and complexity of it,” he said, showcasing the intellectual engagement that many top planners bring to their work.

Growth of Certified Financial Planners

Amid this evolving landscape, the number of Certified Financial Planner (CFP) professionals in the U.S. has seen a notable increase, with an addition of 6,500 professionals in 2024 alone, bringing the total to over 103,000, according to the CFP Board. This uptick is a hopeful sign that more qualified individuals are entering the field, ready to address the needs of a changing clientele.

Financial advisors come from diverse backgrounds, contributing their unique experiences to their practice. Eileen Allgrove of Fiducient Advisors, for example, transitioned from a legal career to financial planning. She believes that her non-finance background allows her to empathize with clients who may feel intimidated by financial discussions. “By fostering communication, education, and understanding with the entire family, it is more likely that there will be a successful transition of wealth,” Allgrove stated.

Recognizing Excellence in Financial Planning

The 2025 Five-Star Financial Planners report celebrates ten professionals who stand out not only for their credentials but for their dedication to delivering meaningful, life-aligned financial outcomes. The honorees for this year include:

• John Benton, Chartered Financial Services
• Robert Westley, Northern Trust
• Timothy B. O’Neill, Berthold Capital
• Assunta "Susie" McLane, Summit Place Financial Advisors
• Danica Goshert, Integrated Equity Management
• Eileen Allgrove, Fiducient Advisors
• John R. Calvert, III, Socium Advisors | Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company
• Nicholas Breit, Fiducient Advisors
• Nichole Raftopoulos, Nvest Financial
• Scott Van Den Berg, Century Management Financial Advisors

This year’s awardees exemplify a commitment to not only transactional financial planning but also to nurturing long-lasting relationships that consider each client’s unique needs and circumstances.

Conclusion

As the financial planning industry continues to evolve, these ten standout professionals are not just meeting the current challenges; they are redefining the standards of excellence within their field. InvestmentNews congratulates the 2025 Five-Star Financial Planners for their unwavering commitment to serving clients with integrity and expertise.

To learn more about these distinguished financial planners and their approaches to wealth management, visit the InvestmentNews website.

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