Recognition for the Top Financial Advisors in the USA
Investment News Reports on the Best in Wealth Advisory
February 10, 2025
In a challenging landscape characterized by geopolitical uncertainty, fluctuating interest rates, and an upcoming election, financial advisors across the United States have faced considerable challenges in maintaining client trust and satisfaction. Against this backdrop, InvestmentNews has released its list of the Top Advisors of 2025, highlighting those professionals who have excelled in Asset Under Management (AUM) and client growth while effectively guiding their clients through tumultuous times.
Adapting to Complex Financial Environments
Dave Goodsell, the executive director at the Natixis Center for Investor Insight, elaborated on the unique pressures facing advisors today. “Investment assumptions are being tested by lower inflation, lower rates, and slowing growth,” he noted. As clients demand more specialized services, advisors are adapting to evolving financial landscapes, significantly enhancing their portfolio construction strategies with new products and private investments.
The Top Advisors have shown remarkable resilience over the past year, achieving a collective growth of 19 percent in AUM and a 10 percent increase in client numbers. Together, they oversee an impressive total AUM of approximately $77 billion.
Honoring Outstanding Performance
The professionals recognized in InvestmentNews are distinguished by their commitment to client communication and their ability to balance emotional intelligence with technical expertise. Here, we feature some of the exemplary advisors honored this year.
Jeff DeHaan – Clearwater Capital Partners
- AUM Growth: 28%
- Client Growth: 8%
- Location: Hoffman Estates, IL
Jeff DeHaan believes a comprehensive understanding of clients’ financial situations leads to more effective recommendations. “It’s not taking the easy or quick answer, but really digging in with our client families,” he explained. He attributes the majority of his new client relationships to referrals, highlighting the trust he builds with his clientele.
Ted Lauzen – Grey Fox Wealth Advisors
- AUM Growth: 67%
- Client Growth: 90%
- Location: Rockland, DE
Lauzen’s background as a combat helicopter pilot has influenced his approach to client management. “We’re always in the boat with our clients,” he stated, stressing the importance of being a trusted advisor. His focus on high-quality service has been fundamental to his rapid growth.
Wayne McCormick – McCormick Wealth Management of Steward Partners
- AUM Growth: 26%
- Client Growth: 18%
- Location: Manchester, NH
McCormick emphasizes teamwork and efficiency in service delivery. His philosophy focuses on both the quality of advisor-client relationships and the efficiency of operations. “We constantly ask, what’s the extra that we can provide?” he remarked, striving for innovation in client service.
Tim DiSette – Infinitas LLC
- AUM Growth: 48%
- Client Growth: 16%
- Location: Overland Park, KS
DiSette attributes his success to his upbringing in a family business, which instilled a strong work ethic in him. He believes in a holistic approach to financial planning that encompasses all facets of a client’s financial situation.
Gregory Guenther – GRANTvest Financial Group
- AUM Growth: 34%
- Client Growth: 133%
- Location: Matawan, NJ
Guenther’s client-first philosophy focuses on delivering common-sense financial advice. He aims to foster financial comfort and freedom through strategic planning, stating, “put the client first and always do the right thing” serves as his guiding principle.
Driving Growth Amid Challenges
The exceptionally high levels of growth achieved by these advisors, especially during a period marked by economic unpredictability, are attributed to their proactive approaches to client relations and internal processes.
McCormick, for instance, recognized the need for additional personnel early on to handle increasing client demands. In contrast, DiSette incorporated external consultants to refine workflows and improve client onboarding processes. Lauzen highlighted the importance of exceeding client expectations consistently, ensuring that his firm’s response is both swift and effective.
Lastly, DeHaan addressed the complexities of managing growth, emphasizing the need for steady service quality amid success. His emphasis on character in team hires reflects a broader understanding that the foundations of successful advisory practices rely on strong interpersonal relationships and ethical standards.
Conclusion
This recognition not only celebrates the individuals who have excelled in the advisory sector but also serves as a roadmap for best practices during turbulent economic periods. The Top Advisors of 2025 have demonstrated that with resilience, innovative approaches, and solid client relationships, it is possible to thrive in an ever-evolving financial landscape.