The Top Financial Advisors in the USA: Investment News Highlights 2025
February 10, 2025
In a climate marked by geopolitical tensions, low interest rates, and an impending election, financial advisors in the United States face unique challenges. Against this backdrop, a select group of professionals has distinguished itself in the industry, navigating complex financial landscapes while effectively managing client expectations. InvestmentNews has recognized these top financial advisors for their superior asset under management (AUM) and client growth from August 2023 to August 2024. ### Acknowledging Excellence in Financial Advisory
InvestmentNews’ “Top Advisors 2025” highlights firms that have not only excelled in managing their clients’ wealth but have also adapted to the evolving demands of the financial landscape. Dave Goodsell, executive director at the Natixis Center for Investor Insight, notes the elevated expectations clients now have, requiring advisors to delve deeper and offer specialized services.
“Investment assumptions are being tested by lower inflation, lower rates, and slowing growth,” Goodsell explains. “Portfolio construction is becoming more complex as advisors adopt a wide range of new products and look to incorporate private investments into their strategies.”
Collectively, the Top Advisors have achieved a notable:
- 19% growth in AUM
- 10% growth in clientele
- Oversight of $77.15 billion in AUM
This exceptional performance is a testament to the advisors’ reliance on teamwork, advanced technology, and superior client engagement.
Profiles of Success
The following advisors exemplify the qualities distinguishing the top-performing firms in today’s competitive market:
Jeff DeHaan – Clearwater Capital Partners
- AUM Growth: 28%
- Client Growth: 8%
- Location: Hoffman Estates, IL
As managing partner, Jeff DeHaan emphasizes the importance of deep understanding in client relationships. “We want the right answer, not the quick and easy one,” he states, reflecting the firm’s commitment to thorough and tailored advice.
Ted Lauzen – Grey Fox Wealth Advisors
- AUM Growth: 67%
- Client Growth: 90%
- Location: Rockland, DE
Drawing from his military experience as a Marine helicopter pilot, Ted Lauzen brings a unique approach to wealth management. He believes in being in the trenches with clients, ensuring they have the confidence of sound financial advice during challenging times.
Wayne McCormick – McCormick Wealth Management of Steward Partners
- AUM Growth: 26%
- Client Growth: 18%
- Location: Manchester, NH
Wayne McCormick focuses on operational efficiency and team collaboration, constantly refining processes to enhance client service. His approach includes carefully selecting clients who align with his firm’s values.
Tim DiSette – Infinitas LLC
- AUM Growth: 48%
- Client Growth: 16%
- Location: Overland Park, KS
Tim DiSette credits his upbringing in a farming family for shaping his values in financial planning. He emphasizes holistic cash-flow-based planning that incorporates various financial aspects to support his clients’ goals.
Gregory Guenther – GRANTvest Financial Group
- AUM Growth: 34%
- Client Growth: 133%
- Location: Matawan, NJ
Gregory Guenther centers his practice on education and empowering clients. His philosophy of placing clients’ needs at the forefront has contributed to his substantial growth over the past year.
Strategies for Growth
The growth strategies adopted by these top advisors vary but share common themes of thorough client engagement and operational refinement. For instance, McCormick proactively hires new partners to maintain service quality, while DiSette focuses on engaging external consultants to streamline processes. Lauzen prides himself on a responsive client service model which is critical in maintaining a long-term trajectory of growth.
Each advisor faces the challenges that come with success. DeHaan highlights the risks of growth potentially compromising client satisfaction and emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards.
Conclusion
The challenges and accomplishments of these advisors serve to illustrate the resilience and adaptability required in today’s financial landscape. As clients seek more tailored services and as financial markets evolve, the best advisors will continue to be those who can blend expertise with a deep understanding of their clients’ needs.
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