Recognizing the Top Financial Advisors in the USA: InvestmentNews 2025 Honorees
As the financial landscape continues to evolve, marked by geopolitical uncertainties, low interest rates, and an unpredictable political climate, the role of financial advisors has become increasingly pivotal. Amidst these challenging conditions, InvestmentNews has unveiled its annual list of the Top Financial Advisors in the USA for 2025, showcasing industry professionals who have excelled in asset management and client growth.
A Challenging Landscape for Advisors
Throughout the past year, financial advisors in the United States have navigated turbulent waters. Dave Goodsell, executive director at the Natixis Center for Investor Insight, elaborates on the current challenges: “Investment assumptions are being tested by lower inflation, lower rates, and slowing growth; clients are demanding more specialized services while holding high expectations for investment performance; and portfolio construction is becoming more complex as advisors adopt new products and incorporate private investments into their strategies.”
In light of these complexities, the best advisors have risen to the occasion, reassuring clients while strategically steering them through uncertain times. The honorees of InvestmentNews’ Top Advisors 2025, nominated by industry insiders, demonstrated remarkable performance during a particularly trying period.
Key Achievements of Top Advisors
The collective achievements of the Top Advisors between August 2023 and August 2024 highlight their effectiveness in client management and growth. Key statistics show that, as a group, these advisors reported:
- 19% growth in Assets Under Management (AUM)
- 10% increase in client growth
- Oversight of over $77 billion in AUM
These accolades underline the vital importance of teamwork, technological integration, and exceptional client communication in maintaining successful advisory practices.
Spotlight on the Leading Advisors
Several members of the InvestmentNews Top Advisors 2025 cohort stand out for their commitment to excellence and unique approaches to client service.
Jeff DeHaan, Clearwater Capital Partners
Based in Hoffman Estates, IL, Jeff DeHaan leads the firm’s private wealth management sector. Reporting 28% AUM growth and 8% client growth, DeHaan emphasizes thorough client engagement, stating, “We want the right answer, not the quick and easy one, so that our clients have the best chance of success possible.” He notes that referrals have been the primary source of new client relationships, highlighting the trust they build with clients.
Ted Lauzen, Grey Fox Wealth Advisors
A former U.S. Marine combat pilot, Ted Lauzen brings a unique discipline to his practice in Rockland, DE, achieving an impressive 67% AUM growth and 90% client growth. Lauzen believes in providing stability and assurance to clients, stating, “We’re always in the boat with our clients, and it’s incredibly important for folks to have trusted, hardworking, and smart advisors in tough times.”
Wayne McCormick, McCormick Wealth Management of Steward Partners
Operating out of Manchester, NH, Wayne McCormick reported 26% AUM growth and 18% client growth. He focuses on refining operational efficiency alongside his associates to enhance client service. “I always like to tell clients, I shouldn’t care more about your money than you do,” McCormick says, emphasizing a collaborative approach to wealth management.
Tim DiSette, Infinitas LLC
With a familial background in agriculture, Tim DiSette from Overland Park, KS, attributes his 48% AUM growth and 16% client growth to a holistic approach to financial planning. DiSette emphasizes the importance of technology and client understanding in his practice, noting, “We would not be able to be the financial planners we are if we didn’t have younger people around with great technical skills.”
Gregory Guenther, GRANTvest Financial Group
Gregory Guenther, based in Matawan, NJ, achieved a remarkable 133% client growth alongside 34% AUM growth. He aims to provide practical financial advice that integrates seamlessly into clients’ everyday lives. Guenther believes in consistently prioritizing client interests: “Put the client first and always do the right thing remains the center of everything.”
Driving Growth Through Innovation
The strategies that drove these advisors’ success reveal a dedication to proactive service and continuous improvement. For instance, McCormick expanded his firm by recruiting a new partner to handle capacity challenges, highlighting a methodical approach to client and staff selection. DiSette actively engages external consultants to refine workflows, further enhancing his firm’s client onboarding processes.
Lauzen’s strategy revolves around delivering exceptional services consistently to foster long-term relationships, while DeHaan focuses on the importance of hiring with character integrity to maintain his firm’s service standards.
Conclusion
The InvestmentNews Top Financial Advisors of 2025 have demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and innovation in their practices, navigating complex market conditions while achieving significant growth. Their insights and strategies provide a model for aspiring financial professionals aiming to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment. As the financial advisory landscape continues to evolve, the expertise and dedication of these top advisors underline the critical role they play in guiding clients through their financial journeys.