Navigating a Complex Financial Landscape: The Top Advisors of 2025

In a challenging environment marked by geopolitical uncertainty, fluctuating interest rates, and anticipatory election sentiment, financial advisors across the United States are facing a true test of their expertise. As clients demand more specialized services against a backdrop of complex market dynamics, the need for exceptional advisory services has never been greater.

Overcoming Adversity in Wealth Management

Dave Goodsell, executive director at the Natixis Center for Investor Insight, summarized the current challenges faced by financial advisors: “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.” This ongoing complexity in portfolio construction has driven advisors to adopt a diverse range of products, including private investments, to meet their clients’ needs.

In light of these challenges, InvestmentNews has recognized a group of outstanding financial professionals, the Top Advisors of 2025, who have excelled in Assets Under Management (AUM) and client growth. The collective performance of this elite group from August 2023 to August 2024 reflects a robust:

19 percent growth in AUM
10 percent increase in client growth
Oversight of $77,154,581,827 in AUM

The Hallmarks of Excellence

Members of this commendable group attribute their accomplishments to strong team dynamics and effective use of technology. However, a deeper understanding of client communication and emotional intelligence distinguishes the top advisors from their peers.

Featured Advisors

Jeff DeHaan – Clearwater Capital Partners

AUM Growth: 28%
Client Growth: 8%
Location: Hoffman Estates, IL

DeHaan emphasizes personalized client engagement, stating, “It’s not taking the easy or quick answer, but really digging in with our client families.” His approach has resulted in most new client relationships stemming from referrals.

Ted Lauzen – Grey Fox Wealth Advisors

AUM Growth: 67%
Client Growth: 90%
Location: Rockland, DE

A former U.S. Marine helicopter pilot, Lauzen draws parallels between his military experience and wealth management. “We’re always in the boat with our clients,” he notes, emphasizing the importance of being a reliable presence in their financial journey.

Wayne McCormick – McCormick Wealth Management of Steward Partners

AUM Growth: 26%
Client Growth: 18%
Location: Manchester, NH

McCormick believes in constantly refining operational processes within his team to enhance client service. He reflects, “We constantly ask, what’s the extra that we can provide?” This proactive approach underpins his commitment to building lasting client relationships.

Tim DiSette – Infinitas LLC

AUM Growth: 48%
Client Growth: 16%
Location: Overland Park, KS

Drawing on his roots in the farming and manufacturing sectors, DiSette sees his work as an extension of the values learned in his youth. He recognizes the essential role of technology in modern financial planning, contributing to the success of his firm.

Gregory Guenther – GRANTvest Financial Group

AUM Growth: 34%
Client Growth: 133%
Location: Matawan, NJ

Guenther takes pride in educating clients and guiding them toward financial comfort and freedom. His focus on a client-first approach has become the foundation of his practice.

Strategies Behind the Growth

The success of these top advisors is not merely coincidental; it is the result of deliberate strategies and reflections on their practices. McCormick’s insights into client partnerships highlight the importance of matching expectations and values. “I measure potential clients not necessarily by their assets,” he explains, stressing the need for a good fit in advisor-client relationships.

DiSette utilizes external consultants to refine workflows and navigate complexities in financial planning. He advocates for continual learning and perspective, stating, “An external consultant can give you a great perspective, see your blind spots, and teach you how to overcome those.”

Lauzen attributes his growth to exceeding client expectations regularly while also expanding his advisor team for enhanced service delivery. He notes the distinct privilege of managing clients’ lifetime assets, emphasizing his commitment to integrity and respect.

As these advisors continue to drive growth amidst challenges, they are redefining the financial advisory landscape through personalized service, constant innovation, and a steadfast focus on the client experience.

Conclusion

In an era of volatility and change, the Top Advisors of 2025 serve as testimonials to perseverance and excellence in wealth management. Through their skills, dedication, and innovative approaches, they not only cater to the needs of their clients but also set a higher standard for the industry at large.