RIA Edge 100: Strategic, Sustainable Growth

Core Insights - The article highlights the challenges faced by wealth management firms in achieving organic growth, despite rising market conditions [1] - The RIA Edge 100 recognizes registered investment advisors (RIAs) that demonstrate strategic growth while maintaining high client service standards [1][3] Group 1: Growth Strategies - Firms are focusing on deliberate scaling through operational improvements rather than relying solely on favorable market conditions [2] - The growth of these firms is occurring amidst accelerated consolidation, talent competition, and rising client expectations for holistic wealth solutions [2] Group 2: Definition of Success - Leading firms are redefining success by building resilient organizations, enhancing leadership teams, investing in next-generation talent, and improving operational efficiency [3] - The goal of the RIA Edge 100 list is to highlight firms that achieve intentional, strategic growth rather than those benefiting passively from market movements [4] Group 3: Evaluation Metrics - Firms included in the RIA Edge 100 are SEC-registered investment advisors specializing in financial planning, managing at least $500 million in assets, and primarily serving high-net-worth clients [5] - The evaluation metrics used to develop the list include five-year AUM growth, employee-to-client ratio, AUM per advisor, and the percentage of employees holding CFP certification [6]