In a world where markets are more unpredictable than ever, identifying reliable financial guidance has become paramount. As part of an ongoing collaboration between USA TODAY and Statista, the top-rated investment advisory firms will be revealed in April 2026. Investors can pre-register for a survey that helps determine these rankings. This article delves into why registered investment advisers (RIAs) stand out, explores the factors behind market volatility, and explains how to find an RIA that aligns with your financial objectives.
Recent months have seen unprecedented fluctuations in global markets, driven by geopolitical tensions, tariffs, and economic uncertainty. President Donald Trump's tariff policies caused significant initial disruption, only to see markets rebound when those tariffs were rolled back. However, this pattern of dramatic highs and lows is not new. Historically, stocks have plummeted due to crises like pandemics, inflation, or Federal Reserve interest rate adjustments, yet they have always bounced back. Currently, trillions in market value have been lost and regained amid ongoing import tariff debates, leaving many investors questioning their next steps.
A common recommendation from experts is to seek out a registered investment adviser (RIA). These entities are legally obligated to act in their clients' best interests, charging fees rather than commissions. They employ licensed professionals who take a comprehensive approach to managing clients' finances. In contrast, broker-dealers earn commissions through product sales and are only required to offer suitable advice, which might not always align with long-term client goals.
To assist investors in finding the right fit, USA TODAY and Statista have partnered for three consecutive years to rank the top 500 RIAs. The ranking considers both short- and long-term growth in assets under management (AUM), along with recommendations from clients and peers. Separate categories based on asset size allow for comparisons among similarly sized firms. Smaller companies may provide personalized attention, while larger ones could offer lower fees or specialized services due to economies of scale.
Baltimore-based Facet Wealth leads the list, having experienced remarkable growth over one and five years. Align Impact, headquartered in Santa Monica, achieved a top-five placement for the second consecutive year. For deeper insights into a firm's focus areas and history, potential clients can review the company website or its SEC Form ADV filing. Verification of registration status and background checks can be conducted using the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure tool and FINRA’s BrokerCheck platform.
Investors seeking detailed information about the methodology behind the rankings can visit Statista’s website or reach out directly to Andreas Korte for clarification. By leveraging these resources, individuals can make informed decisions to secure their financial futures amidst turbulent times.