St. Louis, Missouri is home to numerous reputable financial advisory firms offering wealth management and financial planning services. Whether you’re looking to plan for retirement, manage your investments, or work towards other financial goals, finding the right advisor is crucial. This comprehensive guide explores the top financial advisors in St. Louis, highlighting their strengths, services, and what sets them apart.
Moneta Group Investment Advisors
With over $30 billion in assets under management, Moneta Group is one of the largest and most established financial advisory firms in St. Louis. Founded in 1869, Moneta has a rich history of serving clients for over 150 years.
Key strengths:
- Comprehensive financial planning and investment management
- Extensive experience working with high-net-worth individuals and families
- Large team of advisors with diverse certifications (CFP, CFA, CPA, etc.)
- Fee-only structure aligns interests with clients
Moneta takes a holistic approach to wealth management, offering services that span financial planning, investment management, retirement planning, and more. Their team of nearly 200 advisors brings expertise across various financial disciplines to provide well-rounded guidance.
Buckingham Strategic Wealth
Buckingham Strategic Wealth manages over $23 billion in assets and has a strong presence in St. Louis and across the country. The firm was founded in 1994 and has grown to become one of the largest independent advisory firms in the U.S.
Key strengths:
- Evidence-based investing approach
- Comprehensive financial planning services
- No set account minimum (but $3,000 minimum annual fee)
- Fee-only structure
Buckingham’s investment philosophy is grounded in academic research and focuses on broad diversification, low costs, and tax efficiency. The firm offers a wide range of services beyond investment management, including retirement planning, tax planning, and estate planning.
Plancorp
Founded in 1983, Plancorp manages over $5.5 billion in assets and serves both high-net-worth and non-high-net-worth clients. The firm has no set account minimum, making it accessible to a wide range of investors.
Key strengths:
- Fee-only, independent advisory firm
- Comprehensive financial planning services
- Focus on tax-efficient investing
- Employee-owned structure aligns interests with clients
Plancorp takes a holistic approach to wealth management, offering services that include financial planning, investment management, tax planning, and estate planning. The firm’s employee ownership structure helps ensure that advisors are focused on long-term client success.
Visionary Wealth Advisors
Founded in 2014, Visionary Wealth Advisors has quickly grown to manage over $2 billion in assets. The firm serves both high-net-worth and non-high-net-worth individuals, as well as businesses.
Key strengths:
- No set account minimum
- Comprehensive financial planning services
- Team of advisors with diverse certifications (CFP, CASL, CFA, etc.)
- Focus on client education and empowerment
Visionary takes a client-centric approach to wealth management, offering personalized financial planning and investment management services. The firm places a strong emphasis on educating clients and helping them make informed financial decisions.
Argos Capital Partners
Argos Capital Partners manages over $1.5 billion in assets and primarily serves ultra-high-net-worth individuals and institutional clients. The firm was founded in 2008 and has developed a reputation for sophisticated investment strategies.
Key strengths:
- Expertise in alternative investments
- Passive index investing approach
- No set account minimum
- Fee-only structure
Argos offers a range of services including retirement analysis, investment portfolio review, and investment policy statement creation. The firm’s expertise in alternative investments sets it apart from many other advisors in the St. Louis area.
Krilogy Financial
Founded in 2008, Krilogy Financial manages over $1.8 billion in assets and serves a mix of high-net-worth and non-high-net-worth clients. The firm has a strong focus on financial planning and wealth management for individuals and families.
Key strengths:
- Comprehensive financial planning services
- Team of advisors with diverse certifications (CFP, AIF, CPA, etc.)
- Corporate retirement plan consulting
- Focus on client education and empowerment
Krilogy offers a wide range of services including portfolio management, financial planning, and corporate retirement plan consulting. The firm’s advisors bring expertise from various financial disciplines to provide comprehensive guidance.
JAG Capital Management
JAG Capital Management has a long history dating back to 1945 and manages over $1.7 billion in assets. The firm serves both individual and institutional clients, with a focus on growth-oriented investment strategies.
Key strengths:
- Long-standing history and experience
- Expertise in growth equity investing
- Socially responsible investing (SRI) options
- Team of chartered financial analysts (CFAs)
JAG Capital Management offers investment management services through both traditional and wrap fee structures. The firm’s expertise in growth equity investing and socially responsible investing options set it apart from many other advisors in the St. Louis area.
RubinBrown Advisors
RubinBrown Advisors manages over $2.1 billion in assets and is affiliated with the accounting firm RubinBrown LLP. This connection provides the firm with unique insights into tax planning and other financial matters.
Key strengths:
- Integration of investment advisory and tax planning services
- Team of advisors with diverse certifications (CFP, CPA, CFA, etc.)
- Strategic asset allocation expertise
- Consulting services for businesses and non-profits
RubinBrown Advisors offers a range of services including investment advisory, strategic asset allocation, and consulting. The firm’s connection to RubinBrown LLP allows for integrated tax and investment planning.
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Acropolis Investment Management
Founded in 2002, Acropolis Investment Management manages over $1.7 billion in assets. The firm serves both individual and institutional clients, with a focus on personalized investment programs.
Key strengths:
- Fee-only structure
- Customized investment policy statements for each client
- Institutional advisory services
- Retirement plan advisory services
Acropolis takes a personalized approach to investment management, creating customized investment policy statements for each client. The firm’s expertise in institutional advisory and retirement plan services sets it apart from many other advisors in the St. Louis area.
Mosaic Family Wealth
Mosaic Family Wealth manages over $1.2 billion in assets and focuses on serving high-net-worth individuals and families. The firm was founded in 2015 and has quickly established itself as a respected wealth management firm in St. Louis.
Key strengths:
- Comprehensive wealth management services
- Focus on high-net-worth clients
- Customized portfolio strategies
- Affiliation with Focus Financial Partners provides additional resources
Mosaic Family Wealth offers comprehensive wealth management services, including investment management, financial planning, and risk management. The firm’s affiliation with Focus Financial Partners provides access to additional resources and expertise.
Choosing the Right Financial Advisor in St. Louis
When selecting a financial advisor in St. Louis, consider the following factors:
- Fiduciary Status: Look for advisors who are fiduciaries, legally obligated to act in your best interests.
- Fee Structure: Understand how the advisor is compensated. Fee-only advisors may have fewer conflicts of interest compared to those who earn commissions.
- Services Offered: Ensure the advisor offers the specific services you need, whether it’s comprehensive financial planning, investment management, or specialized services like tax planning or estate planning.
- Credentials: Look for advisors with relevant certifications such as CFP (Certified Financial Planner), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), or CPA (Certified Public Accountant).
- Investment Philosophy: Understand the advisor’s investment approach and ensure it aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.
- Client Focus: Some firms specialize in serving high-net-worth clients, while others work with a broader range of investors. Choose a firm that typically serves clients similar to you.
- Minimum Requirements: Check if the advisor has minimum asset requirements that align with your financial situation.
- Reputation and Experience: Research the firm’s history, read client reviews, and check for any disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Personal Connection: Choose an advisor you feel comfortable working with, as you’ll be sharing personal financial information and working together towards your goals.
Conclusion
St. Louis is home to a diverse range of financial advisory firms, each with its own strengths and specialties. Whether you’re a high-net-worth individual looking for comprehensive wealth management or someone just starting to plan for retirement, there’s likely a firm that fits your needs.
The top firms in St. Louis, such as Moneta Group, Buckingham Strategic Wealth, and Plancorp, offer a combination of extensive experience, comprehensive services, and client-focused approaches. Newer firms like Visionary Wealth Advisors and Mosaic Family Wealth bring fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to the table.
When choosing a financial advisor, it’s crucial to consider factors such as fee structure, services offered, investment philosophy, and personal rapport. Take the time to research and meet with potential advisors to find the best fit for your financial situation and goals.
Remember that financial planning is an ongoing process, and the right advisor can be a valuable partner in helping you navigate life’s financial challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re planning for retirement, managing a business, or building generational wealth, the right St. Louis financial advisor can help you create a path to financial success.
FAQs About Financial Advisors in St. Louis
How much do financial advisors in St. Louis typically charge?
Fees can vary widely depending on the advisor and services provided. Many advisors charge a percentage of assets under management, typically ranging from 0.5% to 1.5% annually. Some may charge flat fees for specific services or hourly rates for consultations. Always ask for a clear explanation of all fees before engaging an advisor.
Do I need a certain amount of assets to work with a financial advisor in St. Louis?
While some firms have high minimum asset requirements, many advisors in St. Louis work with clients across a range of asset levels. Firms like Plancorp and Visionary Wealth Advisors have no set account minimums, while others may require $100,000, $1 million, or more to open an account.
What’s the difference between a fee-only and fee-based advisor?
Fee-only advisors are compensated solely by their clients and do not earn commissions from selling financial products. Fee-based advisors may earn both fees from clients and commissions from product sales. Many experts recommend fee-only advisors to minimize potential conflicts of interest.
How often should I meet with my financial advisor?
The frequency of meetings can vary based on your needs and the complexity of your financial situation. Many advisors meet with clients annually for a comprehensive review, with additional check-ins as needed or when significant life changes occur.
Can a St. Louis financial advisor help me with tax planning?
Many financial advisors in St. Louis offer tax planning services or work closely with tax professionals. Firms like RubinBrown Advisors, which is affiliated with an accounting firm, may have particular expertise in this area.
How do I know if a financial advisor in St. Louis is reputable?
You can check an advisor’s background and any disciplinary history using the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website or FINRA’s BrokerCheck tool. Additionally, look for advisors with recognized certifications and positive client reviews.
What questions should I ask a potential financial advisor in St. Louis?
Key questions include:
- Are you a fiduciary?
- How are you compensated?
- What services do you offer?
- What is your investment philosophy?
- What are your qualifications and experience?
- How often will we communicate?
- Can you provide references from current clients?
Do St. Louis financial advisors work with clients remotely?
Many advisors have adapted to offer remote services, especially in light of recent global events. However, the level of remote services can vary by firm, so it’s best to ask about their capabilities and preferred communication methods.
How long does it typically take to see results when working with a financial advisor?
Results can vary depending on your goals and the strategies employed. Some changes, like improved budgeting or debt management, may show results quickly. Investment strategies and long-term financial planning typically require more time to see significant results.
Can a St. Louis financial advisor help me with estate planning?
Many financial advisors in St. Louis offer estate planning services or can work in conjunction with estate planning attorneys. Firms like Moneta Group and Buckingham Strategic Wealth have particular expertise in this area.
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