Best Financial Advisory Firms for HNWI and UWNWI

Curious about what the top firms are right now for these individuals to manage their money. I know ICONIQ Capital is pretty well regarded on the WC, so would be interested in firms similar to them (don't care about location, though). Also am aware of private banks, but am curious whether most of these individuals use private banks for management or one of the groups that sits within those teams. 

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some of the top financial advisory firms for High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI) and Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWI):

Top Financial Advisory Firms:

  1. Merrill Lynch Private Bank and Investment Group
  2. UBS Private Wealth Management
  3. Bessemer Trust
  4. Northern Trust
  5. Abbot Downing
  6. Alliance Bernstein
  7. Brown Brothers Harriman
  8. Ascent (US Bank)
  9. US Trust (BAML)

Private Banks:

  1. JPMorgan Private Bank
  2. Goldman Sachs Private Wealth Management
  3. US Trust
  4. Northern Trust
  5. Bessemer Trust

Key Points:

  • Private Wealth Management (PWM): This involves managing the assets of HNWI and UHNWI, providing a stable revenue source for investment banks despite economic downturns.
  • Client Services: HNWI and UHNWI often use these institutions for a range of financial services, including banking, estate planning, trust services, legal, and tax work.
  • Market Volatility: The need for professional wealth managers has increased due to market volatility, with HNWI and UHNWI clients demanding advisors who can protect and grow their wealth.

Industry Overview:

  • Client Classification: HNWI are generally classified as individuals with minimum investable assets of $5 million, while UHNWI have at least $10 million.
  • Recruitment: Banks tend to recruit for positions within the HNWI and UHNWI divisions, focusing on those with complex financial needs.

These firms and banks are highly regarded for their comprehensive services and expertise in managing significant wealth, making them ideal choices for HNWI and UHNWI clients.

Sources: Private Wealth Management/Private Banking Guide for Associates, Calling all Financial Advisors: What products do high net-worth people use to manage their wealth?, Fintech is going to kill Private Wealth Management jobs?, In 2018, what Firm has the best Ultra High Net Worth wealth management training program?, What are the best Private Wealth Management firms? (Salary, benefits, prestige, culture, etc)

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Vero consequatur reprehenderit sint dolorem illo ut odio. Consectetur officiis dolor sapiente quia commodi voluptates qui. Perspiciatis quis doloribus nemo quis pariatur saepe nesciunt. Fugiat est repellendus et eum enim est.

Career Advancement Opportunities

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Guggenheim Partners 02 97.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 97.4%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 99.0%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.9%
  • BMO Capital Markets 13 97.4%

Professional Growth Opportunities

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.9%
  • JPMorgan No 97.4%

Total Avg Compensation

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (57) $264
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (28) $184
  • Intern/Summer Associate (16) $161
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (76) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”