St. Louis has emerged as a major hub for investment management and financial services over the past decades. With its central location, business-friendly environment and talented workforce, many top investment firms have established a presence in St. Louis. In this article, we will look at some of the leading asset management and financial advisory companies based in St. Louis, reviewing their key strengths and investment capabilities. Understanding the landscape of top local players can help investors find the right partner to meet their financial goals.
Wells Fargo Advisors – A leading wealth management firm with strong local presence
Wells Fargo Advisors is one of the largest wealth management firms in St. Louis and the U.S. It has over 300 advisors in the greater St. Louis area, managing over $30 billion in assets. The firm provides investment advisory, financial planning, banking and credit services to high-net-worth individuals and families. Its advisors develop personalized plans and portfolios to help clients meet their investment objectives. Wells Fargo Advisors has a strong brand recognition and its parent bank provides stability and resources. However, minimum investment thresholds are higher compared to smaller firms.
Stifel – A century-old investment bank with research capabilities
Founded in 1890, Stifel is one of the oldest investment firms in St. Louis. It offers wealth management, institutional and retail brokerage, investment banking, trading, research and related financial services. Stifel has a large research team that closely covers various sectors and provides insights to support investment decisions. However, the firm caters more towards high-net-worth and institutional clients compared to retail investors. Minimums for advisory accounts are over $100,000.
Benjamin F. Edwards – A full-service brokerage with low minimums
Benjamin F. Edwards is a St. Louis-based full-service brokerage that provides financial advisory and investment management services to retail investors. It was founded in 2008 by the great-grandson of Albert Gallatin Edwards, the founder of A.G. Edwards. With over $27 billion in assets under management, Edwards has grown rapidly and expanded across the U.S. It has relatively low minimum account balances, making it accessible to more investors compared to large wirehouses.
Meridian Wealth Management – A boutique RIA focused on customized planning
Meridian Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor (RIA) that provides wealth management and financial planning services to high-net-worth individuals and families in St. Louis. It has a boutique, client-focused approach, with in-depth review of each client’s unique situation. Meridian develops highly customized financial plans and portfolios for clients. However, as a smaller RIA it has limited resources compared to large firms.
Graystone Consulting – An advisory firm with institutional backing
Graystone Consulting provides investment advisory and financial planning services to high-net-worth and institutional clients in St. Louis and nationwide. It leverages the asset management expertise and resources of its parent company, Morgan Stanley. Graystone advisors develop bespoke investment solutions tailored to each client’s objectives. However, its account minimums are relatively high compared to smaller independent RIAs.
In summary, St. Louis has a vibrant landscape of leading investment firms ranging from large wirehouses like Wells Fargo Advisors to boutique RIAs like Meridian Wealth Management. Understanding their unique strengths and offerings can help investors find the right partner aligned with their investment needs and preferences.