CNBC Elite Advisors: Top ultra-high net worth wealth management firms for 2026

Wera Rodsawang | Moment | Getty Images The richest U.S. households have financial needs different from those of the average investor and, as such, seek out financial advisors who specialize in managing this echelon of wealth . The inaugural CNBC Elite Advisors list recognizes 25 of the nation's leading investment advisors serving ultra-high net worth individuals and family offices, selected for their expertise in advising clients with investable assets of $25 million or more. While they provide investment management services — including private, illiquid or concentrated asset holdings — the bulk of these advisors' work exists outside the client portfolio, according to financial experts who specialize in the uber-rich market. What truly defines advisors who serve the extremely wealthy is their expertise in managing complex financial and relationship dynamics, often across multiple generations of a family, experts said. That might include tax, estate, trust and risk planning; family governance, business advisory and philanthropy services; and more lifestyle-type offerings such as private jet leasing and concierge services. "It's a different job" from that of a traditional financial advisor, said Vlad Golyk, a partner at McKinsey & Co., who leads the consulting firm's wealth management practice in North America. We created CNBC Elite Advisors this year to recognize top wealth management firms working in this space. CNBC accepts no payment for placement. …