The Forbes ranking of America’s Top RIA Firms, developed by SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative criteria, mostly gained through telephone, virtual and in-person due diligence interviews, and quantitative data. The algorithm weighs factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience and those that encompass best practices and approach to working with clients. Portfolio performance is not a criterion due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK receive a fee in exchange for rankings.  Summit Financial did not pay a fee for consideration of this award. 

(For the full list and more, visit www.forbes.com/lists/top-ria-firms; advisors can complete a survey for upcoming rankings at www.SHOOKresearch.com.)

Citywire’s “50 Growers Across America” list identifies the fastest-growing fee-only RIAs in the US, including those in Louisiana.  The methodology used by Citywire focuses on analyzing historical data from FORM ADV filings, specifically looking at growth in assets under management (AUM), both as a percentage and in monetary terms, and growth in employee numbers.  A “growth factor” is calculated based on these metrics to rank the firms.  

The Financial Times Top 300 Registered Investment Advisors: Awarded to Summit Financial Wealth Advisors (2016, 2017).  This is an independent listing produced by the Financial Times.  The FT 300 is based on data gathered from firms, regulatory disclosures, and research conducted on behalf of the Financial Times by Ignites Research, a Financial Times sister publication.  The listing reflects each advisor’s performance in six primary areas.  The factors are: 1. Assets under management; 2 AUM growth rate; 3. Years of experience; 4. Compliance record; 5. Industry certifications; 6. Online accessibility.  Neither the firm nor the advisors pay a fee to the Financial Times in exchange for inclusion in FT 300.  Listing in this publication and/or award is not a guarantee of future investment success.  This recognition should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor by any client.

FA Magazine’s RIA rankings primarily rely on assets under management (AUM) reported by independent registered investment advisors (RIAs).  The ranking is based on a voluntary survey where firms submit their AUM data, with a focus on firms that file their own ADV statement with the SEC.  Firms are then ranked from largest to smallest based on the reported AUM.  FA Magazine’s RIA ranking is based on an annual survey of information submitted by RIAs. The primary metric used for ranking is total assets under management, including both discretionary and non-discretionary assets, reported by firms.  The AUM data used is generally from the end of the previous year. The ranking is specifically focused on independent RIAs that file their own ADV statement with the SEC. Neither the firm nor the advisors pay a fee to FA magazine for inclusion in the rankings.