What makes an influential leader in financial services?
It’s more than impressive results—it’s the innovation and dedication that drive meaningful change and create a lasting impact.
InvestmentNews’ Hot List 2026 recognizes financial advisors, wealth management professionals, and industry leaders with at least 10 years of experience who stand out through exceptional achievements, industry involvement, and contributions to their communities.
From driving business growth and taking on influential roles to advancing the profession and giving back, these leaders are helping shape the future of financial services.
Know someone who deserves the spotlight? Or have you reached new milestones worth celebrating?
Submit a nomination and help recognize the individuals setting the standard for excellence in the industry.
Nominations are open until Friday, July 31.
The 2026 honorees will be featured on the website in November.
Merrill's latest hires span Colorado to Louisiana, even as industry-wide recruiting data suggests the firm is losing almost as many advisors as it gains.
The $36 million buy allegedly hid inflated books and a $50 million diversion.
“An award citing emotional distress is very unusual,” an industry executive said.
New EBRI research found workers who participated in employer financial education reported higher confidence, literacy and financial satisfaction.
Beyond operational excellence, the winning advisors of the future are the ones who can reach across multiple disciplines without discarding specialist skills.
Dan Biagini of American Equity says the steady decline of pensions, longer lifespans and a reset in interest rates are rewriting how advisors build retirement income
Direct indexing is on pace to outgrow ETFs and mutual funds. Northern Trust's Ken Lassner explains why the advisors who get it wish they had started sooner.
