Blogs
·
September 8, 2025

Top 10 Private Equity-Backed RIAs in 2025 by AUM

Private equity continues to reshape the RIA landscape, driving growth and consolidation among top advisory firms. For a deeper look at private equity ownership trends in the RIA space, check out our full 2025 analysis

Our latest AdvizorPro ranking highlights the top 10 PE-backed RIAs in 2025 by total AUM, showcasing the largest and fastest-growing firms in the industry. Collectively, these firms manage more than $2.8 trillion in client assets, underscoring the significant influence of private equity in wealth management.

Top 10 PE-Backed RIAs by AUM (2025)

Key Takeaways from PE-Backed RIA Growth

  • Scale Matters: CAPTRUST dominates the field with over $1 trillion AUM, nearly 4x larger than the next firm on the list.

  • Diversified Growth: Firms like SageView, Creative Planning, and OneDigital highlight how PE ownership extends beyond mega-platforms into retirement specialists and multi-channel wealth managers.

  • Advisor Productivity: (see our cold calling RIAs playbook for strategies on reaching top firms) Average AUM per advisor shows how PE capital has fueled operational leverage and scale efficiencies across these firms.

  • Consistent Expansion: Strong 3-year CAGRs across this cohort underscore how PE-backed RIAs are outpacing much of the broader market in asset growth.

Why Investors Should Watch PE-Backed RIAs

Private equity’s footprint in the RIA sector continues to expand—not only through headline-grabbing acquisitions, but also via the sustained growth of established platforms. These firms represent both the consolidation power of PE and its ability to shape the next era of advisor competition, as highlighted in PwC’s 2025 asset & wealth management outlook.

Private equity-backed RIAs are not just growing in size—they are actively shaping the future of wealth management. Key trends to watch include:

  • Adoption of innovative financial technology to improve efficiency and client experience

  • Integration of new service offerings tailored to high-net-worth clients

  • Scalable operational models enabled by private equity capital

Together, these factors highlight how PE investment is accelerating both the consolidation and the professionalization of the RIA industry.

Conclusion

The 2025 ranking of PE-backed RIAs shows a clear picture: scale, diversification, and strategic investment are key drivers of growth. Whether you are an investor, advisor, or industry observer, keeping an eye on these top firms provides insights into how private equity is influencing the future of wealth management.

Want a deeper look at how PE is reshaping the RIA landscape—or how these trends impact your business? Request a demo today.