Financial Advisor Florida

As an individual with investable assets exceeding $500,000, you may wonder whether it is necessary to work with a financial planner to help manage your assets efficiently, optimize your investment portfolio, and provide strategic personal financial planning. In most cases, the answer is yes. A skilled financial advisor can be a critical partner in achieving long-term financial goals.

Finding the right financial planner is especially important in a state with a strong economy and a wide range of investment opportunities, like Florida. Advisors with deep experience and knowledge of the local financial landscape can offer personalized strategies that align with your specific objectives.

Working with a financial planner can help guide you at every stage of your investment management journey, including retirement planning, estate considerations, tax strategies, and broader wealth preservation efforts. By dedicating time to finding a planner with the right experience, professional credentials, and positive client feedback, you increase your chances of securing a long-term advisory relationship that supports your financial success.

This guide offers key insights into how to find a financial advisor who understands your financial situation and can help create a comprehensive plan tailored to your needs.

Top 9 Florida Financial Advisor Firms

Rank	Financial Advisor	Assets Managed	Minimum Assets	Financial Services
1	WE Family Offices	$13,382,462,057	No set account minimum	Financial planning, portfolio management, advisor selection (including private fund managers)
2	CV Advisors LLC	$9,406,618,249	$50,000,000	Financial planning, portfolio management, retirement consulting, and educational seminars
3	Gladstone Wealth Partners	$4,006,257,615	Varies based on account type	Financial planning, portfolio management, pension consulting, and asset allocation services
4	Camden Capital, LLC	$4,504,003,393	No set account minimum	Financial planning, portfolio management, consolidated financial reporting, and advisor selection
5	Finaccess Advisors, LLC	$4,446,176,244	No set account minimum	Financial planning, portfolio management, and advisor selection
6	Csenge Advisory Group, LLC	$2,351,921,549	$50,000	Financial planning, portfolio management, pension consulting, and educational seminars
7	Certified Advisory Corp	$2,178,847,169	$500,000	Financial planning, portfolio management, pension consulting, educational seminars
8	Bostwick Walters Group	$1,893,012,408	$5,000,000	Financial planning, investment management
9	Talon Private Wealth, LLC	$77

1. WE Family Offices

WE Family Offices is a founding member of the Institute for the Fiduciary Standard and is dedicated to providing advice and services that prioritize clients’ interests. The firm offers financial services to ultra-high-net-worth families and family offices and operates as an independent, fee-only fiduciary firm founded in 2000.

WE Family Offices serves more than 80 families across the Americas and Europe. The firm’s professionals average over 20 years of industry experience and hold a range of respected credentials, including Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Financial Planner (CFP), and Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) designations. WE Family Offices has locations in both Miami and New York.

2. CV Advisors LLC

CV Advisors LLC, officially known as ClearView Advisors, has been registered with the SEC as an investment adviser firm since 2012. The firm is led by Elliot Dornbusch, an entrepreneur and technologist with expertise in machine learning, vision, and control systems. Dornbusch earned a degree in physics from Stanford University with a focus on entrepreneurship.

CV Advisors specializes in serving ultra-high-net-worth families, providing customized asset allocation strategies, investment management, performance reporting, and ongoing portfolio monitoring.

3. Gladstone Wealth Partners

Gladstone Wealth Partners, based in Boca Raton, Florida, supports LPL-affiliated advisors and offers a wide range of wealth management services. The firm provides pension planning, asset allocation strategies, risk balancing, and access to alternative investments such as hedge funds. It also conducts ongoing portfolio risk evaluations and rebalancing services.

Gladstone offers financial and retirement planning designed to uncover clients’ goals and create strategies to meet them. Their services include lifetime income planning to support retirees, assistance with tax preparation, and guidance for streamlining and automating financial accounts and obligations.

4. Csenge Advisory Group, LLC

Csenge Advisory Group, founded by John Csenge, is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida, and operates with 45 advisors across nine states. The firm is a fiduciary and emphasizes transparency and clarity when building portfolios and offering financial advice.

The firm’s process begins with a discovery period to define client goals, followed by an analysis of potential investment strategies and associated costs, and then implementation of the financial plan. Csenge Advisory Group offers 14 asset allocation models to address a wide range of investor needs, from fixed-income to broad market exposure. The firm is compliant with the Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS) established by the CFA Institute.

5. Camden Capital, LLC

Camden Capital is a financial advisory firm with offices in North Palm Beach, Florida, as well as Manhattan Beach and Santa Monica, California. The firm partners with athletes, attorneys, charitable organizations, executives, and families to serve as a comprehensive financial resource.

Camden manages alternative investment products through the Camden Opportunity Funds, which are structured to meet the needs of high-net-worth individuals seeking real estate, venture capital, private equity, and energy sector investments. These funds offer reduced minimum investment thresholds to qualified clients.

6. Finaccess Advisors, LLC

Finaccess Advisors, LLC is based in Miami, Florida, and operates as a fee-only financial advisory firm. Founded in 2009, it is part of Grupo Finaccess, which includes several strategic business units: Finaccess Capital, Finaccess Advisors, and Finaccess Social.

Finaccess Capital operates in 57 countries, supporting entrepreneurial efforts across over 300 companies in 14 different sectors. Finaccess Advisors focuses on delivering investment advice and financial planning to select clients, while Finaccess Social concentrates on initiatives to integrate individuals with disabilities into the workforce.

7. Certified Advisory Corp

Certified Advisory Corp was established in Central Florida in 1976 and has maintained a strong regional presence for decades. The firm is based in Altamonte Springs, Florida, and is known for hosting the “On The Money” radio show for nearly 30 years.

Certified Advisory Corp operates as a fee-only financial advisory firm, offering investment and retirement planning services. All 14 of the firm’s advisors are Certified Financial Planners (CFPs), meaning they adhere to the CFP Board’s fiduciary standards. In addition to individual wealth management, the firm also administers and develops retirement plans for corporate, nonprofit, and government entities through its Certified Benefits Corp division.

8. Talon Private Wealth, LLC

Founded in 1998, Talon Private Wealth is headquartered in The Villages, Florida, with additional office locations in Colorado and California. The firm’s CEO is Mike Lester, and securities are offered through World Equity Group, Inc.

Talon focuses on providing customized financial planning advice tailored to individual client needs. The firm also emphasizes community engagement, supporting local initiatives, and operating a radio station that delivers financial education to its audience.

9. Bostwick Walters Group

Bostwick Walters Group is a private advisory firm located in Wellington, Florida. It provides advisory services to family offices and privately held corporations associated with ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families. The firm focuses on long-term wealth preservation and strategic financial management for multigenerational family needs.

Are High-Net-Worth Florida Financial Advisors Worth It?

If you are still asking, “Are high-net-worth Florida financial advisors worth it?” consider these additional advantages of working with an experienced financial advisor.

Expert Knowledge and Data Accessibility

A financial advisor brings years of expertise in managing wealth, overseeing investment portfolios, and advising on broader financial strategies. These professionals maintain detailed insights into financial products, investment opportunities, and shifting market conditions. They stay updated with economic trends and can quickly act on emerging opportunities that align with client goals.

High-net-worth individuals often lack the time to monitor and analyze complex financial data over the long term. While it is possible to manage investments independently for a time, building a sustainable, strategic plan requires a deeper, long-term perspective and experience.

Financial advisors who specialize in serving affluent clients often rely on extensive historical data and research to guide their planning and advice. This level of informed decision-making supports the creation of resilient, tailored strategies designed to meet clients’ evolving needs.

Personalized Financial Strategies

General financial advice found online may offer basic guidance, but it rarely addresses the specific needs of individuals with significant wealth. Even among individuals with similar net worth, financial priorities, risk tolerances, and long-term goals can differ dramatically.

A high-net-worth financial advisor takes the time to understand a client’s unique financial situation and objectives. Through in-depth consultations, they develop personalized strategies tailored to the client’s needs, whether it involves investment planning, estate considerations, tax optimization, or legacy planning.

This level of customization ensures that each financial plan aligns with personal aspirations rather than relying on broad, generalized advice.

Fiduciary Services

One of the key benefits of working with a qualified financial advisor is access to fiduciary services. Fiduciary advisors are legally and ethically obligated to act in their client’s best interests at all times. They must prioritize client goals, avoid conflicts of interest, and provide transparent advice designed to support financial success.

When selecting a financial advisor, it is important to confirm whether they operate under a fiduciary standard. Working with a fiduciary ensures that decisions made on your behalf are solely intended to benefit you and support the achievement of your financial goals.

What Services Do Florida Financial Advisors Offer?

After understanding the advantages of working with a financial advisor, you might now be wondering, “What services do Florida financial advisors actually offer?” Below are some of the most common services provided:

Investment Management
Retirement Planning
Insurance Planning

Investment Management

Investment management forms the foundation of most financial advisory services. Beyond buying and selling securities, investment management can also extend to overseeing alternative assets, including collectibles like vintage cars and artwork.

The goal of investment management is comprehensive wealth preservation and growth. This may include services such as tax management, budgeting, banking strategies, and legacy planning. Legacy planning, in particular, is an essential part of long-term financial strategy, as it ensures that wealth is preserved and distributed according to the client’s preferences.

A skilled financial advisor evaluates your investment portfolio and builds a strategy focused on maximizing long-term returns. Effective portfolio management aligns investments with your risk tolerance, financial goals, and time horizon, ensuring your financial resources are working efficiently to support the lifestyle you envision.

Retirement Planning

Planning for retirement is crucial for achieving a comfortable and secure future. Whether retirement is decades away or just around the corner, creating a strategy for generating reliable income after leaving the workforce is essential.

Financial advisors help develop customized retirement income plans based on your specific needs, goals, and timeline. They focus on ensuring that your investment strategies, savings plans, and distributions from retirement accounts work together to create sustainable income for your retirement years.

Early and strategic retirement planning also provides the flexibility to make adjustments if personal or economic circumstances change along the way.

Insurance Planning

Insurance planning is another vital component of a comprehensive financial strategy. While investments are geared toward maximizing wealth, insurance planning helps protect that wealth from unforeseen risks.

An advisor will evaluate your current insurance coverage and identify gaps that could expose your financial security. Proper insurance planning involves a detailed review of life, health, disability, property, and liability insurance options to ensure they align with your broader financial goals.

Regular reviews of insurance policies are necessary to account for life changes and evolving financial needs, helping to keep your protection strategies effective over time.

How Do I Find Florida Financial Advisors?

There are many financial advisors in Florida offering their services and claiming to be among the best. Choosing the right one can be challenging, especially when trying to distinguish between genuine expertise and marketing promises. However, following a structured process can help you identify the right advisor who will support your financial goals.

Step 1: Seek Recommendations from Trusted Friends and Family

Start by asking friends or family members who live in Florida and are part of the high-net-worth (HNW) or ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) community. Personal referrals can be valuable because they come from individuals who have firsthand experience working with financial advisors. Hearing about their experiences can give you insight into the level of service, professionalism, and outcomes you might expect.

Step 2: Conduct Independent Research

After gathering recommendations, perform thorough research on potential advisors. You can use directories such as the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) to verify credentials. Additional sources like the Better Business Bureau and LinkedIn can provide further background information, including education, certifications, and professional history. Publications, books, or guides authored by advisors can also demonstrate their expertise and approach to wealth management.

Step 3: Prepare for a Meeting

Before meeting with any advisor, take time to organize your financial information. Bring documentation such as:

• Details about your savings, investments, and debts
• Expected and current cash inflows and outflows
• A clear outline of your financial goals and objectives
• Key documents such as property records, 401(k) statements, 529 plan details, investment portfolios, tax returns, life insurance policies, and estate documents like wills

Being prepared ensures a productive conversation and allows the advisor to understand your situation thoroughly.

Step 4: Meet with Shortlisted Advisors

Once you have a list of potential advisors, schedule meetings to evaluate them further. Prepare a list of questions to guide the conversation. Some important topics to discuss include:

• What financial advisory services do you provide?
• Do you work specifically with HNW or UHNW clients?
• How is your fee structure organized—flat fee, hourly, or commission-based?
• What is your overall philosophy or approach to financial advising?

These meetings provide a good opportunity to gauge their communication style, professionalism, and ability to tailor strategies to your needs.

How to Evaluate a Financial Advisor in Florida

After meeting with prospective advisors, evaluate them carefully. Review their qualifications, certifications, and any areas of specialization. Consider the number of years they have been offering financial advisory services and whether they are affiliated with respected professional organizations.

Understanding their fee structure is also essential. Some advisors charge by the hour, others use a flat fee model, and some may earn commissions from the investment products they recommend. Be sure you fully understand the costs associated with their services before making a decision.

Finally, assess the advisor’s reputation. Online reviews, testimonials, and references from current or past clients can offer valuable insights into their reliability, communication style, and ability to deliver results.

Selecting a financial advisor requires thorough research, asking the right questions, and ensuring that you choose someone with the expertise, experience, and fee structure that aligns with your financial goals.

4 Steps to Becoming a Financial Advisor in Florida

If you are passionate about helping others navigate financial challenges and make informed decisions, pursuing a career as a financial advisor could be a strong fit. Financial advisors must pass certain examinations before they can practice in Florida, but several educational programs and pathways are available to help launch a successful career.

There are multiple ways to enter the profession, and your path can vary depending on the degrees, certifications, and experiences you choose to pursue. Here’s a four-step guide to becoming a financial advisor in Florida:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

A bachelor’s degree is typically the minimum educational requirement to begin a career as a financial advisor. While it is possible to enter the finance field without a four-year degree, having one significantly improves your chances of success. Relevant fields of study include finance, accounting, economics, and business administration. Courses in investments, financial planning, and taxation can also be valuable as preparation for licensing exams and future advisory roles.

2. Pass the Required Licensing Examinations

To legally sell securities and offer financial advice, financial advisors must pass specific licensing exams:

• Series 7 (General Securities Representative Exam): Authorizes the sale of a broad range of securities products.
• Series 63 (Uniform Securities Agent State Law Exam): Allows for the sale of securities in most states, including Florida.
• Series 65 (Uniform Investment Adviser Law Exam): Permits advisors to charge clients a fee for advisory services.

Although it is possible to work with just a Series 7 license, many advisors pursue all three to expand the scope of services they can offer.

3. Obtain Additional Certifications to Strengthen Expertise

While further education is not mandatory beyond licensing, pursuing additional certifications can enhance your credibility and demonstrate a higher level of expertise. Some widely recognized certifications include:

• Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
• Personal Financial Specialist (PFS)
• Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC)
• Chartered Investment Counselor (CIC)

These designations often require additional coursework, passing specialized exams, and meeting professional experience requirements.

4. Find Employment or Start Your Own Firm

Financial advisors in Florida can work across various sectors, including:

• Broker-dealer firms
• Banks offering financial advisory services
• Independent financial advisory firms

Each sector may require different licensing or certifications, and some employers may offer sponsorship for licensing exams, such as the Series 7.

If you plan to start your own financial advisory firm in Florida, you will need to comply with regulatory requirements. Firms with assets under management exceeding $100 million must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Smaller firms must register with the Florida Office of Financial Regulation.

The Investment Adviser Registration Depository (IARD) system is used for filing and processing firm registrations. Part of the registration process involves designating a Super Account Administrator (SAA), which may be yourself if you are operating independently. Once approved, you will receive access to the Firm Gateway portal to manage registration, pay state filing fees, and handle exam costs, which are sometimes calculated as a percentage of assets under management.

How Much Does a Banker or a Stock Broker Earn?

According to annual data from Intuit’s tax income reports, financial advisors in Florida earn a median income of approximately $96,500. This figure can rise significantly with commissions, experience, and specialization, with top earners achieving much higher compensation levels. As a result, financial advisors in Florida often enjoy salaries that exceed the national average, particularly at senior positions or in niche advisory roles.

With relatively low formal education barriers compared to other professions and high earning potential, becoming a financial advisor in Florida can be an attractive career choice. The specific licensing exams and registration requirements vary depending on the financial sector you choose and whether you intend to work independently or through an established firm.

If you have a passion for finance and a strong motivation to help others make well-informed financial decisions, pursuing a career in financial advising could be a rewarding path.

When you’re ready to take the next step toward finding the right advisor or expanding your financial knowledge, explore your options: