Top 9 Investment Companies
Even with $2 million to $500 million in liquid assets, high-net-worth individuals often face the ongoing challenge of growing and preserving their wealth. Achieving long-term financial security and a stable retirement requires more than simply holding assets—it calls for active strategy, insight, and planning. Attempting to manage it all on your own, especially with limited time, can lead to costly missteps that may compromise your financial future.
However, selecting the right investment firm isn’t as simple as choosing the nearest private bank or the first advisor you meet. For individuals managing portfolios of $2 million or more, the stakes are high—and the strategies required to grow and preserve that wealth are often complex.
Working with an experienced financial advisor from one of the leading investment companies can help align your portfolio with your long-term goals, manage risk, and uncover opportunities for continued growth. These professionals can support high-net-worth individuals in navigating challenges related to asset allocation, tax efficiency, estate considerations, and retirement planning.
In this guide, we’ll explore which investment strategies offer strong long-term potential, how to assess your options, and what to look for in an investment company that fits your unique needs. Let’s take a closer look.
Table of Contents
Top 9 Investment Companies to Grow Your Wealth
| # | Company |
| 1. | Fidelity |
| 2. | Charles Schwab |
| 3. | Merrill Lynch |
| 4. | Wealthfront |
| 5. | TD Ameritrade |
| 6. | JPMorgan |
| 7. | Blackrock |
| 8. | TIAA |
| 9. | Edward Jones |
1. Fidelity
Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Boston, Fidelity is one of the largest and most recognized independent investment firms in the U.S. It offers a broad range of services tailored to different investor profiles, including high-net-worth individuals seeking private investment management or fee-based advisory options.
With over $4.5 trillion in assets under management, Fidelity provides multiple account types, such as IRAs, 401(k) rollovers, and brokerage accounts, along with access to investment vehicles like mutual funds, ETFs, and individual securities. Fidelity is known for launching zero-expense-ratio mutual funds and maintaining a strong focus on low-cost investing.
Its platform supports both passive and active investors and includes comprehensive planning tools, educational content, and access to advisors for eligible accounts. High-net-worth investors may find Fidelity’s range of services beneficial for long-term planning, although it’s important to evaluate how its approach compares to other independent investment firms.
2. Charles Schwab
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Westlake, Texas, Charles Schwab is a well-known independent investment firm with a broad range of services for individual and institutional investors. As of 2022, it reported over $7 trillion in assets under management.
Following its acquisition of TD Ameritrade, Schwab expanded its platform offerings and tools, appealing to both self-directed investors and those seeking advisor support. The firm provides commission-free trading for U.S. stocks and ETFs and offers access to mutual funds, fixed-income products, and portfolio management options.
Schwab also offers a robo-advisor platform and personalized advisory services through programs such as Schwab Private Client. While the firm has faced regulatory scrutiny in the past, including a 2022 settlement related to fee disclosures, it remains a widely used platform for investors seeking diversified account types and investment tools.
3. Merrill Lynch
Merrill, formerly known as Merrill Lynch, serves as the investment management division of Bank of America. Founded in 1914 and headquartered in New York City, Merrill offers a range of services including wealth planning, investment advice, and portfolio management.
In 2010, Merrill Edge was introduced as an online platform combining Bank of America’s digital banking services with Merrill’s research and investment tools. As of 2021, Merrill Edge reported managing approximately $35 billion in assets. The platform targets both self-directed investors and those seeking guided investment options. Merrill has faced regulatory and employment-related scrutiny in the past, which investors may want to consider when evaluating the firm.
4. Wealthfront
Wealthfront is a digital investment platform that uses automated technology to manage portfolios. Founded in 2008 in Palo Alto, California, it caters primarily to investors looking for a hands-off approach to asset management. As of recent reports, it manages over $25 billion in assets.
Wealthfront allows users to customize their ETF portfolios from a selection of more than 200 ETFs. It also provides access to automated financial planning tools and a high-interest cash account. Investment accounts require a $500 minimum, and advisory fees are 0.25% annually. For larger cash balances, its high-yield savings account offers extended FDIC insurance coverage through partner banks.
5. TD Ameritrade
Founded in 1975 and headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, TD Ameritrade is now part of Charles Schwab Corporation following a completed acquisition in 2020. Prior to the merger, the firm managed over $1 trillion in client assets and maintained a strong presence in both self-directed and advisor-supported investing.
TD Ameritrade offers a broad suite of services, including commission-free online trading, broker-assisted transactions, and retirement planning tools. Its robo-advisor solution, Essential Portfolios, charges a 0.30% annual fee and requires a $5,000 minimum investment. The platform remains popular among investors who value a wide selection of educational tools and market access.
6. JPMorgan
JPMorgan Chase & Co., founded in 2000 and headquartered in New York City, is the largest bank in the United States by assets. The firm operates across various divisions including retail banking, investment banking, and wealth management. Through its affiliated brands—JPMorgan Chase Bank and JPMorgan Securities—the company offers services tailored to a wide range of investors.
JPMorgan’s investment offerings include mutual funds, ETFs, retirement accounts, and 529 college savings plans. For those interested in self-directed investing, the platform provides unlimited commission-free online trades through its mobile app and Chase.com. The firm’s scale and digital tools make it accessible for users seeking a mix of independent trading and long-term investment options.
7. BlackRock
BlackRock, Inc., founded in 1988 and headquartered in New York City, is one of the world’s largest asset managers. As of early 2022, the firm reported over $10 trillion in assets under management. Originally launched as an institutional asset manager, BlackRock has since expanded to serve individual investors, governments, and financial institutions globally.
BlackRock offers a broad range of funds, including mutual funds and ETFs, as well as alternative investment strategies. The firm’s proprietary technology platform, Aladdin, is used both internally and by external institutions for portfolio management, risk analytics, and trading operations. In 2020, BlackRock received approval to operate investment services in China, further expanding its global footprint.
8. TIAA
The Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America (TIAA), established in 1918 by Andrew Carnegie, is a financial services organization primarily serving individuals in education, healthcare, research, and public service. Headquartered in New York City, TIAA manages approximately $1.3 trillion in assets.
Although structured as a non-profit, TIAA is not tax-exempt and reinvests its profits to benefit policyholders. The firm offers a broad range of financial products, including retirement accounts, mutual funds, brokerage services, 529 education savings plans, and health savings accounts (HSAs). TIAA also provides digital planning tools for investment management, retirement readiness, and portfolio allocation.
9. Edward Jones
Founded in 1922 and headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, Edward Jones is a financial services firm with over 15,000 branch offices across North America. With $1.7 trillion in assets under management, the firm serves a wide client base through a network of approximately 19,000 financial advisors.
Edward Jones is known for its in-person advisory model, focusing on long-term financial planning and relationship-building. While some of its services may carry higher fees compared to online-first platforms, the firm provides comprehensive financial planning through dedicated advisors who assist with investment accounts, retirement strategies, and wealth management.
What Is an Investment Company?
An investment company is a financial institution that pools capital from investors and allocates those funds into a variety of securities, such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. These companies may offer services directly to individuals or institutions, and can operate as mutual fund providers, brokerage firms, or asset managers. In the United States, investment companies are regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to ensure transparency, fairness, and investor protection.
To explore firms that align with your financial goals, start by reviewing a range of available investment companies and their offerings.
Which Investments Have the Best Returns?
Determining which investments deliver the best returns can be complex. While historical returns are important, they’re not the only factor to consider. High-return assets often come with increased risk, and relying solely on returns can lead to exposure to volatility, shifting market conditions, or changes in your financial goals over time.
What may appear to be the most favorable investment strategy in your 30s might not align with your priorities or risk tolerance in your 50s. Variables such as liquidity needs, tax implications, and investment horizon should also be evaluated alongside performance potential.
Rather than focusing solely on performance rankings, many high-net-worth individuals work with fee-based investment advisors or explore private investment management options to align decisions with broader goals like wealth preservation or legacy planning.
Here are a few investment categories that are often considered when seeking competitive returns:
1. Stocks
Equities are frequently associated with strong long-term growth potential. When you purchase a stock, you gain partial ownership in a company and may receive dividends as a shareholder. Certain dividend-paying stocks and growth stocks have historically delivered solid returns. However, they also carry higher risk, especially in volatile markets or sectors undergoing disruption.
2. Bonds
Bonds are often considered a more stable alternative to stocks, especially for individuals looking to preserve capital while generating consistent income. These fixed-income securities can be issued by governments, municipalities, or corporations. While bonds generally offer lower returns than equities, they also tend to carry lower risk—making them an important part of a diversified portfolio.
Municipal bonds, in particular, can be attractive to high-net-worth individuals due to their tax advantages, as they are often exempt from federal—and sometimes state—income taxes. When evaluating bonds, it’s important to consider factors such as credit quality, duration, and interest rate environment.
3. Mutual Funds
Mutual funds allow investors to pool their capital into a professionally managed portfolio that may include stocks, bonds, or other securities. This approach provides access to a broad range of assets, offering diversification that might be harder to achieve through individual investments alone.
Depending on your investment strategy and goals, mutual funds can be aligned to target growth, income, or a balanced blend of both. While some mutual funds are actively managed, others may follow an index or specific sector. Fees, risk profiles, and past performance should all be considered when choosing a fund that fits your long-term wealth management plan.
Once you understand which strategies offer higher returns, it’s worth speaking to an expert who can tailor a plan to your financial situation.
How Can I Double My Money Fast?
Whether you’re preparing for retirement or planning a significant purchase, growing your wealth through investing is a proven long-term strategy. That said, the idea of doubling your money quickly is often more complex than it appears—especially for high-net-worth individuals with unique financial goals.
It’s common to ask, “What do high-net-worth investors focus on to grow their assets faster?” But there isn’t a universal answer. Individuals with $2 million to $500 million in investable assets differ widely in risk tolerance, financial priorities, and investment timelines. What works for one investor may not apply to another.
The reality is that achieving accelerated returns requires a personalized strategy. Factors such as your portfolio composition, tax structure, estate considerations, and overall financial health all play critical roles. Attempting to double your money without professional planning can introduce unnecessary risk.
That’s why working with an independent investment firm or a fee-based investment advisor is often the most strategic path. These professionals help develop investment plans built around your goals while navigating market fluctuations and tax impacts. Some of the ways investment firms support this objective include:
1. Tailored Portfolio Design
Rather than offering one-size-fits-all recommendations, experienced advisors begin by evaluating your complete financial picture. From there, they design a diversified investment portfolio that aligns with your personal risk tolerance, timeline, and long-term objectives.
With thousands of investment options available—including stocks, bonds, ETFs, alternative assets, and private equity—selecting the right mix is crucial. Top firms use a combination of data analysis, industry research, and scenario modeling to create balanced portfolios with the potential for strong performance without excessive exposure.
2. Portfolio Diversification and Asset Allocation
Building a portfolio is only the beginning. Protecting it—especially when managing $500,000 or more in liquid assets—requires a disciplined combination of diversification and asset allocation. Many investors mistakenly treat these two strategies as interchangeable, but they serve distinct purposes and must work together to manage risk effectively.
Diversification spreads your investments across various asset types, sectors, and geographic regions. Asset allocation ensures those investments are weighted according to your goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions. Independent investment firms and fee-based investment advisors use both techniques—alongside broader planning tools—to help maintain long-term portfolio stability, even during market volatility.
3. Portfolio Rebalancing
Once your portfolio is in motion, it doesn’t remain static. Over time, some assets will grow faster than others, causing your portfolio to drift away from its original allocation. This can lead to unintended exposure and imbalanced risk.
Portfolio rebalancing helps correct that drift. High-net-worth investors who aim to grow their wealth efficiently often rely on professional rebalancing strategies to adjust asset weightings as needed—whether due to market shifts or evolving personal goals.
For instance, you may have leaned into equities during a growth period, but as priorities shift toward retirement or real estate purchases, reallocating toward more stable assets may be necessary. Leading private investment management firms monitor these changes and rebalance portfolios to keep them aligned with your financial targets.
4. Tax Planning
For high-net-worth individuals, tax liability can significantly impact investment outcomes. Even if your portfolio sees substantial growth, poorly planned withdrawals or poorly timed transactions may erode those gains through unnecessary taxes.
This is where private investment management firms play a key role. Experienced advisors apply tax-sensitive strategies—like tax-loss harvesting, asset location, and balancing active vs. passive investment approaches—to help reduce tax burdens while pursuing long-term returns.
Rather than trying to avoid taxes altogether, strategic tax planning focuses on timing, structure, and investment mix to help preserve more of your earnings. Whether you’re shifting assets, realizing capital gains, or considering charitable contributions, a sound tax strategy can be the difference between stagnation and growth.
5. Retirement Planning
If long-term stability is your goal, then your investments should ultimately support one thing: a secure and fulfilling retirement. That’s where retirement planning becomes essential—not just in projecting future income, but in shaping how your assets work for you once you stop working.
Independent investment firms often help high-net-worth individuals establish plans that go beyond savings accounts. These include structured withdrawal strategies, annuity planning, Roth conversions, and tailored risk adjustments as you near retirement age.
The objective is simple: align your portfolio with your lifestyle goals so you don’t have to compromise later in life. Whether you’re 5 or 25 years away from retiring, firms that specialize in fee-based investment advising can map a personalized path forward.
Quick gains often come with higher risks. For a smarter approach, consider building a long-term wealth strategy with a qualified advisor.
Choosing from the Top 9 Investment Companies
Exploring a list of the top 9 investment companies can be a helpful starting point, but it’s important to understand that not every firm will be a perfect match for your financial situation. High-net-worth individuals have unique needs, and the right investment company is one that aligns with your personal goals, financial complexity, and risk profile.
Here are several steps to help you choose an investment firm that meets your needs:
- Clarify Your Financial Objectives
Start by identifying what you want to achieve—whether that’s long-term portfolio growth, retirement income, or intergenerational wealth transfer. - Research the Firm’s Background and Compliance Record
Look into the firm’s registration, track record, and disclosures. Ensure they operate transparently and are subject to regulatory oversight. - Review Their Service Offerings
Confirm whether the firm provides relevant services, such as private investment management, estate and tax planning, or risk management. This is especially important for individuals managing $500,000 or more in investable assets. - Understand Their Fee Structure
Determine whether the firm uses a fee-based model or earns commissions. Clarify how they are compensated to evaluate if their model supports impartial planning. - Check Third-Party Reviews and Client Feedback
Read independent reviews or client testimonials. These can offer insight into the client experience, service responsiveness, and overall satisfaction.
With so many firms to choose from, narrowing down your options becomes easier when you compare based on your specific investment goals.
Types of Investment Companies
Investment companies generally fall into one of three categories, each with distinct structures and methods for managing and distributing investments:
- Open-End Investment Companies
These companies, often referred to as mutual funds, continuously issue new shares. Investors can purchase shares directly from the fund at the net asset value (NAV), which is recalculated daily. This model provides flexibility for those looking to enter or exit the fund based on market conditions. - Unit Investment Trusts (UITs)
UITs are structured portfolios of securities that remain fixed for a specific period. They are typically offered through brokerage firms and provide a passive investment strategy, with minimal portfolio changes until the trust reaches maturity. - Closed-End Investment Companies
Unlike open-end funds, closed-end funds issue a set number of shares during an initial offering. These shares are then traded on public stock exchanges. Prices fluctuate based on market demand, which means shares may trade at a premium or discount relative to their NAV.
Understanding the different types of investment firms helps you choose one that aligns with your needs—whether that’s mutual funds, private equity, or real estate.
Benefits of Working with Investment Companies
Investment companies allow individuals to access a wide range of investment opportunities by pooling client assets. This approach can lead to reduced transaction costs and broader access to professionally managed portfolios.
Clients also benefit from access to planning resources and tools that may support long-term financial goals. While some firms offer planning services through an advisor, others provide automated tools and educational content for self-guided investors.
Another advantage is the ability to diversify across multiple asset classes—such as stocks, bonds, ETFs, and mutual funds. Diversification can help reduce exposure to market volatility and balance risk across a portfolio.
When managed well, the right partnership can help grow and protect your wealth. Now is the time to seek the guidance that fits your long-term financial plan.
Tips for Working with Investment Companies
When evaluating investment companies, high-net-worth individuals should consider the following key factors:
- Verify Regulatory Registration
Ensure the investment company is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). You can review public records and disclosures through the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) database. - Understand the Fee Structure
Review all fees associated with account management, including trading costs, fund expense ratios, and any advisory or platform fees. It’s also important to understand how advisors are compensated, as this may influence the recommendations you receive. - Assess Fiduciary Duty and Independence
Confirm whether the advisor operates under a fiduciary obligation and whether their compensation model minimizes potential conflicts of interest. Fee-based investment advisors may offer more transparency and client-aligned incentives. - Evaluate the Investment Philosophy
Research the firm’s approach to investment planning. Consider whether they focus on active or passive strategies, what types of assets they prioritize, and how they address risk and market changes.
Doing your homework on these areas can help ensure the firm you choose aligns with your financial goals and expectations.
Building a strong relationship with your investment firm starts with clear communication and a shared understanding of your goals. Applying these tips can help you make the most of your partnership.
Wrapping Up
Managing personal investments can work well in the early stages of wealth-building—when portfolios are modest, time horizons are long, and risk tolerance is higher. However, as your liquid assets grow into the millions, the complexity of managing your wealth increases significantly.
For individuals with $5 million to $500 million in investable assets, one poorly timed decision or missed opportunity can affect long-term financial goals, retirement readiness, and even family legacy planning. That’s why aligning with an investment firm that understands the needs of high-net-worth individuals is not just helpful—it’s essential.
Whether your goals involve portfolio growth, intergenerational wealth transfer, or private investment management strategies, the right firm will offer tailored planning that reflects your values and objectives.
Choosing the right investment company is a significant step toward securing your financial future. Whether you’re seeking personalized advice or comparing firm options, the right resources can make all the difference.
