Last year, our very own Chris Kaminski from Consilio Wealth Advisors was named a Forbes Best-In-State Top Next-Gen Advisor for 2023. This year (2024), we’re beyond excited to say he’s done it again! 

Earning a spot on Forbes' list of best financial advisors is no ordinary feat – and earning it two years in a row is even more impressive. This recognition is more than prestige; it signifies the pinnacle of trust, credibility, and excellence in the financial realm. 

So, what does it truly mean to be recognized as one of the best financial advisors in Seattle?

What Exactly Is Forbes Best-In-State?

Back in 2001, Forbes decided to seek out the most trustworthy, proficient wealth advisors across the nation.

Every year, they compiled a Best-In-State list that included the most accomplished and competent advisors with proven track records of success. This award is reserved for seasoned advisors who have lived through market cycles and are the industry’s sought-after experts for family wealth management; positioning them among the best wealth management has ever seen.

In 2017, Forbes expanded the program with the Next-Gen list, which shouts out young, up-and-coming professionals in an otherwise aging industry. These professionals, all under 40 years of age, bring fresh, energetic, and innovative talent to the industry and have long, promising careers ahead of them.

Finding the best financial advisors in every state isn’t fast or easy, and Forbes takes their recommendations to the public seriously. This is especially true in high-population cities (like Seattle), where there’s a higher concentration of financial advisors to sort through.

In partnership with SHOOK Research, the Forbes Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors rankings are based on an algorithm that includes a mix of qualitative and quantitative qualities. In addition to being 40 years or younger (for the 2024 list, that means born in or after 1985), all candidates are required to have at least four years of experience.

What Does it Take to be Among the Best Financial Advisors in Seattle?

A lot goes into the decision to name someone as a Best-in-State advisor. What specific criteria did Forbes and SHOOK Research look at during the process?

Among those honored, some founded their own practices, like Chris and Nathan of Consilio did in 2008. Others joined existing teams and quickly built a reputation as future leaders. Others still did a combination of both!

The ranking algorithm is based on a mix of qualitative and quantitative measures.

Overall, the algorithm and decision process considered:

• Firm revenue generated 

• Assets under management

• Credentials

• Compliance records

• Industry experience

• Incorporation of best practices

• Client retention

• Firm nominations

For the qualitative part of the decision, advisors went through a variety of interviews: everything from old-school phone calls to web meetings. 

Investment performance was not considered during the ranking process, since clients can have varying objectives and risk tolerances. Moreover, audited performance reports are rare.

For 2024, an incredible 45,996 nominations were received. Of those candidates: 

• 24,832 were invited to complete an online survey

• 21,368 participated in telephone interviews

• 5,176 attended in-person interviews

• 1,545 attended web-based interviews

During this exhaustive process, Forbes considered 4,081 individuals for their Top Next-Gen ranking. You can explore their full methodology here.

In the end, only 1,621 advisors were recognized for 2024! Collectively, they manage a jaw-dropping $2.5 trillion in assets.

For Washington state specifically, the list includes the best financial advisors in Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, and other cities across the state. Only 39 wealth advisors made it to the final cut for the Seattle area – and Chris was one of them! 

Raising a Glass to Chris (And Everyone at Consilio)

We already knew Chris was a talented and impactful advisor, and seeing him be recognized as one of the top financial advisors in the Seattle area is an accomplishment we couldn’t be more proud to share.

The fact that Chris made it to this list (two years in a row!) isn't just a solo win, either. To be recognized for this award, you must demonstrate that you have a team-based approach. 

In other words, this win is for all of us – for the Consilio team, for our clients, and for the vision of empowering everyone to achieve financial independence so they can live life to the fullest. If you are reading this as a client of our firm, thank you, we’re only here because of you! 

At Consilio Wealth Advisors, we specialize in helping tech professionals make the most of their compensation. You’ve worked too hard to let money steal your freedom, and we’ll help you build a financial strategy that gives you the confidence you deserve! Reach out today to schedule a call.

DISCLOSURES:

The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investor's particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your attorney or tax advisor.

The views expressed in this commentary are subject to change based on market and other conditions. These documents may contain certain statements that may be deemed forward‐looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Any projections, market outlooks, or estimates are based upon certain assumptions and should not be construed as indicative of actual events that will occur.

All information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed. There is no representation or warranty as to the current accuracy, reliability or completeness of, nor liability for, decisions based on such information and it should not be relied on as such.

Consilio Wealth Advisors, LLC (“CWA”) is a registered investment advisor. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where CWA and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure.