Number of Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) employed in the U.S. 2012-2022
The number of registered investment advisors (RIAs) working in the United States grew annually during the last decade. These advisors are registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or a securities administrator of the state in which they practice. In 2022, the number of registered investment advisors reached 15,114.
Why register?
Registration as an RIA gives advisors an advantage in the job market. As with any licensing process, this registration keeps other less-qualified advisors from entering the job market. This means that advisory firms that employ RIAs have an advantage because they can guarantee a level of quality based on the licensing process.
The role of financial advisors
RIAs work primarily for high-net-worth individuals. They manage the portfolios of their clients, using their knowledge to select a mix of financial instruments such as stocks or bonds that have the best outlook. An advisor with a proven track record can earn a generous fee, and many also enjoy a proportion of the profits from the portfolios they manage. However, technology threatens their role. Many investors are turning to robo-investment apps and automated advisors. These robo-advisors choose portfolios based on algorithms and therefore can offer lower fees.
Why register?
Registration as an RIA gives advisors an advantage in the job market. As with any licensing process, this registration keeps other less-qualified advisors from entering the job market. This means that advisory firms that employ RIAs have an advantage because they can guarantee a level of quality based on the licensing process.
The role of financial advisors
RIAs work primarily for high-net-worth individuals. They manage the portfolios of their clients, using their knowledge to select a mix of financial instruments such as stocks or bonds that have the best outlook. An advisor with a proven track record can earn a generous fee, and many also enjoy a proportion of the profits from the portfolios they manage. However, technology threatens their role. Many investors are turning to robo-investment apps and automated advisors. These robo-advisors choose portfolios based on algorithms and therefore can offer lower fees.
