HNW client percentage for Independent firms serving clients in Delaware

High-net-worth (HNW) client percentage represents the share of a firm’s clients who meet the SEC’s threshold for high net worth—roughly $1.1 million in managed assets or $2.2 million in net worth. This metric helps indicate the type of clients a firm primarily serves: a higher percentage suggests a focus on wealthier clients with more complex financial needs, while a lower percentage points to broader accessibility and simpler planning.

In Delaware, independent firms tend to have a slightly higher median HNW client percentage of 23.53%, compared to the broader national median of 18.18%. Among the 52 independent firms in the state, this distribution ranges widely—from firms with virtually no HNW clients to those where nearly 69% of clients meet the high-net-worth criteria. This spread reflects the diversity of independent practices in Delaware: some may be early-stage firms still growing their HNW clientele, while others are boutique practices focused almost exclusively on affluent families. The variation underscores that even within a small state, independent advisors can serve very different clienteles and offer distinct types of financial planning.

For you, understanding a firm’s HNW client percentage is about finding the right fit rather than judging quality. A higher percentage often means higher account minimums and more tailored, complex services, while a lower percentage may indicate more accessible entry points and standardized offerings. Use this metric alongside others to gauge whether an advisor’s client base aligns with your financial situation and service expectations. Or, if you'd rather skip the guesswork, Warmer can help you find a financial advisor who fits your needs.