HNW client percentage for Team firms serving clients in Delaware

High-net-worth (HNW) client percentage measures the share of a firm’s clients who meet the SEC’s high-net-worth threshold, indicating the firm’s focus and service model. For team firms—those with 5 to 30 advisors or managing over $500 million in assets—this metric reveals whether the practice is geared toward affluent planning at scale or more specialized, complex wealth management for HNW clients.

In Delaware, among 58 team firms, the median HNW client percentage is 37.94%, which is somewhat higher than the national median of 32.21%. The distribution ranges broadly, with some firms serving as few as around 10% HNW clients and others reaching over 97%. This spread suggests a diverse landscape: some Delaware teams focus on a wider affluent client base with standardized services, while others concentrate on high-net-worth families requiring more tailored, complex planning. The presence of firms at both ends of the spectrum reflects the two common interpretations—firms either in an early growth phase building toward a higher HNW focus or intentionally maintaining a broader client base for scalability.

What this means for you is that the HNW client percentage is a useful indicator of a firm’s typical client profile and service approach, but it’s not a measure of quality. A higher percentage often means higher minimums and more bespoke advice, while a lower percentage may indicate greater accessibility and more standardized offerings. Use this metric alongside others to find an advisor whose client focus and service style align with your financial situation and goals.

Or, if you'd rather skip the guesswork, Warmer can help you find a financial advisor who fits your needs.