The largest wealth management firms are redefining the financial landscape in 2025, driven by major acquisitions, rising assets under management (AUM), and intensified global competition. These firms not only guide the world’s wealthiest individuals but also influence markets and financial trends that impact millions of investors worldwide.
Key Points Summary
- Corient doubles assets to $430 billion, emerging as the largest non-bank wealth manager.
- Citigroup transfers $80 billion in wealth assets to BlackRock, signaling a strategic realignment.
- Evelyn Partners prepares for sale, valued up to £2.5 billion, marking consolidation in the UK market.
- Global giants like Morgan Stanley, UBS, and J.P. Morgan continue to dominate the industry with multi-trillion-dollar AUM.
Corient’s Dramatic Rise Through Acquisitions
In 2025, Corient has become one of the most closely watched names in wealth management. With its acquisition of Stonehage Fleming and Stanhope Capital, Corient doubled its AUM to $430 billion. This move catapulted the firm to the forefront of global non-bank wealth management.
What makes Corient’s rise unique is its focus on expanding across both the U.S. and European markets. By combining strong advisory services with scale, it positions itself as a serious challenger to more traditional banking giants.
Citigroup’s $80 Billion Transfer to BlackRock
Another headline development is Citigroup’s transfer of $80 billion in wealth management assets to BlackRock. This decision highlights a broader trend in the industry: banks are increasingly focusing on advisory and relationship management while outsourcing asset management to specialized firms.
For Citigroup clients, the transition represents access to BlackRock’s world-class asset management capabilities. For Citi, it is a strategic move to streamline operations and concentrate on wealth advisory services.
Evelyn Partners Looks Toward a Potential Sale
In the U.K., Evelyn Partners is preparing for a potential sale process starting in October, with an estimated valuation between £2 billion and £2.5 billion. This development underscores the wave of consolidation sweeping across Europe’s wealth management industry.
NatWest and RBC have been identified as potential buyers. A successful sale would represent one of the largest deals in the U.K. wealth sector this year, potentially reshaping competition in the market.
The Global Leaders by AUM in 2025
The following firms dominate the wealth management landscape with trillions in assets under management:
- Morgan Stanley Wealth Management – $8.2 trillion
- UBS Global Wealth Management – $6.6 trillion
- J.P. Morgan Private Bank – $4.3 trillion
- Goldman Sachs Private Wealth – $3.3 trillion
- Edward Jones – $2.2 trillion
- Bank of America GWIM (Merrill Lynch) – $2 trillion
- Corient – $430 billion
- Vanguard (total AUM) – $10.4 trillion
- Fidelity Investments – $5.8 trillion
These institutions are pillars of financial influence, guiding investments for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, families, and institutions.
Why These Moves Matter in Wealth Management
The recent shake-ups in the industry highlight several key themes:
- Scale is power: Firms with larger AUM are better positioned to offer competitive fees and diverse investment products.
- Strategic specialization: Citi’s move shows how firms are narrowing focus, emphasizing advisory over asset management.
- Consolidation trend: Evelyn Partners’ planned sale reflects the drive toward fewer but larger players.
- Global reach: Corient’s international expansion points toward a new phase of competition across continents.
Comparison of Leading Wealth Managers
| Firm | AUM (in trillions) | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| Morgan Stanley Wealth Management | $8.2 | Strong U.S. presence, tech integration |
| UBS Global Wealth Management | $6.6 | Global scale, Swiss private banking edge |
| J.P. Morgan Private Bank | $4.3 | Family office services, deep expertise |
| Goldman Sachs Private Wealth | $3.3 | Elite client services, institutional ties |
| Edward Jones | $2.2 | Advisor network, U.S. households focus |
| BofA GWIM (Merrill Lynch) | $2.0 | Integrated banking & wealth management |
| Corient | $0.43 | Fast growth, global expansion |
| Vanguard | $10.4 (total AUM) | Passive investing leader |
| Fidelity Investments | $5.8 | Diversified offerings, retirement focus |
The Future Outlook for the Industry
The largest wealth management firms are positioning themselves for a future defined by:
- Digital transformation: Integration of AI and fintech for enhanced client experience.
- Globalization: Expansion beyond home markets to capture international high-net-worth clients.
- Fee pressure: Competition driving firms to lower fees and expand service bundles.
- Client personalization: Tailored investment strategies gaining importance over one-size-fits-all portfolios.
These factors ensure that the competition among top wealth managers will intensify in the years ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is currently the largest wealth management firm in the world?
Morgan Stanley leads with $8.2 trillion in assets under management.
2. What makes Corient significant in 2025?
Corient doubled its AUM to $430 billion through acquisitions, becoming the largest non-bank wealth manager.
3. Why is Citigroup transferring assets to BlackRock?
Citi aims to streamline its focus on advisory services while leveraging BlackRock’s asset management expertise.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered financial advice. Readers are encouraged to evaluate wealth management services carefully and consult a licensed financial advisor before making investment decisions.