Dunham Recognized as One of the Best Financial Advisory Firms in 2026
In an impressive achievement for the financial advisory community, Dunham Associates Investment Counsel, Inc., based in San Diego, has been named to USA Today's list of the Best Financial Advisory Firms for 2026, a recognition that showcases its dedication and performance in the realm of independent investment advisory services.
This prestigious ranking was published in collaboration with Statista and highlights the top registered investment advisory (RIA) firms across the United States. The selection process involved a meticulous evaluation focused primarily on two criteria: Asset Under Management (AUM) growth and independent peer recommendations, ensuring a fair and comprehensive assessment of each firm's offerings and reliability.
To determine the rankings, Statista conducted an independent survey of over 30,000 financial advisors, clients, and industry experts, gathering insights on the firms they considered commendable based on their experiences. Notably, self-recommendations were prohibited in this process, enhancing the integrity and credibility of the recommendations received. Additionally, the AUM development for firms was analyzed through publicly available SEC data, covering a short-term growth period from January 2025 to January 2026, and a mid-term perspective covering the past three years. The final rankings incorporated a weighted approach, allocating 20% to recommendation scores and 80% to AUM growth metrics, allowing for a balanced evaluation.
Jeffrey Dunham, the founder and CEO of Dunham Associates, expressed his pride in the recognition, reflecting on the firm's foundational principle established four decades ago. He stated, "Forty years ago, we built this firm around one idea - that independent advisors deserve access to institutional investment management, and that putting those advisors first would always be the foundation. Being recognized by our peers and clients on a list of the nation's best advisory firms reflects what this team has built over four decades. It means more than any metric."
This accolade is not only a testament to Dunham's commitment to its clients and advisors but also underscores the firm's ability to foster significant growth in AUM and strengthen its relationships within the advisor network.
Ryan Dykmans, the President and Chief Investment Officer of Dunham, emphasized the importance of the recognition, stating, "This recognition belongs to the advisors who trust us with their clients' assets. We are not standing still. Our platform is expanding, and that momentum is a direct result of the confidence advisors have placed in us."
As a Registered Investment Adviser and Broker/Dealer with over 40 years of industry experience, Dunham provides a range of services designed to support independent financial advisors and RIAs. Their Turnkey Asset Management Platform (TAMP) offers access to institutional investment management, along with other services like proprietary mutual funds and trust services, uniquely positioned to enhance the advisory experience for their clients.
The importance of this recognition is underscored by the rigorous methodologies employed by Statista in determining the rankings. The final score was based on a systematic weighting of the independent recommendations received and the firm’s development metrics, fostering a transparent evaluation environment.
For those interested in the financial advisory sector, Dunham's achievement exemplifies the unwavering commitment required to be recognized among the best in a competitive landscape. This ranking not only shines a light on the firm but also serves as an inspiration for other firms aiming for excellence in service delivery and client satisfaction.
For additional insights regarding the ranking methodology and to view the complete list of the Top Financial Advisory Firms of 2026, readers can visit USA Today's official site. This esteemed award serves not only as recognition but also as a beacon for future aspirations in investment performance, although it does not guarantee future success or endorsements from clients or industry participants. Dunham encourages prospective clients and interested parties to learn more about their offerings by visiting dunham.com, where they can explore their various services, including institutional investment management and trust solutions.
Dunham Associates exemplifies sustained growth and a commitment to excellence, marking a significant achievement in the financial advisory domain as they look towards future advancements and continued support for independent financial advisors nationwide.