St. Louis, Missouri has emerged as a major hub for investment firms and financial services companies over the past few decades. In 2020, despite the economic uncertainty caused by COVID-19, St. Louis remained home to several top investment firms managing billions in assets. The city provides a strategic location, talented workforce, and business-friendly environment. This article will explore the top investment firms in St. Louis in 2020 and the key factors driving growth in the city’s financial sector.
Stifel Nicolaus maintains strong presence
Stifel Financial Corp is headquartered in St. Louis and has cemented itself as one of the top investment firms in the city. The company focuses on investment banking, equity research, trading, investment advisory, and retail brokerage services. Stifel Nicolaus, its broker-dealer subsidiary, operates a network of over 2,200 financial advisors managing around $400 billion in client assets. The company has leveraged its Midwest roots and local expertise to build a national presence with around 7,500 employees across 400+ offices in the U.S. and Europe. Stifel’s continued growth and stability even during the pandemic highlights its strength as a top St. Louis investment firm.
Edward Jones known for long-term individual investors focus
Edward Jones is another stalwart investment firm based out of St. Louis. It is one of the largest financial services firms in the U.S. catering to individual investors. With around $1.6 trillion in client assets, Edward Jones employs close to 50,000 financial advisors and associates. The company focuses on long-term individual investors looking for guidance on stocks, ETFs, bonds, IRAs, mutual funds, and retirement planning. Edward Jones advisors leverage deep community connections and provide customized guidance to help clients achieve financial goals. The firm’s continued growth even during economic uncertainty highlights its resonance with individual investors.
Scottrade acquisition expanded TD Ameritrade’s presence
TD Ameritrade has established itself as a top investment firm in St. Louis after acquiring Scottrade in 2016. Scottrade was founded in St. Louis and established its headquarters in the suburb of Creve Coeur. The TD Ameritrade acquisition expanded its workforce and presence across the region. Today, TD Ameritrade has continued to expand in St. Louis, with its local office serving as a hub for key operations like trading, retirement services, and corporate functions. As one of the largest brokerages in the nation with over $1.6 trillion in assets, TD Ameritrade leverages its scale and St. Louis talent to deliver robust services to millions of clients.
Strong universities and talent pool drive growth
St. Louis’ emergence as a hub for top investment firms is driven by key advantages like its central location, business-friendly environment, and strong local talent pool. Home to over a dozen universities and colleges, the metro area provides firms access to young talent in finance and technology. Washington University’s Olin School of Business and Saint Louis University’s Chaifetz School of Business are leaders in entrepreneurship, innovation, and financial leadership development. Meanwhile, the area’s low cost of living and increasing amenities make it easier for firms to attract talent.
St. Louis has become an attractive location for leading investment firms like Stifel, Edward Jones, and TD Ameritrade. Access to universities, local expertise, and business incentives position the city for continued growth. Firms are leveraging St. Louis resources to deliver robust financial guidance and services nationwide.