Charlotte, NC, January 27, 2026
Charlotte, NC, has garnered national recognition for its vibrant financial sector, highlighted by The Andover Group being ranked #1 in the Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list. This accolade signifies the city’s robust economic environment and commitment to client-focused innovation. With over 104,000 individuals employed in financial services and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, Charlotte continues to attract talent and investment, reinforcing its status as a prime financial hub.
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte’s Financial Excellence Recognized on National Stage
Charlotte’s vibrant economic landscape continues to draw national attention, showcasing the city’s robust financial sector and the dedicated work of its professionals. The recent recognition of local financial advisor teams underscores the spirit of achievement and client-focused innovation driving the Queen City’s growth.
The success of Charlotte’s financial services industry is a testament to the blend of established institutions and dynamic entrepreneurial ventures that define the local business community. This environment fosters significant personal achievement and provides a solid foundation for economic expansion, attracting both talent and investment to the region.
Recognizing Local Financial Leadership
In a significant demonstration of local expertise, a Charlotte-based financial advisor team has achieved top honors. The Andover Group, operating in Charlotte, NC, was ranked #1 in their city on the Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list for 2026. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights the high caliber of financial professionals serving clients in the Charlotte metropolitan area. The Andover Group includes Kevin O. Moran, William B. Lovett III, Kyle Blumenstock, and Jason Mayer.
This achievement is part of a broader recognition for the Southeast region, where four UBS financial advisor teams, including Charlotte’s Andover Group, were ranked #1 in their respective cities on the Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list of 2026, announced on January 26, 2026. Such rankings reflect a commitment to excellence and a client-first approach, embodying the personal achievement that is a cornerstone of a thriving free market.
The Rigor of Recognition: Forbes/SHOOK Research Methodology
The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list, now in its fourth annual edition for 2026, employs a comprehensive methodology developed by SHOOK Research. The ranking process evaluates financial advisor teams based on both qualitative and quantitative criteria. Qualitative factors involve in-depth phone and in-person interviews, a thorough review of compliance records, and an assessment of best practices in client service models, investing processes, and team structures. On the quantitative side, data such as assets under management and revenue generated for their firms are considered. It is important to note that SHOOK Research does not receive compensation from financial advisors or their firms for rankings, and investment performance is not a criterion, as client objectives and risk tolerances vary. Advisors must also possess a minimum of seven years of experience to be considered. This rigorous selection process ensures that recognized teams demonstrate both ethical practice and effective client engagement.
Charlotte: A National Financial Services Hub
Charlotte’s standing as a leading financial center plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining top talent and institutions. The city is proudly recognized as the nation’s second-largest banking and finance center. The Charlotte metro area supports a substantial workforce, with over 104,000 individuals employed in the financial services sector. Over the past five years, Charlotte has experienced the fastest growing employment rate in financial services among major metropolitan areas, seeing a 29% increase from 2018-2023. This growth underscores the robust economic opportunities available to Charlotte NC business professionals and showcases the city’s capacity for sustained economic vitality. North Carolina itself is a premier hub for finance and fintech innovation, boasting a talent pool of 232,000 financial services professionals and 23,000 in fintech.
Nurturing a Dynamic Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
Beyond established financial powerhouses, Charlotte is actively fostering an environment where North Carolina entrepreneurs can thrive. The city’s business ecosystem is a diverse blend of large corporations, resilient small and medium-sized enterprises, and innovative startups. This diversification across sectors like finance, healthcare, energy, and retail helps stabilize the economy against fluctuations, creating a more secure environment for growth. The 2024 Charlotte Startup Ecosystem Report (CSER24) documented significant progress over the last decade in building a thriving startup community. Furthermore, Charlotte Economic Development is working on a Small Business Ecosystem Assessment, which will inform an action plan aimed at enhancing access to resources, capital, and long-term growth opportunities for Charlotte small business owners. This focus on nurturing local innovation demonstrates a commitment to economic development from the ground up.
The Impact of a Pro-Growth Regulatory Environment
A key factor in Charlotte and North Carolina’s economic success is the state’s approach to regulation and taxation. North Carolina is currently ranked as the 27th most regulated state in the United States. Research from the Mercatus Center suggests that reducing regulatory burdens can reverse the negative effects on economic growth, job creation, and inflation. The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance advocates for policies that promote free market operations and oppose excessive government intervention and regulations that could increase costs, limit consumer choice, or hinder innovation. They also support swift local review processes to prevent regulatory delays. Additionally, North Carolina’s competitive corporate tax rate of 2%, slated to become 0% by 2030, and a flat personal income tax rate of 3.99% contribute significantly to its favorable business climate. These policies create a fertile ground for entrepreneurial innovation and private investment, allowing businesses to flourish and contribute more effectively to the local economy.
Conclusion
Charlotte continues to shine as a beacon of economic prosperity and innovation. The recognition of teams like The Andover Group underscores the deep pool of talent and commitment to excellence within the city’s financial sector. Coupled with a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem and a state-level commitment to a pro-growth regulatory environment, Charlotte offers immense opportunities for businesses and individuals alike. Supporting Charlotte NC business initiatives, encouraging North Carolina entrepreneurs, and fostering an environment where Charlotte small business can thrive are crucial for the city’s continued success. We encourage our readers to engage with and support the local businesses and financial professionals who contribute to our community’s strength and dynamism.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What recognition did a Charlotte financial advisor team recently receive?
- The Andover Group, based in Charlotte, NC, was ranked #1 in their city on the Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list of 2026.
- Which organization conducts the Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams ranking?
- The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list is developed by SHOOK Research.
- What criteria are used for the Forbes/SHOOK Research rankings?
- The ranking algorithm is based on qualitative criteria, such as phone and in-person interviews, compliance records, and best practices, and quantitative data, including assets under management and revenue generated for firms.
- Is Charlotte a significant financial hub in the United States?
- Yes, Charlotte is recognized as the second-largest banking and finance center in the United States.
- How many financial services jobs are in the Charlotte metro area?
- The Charlotte metro area has over 104,000 financial services jobs.
- What is the growth rate of financial services employment in Charlotte?
- Charlotte has had the fastest growing employment rate in financial services among major metropolitan areas in the past five years, with a 29% increase from 2018-2023.
- What is North Carolina’s stance on business regulation?
- North Carolina is the 27th most regulated state in the US, and research suggests that reducing regulatory burdens can positively impact economic growth.
- What are North Carolina’s corporate and personal income tax rates?
- North Carolina has a corporate tax rate of 2%, which is set to become 0% by 2030, and a flat personal income tax rate of 3.99%.
Key Features of Charlotte’s Financial and Business Landscape
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams 2026 Ranking | The Andover Group (Charlotte, NC) ranked #1 in their city. | Local |
| Ranking Methodology | Based on qualitative (interviews, compliance, best practices) and quantitative (assets, revenue) criteria by SHOOK Research. | Nationwide |
| Charlotte’s Financial Hub Status | Second-largest banking and finance center. | Nationwide |
| Financial Services Employment in Charlotte | Over 104,000 jobs, fastest growth rate among major metropolitan areas (29% increase from 2018-2023). | Local |
| North Carolina’s Financial Talent Pool | 232,000 professionals in financial services, 23,000 in fintech. | State-level |
| Charlotte’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem | Dynamic mix of corporations, SMEs, and innovative startups, with ongoing efforts to support small businesses. | Local |
| North Carolina’s Regulatory Environment | Ranked 27th most regulated state; reducing burdens can improve economic growth. | State-level |
| North Carolina Tax Rates | Corporate tax rate of 2% (0% by 2030) and flat personal income tax of 3.99%. | State-level |