Summary
- Fisher Investments and CAPTRUST offer financial advisory services to clients in the US.
- Fisher Investments’ private client services cater primarily to high-net-worth clients, while CAPTRUST financial advisors serve clients of all net worths, including institutions and businesses.
- Fisher charges its services using an AUM percentage fee structure, while CAPTRUST offers two optional fee structures for clients.
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CAPTRUST vs. Fisher Investments: what are the differences?
CAPTRUST is an SEC-regulated financial advisory firm. CAPTRUST's financial services include investment and tax, estate, and retirement planning.
Fisher Investments was founded by Ken Fisher in 1979 and focuses primarily on investment advice and portfolio management for wealthy clients. The firm provides personalized portfolios and manages over $386.7 billion in assets.
CAPTRUST vs. Fisher Investments: Which has the better reputation?
Both CAPTRUST and Fisher Investments are SEC-registered advisors with clean firm-level regulatory histories, so neither has a clear advantage on that measure.
The bigger difference is their model. Fisher is fee-only with a centralized investment approach, while CAPTRUST uses a team-based model and some representatives may earn commissions. This may make Fisher more appealing if avoiding commission-related conflicts is important to you.
What fees can I expect from Fisher Investments & CAPTRUST?
Fisher Investments and CAPTRUST both use tiered AUM-based fees, but CAPTRUST’s standard fees fall further as your portfolio grows, while its wrap programs can be considerably more expensive.
Assets | Fisher Investments | CAPTRUST standard | CAPTRUST wrap |
|---|---|---|---|
First $1M | 1.25% | 1.25% | Up to 2.25% |
$1M–$2M | 1.125% | 1.00% | Up to 1.75% |
$2M–$5M | 1.125% | 0.85% | Up to 1.75% |
Above $5M | 1.00% | 0.70% | Up to 1.25% |
Fisher may accept accounts below $500,000 at its discretion, which are generally charged 1.50%. CAPTRUST negotiates its standard fees above $10 million.
Overall, CAPTRUST’s standard schedule can be cheaper for larger portfolios, while its wrap programs can cost more than Fisher. What you actually pay depends on your balance, program and negotiated rate.
Fisher Investments vs. CAPTRUST: Minimums
Fisher Investments generally targets investors with at least $500k in investable assets, making it more focused on high-net-worth clients.
CAPTRUST has no stated minimum for some programs, while SMA accounts generally start at $100,000. Minimums may be negotiable.
For individual investors, CAPTRUST may be more accessible if you have less than $1 million, while Fisher is more clearly designed for larger portfolios.
Fisher Investments vs. CAPTRUST: What are the pros and cons?
Fisher offers personalized support, while CAPTRUST offers broader services but may have higher fees.
Here are their potential pros and cons to help you make the best choice for your needs.
Pros of Fisher Investments
- Ongoing advisory support delivered by skilled Fisher Investments financial advisors.
- Customized investment portfolios are available based on unique client needs.
- Renowned customer service delivered through dedicated financial advisors and support staff.
- Both online and in-person financial advisory services are available.
Cons of Fisher Investments
- Brokerage services are not yet available.
- A high account minimum of $500,000 is imposed.
- The website offers limited functionality and research tools.
Pros of CAPTRUST
- Distinct fee structures allow clients to choose the best structure for their goals.
- Brokerage services offered.
- SEC-regulated financial advisory firm.
- An extensive range of financial advisory and financial planning services is on offer.
Cons of CAPTRUST
- CAPTRUST allows advisors to sell securities, creating the potential for conflicts of interest.
- Fees may be higher than those of other leading competitors.
- Customer support is limited to online support forms.
CAPTRUST or Fisher Investments: which should I choose?
Choose Fisher Investments if you have $1 million or more to invest and want discretionary portfolio management with a dedicated contact. Fees start at 1.25%.
Choose CAPTRUST if you want broader financial planning or have less to invest. Its standard advisory fees range from 0.70% to 1.25%, and services extend beyond investment management to areas such as retirement and estate planning.
Which platform provides better customer service and support?
CAPTRUST has an advantage if access to physical offices matters to you, while Fisher is more geared toward remote advice.
Fisher Investments serves clients through regional offices and phone or video consultations rather than a walk-in branch network, so if you are searching for a Fisher Investments office near you, expect the relationship to run remotely in most parts of the country.
CAPTRUST works the same way for most clients, though it has a larger physical footprint following a long run of acquisitions, and it does publish a searchable list of its office locations.
Can I access my Fisher Investments or CAPTRUST accounts through their websites and mobile apps?
Fisher Investments offers a simple online platform for checking portfolio performance, balances, and asset location. However, all management services require the assistance of a financial advisor.
CAPTRUST also offers access to client accounts online and via mobile, allowing clients to check their account balances, transaction histories, investment performances, and other essential data.
What are Fisher Investments & CAPTRUST’s specific investment strategies?
Fisher Investments uses a long-term, actively managed approach, tailoring portfolios to your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. Its strategy is generally directed by a centralized Investment Policy Committee.
CAPTRUST takes a more advisor-led approach, using quantitative and qualitative research to build portfolios based on individual client needs.
Fisher may suit you if you prefer a consistent, centralized investment philosophy, while CAPTRUST offers more flexibility at the individual advisor level.
Find the right financial advisor
Both CAPTRUST and Fisher Investments are reputable choices when it comes to financial advisory services.
Let Unbiased connect you with an SEC-regulated financial advisor who can offer expert advice to help you reach your financial goals.
Frequently asked questions
Is Fisher Investments legitimate?
Yes. Fisher Investments and CAPTRUST are legitimate, SEC-registered investment advisors, so neither is a scam. Both operate under federal investment adviser regulations and disclose their fees, services and potential conflicts.
Is Fisher Investments a good company?
Fisher Investments may be a good company for high-net-worth investors who want ongoing, discretionary portfolio management. It typically targets clients with $1 million or more and provides a dedicated point of contact.
Are Fisher Investments and CAPTRUST good companies?
Both are established advisory firms, but they suit different investors. Fisher Investments may be a good option for high-net-worth investors seeking ongoing portfolio management, while CAPTRUST may suit those who want broader financial planning and greater flexibility in account size.
Fact checked 09/09/2026