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Barron’s Names Randy Carver One of the Top 100 Financial Advisors in the United States for 2026

March 2026 – Carver Financial Services proudly announced today that its President and Founder, Randy Carver, has been named #38 in the nation on Barron’s prestigious 2026 Top 100 Financial Advisors list.

The annual Barron’s ranking recognizes the nation’s top financial advisors based on a range of criteria, including assets under management, revenue generated for the firm, regulatory record, quality of practice, and philanthropic work. The list is widely regarded as one of the financial services industry’s most respected benchmarks for advisor excellence and leadership.​

“I am honored to be recognized among the top financial advisors in the country,” said Randy Carver. “For decades, our practice has remained deeply committed to helping clients pursue financial confidence through thoughtful planning, disciplined investment strategies, and a truly personal approach to wealth management.”

Founded by Randy Carver, Carver Financial Services has built a longstanding reputation for delivering customized financial planning and investment management services to individuals, families, and business owners. Under Randy’s leadership, the firm has emphasized integrity, education, and long-term client relationships as the foundation of its success.

“I’m grateful for the trust our clients place in us every day,” said Randy Carver. “This recognition reflects the incredible work of our entire team and our shared commitment to always putting clients first.”

Barron’s advisor rankings are compiled through a comprehensive evaluation process that examines both quantitative and qualitative factors to identify the top advisors across the United States.

See the full list here.

2026 Barron’s Top 100 Financial Advisors
Barron’s is a registered trademark of Dow Jones & Company, L.P. All rights reserved. The rankings are based on data provided by 1,631 individual advisors and their firms and include qualitative and quantitative criteria. Data points that relate to quality of practice include professionals with a minimum of 7 years financial services experience, acceptable compliance records (no criminal U4 issues), client retention reports, charitable and philanthropic work, quality of practice, designations held, offering services beyond investments offered including estates and trusts, and more. Financial Advisors are quantitatively rated based on varying types of revenues produced and assets under management by the financial professional, with weightings associated for each. Investment performance is not an explicit component because not all advisors have audited results and because performance figures often are influenced more by clients’ risk tolerance than by an advisor’s investment picking abilities. This ranking is based upon the period from 1/1/25 to 12/31/25 and was released online on 5/8/26. 100 advisors won. This ranking is not based in any way on the individual’s abilities in regard to providing investment advice or management. This ranking is not indicative of an advisor’s future performance, is not an endorsement, and may not be representative of individual clients’ experience. Neither Raymond James nor any of its Financial Advisors or RIA firms pay a fee in exchange for this award/rating. Compensation provided for using the rating. Barron’s is not affiliated with Raymond James.

 

Money Is a Tool — A Meaningful Life Is the Goal

For decades, the financial industry has trained investors to view money as a scoreboard. The focus has often been on accumulation—more assets, higher returns, outperforming benchmarks.

After more than 36 years of working closely with individuals, families, and business owners, a different truth becomes clear: money was never meant to be the destination. It is a tool. When that distinction is lost, it is entirely possible to succeed financially while falling short in the areas of life that matter most.

The Real Purpose of Wealth

When Carver Financial Services was founded, it was grounded in a simple yet enduring belief: wealth should serve your life—not define it.

Each person’s vision is unique. For some, it is the ability to spend meaningful time with family. For others, it is the freedom to explore the world, give generously, or create experiences that leave a lasting impact. Many simply want confidence and clarity about the future.

Money, when managed with intention, enables all of this. Without thoughtful planning, it often becomes disconnected from the life it was meant to support.

What You Can Control

The world will always produce noise—economic headlines, political shifts, and market volatility. These forces are constant and, ultimately, beyond your control.

What remains within your control are the decisions that truly shape long-term outcomes:

  • Tax strategy
  • Asset allocation
  • Costs and efficiency
  • Behavior and discipline

These are not just technical considerations. They form the foundation of a well-structured financial life. Each should be aligned with your personal goals, values, and long-term vision rather than a standardized approach.

Periods of volatility often create uncertainty for investors. From our perspective, they also create opportunity. A disciplined approach allows portfolios to be positioned thoughtfully, risks to be managed proactively, and opportunities to be identified when others are reacting emotionally.

Beyond Investments: Building a Life

Financial planning that focuses solely on returns is incomplete.

Our work has always extended beyond portfolios. Investment management is essential, yet it is only one part of a much broader picture—helping clients build lives that are rich in experience, connection, and meaning.

This philosophy is reflected in the experiences we intentionally create:

  • Signature events such as Wings & Wheels and curated social gatherings
  • Exceptional travel opportunities, ranging from luxury escapes to once-in-a-lifetime journeys
  • Educational and inspirational programs designed to inform and enrich

These are not peripheral offerings. They are an extension of our belief that wealth should be lived, not simply accumulated.

A Different Kind of Relationship

A financial plan should never exist in isolation. It should reflect the full context of your life:

  • Your priorities
  • Your family
  • Your values
  • Your long-term vision

When planning is approached this way, the relationship evolves beyond transactions. It becomes a partnership, and over time, a community.

The Bottom Line

The most important question is not, “How much do I have?”

It is, “Am I living the life I want?”

Money provides the ability to answer that question with confidence. Purposeful management is what makes that possible.

For more than three decades, we have had the privilege of helping clients not only grow their wealth, but use it to create meaningful and fulfilling lives. That remains the standard we hold ourselves to every day.

We’re Here for You

For our clients, our commitment remains unchanged. We are here to guide, to plan, and to help you make the most of what you have built.

For those exploring how to better align their financial resources with their life goals, we welcome the conversation. Many people begin with questions about their portfolio and discover that the more important discussion is about their vision.

There is no cost and no obligation—only an opportunity to gain clarity.

Our mission is straightforward: simplify your life while making it better.

Carver Financial Services manages more than $3.6 Billion in assets as of April 2026 for clients globally. You can contact Randy Carver personally at randy.carver@raymondjames.com or (440) 974-0808.

Any opinions are those of Randy Carver and not necessarily those of Raymond James. This material is being provided for information purposes only and is not a complete description, nor is it a recommendation.

Randy Carver Recognized as Ohio’s #1 Wealth Advisor on Forbes’ 2026 Best-In-State List

April 8, 2026 – Randy Carver, President and Founder of Carver Financial Services, is honored to announce his ranking as the #1 Wealth Advisor in Ohio on Forbes’ 2026 “Best-In-State Wealth Advisors” list. This esteemed recognition underscores his unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional financial advisory services and personalized client solutions.

Forbes, in collaboration with SHOOK Research, evaluates wealth advisors nationwide based on criteria such as industry experience, revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, and client service best practices. The 2026 rankings reflect data from June 30, 2024, to June 30, 2025.​

Randy Carver expressed, “​Being recognized by Forbes as Ohio’s #1 wealth advisor is a profound honor. This achievement reflects the dedication of our entire team and the trust our clients place in us. We remain committed to providing personalized financial strategies that align with our clients’ unique goals and aspirations.”​

See the full list here.

2026 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors
The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors 2026 ranking, developed by SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative criteria, mostly gained through telephone and in-person due diligence interviews, and quantitative data. This ranking is based upon the period from 6/30/2024 to 6/30/2025 and was released on 4/7/2026. Those advisors that are considered have a minimum of seven years of experience, and the algorithm weighs factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience and those that encompass best practices in their practices and approach to working with clients. Portfolio performance is not a criteria due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. Out of approximately 52,043 nominations, roughly 11,302 advisors received the award. This ranking is not indicative of an advisor’s future performance, is not an endorsement, and may not be representative of individual clients’ experience. Neither Raymond James nor any of its Financial Advisors or RIA firms pay a fee in exchange for this award/rating. Compensation provided for using the rating. Raymond James is not affiliated with Forbes or Shook Research, LLC. Please visit https://www.forbes.com/best-in-state-wealth-advisors/ for more info.

 

Amid Global Headlines, A More Personal Risk to Your Wealth

There is certainly no shortage of headlines right now. From ongoing tariff debates and political uncertainty to tensions involving Iran and the broader Middle East, the news cycle can easily feel overwhelming.

While these global events can certainly create market volatility, one of the most immediate and serious threats to your wealth today is happening much closer to home: a sharp and deeply troubling rise in highly targeted, predatory marketing aimed directly at seniors and retirees. This is not a theoretical threat; it is happening every day, specifically designed to reach individuals who have worked diligently to build meaningful wealth.

In my more than 40 years in this business, I have seen many financial sales trends come and go. What we are witnessing right now, however, deserves your immediate attention.

How You Are Being Targeted

Firms across the country are actively purchasing detailed contact lists from data brokers to zero in on individuals over the age of 65 who have accumulated assets of $500,000 or more. If you have saved diligently, you are likely on one of these lists.

These campaigns are carefully orchestrated and sophisticated. They typically include:

  • Unsolicited Books: You may receive financial books in the mail from these individuals, which is an attempt to establish themselves as authorities and build false trust before they call you.
  • Dinner Seminars: You might receive invitations to “exclusive,” free dinner events at high-end local restaurants. These are actually high-pressure sales pitches disguised as educational seminars, and they notably do not allow you to bring children or other guests with you.
  • “Educational” Radio Shows: Many broadcasts posing as objective talk shows or financial advice are actually hour-long paid advertisements. These hosts aggressively push listeners to move their funds into annuities using highly misleading and incomplete information. They lure listeners with the impossible promise of making money when markets go up while never losing a dime when they go down, simultaneously claiming there are “no fees”.
    • The Reality: These products—often Fixed Indexed Annuities—typically yield incredibly low returns, frequently performing worse than a standard bank CD. Worse, they lock up your money with exceedingly long surrender periods and bury you in high penalty fees if you ever need to access your own cash. Because of these predatory tactics, there has been a significant surge in class-action lawsuits and intensified government enforcement actions targeting the misleading sales of these exact annuities to seniors.
  • Overpriced, Generic Plans: These salespeople often charge fees for what amounts to a boilerplate, basic financial plan that completely ignores the complex realities of your specific goals and life.

“Hit-and-Run” Sales, Not Advice

These interactions are often “hit-and-run” sales. The compensation structure heavily rewards large upfront commissions, not ongoing advice, estate coordination, tax strategy, or long-term service. Once the paperwork is signed, the relationship frequently ends.

That is a transaction, not advice. Moreover, most of these individuals are not licensed to work with securities, nor do they hold a recognized credential such as the CFP® designation. They simply do not have the capacity, knowledge, or desire to provide comprehensive planning and ongoing support.

What You Should Do

If you receive a pitch for a “revolutionary” financial product, an invitation to a dinner seminar, or a book in the mail, please approach it with extreme caution. You do not owe anyone your financial information, your trust, or your time simply because they asked.

If you, your family, or your friends receive a solicitation that raises questions, or if a particular strategy genuinely interests you, please reach out to us first. We are always willing to look under the hood of any product, explain exactly how it works, and provide a clear, objective assessment of how it would truly impact your situation.

Our mission over the last 40+ years has always been simple: to make your life better. That means helping you grow your wealth, but it also means standing between you and practices that could harm it.

Guarding your hard-earned wealth is just as important as growing it.  We want you to feel completely confident and secure in every financial decision you make. As always, we are here to stand by your side, providing the ongoing partnership, thoughtful guidance, and peace of mind you deserve. If a pitch, a book, or an invitation leaves you with questions, take action and let us be your sounding board. Contact our office today—there is absolutely no cost and no obligation to reach out.

You can contact us at randy.carver@raymondjames.com or (440) 974-0808.

Any opinions are those of Randy Carver and not necessarily those of Raymond James.

Randy Carver Named #1 Financial Advisor in Ohio on Barron’s 2026 Top 1,500 List for Second Consecutive Year

March 2026 — Carver Financial Services proudly announces that its President and Founder, Randy Carver, has once again been ranked the #1 financial advisor in Ohio on Barron’s prestigious 2026 Top Financial Advisors in America (Top 1,500) list. This marks the second consecutive year Carver has earned the top spot in the state, reinforcing his reputation as one of the nation’s leading financial professionals.

Barron’s annual ranking is widely regarded as one of the most respected benchmarks in the financial services industry. Advisors are evaluated based on a range of factors, including assets under management, revenue, regulatory record, quality of practice, and philanthropic work.

“I am incredibly honored to receive this recognition again,” said Randy Carver. “This achievement reflects the trust our clients place in us every day and the dedication of our entire team at Carver Financial Services. Our mission has always been to help families build, manage, and protect their wealth with integrity and personalized care.”

Under Carver’s leadership, Carver Financial Services has built a strong reputation for delivering comprehensive financial planning and investment management services tailored to the unique needs of individuals, families, and businesses. The firm’s client-first philosophy and long-term approach to wealth management have been key drivers of its continued success.

“This recognition is not just about one individual—it represents the collective effort of a team committed to excellence,” Carver added. “We remain focused on helping our clients navigate an ever-changing financial landscape with confidence.”

Randy Carver has been a prominent figure in the financial services industry for decades, known for his expertise, leadership, and commitment to community involvement. His continued recognition by Barron’s highlights both his professional achievements and his unwavering dedication to client success.

This latest honor continues a long track record of excellence for Carver and his team, reinforcing their position as a leading wealth management firm both in Ohio and nationally.

About Carver Financial Services

Since 1990, Carver Financial Services has been helping clients around the corner and around the world enhance and maintain their standard of living while simplifying their lives. Our team works with clients to create wealth management solutions based upon their individual needs, goals and risk tolerance. We do not utilize model portfolios, packaged plans or proprietary investments. We utilize Personal Vision Planning® that offers solutions based on your personal goals and vision. Our vision is simply to make people’s lives better – our clients, our community, and our team. We seek to simplify your life while enhancing your lifestyle. As independent investment advisor representatives with nationally recognized expertise, we are well-positioned to serve you. For more information, visit carverfinancialservices.com

Barron’s is a registered trademark of Dow Jones & Company, L.P. All rights reserved.  The rankings are based on data provided by 7,855 individual advisors and their firms and include qualitative and quantitative criteria, and 1,500 won. Time period upon which the rating is based is from 09/30/2024 to 09/30/2025, and was released on 03/20/2026.  Factors included in the rankings: assets under management, revenue produced for the firm, regulatory record, quality of practice and philanthropic work. Investment performance is not an explicit component because not all advisors have audited results and because performance figures often are influenced more by clients’ risk tolerance than by an advisor’s investment picking abilities. The ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience, is not an endorsement, and is not indicative of advisor’s future performance. Neither Raymond James nor any of its Financial Advisors pay a fee in exchange for this award/rating. Compensation provided for using the rating. Barron’s is not affiliated with Raymond James.

From Side Hustles to Smart Investing: How to Turn Extra Income into Long-Term Wealth

For many people, earning extra income has become more common than ever. Whether it’s freelancing, consulting, selling products online, or driving for a rideshare service, side hustles are no longer just a way to make ends meet—they’re an opportunity to build real wealth.

But earning more money is only half the equation. The real impact comes from what you do with that income. Turning short-term earnings into long-term financial growth requires strategy, discipline, and a clear plan.

Why Extra Income Matters More Than Ever

Rising living costs, student debt, and economic uncertainty have made it harder to rely on a single paycheck. Side hustles provide flexibility and can accelerate your financial goals—whether that’s paying off debt, saving for a home, or investing for the future.

However, without intentional planning, extra income can easily be absorbed into everyday spending. That’s why it’s essential to treat side hustle earnings differently from your primary income.

Step 1: Define a Purpose for Your Extra Income

Before you spend a dollar, decide what your side income is meant to accomplish. Giving your money a clear purpose increases the likelihood that you’ll use it effectively.

Common goals include:

  • Paying down high-interest debt

  • Building or boosting an emergency fund

  • Saving for a major purchase

  • Investing for long-term growth

When your income has a mission, it becomes easier to stay disciplined.

Step 2: Separate and Automate

One of the simplest ways to manage extra income is to keep it separate. Consider depositing side hustle earnings into a dedicated account. This reduces the temptation to spend impulsively and helps you track progress toward your goals.

Automation can also be a powerful tool. Setting up automatic transfers into savings or investment accounts ensures consistency—without requiring constant decision-making.

Step 3: Eliminate High-Interest Debt First

If you carry high-interest debt, such as credit card balances, using extra income to pay it down is often one of the best returns on investment you can achieve.

Interest rates on credit cards can far exceed typical investment returns. Reducing or eliminating that debt frees up future income and reduces financial stress.

Step 4: Start Investing with Intention

Once debt is under control and you have a basic safety net, investing becomes a key next step. Side hustle income can be a great way to begin investing without affecting your primary budget.

Focus on long-term strategies rather than short-term speculation. Diversified investments, such as index funds or retirement accounts, can help manage risk while capturing market growth over time.

Consistency matters more than timing. Regular contributions—even small ones—can grow significantly thanks to compounding.

Step 5: Reinvest in Yourself

Not all investments are financial. Using a portion of your extra income to build skills, earn certifications, or expand your business can lead to higher earning potential in the future.

Whether it’s taking a course, upgrading equipment, or improving your marketing, reinvesting in yourself can create opportunities that multiply your income over time.

Step 6: Avoid the Lifestyle Trap

One of the biggest pitfalls of earning extra money is the temptation to spend more. It’s easy to justify small luxuries because the income feels “extra,” but over time, these habits can limit your ability to build wealth.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy your earnings. The key is balance—allocate a small percentage for personal enjoyment while keeping the majority focused on your financial goals.

Step 7: Think Long-Term

Side hustles can come and go, but the wealth you build from them can last a lifetime. By consistently directing extra income toward meaningful goals, you create momentum that compounds over time.

Even if your side hustle only brings in a few hundred dollars a month, invested wisely, it can grow into something far more impactful.

Earning extra income is a powerful opportunity—but it’s only as valuable as the strategy behind it. By giving your money purpose, staying disciplined, and focusing on long-term growth, you can turn today’s side hustle into tomorrow’s financial security.

In a world where financial stability can feel uncertain, taking control of your extra income is one of the smartest moves you can make. The habits you build today won’t just increase your income—they’ll shape your future.

Money Moves Before 40: The Financial Topics You Can’t Afford to Ignore

If you’re under 40, you’re living through one of the most financially complex—and opportunity-rich—periods in modern history. From student loans and rising housing costs to investing apps and side hustles, the financial landscape looks very different than it did for previous generations. The good news? With the right knowledge and habits, you can build a strong financial foundation that sets you up for long-term success.

Here are the most important financial topics to understand and prioritize before you hit 40.

1. Building a Strong Financial Foundation

Before diving into investing or wealth-building strategies, it’s essential to get the basics right. That means creating a budget, tracking your spending, and building an emergency fund.

A good rule of thumb is to have three to six months’ worth of living expenses set aside. This cushion can help you avoid debt when unexpected expenses arise—like medical bills, car repairs, or job changes.

2. Managing and Eliminating Debt

Debt is one of the biggest obstacles to financial progress for younger adults. Whether it’s student loans, credit cards, or personal loans, understanding how to manage and reduce debt is critical.

Focus on high-interest debt first, such as credit cards, while maintaining minimum payments on other obligations. Strategies like the avalanche method (paying off highest interest rates first) or snowball method (paying off smallest balances first) can help create momentum and reduce financial stress.

3. Investing Early—and Consistently

One of the greatest advantages you have under 40 is time. Starting early allows your investments to grow through the power of compounding.

Even small, consistent contributions to retirement accounts or investment portfolios can grow significantly over decades. The key is consistency—not timing the market. Automated contributions can make investing easier and remove the temptation to “wait for the right time.”

4. Understanding Retirement Accounts

Retirement may feel far away, but the earlier you start, the easier it becomes. If your employer offers a 401(k), especially with a matching contribution, that’s often the best place to begin—it’s essentially free money.

Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), including Roth options, can also provide tax advantages and flexibility. Understanding how these accounts work can help you maximize long-term growth while minimizing taxes.

5. Navigating the Housing Market

For many under 40, deciding whether to rent or buy is a major financial milestone. While homeownership can build equity, it also comes with responsibilities like maintenance, property taxes, and insurance.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your financial situation, lifestyle, and long-term goals. The key is to avoid stretching your budget too thin in pursuit of homeownership.

6. Building Multiple Income Streams

Relying on a single source of income can be risky. Many young professionals are turning to side hustles, freelancing, or passive income streams to diversify their earnings.

Whether it’s consulting, selling products online, or investing in income-generating assets, additional income can accelerate savings, reduce financial stress, and create more flexibility in your career.

7. Protecting Your Financial Future

Insurance isn’t the most exciting topic, but it’s one of the most important. Health, disability, and renters or homeowners insurance can protect you from financial setbacks that could otherwise derail your progress.

If you have dependents, life insurance becomes even more critical. The goal is not just to build wealth—but to protect it.

8. Avoiding Lifestyle Inflation

As your income grows, it’s tempting to upgrade your lifestyle—nicer apartments, new cars, more expensive habits. While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying your success, unchecked lifestyle inflation can prevent you from building wealth.

Striking a balance between enjoying the present and saving for the future is key. Increasing your savings rate as your income rises can help you stay on track.

9. Financial Literacy in the Digital Age

Today’s financial tools—from budgeting apps to robo-advisors—make managing money more accessible than ever. But they also come with risks, including misinformation and impulsive decision-making.

Take the time to understand the tools you use. Financial literacy isn’t just about access—it’s about making informed decisions.

Final Thoughts

Your 20s and 30s are a critical time to build habits that will shape your financial future. While it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, you don’t need to master everything at once. Start with the basics, stay consistent, and keep learning.

The choices you make now don’t just impact your present—they set the trajectory for the decades ahead. With discipline, patience, and the right strategy, financial confidence is well within reach.