Editor's Note: Readers Voted on Who Were Tops in 6 Fields

In our cover story about the 2019 Investment Advisor 25 leaders and influencers, we are pleased to recognize individuals making a difference in financial services. Many of them focus their attention on wealth management, and a good number are technology VIPs.

While the list features some younger professionals — like TD Ameritrade Institutional’s Dani Fava — it also includes the Oracle of Omaha, 88. Famed investor Warren Buffett picked up more votes than anyone else in this year’s IA25 online poll.

The straight-talking billionaire is popular both for his success leading Berkshire Hathaway and for his no-nonsense approach to life. The fact that he resides in the same home he bought in 1958 (for $31,500), eats at McDonald’s and seems uninterested in a lavish lifestyle have earned him the trust of advisors, investors and the general public.

Buffett’s investment and other work have not been marred by scandals, leaving him free to comment on such news. Regarding the recent departure of Tim Sloan from Wells Fargo’s CEO slot, for instance, the chair of Berkshire Hathaway urged the bank — which it owns a good chunk of — to look for a non-Wall Street leader. Speaking of leadership, SEC Chairman Jay Clayton has promised advisors that Regulation Best Interest will be carefully reviewed for its economic impact, as described in this month’s “Washington Watch.” Bureau Chief Melanie Waddell also describes the sweeping retirement bills now making their way through Congress in her “Playing Field” column, which includes remarks from IRA guru Ed Slott.

Executive search consultant Mark Elzweig shares several “must know” tips for advisors who plan to sell their practice in this month’s “RIA Lessons & Leaders.” Mark Tibergien, CEO of BNY Mellon’s Pershing Advisor Solutions highlights the value of career ladders in his “Formula for Success” column. And consultant Angie Herbers describes the benefits of giving your business a reality check in “The Fast Track.”