Foster & Motley

Overview

Foster & Motley is an independent wealth management firm based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Founded in 1997 by David Foster, CPA, CFP®, and W. Mark Motley, MBA, CFA, the firm offers customized, fee-only financial planning and investment management services. As of 2025, Foster & Motley manages approximately $2.9 billion in client assets, serving a diverse clientele across multiple generations. The firm is recognized for its comprehensive approach to wealth management, integrating financial planning with investment management to provide cohesive services tailored to each client's unique needs. Foster & Motley has been consistently ranked among the top financial advisory firms, appearing on the CNBC Financial Advisor 100 list in recent years. The firm's commitment to a fee-only compensation structure ensures unbiased advice, aligning its interests with those of its clients. With a focus on private equity and private real estate, Foster & Motley employs a growth-oriented investment strategy, targeting late-stage and buyout opportunities primarily within the United States. The firm's diverse portfolio spans various industries, including financial services, real estate, healthcare, technology, and consumer goods, reflecting its broad investment scope and expertise. Foster & Motley emphasizes a client-centric approach, fostering long-term relationships built on trust and personalized service. Its team of experienced professionals is dedicated to understanding each client's financial goals and providing tailored solutions to achieve them. The firm's culture promotes innovation and continuous education, ensuring that its advisors remain informed about the latest market trends and investment strategies. This dedication to professional development enhances the quality of advice and service provided to clients, reinforcing Foster & Motley's reputation as a trusted partner in wealth management. The firm's ownership structure, characterized by broad employee ownership, ensures that future generations will benefit from long-term, trusted relationships. This structure also gives Foster & Motley the flexibility to develop customized solutions for clients without the limitations and bureaucracy that can go with big corporate ownership. The firm's mission is to understand the life clients envision and objectively act to achieve it, navigating their hopes and desires with conviction and compassion. Foster & Motley is dedicated to continual refinement of its financial planning and investment management techniques and processes, constantly testing and amending its processes to reflect changes and opportunities in the financial marketplace. This commitment to innovation and excellence underscores the firm's dedication to helping clients achieve their financial goals and live their most meaningful lives.