In this episode of the RIA Edge Podcast, host David Armstrong speaks with Ralph Haberli, CEO of Edelman Financial Engines, about how the firm connects workplace retirement relationships with broader wealth planning and continues to grow at scale.
Ralph shares how retirement plan participants can develop into long-term planning clients, why the firm has made planner ownership a priority, and how recruiting and M&A fit into its growth strategy. He also explains how Edelman Financial Engines is using technology and AI to support planners, while keeping client relationships and human advice at the center of the business.
Ralph discusses:
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How the firm is bridging the gap between workplace retirement plans and individual wealth management services, and why he thinks there is still plenty of opportunity in the convergence of the two
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His perspective on growth and scale, and how planner equity plays an important role when balancing a consistent service experience with an entrepreneurial culture
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Where Edelman Financial Engines sees its next phase of growth
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What the firm is doing with AI and technology, particularly in filling the advice gaps that leave some mass-affluent investors underserved
Resources:
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About Our Guest:
As Chief Executive Officer and President, Ralph Haberli is shaping Edelman Financial Engines’ long-term vision and growth strategy, with a commitment to making financial advice more accessible, personal, and impactful for individuals at every stage of their financial journey. He joined EFE as President in July 2025 and was appointed CEO in November 2025.
Before joining EFE, Ralph served as President of the Institutional & Retirement Client Group at Capital Group, where he led a period of significant growth, overseeing the implementation of an expansive set of new and improved client-facing products and solutions. Previously, he held senior roles at BlackRock across various client businesses, iShares, and Corporate Strategy. He began his career at Boston Consulting Group advising top financial institutions in the U.S and Europe.
He holds a master’s degree in business administration from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and a bachelor’s degree in history from Yale University.
