10 Benjamin Graham Stocks for Defensive Investors

6. SEI Investments Company (NASDAQ:SEIC)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 35

SEI Investments Company (NASDAQ:SEIC) provides financial technology, operations, and asset management services globally. SEI tailors solutions to help clients optimize their capital for growth. In 2024, 55% of revenue came from technology and operations outsourcing, and 40% from asset management fees. The company serves clients in four business segments, including major US banks and global investment managers, managing approximately $1.6 trillion in assets. Its core capabilities span investment processing, operations, and management.

SEI Investments Company (NASDAQ:SEIC) reported Q1 2025 EPS of $1.17, up 18% year-over-year, driven by strong performance across all business units and expanded margins. Operating profit margin rose to 28.5%, the highest in three years. The firm achieved record net sales of $47 million, with $37 million recurring. SEI hosted its first global client symposium, enhancing brand perception and client engagement. The company announced the sale of its family office services business and emphasized its enterprise mindset, global diversification, and fortress balance sheet as key strengths amid market uncertainty.

SEI’s assets under management (AUM) and assets under administration (AUA) rose sequentially in the first quarter of 2025, despite a broader decline in the U.S. equity markets. This growth was broad-based and not concentrated in any single client, segment, or region. A significant driver was the conversion of previously signed deals and continued onboarding of new clients and advisers, particularly in the institutional and adviser channels. Inflows reflected backlog conversions, strong adviser engagement, global distribution partner wins, and activity across institutional and adviser channels. No single client or event drove inflows—growth came from broad strategies, new adviser onboarding, and international expansion. Positive net flows in both advisory and institutional segments offset market headwinds. The company’s diversified footprint, especially in private credit and alternatives, alongside improved positioning and elevated client engagement, helped maintain momentum despite macroeconomic volatility.