Posted: 05/16/2025 03:14 am
Westwood Holdings Group, Inc. (NYSE: WHG), a publicly traded investment management firm, garnered attention recently not only for its financial performance but also for its executive compensation practices. As of the latest stock report, the company's shares, priced at $15.02, reflect a marginal decrease of 0.01 percent on the NYSE. Despite this slight dip, Westwood continues to remain a formidable player in the investment advice sector, boasting a market capitalization of approximately $140.88 million. Noteworthy is the firm's price-to-earnings ratio of 375.5, which aligns with its recent earnings announcement slated for July 2025.
Executive Compensation Insights
In 2024, Fabian Gomez, the President and Chief Operating Officer, received a significant pay package amounting to $1,223,208. This sum comprised a base salary of $400,000, a stock award valued at $394,885, and additional incentive plan compensation of $404,173, among other compensation elements. Interestingly, Gomez's compensation has markedly increased since 2019, when, as Senior Vice President and COO, he earned a total of $675,341, including a $200,000 bonus. Such an uptick in compensation underscores Westwood's valuation of Gomez’s contributions.{1}
On the other hand, Leah Bennett's 2022 compensation package was peculiar as she received no base salary, bonus, or stock awards yet reported a total compensation of $704,187. Her earnings likely reflect unique financial arrangements given her role and tenure as President of Westwood Wealth Management.{2}
Similarly, Brian O. Casey, Westwood's CEO, had a total compensation of $1,362,050 in 2022, absent of traditional salary or bonus, suggesting a reliance on stock and equity-based incentives.{3}
Strategic Developments and Financial Performance
Complementing its compensation dynamics, Westwood's strategic movements have been telling. Recently-announced initiatives include the expansion of its ETF platform, notably the launch of the LBRTY Global Equity ETF and exceptional performance of the MDST ETF, which surpassed asset under management (AUM) and volume targets. The firm's ETF strategies highlight its innovative approach to investment management and adaptation to current market demands.{4}{5}
The authorization of an additional $5 million in share repurchases further emphasizes the company’s commitment to adding shareholder value, aligning with its fiscal strategies and performance in recent quarters.{4}
Additionally, Randy A. Bowman's appointment as the new Chairman of the Board marks a fresh leadership chapter, enhancing governance and oversight at a crucial junction for Westwood.{6}
By continuously aligning executive incentives with strategic outcomes, Westwood Holdings Group reflects both a robust institutional framework and an agile investment approach, firmly making its mark in a dynamic market landscape.
1. Summary Compensation Table Information, https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1165002/000116500225000029/0001165002-25-000029-index.htm
2. Summary Compensation Table Information, https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1165002/000116500224000032/0001165002-24-000032-index.htm
3. Summary Compensation Table Information, https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1165002/000116500223000037/0001165002-23-000037-index.htm
4. Westwood Holdings Group Fourth Quarter Results, 2025, https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1165002/000116500225000029/0001165002-25-000029-index.htm
5. Westwood Announces Monthly Income Distributions, 2025, https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1165002/000116500225000029/0001165002-25-000029-index.htm
6. Randy A. Bowman Appointed Chairman of the Board, 2025, https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/05/09/3078213/0/en/Randy-A-Bowman-Appointed-Chairman-of-the-Board-at-Westwood-Holdings-Group.html
