Kayne Anderson Rudnick (KAR) announced today that Managing Director Spuds Powell, and Senior Wealth Advisors Darnel Bentz and Brian Chang have been recognized as 2026 Banking and Finance Visionaries by LA Times Studios, the content production and creative division of the Los Angeles Times.
This marks the fifth consecutive year that Powell, Bentz, and Chang have received this distinction, which honors individuals who are driving meaningful change within the banking and finance industries while demonstrating sustained leadership and community engagement.
“Kayne Anderson Rudnick is proud to see Spuds, Darnel and Brian continue to raise the bar in our industry and have their influence recognized once again by LA Times Studios,” said Stephen A. Rigali, Executive Managing Director. “Their ability to think strategically, lead with purpose, and contribute meaningfully both within our firm and in the broader community is what truly sets them apart.”
The LA Times Studios executive committee selects honorees based on several factors, including noteworthy successes and accomplishments during the past 12–24 months, consistent demonstration of strong leadership throughout their careers, the long- and short-term impact they have made on their organizations and the broader industry, and active participation in community initiatives or board memberships that reflect leadership beyond their professional roles.
For the full list of honorees visit: https://www.latimes.com/b2b/magazines/march-2026
The LA Times Studios 2026Banking & Finance Visionaries honor was given in March 2026 and covers the year 2026. KAR has not paid fees to the award sponsor to obtain the award. KAR sponsored an ad in the 2026 Banking & Finance publication but doing so was not a prerequisite to winning the award.
