In May 2026, the CFA Institute’s Research and Policy Center named Higgins one of its "Voices of Influence." This honor follows a prolific period for the advisor, which included over twenty published articles, numerous podcast appearances, and a featured presentation at the CFA Live 2025 conference. His recent research focuses on the structural incentives and potential dangers inherent in the growing private equity and private credit markets.

Beyond his research, Higgins served as the guest curator for "Investing in U.S. Financial History," an exhibit debuting July 3, 2026, at the Museum of American Finance. The display utilizes digital panels to trace the evolution of the American financial system from 1790 to the present, drawing directly from content in his book of the same name. Mark Hebner, CEO of Index Fund Advisors, noted that these accolades underscore the firm’s dedication to evidence-based education for its institutional and high-net-worth clients. Higgins joined the Irvine-based firm after a 12-year tenure in institutional consulting, citing a desire to champion passive, low-cost investment strategies that he believes remain underappreciated in the broader market.