Cetera Financial Group announced that financial advisor Jaakko “Jack” Kasko and his team at Milestone Wealth Management joined the firm after spending the past 10 years affiliated with Commonwealth Financial Network. Kasko and his Saint Joseph, Michigan-based team oversee approximately $150 million in assets under administration.
Cetera said Kasko chose to join the company following industry changes related to Commonwealth’s acquisition, with a focus on maintaining client continuity and preserving the independence of his advisory business.
Kasko’s advisory practice focuses on retirement and pre-retirement planning for business owners and individuals transitioning from earning income to generating retirement income.
According to the announcement, Kasko selected Cetera and its Summit Financial Networks community because of cultural alignment, operational efficiency, and advisor-focused support. He also cited the company’s technology platforms and planning tools as factors supporting future business growth.
Kasko said he plans to continue growing through acquisitions, building on prior experience integrating advisory practices.
Cetera Financial Group supports approximately 12,000 financial professionals and institutions and reported approximately $640 billion in assets under administration and $294 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2025.
KEY QUOTES:
“I really enjoyed my time at Commonwealth, but with the changes happening, I had to take a hard look at what the future would look like and what that meant for my clients. For me, it came down to finding the best fit for continuity, meaning a place where I could keep running my business the way I always have, while still having the right support behind me.”
“What I found with Cetera and Summit was very similar to what I valued at Commonwealth. It’s that independent mindset that this is your business; you run it, and Cetera is there to support you. That was a big factor for me.”
“My business works best when systems are efficient and reliable. When things run smoothly on the back end, it allows me to focus on clients. What I’ve seen so far with Summit and Cetera, from investment platforms to CRM and planning tools, gives me confidence that I’ll be able to operate even more effectively.”
“I’ve completed several acquisitions already, and I’m looking to continue that growth strategy. Having the right partner in place is critical to doing that successfully, and I believe I’ve found that with Cetera.”
Jaakko “Jack” Kasko, Financial Advisor, Milestone Wealth Management
“Jack is a thoughtful, growth-oriented advisor who has built his business on independence, efficiency and a deep commitment to his clients. His focus on running a streamlined, client-first practice aligns perfectly with Summit’s culture and Cetera’s mission to empower advisors to operate on their own terms. We’re excited to support Jack as he continues to grow and evolve his business.”
Tom Halloran, Advisor Channel Leader, Cetera Financial Group
