EP Wealth Advisors, a leading independent registered investment adviser (RIA) with an expanding national presence and client base, announced it had acquired Wacker Wealth Partners. This partnership with the San Luis Obispo, California-based firm expands EP’s presence in California to the state’s Central Coast and adds nearly $1.2 billion in assets under management.
Wacker was founded to provide clients with a trusted fiduciary. The firm helps them achieve long-term financial goals by establishing deep relationships built on an understanding of what is most important. The firm serves the growing San Luis Obispo and Central Coast region in various industries and has been an integral community member for over 35 years.
Wacker CEO and Wealth Advisor Ryan Caldwell will become EP’s Regional Director for Central California, while President and COO Bryan Krill will become Associate Regional Director. In total, 22 members of the Wacker team will join EP Wealth.
DeVoe & Company, a leading investment bank and consulting firm to RIAs, represented Wacker in the deal.
The Wacker partnership marks the second acquisition for EP Wealth this year and its 31st since taking a minority investment from Wealth Partners Capital Group in July 2017. The financial and legal terms of the deal will not be disclosed.
KEY QUOTES:
“The Wacker team places client service above all other goals, which is just one of the many attributes we share. You can see their commitment in many ways, including their extensive involvement in community organizations throughout the Central Coast. Expanding our presence in this important market was a factor in partnering, but it is the way Wacker shows up for their clients, team members and others that sets them apart.”
– Ryan Parker, CEO of EP Wealth Advisors
“We’ve experienced significant growth, which is a testament to our team and the trust we’ve built within the community. Partnering with EP allows us to continue serving this growing area with the same focus and commitment we have for decades, while providing the support and capabilities – a large team of specialized professionals in planning, investment, technology, compliance and more – of a national RIA. EP’s business model allows us to maintain the local, boutique feel our clients have come to expect of us.”
– Wacker CEO and Wealth Advisor Ryan Caldwell
“We look forward to tapping into EP’s expanded resources to enhance our service to current and future clients, including tax and estate planning. Having the capabilities of a firm of this size will give our advisors and staff more tools and support as we continue to grow.”
– Wacker President and COO Bryan Krill
“The alignment across vision, values, and client service between the two organizations was immediately apparent. The strategic power of the combination will benefit both clients and staff.”
– David DeVoe, Founder and CEO of DeVoe & Company
