EP Wealth Advisors, a fee-only registered investment advisor (RIA), has announced a significant milestone in its growth journey by entering into a definitive agreement with Ares Management’s Private Equity funds. This agreement enables Ares Management to acquire a substantial minority stake in EP Wealth, bringing its expertise and resources into the fold. Ares now joins Berkshire Partners, another minority equity partner that has previously invested in the firm.
The investment from Ares Management is expected to provide EP Wealth with critical growth capital and strategic resources. This financial backing will enable the company to focus on several key objectives, enhancing its operations and expanding its market reach.
One of the primary goals for EP Wealth following this investment is to deepen its commitment to talent acquisition. The company aims to attract and retain skilled professionals who can significantly improve the overall client experience. EP Wealth plans to invest in hiring top talent who can drive success for both the firm and its clients.
In addition to enhancing its workforce, the funding will also allow EP Wealth to upgrade its technology infrastructure. This improvement is vital for expanding its range of client-facing services and offerings. By investing in technology, EP Wealth intends to streamline operations and provide clients with a more efficient and comprehensive experience that meets their evolving needs.
This funding will give EP Wealth greater flexibility to pursue mergers and acquisitions (M&A) partnerships. The ability to actively engage in M&A reflects the company’s commitment to growth and expanding its presence in a competitive investment advisory landscape. By strategically identifying and integrating new partnerships, EP Wealth aims to enhance its service offerings and broaden its client base.
Despite the new funding and partnerships, the co-founders of EP Wealth, Derek Holman and Brian Parker, will continue to retain significant ownership in the company. They will remain actively involved as advisors and leaders, guiding the organization as it navigates its growth trajectory. The management team will operate independently, retaining full responsibility for strategic and day-to-day decisions, ensuring that the company’s vision and values remain intact.
EP Wealth has also successfully completed eight M&A partnerships in 2025, showcasing its proactive expansion strategy. As of August 31, 2025, the firm has grown its assets under management to nearly $40 billion.
Advisors: William Blair served as lead financial advisor, with Houlihan Lokey acting as co-advisor, to EP Wealth Advisors. Jefferies and Moelis & Company served as financial advisors to Ares.
KEY QUOTES:
“Our firm was founded on the belief that taking care of clients by providing quality service and solutions fosters strong relationships that drive long-term success. This has guided our firm’s efforts and fueled our growth over the last twenty-six years, and it is the foundation that will propel us for decades to come. We are thrilled to have found a partner in Ares who fully supports our mission and will fortify our efforts to grow while sustaining the governance, passion, and culture on which EP Wealth is built.”
Ryan Parker, CEO of EP Wealth
“EP Wealth has established itself as a leader in the RIA industry, with a demonstrated track record driven by its advisors’ unwavering commitment to client service. We believe EP Wealth’s entrepreneurial culture and growth mindset, supported by the combined resources and experience of Ares and Berkshire Partners, will enable the Company to build on its leadership position and compound long-term growth.”
Jordan Smith, Partner in the Ares Private Equity Group
“We’re proud to continue our investment in EP Wealth, which reflects our deep conviction in the management team and long-term growth potential of the business. We’re thrilled to partner with Ares, whose strategic vision for EP Wealth and experience align closely with ours. Together, we are well-positioned to support the next phase of transformative growth.”
Dave Bordeau, Managing Director at Berkshire Partners
