Kestra Private Wealth Services (Kestra PWS), a registered investment adviser arm of Kestra Financial, announced that $866 million firm Ascend Private Wealth Partners (Ascend) has formally joined its platform. Ascend, led by financial advisors David Barnett, CFP, and Ashley Ament, is based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and focuses on delivering personalized financial strategies spanning investment management to tax planning.
By aligning with Kestra PWS, Barnett and Ament gain access to expanded resources, including technology tools, tax-planning solutions, and investment support, while retaining independence in business decisions and the ability to tailor client solutions without being restricted to specific products. The move signals Ascend’s commitment to a client-centered model that prioritizes flexibility and service over product mandates.
Ascend emphasizes bespoke financial planning, believing that no two clients are alike. With the backing of Kestra PWS, the firm anticipates enhanced capabilities to meet evolving client needs and to grow its practice without compromising its autonomous advisory model. The partnership strengthens Ascend’s offering while leveraging Kestra’s infrastructure and supportive platform.
KEY QUOTES:
“We strive to ensure every decision we make reflects our clients’ best interests. Joining Kestra PWS gives us the freedom and flexibility to source high-quality solutions for our clients without being tied to specific products. That independence, paired with Kestra’s hands-on support, empowers us to serve our clients even better.”
Ashley Ament, Co-Founder, Ascend Private Wealth Partners
“We’re thrilled to welcome Ascend Private Wealth Partners to Kestra PWS. Their client-first approach and entrepreneurial spirit embody the qualities we value most in our partners.”
Rob Bartenstein, Founder & President, Kestra Private Wealth Services
