Merit Financial Advisors, a Georgia-based wealth management firm, announced that it has acquired Strategic Retirement Plans, an independent advisory firm headquartered in Billings, Montana, with an additional office in Gillette, Wyoming. The transaction adds approximately $586 million in total client assets to Merit’s platform and strengthens its footprint in key Western markets.
Strategic Retirement Plans manages about $582 million in assets under management and $4 million in retirement plan assets under advisement, serving roughly 800 households. The firm has built its practice around retirement income planning, helping clients transition from employment into retirement with structured financial strategies.
As part of the acquisition, Strategic Retirement Plans’ owners and financial advisors, Gabe Lapito and Ryan Gomendi, will join Merit Financial Advisors as area directors, wealth managers, and partners. The entire team will transition to Merit, and the firm will also adopt the Merit Financial Advisors brand.
The deal represents Merit’s 57th acquisition and aligns with its broader national expansion strategy, which focuses on partnering with established advisory teams to deepen its presence across the United States. Following the integration, the Strategic Retirement Plans team will gain access to Merit’s investment platform, operational infrastructure, and centralized support functions, including compliance, human resources, and technology.
Strategic Retirement Plans has developed a client base that includes individuals working in regional energy industries, such as coal mining and oil refining, as well as business owners and families. The firm has emphasized relationship-driven growth and community engagement, hosting events and providing personalized financial planning services.
KEY QUOTES:
“Strategic Retirement Plans is an exceptional firm with a talented and growing team that shares our commitment to client relationships and long-term stewardship. Gabe, Ryan and their team have built a practice rooted in trust, community engagement and a deep understanding of their clients’ financial lives. We are excited to welcome them to Merit and support their continued growth.”
Josh Mersberger, Managing Principal and Partner at Merit Financial Advisors
“One of our greatest goals is helping clients with their return on investment so they can focus on their return on life. We strive to combine the excellence of Wall Street with the personal touch of Main Street, because how clients experience their money is just as important as how much they have. We’re excited to partner with Merit Financial Advisors to continue delivering on that mission.”
Gabe Lapito, Owner and Financial Advisor at Strategic Retirement Plans
“We are extremely excited to be joining the Merit team. One of our highest priorities has always been to take excellent care of our clients, and we quickly saw that the team at Merit shares that same commitment. As we met with their team and understood what they built, and what they continue to build, it was everything we dreamed about for our clients. We are so excited for this transition.”
Ryan Gomendi, Owner and Financial Advisor at Strategic Retirement Plans
