Merit Financial Advisors Onboards $225 Million Team

By Amit Chowdhry • Aug 12, 2025

Merit Financial Advisors, a Georgia-based financial advisory firm specializing in financial planning and wealth management solutions for high-net-worth individuals, families, and those navigating life transitions, announced today that it has acquired a specialized team from Second Half Financial Partners. The acquisition marks Merit’s fifth office in Florida, adding $225 million in assets.

Based in Sebring, this specialized team offers investment and retirement strategies focused on Florida’s first responders, specifically firefighters and law enforcement professionals. Through this partnership, the firm will broaden its reach across the state by leveraging Merit’s extensive infrastructure, technology, and operational support. Mike Fitch, Senior Partner and Majority Owner of Second Half, will join Merit as a Wealth Manager and Partner, alongside his experienced team.

The partnership follows Merit’s entry into the Utah market last month, via the acquisition of RCM Investments, which accelerates its national expansion. It’s also the firm’s fortieth acquisition in four and a half years.

KEY QUOTES:

“Our first responders dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our communities, and it’s a privilege to support their financial well-being. By joining Merit, we gain the operational infrastructure to expand our reach, deepen our service model, and help more of these local heroes thrive financially.”

Mike Fitch

“Second Half’s specialized team’s mission aligns closely with Merit’s core values of service, purpose, and growth. By joining forces, we’re equipping their team with the operational support and resources needed to deepen their service offerings and expand their impact across the first responder community.”

Tyler Vernon, Managing Principal and Partner at Merit