Butler Associates Financial Planners and Shore Group Advisors announced their intent to merge, creating a single wealth advisory firm supported by Osaic, with more than $500 million in assets under management and a combined century of experience.
The firms said the merged organization will be headquartered in Sunset Hills, Missouri, and will expand its geographic footprint from Florida to the Pacific Northwest. Upon closing, Butler Associates will rebrand as Shore Group Advisors, a move the firms said reflects a shared culture and unified direction.
Under the planned leadership structure, Jon Shore, founder of Shore Group Advisors, will serve as CEO, and Jason Sturm, who leads Butler Associates, will serve as CFO. The combined firm will bring together Butler Associates’ established presence in the St. Louis market with Shore Group Advisors’ planning-oriented approach, according to the announcement.
Both firms said they were introduced through their affiliation with Osaic and have used the platform’s technology, planning tools, and infrastructure designed to support succession and continuity. They characterized the transaction as a natural step toward building a larger, integrated organization intended to enhance long-term client service and advisor support.
The firms also said the combined organization will expand its ability to serve as “the advisor’s advisor,” providing additional resources for financial professionals navigating succession, retirement, or practice transitions. They added that the integration is expected to strengthen planning, investment management, and operational capabilities, which they said are already supported by Osaic’s national platform.
The announcement said clients should expect continuity in relationships and account management through a “seamless integration,” along with expanded planning and implementation teams, enhanced education and legacy planning programs, and a model that pairs national reach with local service. The firms said clients of both organizations will receive direct communication explaining the merger and outlining steps to ensure a smooth transition.
Butler Associates, founded in 1987 and based in St. Louis, serves individuals, families, and private businesses with investment and retirement strategies, according to the firm’s description.
KEY QUOTES
“By joining forces with Shore Group Advisors, we strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional client service, deepen our bench of expertise and expand our reach from the Midwest to both coasts. Our focus remains on helping clients live with confidence — empowering retirees to stay comfortably retired and helping professionals reach a point where work becomes optional.”
Jason Sturm, Leader, Butler Associates Financial Planners, Inc.
“We’ve always believed great financial planning isn’t just about money — it’s about time, freedom and family. Joining forces with Butler Associates allows us to bring that philosophy to more people while staying true to our Midwestern roots and values. The Shore Group Advisors brand represents our collective strength, continuity and shared purpose.”
Jon Shore, Founder, Shore Group Advisors
