NewEdge Capital Group announced that a team led by James Nichols has joined NewEdge Wealth, further expanding the firm’s presence in Nashville and strengthening its ability to serve ultra-high-net-worth and high-net-worth families, family offices, and institutional clients in the growing market.
Nichols, who has nearly two decades of industry experience, will serve as a principal in a new downtown Nashville office for NewEdge Wealth. He will focus on advising entrepreneurs and business owners before and after liquidity events. Joining Nichols are Erin Thomas, who will serve as vice president of client service, and Lena Schelzig, who will serve as an analyst in client service.
Prior to joining NewEdge Wealth, Nichols served as a senior vice president of wealth management at UBS, advising individuals, multigenerational families, and business owners. Earlier in his career, he held several senior advisory roles at Morgan Stanley/Smith Barney.
NewEdge Wealth said the new office builds upon the firm’s regional presence established when Rich Ina joined the company in 2023. The firm now has more than 60 ultra-high-net-worth advisors across 16 locations nationwide.
According to the company, Nashville’s rapid economic growth, corporate relocations, and technology investments have contributed to significant wealth creation in the region, making it an increasingly important market for the firm.
NewEdge Advisors, a sibling RIA focused on supporting entrepreneurial financial advisors, has also expanded in the area, adding ClearTrust Wealth Advisors in nearby Franklin earlier this year and welcoming Wealth Strategies Partners in late 2025.
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“Central Tennessee has seen an explosion of growth for nearly a decade, with large tech firms, startups and established industries creating significant wealth in the region. James’ extensive experience supporting local business owners as they navigate the changing landscape will enhance our ability to serve this important and growing market.”
Rob Sechan, Managing Director and Co-Founder of NewEdge Wealth
