Stratos Wealth Enterprises has entered into a strategic partnership with RPI Financial Life Planners that is expected to add approximately $400 million in assets while expanding Stratos’ presence across the Midwest.
RPI, a Naperville, Illinois-based wealth management and financial planning practice, will continue operating under the RPI Financial Life Planners name following the acquisition.
The firm’s existing team, client relationships and financial planning philosophy will remain in place, while RPI gains access to Stratos’ broader operational infrastructure, technology capabilities, resources and growth support.
RPI has served individuals and families for more than 40 years and operates around a Financial Life Planning approach designed to align clients’ financial decisions with their broader life goals.
The practice works with individuals, families, retirees and business owners across areas including retirement planning, tax planning, estate planning, investment management and planning for major life transitions.
RPI founder and Financial Life Planner David Blaydes said the firm selected Stratos after a multi-year search for a partner that could support its next stage of growth without compromising its culture or client relationships.
Stratos Wealth Enterprises is the acquisition and wealth management arm of Stratos Wealth Holdings, a national network supporting financial advisors and financial planning professionals across multiple business models and affiliation structures.
The RPI transaction represents Stratos’ 12th partnership since SEI made its strategic investment in Stratos in 2025.
The transaction further expands Stratos’ strategy of partnering with established advisory practices that emphasize advisor autonomy, long-term client relationships and planning-led wealth management.
Stratos Wealth Holdings includes registered investment advisors Stratos Wealth Partners, Stratos Wealth Advisors and Stratos Investment Management.
Stratos and its subsidiaries are majority owned by SEI Investments Company.
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
KEY QUOTES:
“After an extensive, multi-year search, we chose to affiliate with Stratos because they share our commitment to putting clients first, acting with integrity, and building long-lasting client relationships. This partnership is ultimately about our clients and our people. As we considered the future of our practice, Stratos stood out because we believed they understood our objectives and culture, while offering resources that aligned with our long-term goals.”
David Blaydes, Founder And Financial Life Planner At RPI Financial Life Planners
“I believe David and the entire RPI team have built something special. Their focus on relationships, planning excellence, and helping clients navigate life’s most important decisions aligns closely with the values that define Stratos. We are excited to welcome RPI to our growing community of advisor partners and support the practice as it continues to thrive.”
Jeff Concepcion, Founder And CEO Of Stratos
“This is a natural fit between two organizations that believe great advice starts with understanding what’s most important to clients. RPI has spent decades building long-term client relationships. We’re excited to welcome the team to Stratos and look forward to supporting the next chapter of their growth.”
Arthur Worthington, CFP®, Managing Director, Strategic Business Development & Integration At SEI
