Wealthspire, an independent wealth management, institutional advisory, and business management firm, announced that its Ground Control Business Management division has acquired Arena Wealth, a UK-based business management firm specializing in serving professional golfers.
The acquisition marks Ground Control’s second transaction in the United Kingdom, following its acquisition of Clay GBP in October 2024. The deal expands Ground Control’s capabilities in serving professional athletes with complex international financial needs and strengthens its presence in the UK market.
Founded by Philip Barker, Arena Wealth provides business management services to professional golfers, including bill payment, bookkeeping, invoicing, credit control, tax consulting, and tax preparation. The firm has developed a strong reputation within the international golf community by helping clients navigate multi-jurisdictional tax exposure, international tournament income, sponsorship agreements, appearance fees, performance-related earnings, and other financial planning challenges unique to professional sports careers.
As part of the transaction, Arena Wealth’s clients will gain access to Ground Control’s broader business management platform, including expanded resources and specialized support services. Clients will continue working with the existing Arena Wealth team while benefiting from additional capabilities over time.
The acquisition also brings Arena Wealth’s 15 employees into Ground Control. Philip Barker will remain in a leadership role, and the UK team will operate under the leadership of Ground Control UK President Nick Parkinson. Following the completion of the transaction, Arena Wealth will rebrand as Ground Control.
Wealthspire said the deal aligns with its strategy of building specialized business management services for professionals with complex financial and operational needs across multiple jurisdictions.
KEY QUOTES:
“Arena Wealth has established a thoughtful, highly focused practice around the needs of professional golfers, and that kind of specialization matters in business management. Philip and his team bring a deep understanding of their clients’ world, and that strengthens our platform at Ground Control.”
Chris Bucci, Chief Executive Officer, Ground Control Business Management
“We’ve built our business around understanding our clients’ day-to-day realities, and it was important to find a partner who approaches that work the same way. Ground Control brings additional depth and experience, and they share our focus on what matters to our clients and how we work with them.”
Philip Barker, Founder, Arena Wealth
