Mariner has announced the acquisition of two financial advisory firms, Atlas Financial in Sarasota, Florida, and Newport Advisory in Newport Beach, California, adding approximately $878 million in assets under management to its portfolio. This strategic move represents a substantial step toward the company's goal of growing to 5,000 advisors by 2027 and expands its national presence to 126 offices across the United States. The acquisitions establish second locations for Mariner in both Sarasota and Newport Beach, enhancing its ability to serve clients in key markets with diverse financial needs.
Marty Bicknell, CEO and president of Mariner, emphasized the strategic importance of these acquisitions, stating that these firms bring a wealth of expertise and a client-first ethos that align with Mariner's values. Atlas Financial, with over 25 years of experience, is renowned for its "Serve First" philosophy and specializes in asset management, business continuity, and wealth transfer strategies. The firm's focus on long-term client relationships and tailored services for business owners and retirees complements Mariner's comprehensive approach to wealth management. Newport Advisory, founded in 1995 by Jim Regitz, brings a holistic approach to financial planning, offering guidance on retirement, education planning, tax strategies, and liability management with its 12-person team.
The integration of these firms into Mariner's operations is expected to enhance the company's ability to offer personalized financial services across a broader spectrum of client needs. Both Atlas Financial and Newport Advisory will continue to operate with their existing teams in place, now under the Mariner name, ensuring continuity for their current clients while leveraging Mariner's expanded resources and expertise. This strategic move reflects the ongoing trend of consolidation in the financial services industry, as firms seek to expand their service offerings and geographical reach. For Mariner, which was founded in 2006 with $300 million in assets under advisement, this acquisition represents a significant milestone in its growth trajectory.
The company now advises on over $253 billion in assets as of September 30, 2024, highlighting its rapid expansion and increasing influence in the wealth management sector. The acquisitions of Atlas Financial and Newport Advisory not only bolster Mariner's assets under management but also reinforce its commitment to providing comprehensive, client-centered financial services. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, moves like this position Mariner to meet the diverse and complex needs of clients across the United States, potentially setting new standards for personalized wealth management services in the industry. For clients of Atlas Financial and Newport Advisory, the transition to Mariner promises access to enhanced resources and a wider range of financial expertise.
Meanwhile, for the broader financial services industry, this acquisition signals the continued importance of scale and comprehensive service offerings in meeting the evolving demands of wealth management clients. As Mariner integrates these new firms into its operations, the financial services sector will be watching closely to see how this expansion influences the company's service delivery and market position. The success of this integration could serve as a model for future acquisitions in the industry, potentially inspiring further consolidation among wealth management firms seeking to expand their capabilities and reach. This development underscores the competitive dynamics in wealth management, where firms must continuously adapt to client needs and market pressures to maintain relevance and growth.
