EP Wealth Advisors Strengthens East Coast Presence with Divergent Planning Acquisition

EP Wealth Advisors Expands East Coast Presence with the Acquisition of Divergent Planning

EP Wealth Advisors, LLC (EPWA), a prominent independent wealth management firm based in Agoura Hills, California, has announced a strategic acquisition of Divergent Planning, a financial planning firm located in New Jersey. This move signifies a crucial step in EP Wealth Advisors' ongoing expansion efforts, particularly on the East Coast, as it seeks to enhance its comprehensive financial services for clients nationwide.

Divergent Planning, established in 2018, provides a diverse range of financial services, including investment management, retirement planning, and tailored tax strategies. The firm's approach is centered on delivering personalized financial advice that aligns with each client's unique circumstances and objectives.

EPWA's CEO, Jason D. McGowan, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, highlighting the alignment between Divergent Planning's client-centric values and EP Wealth Advisors' mission. "We are excited to welcome the talented team at Divergent Planning to EP Wealth Advisors. Their commitment to client service and their expertise in financial planning align perfectly with our mission to help clients achieve their financial objectives. This acquisition strengthens our ability to serve clients on the East Coast and provides us with a broader network of resources," he stated.

Under the EP Wealth Advisors umbrella, Divergent Planning will retain its branding while gaining access to EPWA’s extensive resources. These include advanced investment strategies, technology platforms, and compliance support, which will empower Divergent Planning to enhance its service offerings. This partnership is expected to significantly improve the ability of Divergent Planning to cater to the evolving needs of its clientele.

Mark Smith, the Founder of Divergent Planning, emphasized the positive implications for both the firm and its clients. "Joining EP Wealth Advisors represents an exciting opportunity for our firm and our clients. We believe that this partnership will allow us to provide even more value to our clients and help them navigate their financial journeys with greater confidence," he remarked.

EP Wealth Advisors has been actively pursuing growth through strategic acquisitions and organic development in recent years. The firm is dedicated to delivering a high-touch client experience while leveraging technology to optimize the financial planning process.

Buyer Profile

Founded in 2012, EP Wealth Advisors has established itself as a key player in the independent wealth management sector, focusing on personalized financial planning and investment management services for individuals, families, and businesses. The firm emphasizes building long-lasting client relationships and employing a holistic approach to wealth management.

Recently, EP Wealth Advisors has completed several notable transactions, including:

• The acquisition of a boutique wealth management firm in California aimed at enhancing local client engagement.
• A strategic purchase of an investment management firm that specializes in sustainable investment strategies, reinforcing EPWA's commitment to responsible investing.
• Acquiring a financial advisory group in the Midwest to broaden its national footprint and service offerings.

These transactions reflect EP Wealth Advisors' strategic focus on expanding its service capabilities and geographic reach within the wealth management industry.

Conclusion

The acquisition of Divergent Planning by EP Wealth Advisors not only enhances the latter's East Coast presence but also signifies its commitment to providing comprehensive and personalized financial services. For investors and industry stakeholders, this transaction underscores the importance of strategic acquisitions in the competitive landscape of wealth management.