Merit Financial Advisors ("Merit"), a Georgia-based financial advisory firm that specializes in financial planning and wealth management solutions for high-net-worth individuals and families and those navigating life transitions, announced today it has acquired ClearBridge Wealth Management ("ClearBridge"). The firm, based in Atlanta, Georgia, will expand Merit's existing presence in the region and increase assets by $300 million.

Founded by Preston Byers, CPA, CFP®, ClearBridge specializes in investment management and business and financial planning for individuals, families, and business owners. Preston has more than 30 years of experience in the industry and will join Merit as Wealth Manager and Partner along with ClearBridge's operations and client support teams.

"My desire to join Merit was two-fold: first, Merit's strong back-office support team and extensive technology suite will allow me more time to connect with my clients," said Preston. "Second, the core values of our firms align, which was the primary reason for us to pursue this partnership."

"We are thrilled to welcome Preston and his team to Merit," said Kirk Wilkerson and Andy Lubben, Merit Regional Directors. "From our first meeting together, it was clear that Preston embraces a client-centric approach, which aligns with how the Merit team operates. We can't wait to see what we will achieve together in Atlanta."

This is Merit's twenty-second acquisition since taking a minority investment in December 2020 from Wealth Partners Capital Group ("WPCG") and a group of strategic investors led by HGGC's Aspire Holdings platform. In August, Merit announced its acquisition of Reis Financial Services, LLC, which added approximately $178 million in assets and expanded Merit's presence in Wisconsin.

"Preston has achieved remarkable success within the industry, largely due to his client-first mentality and commitment to providing his clients with quality wealth management solutions," said Nick Trepp, Principal at WPCG. "Preston's expertise and focus on client service complements Merit's approach, and it is exciting to watch Merit build their Atlantapresence by partnering with such a talented advisor."

The merger was finalized on December 1, 2023. Financial and legal terms of the deal were not disclosed.