Merit Financial Group, LLC (“Merit”), a Georgia-based hybrid registered investment adviser (“RIA”), has entered into a strategic partnership to fuel its ongoing organic growth and acquisition efforts. As part of this strategy, Merit has received an investment from Wealth Partners Capital Group, LLC (“WPCG”), a financial services holding company, and a group of supporting investors led by HGGC, a firm focused on partnerships with founders and management.

Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer and Founder Rick Kent, Merit has emerged as a leader in the RIA industry. The firm provides wealth and investment management services for individuals and families, as well as comprehensive services and business support for its Independent Advisor Partners. The firm currently has 19 locations across the country and manages over $4.84 billion in client assets, including advisory ($2.97 billion) and brokerage ($1.87 billion) assets, as well as additional assets under advisement ($111 million) (all assets are as of 12/31/2020).

“Our business is built on a foundation of trusted relationships and an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for our clients, team and partners,” Kent commented. “We have achieved significant growth over the past decade, and we seek to further this growth while continuing to offer our clients customized services and capabilities. WPCG recognizes the importance of this mission and has been successful in supporting its partner firms in achieving their goals. We are excited for our future together.”

With the support of WPCG and HGGC, Merit is seeking to expand its footprint and partner with advisors and advisory firms, particularly those in the independent broker-dealer space. The WPCG management team of John W. Copeland, Rich Gill and Sean Bresnan will work closely with Merit to achieve its growth objectives.

“Consolidation continues within the financial services industry, to the benefit of both clients and their advisors,” said Gill. “With its strong regional brand, broad client offering, and deep management and investment talent, Merit has the potential to be one of the leading strategic RIA acquirers. We are excited to align with HGGC to support Merit’s growth plans and expand our focus to a broad subset of advisory firms across the U.S.”

Merit has been strategic in its growth trajectory and has a proven track record of supporting its advisors. The firm has completed nine acquisitions since 2012, expanding its reach across the country and adding services and operational support for its team of advisors.

Kay Lynn Mayhue, CFP^®, President of Merit, said: “Our commitment to growth is fueled by our dedication to clients. We want to bring the best resources, expertise and thinking to every situation. The partnership with WPCG and HGGC positions us to accelerate our growth trajectory, enhance offerings to our current clients, and provide a home for like-minded advisors while we strengthen our foothold across the United States.”

As part of the transaction, Merit’s management team has entered into long-term employment agreements. The partnership closed Dec. 31, 2020. Merit was advised by the Asset & Wealth Management Investment Banking Group of Raymond James Financial, Inc. Truist Securities served as the advisor to WPCG and HGGC. Terms of the private transaction were not disclosed.