Crewe Advisors, a registered investment advisor overseeing approximately $3.3 billion in client assets, has entered into a minority equity investment agreement with Wealth Partners Capital Group (WPCG) and the Aspire Holdings platform of private equity firm HGGC. The transaction, expected to close later this month, is designed to provide the firm with additional capital to pursue both acquisition opportunities and organic growth initiatives.
Founded in 2015 by Managing Partner Ryan Halliday, Crewe Advisors serves individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and corporate executives from its headquarters in Utah and a second office in Scottsdale, Arizona. The firm delivers a comprehensive suite of services including investment management, financial planning, and family office offerings, supported by a team with expertise in law, tax, insurance, business planning, and estate planning.
Under the terms of the deal, Crewe's management will retain majority ownership and continue to oversee day-to-day operations. The investment is intended to strengthen the firm's ability to invest in personnel, deepen its service capabilities, and expand its geographic footprint, while maintaining the level of service clients have come to expect.
“We are excited to partner with WPCG and HGGC as we look to build on the momentum we have created,” Halliday said in a statement. “This partnership strengthens our ability to invest in our people, deepen our capabilities and expand our reach, while continuing to deliver the high level of service our clients have come to expect.”
The relationship between Crewe Advisors and WPCG dates back several years. Sean Bresnan, Founding Partner of WPCG, noted that his firm first met with Crewe in 2019 and has since observed the firm's development. “Since our first meeting with Crewe in 2019, it has been clear that Ryan and his team are building a differentiated business,” Bresnan said. “We've had the opportunity to watch Crewe grow into the exceptional firm it is today, anchored by a strong culture and a genuine commitment to client service, and we look forward to supporting its next phase of growth.”
The investment comes amid a wave of consolidation in the RIA space, with firms like Stratos Wealth Holdings adding $4.8 billion in assets through 11 acquisitions across seven states and Modern Wealth, Arax, and Waverly executing three East Coast acquisitions totaling $1.35 billion. Crewe's partnership with WPCG and HGGC positions it to compete more effectively in this environment.
Crewe Advisors was founded by Halliday, who previously spent over a decade at a large financial institution. The firm's multidisciplinary team includes professionals with backgrounds in law, tax, insurance, business planning, and estate planning, allowing it to offer holistic wealth management services to its client base. The firm's growth strategy includes both organic expansion through client referrals and strategic acquisitions of other advisory firms.
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to be finalized by the end of the month. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Crewe Advisors will continue to operate under its current name and leadership structure.
