Avantax is making a pivotal step in Texas as it welcomes financial advisors Heidi and Nicholas Irwin, a married couple. Recognized for their longstanding contributions to the Lockhart, Texas, financial advisory landscape, the Irwins are transitioning from Edward Jones, where they reported managing over $250 million in client assets as of March 20.
They now align with Alliance Wealth Strategies, an Avantax affiliate, aiming to leverage the firm’s tax-focused financial planning and wealth management expertise.
The couple's journey in finance is deeply rooted in Lockhart, often celebrated as “The Barbecue Capital of Texas.”
Heidi Irwin entered the financial industry in 2014, integrating into a high-net-worth planning practice originally established by her father. Nicholas Irwin, who has 11 years of experience, according to his BrokerCheck report, joined the family business in 2020.
Their shift to Avantax was motivated by the desire for a more flexible practice management model and the comprehensive support system offered by Avantax's home office, particularly for handling complex client needs.
“We feel strongly that to do our best work, especially for high-net-worth clients with complex cases, we need access to advanced tools, resources, and experts like we know are available with Avantax,” Heidi Irwin said in a statement.
Aside from an enhanced ability to have in-depth, tax-focused planning conversations, the Irwins cited Avantax’s personal touch and community culture.
Nicholas Irwin, whose expertise lies in investment research and data analytics, anticipates the firm’s tax-intelligent planning approach will complement his ability to handle complex cases as he collaborates with other Avantax-affiliated CPAs and advisors.
“Heidi and Nic are an amazing cultural fit with Avantax, and I expect that they will be a terrific addition to both the Avantax Community and the Alliance Wealth Strategies team,” Avantax Wealth Management president Todd Mackay said.
Rajesh Markan earlier this year pleaded guilty to one count of criminal fraud related to his sale of fake investments to 10 clients totaling $2.9 million.
From building trust to steering through emotions and responding to client challenges, new advisors need human skills to shape the future of the advice industry.
"The outcome is correct, but it's disappointing that FINRA had ample opportunity to investigate the merits of clients' allegations in these claims, including the testimony in the three investor arbitrations with hearings," Jeff Erez, a plaintiff's attorney representing a large portion of the Stifel clients, said.
Chair also praised the passage of stablecoin legislation this week.
Maridea Wealth Management's deal in Chicago, Illinois is its first after securing a strategic investment in April.
Orion's Tom Wilson on delivering coordinated, high-touch service in a world where returns alone no longer set you apart.
Barely a decade old, registered index-linked annuities have quickly surged in popularity, thanks to their unique blend of protection and growth potential—an appealing option for investors looking to chart a steadier course through today's choppy market waters, says Myles Lambert, Brighthouse Financial.