Advisor moves: Wells Fargo Advisors scoops billion-dollar team from Merrill

The fourth week of October hasn't exactly been sleepy for Wells Fargo, Raymond James, and Osaic, which have just announced significant new additions to their advisor pool.

Wells Fargo Advisors adds billion-dollar team in Washington

Wells Fargo Advisors strengthened its Private Client Group in Bellevue, Washington, with the addition of the Kang, Dime, Tran, Osborne Group.

The four-person team, which previously worked at Merrill Lynch, brings with it nearly $1 billion in combined assets and liabilities and a collective 75 years of experience in wealth management.

The group includes Hyeon Kang as private wealth advisor and managing director, along with financial advisors Larry Dime, Joe Osborne, and Hung Tran. Kevin Ki joins as a client associate.

Wells Fargo said the move within its private client unit, effective October 10, underscores ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in the Pacific Northwest.

Frank Correale, northwest market leader for Wells Fargo Advisors, said the team's decision to join reflects the firm’s “deep capabilities in serving high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients, as well as our strong in-market expertise.” 

Wells Fargo Advisors revealed on Monday that its compensation structure for financial advisors will stay largely steady in 2026, though it also announced a new recurring trail payout on checking account balances along with numerous other new features.

Raymond James attracts Commonwealth teams managing over $650 million

Raymond James extended its Commonwealth recruitment streak with new additions to the Corporate RIA affiliation model within its independent contractor channel, Raymond James Financial Services.

In Illinois, KCH Financial, previously managed approximately $357 million in client assets and includes advisors Brian Keister, Jody Chiapelli, Sara Hinthorne, and Joshua Keister.

The group brings more than 80 years of combined experience to the firm. Their support staff includes office manager Terri Keister and client service associates Mary Burnett, Danielle Wright, and Abby Carter.

“Our mission has always been to deliver thoughtful advice and service with a personal touch,” said Brian Keister, whose BrokerCheck record stretches back to 1988. 

Raymond James has also added Touchstone Capital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Eagle Peak Wealth Management in Longmont, Colorado.

Touchstone Capital is led by Ted Kerr and joined by advisor Markus Williams and a team of office professionals. Kerr said the team found in Raymond James a partner that shares its “commitment to independence, integrity and a collaborative philosophy.”

Eagle Peak, led by Tim Menefee, brings decades of experience to the Colorado market.

Kerr, Williams, and Menefee collectiveluy managed $300 million at Commonwealth.

Raymond James' independent channel has been an obvious destination of choice for advisors decamping from Commonwealth, making it a clear round-two winner after it reportedly lost the chance to scoop the elite advisor network to LPL.

Osaic recruits Florida-based family team from Commonwealth

Osaic has expanded its network with the addition of Hinck Private Wealth Management, an Englewood, Florida-based team that previously affiliated with Commonwealth. Founded in 1978, the group brings 47 years of experience and is led by CEO and founder John Hinck, along with his sons and managing partners Thomas and James Hinck.

The team cited Osaic’s technology platform and open-architecture approach as key factors in their decision. “When evaluating the industry and what was available, our client’s best interest always comes first,” said Thomas Hinck.

He added that Osaic’s platform allows the team to access leading capabilities and better serve clients.

Kristen Kimmell, executive vice president of business development at Osaic, said the partnership reflects the firm’s belief in empowering advisors to thrive independently, supported by a platform designed to accelerate productivity.