LPL Financial is broadening its East Coast presence yet again as it onboards a New Jersey advisor trio from Wells Fargo. The firm announced the addition of Erick Simonds, Eugene Sninski II, and Lisa Sninski, as they bring Windward Wealth Advisors to the firm's broker-dealer and custodial platforms.
Previously associated with Wells Fargo Advisors, the team reported managing advisory, brokerage, and retirement plan assets totaling approximately $250 million.
Based in Brick, New Jersey, Simonds and Eugene Sninski have collaborated for nearly two decades, with Lisa Sninski, Eugene’s sister, joining the team three years ago.
Their practice has thrived on deep community engagement, establishing significant relationships with local businesses, charities, and schools. The trio has specialized in a diversified, risk-adjusted wealth management strategy to guide pre-retirees through stages of wealth accumulation, transitioning into retirement, and legacy planning.
"Much like a sailor going into the wind will need experience and skill, an advisor needs to be able to change their approach based on market fluctuations to ensure clients end up at their desired destination," Simonds, a 21-year veteran of the industry, said in a statement.
He said the transition to LPL Financial offers the practice a number of benefits, including increased independence and a comprehensive support system that will bolster the team's operational capabilities.
The move, Simonds said, will also enhance Windward’s “white-glove approach and family feel” as they lean on LPL’s technology, marketing, and compliance resources.
“We are eager to tap into the entire catalog of LPL’s vast resources so we can continue serving clients in the same market we’ve been in for the last 17 years," he added.
The news of LPL welcoming Windward extends the firm's string of onboarding moves in March, which includes a $580 million Florida practice joining its independent advisor arm from Merrill Lynch and a Louisiana-based veteran advisor from Osaic.
Merrill's latest hires span Colorado to Louisiana, even as industry-wide recruiting data suggests the firm is losing almost as many advisors as it gains.
The $36 million buy allegedly hid inflated books and a $50 million diversion.
“An award citing emotional distress is very unusual,” an industry executive said.
New EBRI research found workers who participated in employer financial education reported higher confidence, literacy and financial satisfaction.
Beyond operational excellence, the winning advisors of the future are the ones who can reach across multiple disciplines without discarding specialist skills.
Northern Trust’s Ken Lassner shows advisors how to convert volatility into after-tax portfolio gains
Dan Biagini of American Equity says the steady decline of pensions, longer lifespans and a reset in interest rates are rewriting how advisors build retirement income
