Credent scoops up $450M RIA Clarify Wealth

RIA Credent Wealth Management has taken another step in its national expansion as it takes in a $450 million fee-only firm.

Headquartered in Cincinatti, Clarify Wealth Management substantially broadens Credent's geographic reach with additional footholds in Columbus, Ohio and Lafayette, Indiana.

The deal marks Credent's 13th acquisition since its launch in 2018, following its April double-deal that brought in Euclid Advisory Ward Wealth Management Services.

David Hefty, CEO of Credent Wealth Management, emphasized the alignment between the two firms.

“We’re thrilled to welcome the talented team at Clarify Wealth to the Credent family. Their unwavering commitment to client service resonates deeply with our own values, and it feels like a perfect fit,” Hefty said in a statement. He added that the acquisition is not just about expanding the business but about building stronger relationships with clients in new regions.

Clarify Wealth’s existing clients will benefit from Credent’s investment platform, which includes unified managed accounts with direct indexing and structured notes. Additionally, the acquisition will provide Clarify’s clients with more robust financial planning as the firm gains access to advanced technology and resources.

James Brandenburgh, founding partner and CEO of Clarify Wealth, shared his positive outlook on the partnership based on "trust and shared values."

“A strong partnership is much like a good marriage ... we truly believe we’ve found the perfect match in Credent Wealth,” he said.

The acquisition also provides a succession plan for Brandenburgh and the firm's other founding partners, CFO Aubrey Ramey and CIO Brad Clark. Along with two experienced staff members, the Clarify team will remain involved as Credent integrates the firm’s next generation of advisors as its latest partners.

"We recognize many advisors are considering their succession options in the coming years," Hefty said, underscoring his firm's goal "to be the firm of choice for those looking for a seamless transition that prioritizes the client experience.”

Credent's deal with Clarify marks the restart of its inorganic growth strategy following a strategic investment from Crestline Investors, an $18 billion alternative investment manager, in July. Aside from driving its national expansion, Hefty said his firm would use the capital infusion to "accelerate investment in the business ... while maintaining our commitment to exceptional client service and to building a forever firm owned by our advisors."