A wealth industry veteran in California recognized frequently as a best-in-state woman advisor is venturing forth with her own independent firm.
Kara S. Boccella, a seasoned financial professional who consistently appears on Forbes' Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In-State List, has announced the launch of Serenus Wealth Advisors.
With a 15-year record in the industry, including a decade at Certuity, Boccella started the new national wealth management firm with Devon M. Galindo, a wealth advisor with over fifteen years of experience.
Together with their team based in Santa Monica, California, they aim to deliver comprehensive wealth management services to their clientele of high-net-worth individuals, including legal professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs.
The firm takes a holistic planning approach, offering investment solutions along with advice on insurance, risk management, retirement, tax, and estate planning. Operating as a partner-owned, independent entity, the team consists of fee-only fiduciaries that promise to provide conflict-free advice.
"Our top priority is serving as our clients' trusted partner," Boccella, the firm’s founder and managing partner, said in a statement Tuesday. "They are the reason why I am dedicated to continuing this journey, now with a renewed focus and passion entirely centered on delivering their financial clarity and well-being for today and tomorrow."
Joining Boccella and Galindo are Rebecca K. Tipp and Laura E. Lemoine, who will serve as directors, and Lonny Elfenbein, who will be the chief compliance officer. The team, previously part of Certuity's Santa Monica office, has a combined history of managing $1.2 billion in assets.
"Having worked alongside Kara for over 15 years, I deeply share her commitment to meeting every client's needs through a personalized approach," said Galindo, partner at Serenus Wealth Advisors. "Our team's history – having worked together now for more than a decade – and our client-focused dedication reflect our core values."
With sophisticated and comprehensive solutions, Serenus Wealth Advisors emphasizes a client-centered philosophy. The firm aims to guide clients toward financial tranquility, as shown by its logo symbolizing water, by helping them navigate financial complexities and achieve their goals.
"For over 30 years, it has been my privilege and honor to serve clients with a hyper focus on ensuring their financial peace of mind throughout their lifetimes," Boccella said.
From outstanding individuals to innovative organizations, find out who made the final shortlist for top honors at the IN awards, now in its second year.
Cresset's Susie Cranston is expecting an economic recession, but says her $65 billion RIA sees "great opportunity" to keep investing in a down market.
“There’s a big pull to alternative investments right now because of volatility of the stock market,” Kevin Gannon, CEO of Robert A. Stanger & Co., said.
Sellers shift focus: It's not about succession anymore.
Platform being adopted by independent-minded advisors who see insurance as a core pillar of their business.
RIAs face rising regulatory pressure in 2025. Forward-looking firms are responding with embedded technology, not more paperwork.
As inheritances are set to reshape client portfolios and next-gen heirs demand digital-first experiences, firms are retooling their wealth tech stacks and succession models in real time.
