Hub International has expanded in South Florida with the acquisition of the two component firms of BLS Wealth Management.
Hub has acquired the assets of Bienenfeld Lasek & Starr and BLS Wealth Management, which together operate a full-service firm from their Fort Lauderdale offices, providing wealth management, insurance planning, employee benefits, and employer sponsored retirement plan services.
BLS managing partner Howard Bienenfeld will join Hub South Florida, together with partners Carol Lasek, Mitch Starr, and the BLS Wealth Management team.
“We see longevity and growth for our firm by joining Hub,” Bienenfeld said. “We are excited to expand our network and resources, providing commercial P&C and personal insurance for the benefit of our clients.”
For Hub International, it means additional capabilities for its wealth and retirement practice, which works with plan sponsors through RIA affiliates, providing investment advisory services to clients whose total assets are approximately $148 billion.
The firm recently published a report warning that high-net-worth individuals and families across North America are leaving themselves at risk by not taking some simple steps to protect their possessions, personal information, and reputation.
“Mitch, Howard and Carol have built an excellent client-centric firm that is a great addition to our team in South Florida,” said Joe DeNoyior, president of retirement and private wealth at Hub. “Their passion to serve clients is evident in each and every team member, and we are excited to bring their expertise to Hub. BLS Wealth Management provides a solid foundation as we continue to expand in the region.”
Hub made several acquisitions towards the end of 2023, including retirement consulting firm Renaissance Benefit Advisors Group.
A private partnership, Edward Jones is a giant in the retail brokerage industry with more than 20,000 financial advisors.
Meanwhile, Raymond James and Tritonpoint Partners separately welcomed father-son teams, including a breakaway from UBS in Missouri.
Paul Atkins has asked staff to solicit public comment on novel ETFs, pausing the clock on as many as 24 filings linked to the booming event contracts market.
From 401(k)s to retail funds, Deloitte sees private equity and credit crossing into mainstream investing on two fronts at once.
Big-name defections from Morgan Stanley, UBS, and Merrill Lynch headline a busy two weeks of recruiting for the wirehouse.
Wellington explores how multi strategy hedge funds may enhance diversification
As technical expertise becomes increasingly commoditized, advisors who can integrate strategy, relationships, and specialized expertise into a cohesive client experience will define the next era of wealth management