The hive of M&A announcements in the wealth advisory space continues with strength in February, with two firms announcing major acquisitions with more than $6.5 billion in combined AUM.
Clearstead Advisors has moved to significantly expand its ultra-high-net-worth and family office capabilities with the acquisition of The Clarius Group, a deal that closed January 31, 2026 and adds approximately $5.1 billion in assets under management to the firm.
Clarius brings 36 professionals and a strong presence in the Pacific Northwest, strengthening Clearstead’s depth in complex wealth planning and multi-generational advisory services and means it now oversees roughly $55 billion in client assets with more than 300 employees across 13 offices nationwide.
Clarius co-founders Keith Vernon and Matthew Talbot have joined Clearstead as partners, citing a shared vision of maintaining a boutique client experience while benefiting from broader institutional resources.
“By joining Clearstead, we are broadening the resources available to our clients—particularly in areas such as tax compliance, trust services, and alternative investments—while preserving the culture and approach that have always defined our firm,” said Talbot.
Meanwhile, Arax Investment Partners announced its own strategic acquisition, bringing Cleveland-based GFP Private Wealth onto its Arax Advisory Partners platform. GFP manages approximately $1.5 billion in assets and has served affluent families and institutions since 1978.
Founded as Ohio’s first fully woman-owned advisory firm by Sally Gries, GFP has built a reputation around independent advice and long-term client relationships. The firm’s integration into Arax is intended to support its next phase of growth while preserving its culture and client focus.
Arax CEO Haig Ariyan said GFP’s history and values align closely with Arax’s strategy of partnering with established advisory firms that emphasize advanced planning and investment rigor.
Together, the two transactions highlight ongoing consolidation in the RIA industry, with acquirers prioritizing scale, geographic reach and specialized capabilities such as family office services.
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