Creative Planning pushes M&A momentum with $660M Seattle RIA acquisition

Creative Planning has agreed to acquire Seattle-based registered investment advisor Duncan & Haley, bringing roughly $660 million in client assets onto its platform as the firm continues an active expansion strategy.

The Overland Park, Kansas-based wealth manager said the transaction will enhance its ability to provide coordinated financial planning and investment services while extending its footprint among retirement plan sponsors and affluent households.

“Duncan & Haley has long shared our belief that integrating financial services into a personalized and coordinated strategy delivers the best results for our clients,” said Creative Planning president and CEO Peter Mallouk. “Together, we can deliver even greater value and insight for our clients’ long-term financial goals. We're excited to have them as part of the Creative Planning team.”

Established nearly 30 years ago, Duncan & Haley offers a range of advisory services including portfolio management, tax planning, retirement readiness, estate strategies and trust support. The firm also advises employer-sponsored retirement plans on governance, investment oversight and participant education.

The acquisition represents Creative Planning’s second deal of 2026, following its first international acquisition in January when it acquired Baseline Wealth Management, a Swiss RIA with offices in Geneva and Zurich managing more than $1 billion in assets. 

For Duncan & Haley leadership, the decision to join a larger organisation reflects the rising complexity of client financial needs and the demand for broader expertise.

“We’re proud to join Creative Planning,” said Duncan & Haley founder and president John Haley. “As the complexity of financial planning continues to grow, clients increasingly benefit from a broader range of expertise — particularly in areas like tax strategy, estate planning and retirement plan governance.”

He added that access to a wider platform will allow the firm to preserve its client-centric advisory model while deepening the scope of services available.

Creative Planning oversees about $700 billion in assets under management or advisement and has expanded significantly through a combination of organic growth and acquisitions aimed at strengthening capabilities across the full wealth management lifecycle.