EP Wealth Advisors has struck its fifth acquisition of 2026, partnering with Menlo Park, California-based Opes Wealth Management in a move that adds more than $900 million in assets under management and reinforces the firm's foothold in Northern California.
The California-headquartered RIA is bringing a team of eight Opes professionals into the fold, with founders Mark Duvall and Erin Whalen taking on Regional Director roles following the transition.
Opes was established in 2005 with an unusual dual focus, weaving together real estate and investment management expertise within a single practice.
Duvall's background in West Coast real estate development shaped that distinctive model, while Whalen later expanded the firm's financial planning and investment management capabilities. The team has also carved out a meaningful niche serving technology professionals at Apple and Google throughout the wider Silicon Valley corridor.
EP Wealth first entered Northern California in 2013 and the partnership extends that regional presence further.
"From the beginning, Opes has been built around the belief that clients are best served through integrated advice," said Duvall. "As we considered the next chapter for our firm, it was important to find a partner that shared that philosophy and commitment to putting clients first. EP Wealth offers the resources to enhance our business for the future."
Whalen echoed that sentiment. "Joining EP Wealth represents an exciting opportunity to build on the values that have defined Opes for decades," she said. "Together, we'll be able to offer even greater capabilities while preserving the personalized guidance and trusted relationships our clients have come to expect."
Kyle Miller, Chief M&A Partnership Officer at EP Wealth, pointed to alignment in values as a key driver of the deal. "Opes Wealth represents exactly the type of firm we are excited to partner with," he said. "Client-first, growth-oriented, and culturally aligned with EP. We have tremendous respect for what the team has built and are excited to provide additional resources, scale, and support as they continue to grow and serve clients at the highest level."
Chief executive Ryan Parker added: "Opes has built an outstanding reputation by helping clients navigate complex financial decisions with thoughtful, integrated advice. The team is committed to delivering comprehensive guidance and fostering enduring client relationships. We are excited to welcome the entire Opes team to EP Wealth as we continue to grow with firms that share our values and expand the ways we serve clients and their families."
EP Wealth manages more than $44.1 billion in assets across 67 offices in 23 states. The Torrance-based firm is backed by Berkshire Partners and Ares Management. Alaris Acquisitions advised Opes on the transaction. Financial terms were not disclosed.
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