MAI Capital Management acquires $562M firm in New Jersey

MAI Capital Management acquires $562M firm in New Jersey
MAR 05, 2024

MAI Capital Management has made its fourth acquisition of 2024 so far and its 36th since 2018, pushing the national RIA firm’s AUM to more than $21 billion.

LWS Wealth Advisors, which offers comprehensive financial planning, asset management, and family office services, had $562 million in assets under management at the time of the deal last Friday and will adopt the MAI name and branding. Lance Lipset, founder and managing principal of LWS, will assume the title of regional president at MAI. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“Since starting our business in 2012, we’ve had a singular focus on being a comprehensive partner to our clients,” Lipset said in a statement. “As LWS continues to grow, our decision to join MAI – an organization that shares our values – allows our team to double down on bespoke client service, tap into MAI’s back-end capabilities, and expand our offerings in areas such as alternative investments.”

MAI’s previous acquisitions this year include a $549 million ‘household name’ on the West Coast and a $1.4 billion AUM firm with offices in Ohio and Virginia. LWS is headquartered in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.

“For more than a decade, LWS has provided personalized solutions to clients covering all aspects of their financial lives,” said Rick Buoncore, managing partner at MAI. “Their exceptional service has led to tremendous growth, and we are thrilled that they are joining the MAI family.”

Latest News

Advisor moves: Nebraska RIA crosses $1 billion after absorbing ex-RBC team
Advisor moves: Nebraska RIA crosses $1 billion after absorbing ex-RBC team

Meanwhile, Raymond James snags Edward Jones advisor in Arizona.

Workers want financial help from employers and they're ready to walk if they don't get it
Workers want financial help from employers and they're ready to walk if they don't get it

New Morgan Stanley research shows retirement planning is a key area where advice is required.

SEC kills 'gag rule' that silenced thousands of settling defendants for over 50 years
SEC kills 'gag rule' that silenced thousands of settling defendants for over 50 years

ASA reacts as regulator drops no-deny policy, freeing firms and individuals to publicly dispute allegations after reaching settlements.

Washington state regulators claim advisor was running Ponzi-like fund
Washington state regulators claim advisor was running Ponzi-like fund

Joel Frank allegedly sold more than $39 million worth of investments in the Equilus Funds to more than 90 investors.

Bipartisan bill aims to take down 401(k) charitable giving hurdle
Bipartisan bill aims to take down 401(k) charitable giving hurdle

The Charity Parity Act would eliminate a costly IRA rollover requirement that blocks direct charitable transfers from workplace retirement plans.

SPONSORED Beyond wealth management: Why the future of advice is becoming more human

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

SPONSORED Durability over scale: What actually defines a great advisory firm

Growth may get the headlines, but in my experience, longevity is earned through structure, culture, and discipline