A trio of moves in the East Coast adds to the already frenzied pace of activity in the independent advisory space, with two new RIA launches and one strategic acquisition aimed at broadening services for high-net-worth clients.
In Westport, Connecticut, Third View Private Wealth announced it has officially opened its doors. The firm was founded by three longtime advisors – Jerry Sneed, Frank McKiernan, and Zoltan Pongracz – who together previously oversaw around $1 billion in client assets as of March 31 at their former firm.
Sneed and McKiernan joined Procyon Partners, a Dynasty Financial network firm, in 2023 from Baker Tilly Wealth Management. Pongracz's affiliation with Procyon began earlier in 2021, when he made the move from Barnum Financial Group.
The Third View team, which includes professionals the three have worked with for more than a decade, focuses on serving affluent families with private wealth management, tax strategy, estate planning, and philanthropic guidance.
“Our name reflects our purpose. To provide clients with a deeper, more thoughtful perspective that helps them navigate life’s financial decisions with clarity and confidence,” Sneed, co-founder and managing partner, said in a statement.
Pongracz added that the firm is designed to resemble a multi-family office structure, prioritizing continuity across generations.
From left: Jerry Sneed, Zoltan Pongracz, and Frank McKiernan, co-founders and managing partners at Third View.
Sandro Wealth Management, another new entrant headquartered in New York, is being launched by Garrett D'Alessandro, the former CEO of Rochdale Investment Management. The firm aims to partner with what it describes as “elite” advisors focused on serving the top tier of wealthy individuals.
Advisors working with Sandro will be able to offer private clients a suite of services including investment management through its "Total Portfolio Approach," private market strategies, and advanced estate planning.
“Our leadership team has partnered with elite advisors on investment management for over twenty years,” D’Alessandro, who is also CEO and co-chief investment officer, said in the official launch announcement. “We’ve created a new business model that brings together multiple services required to deliver private banking clients what they expect, to achieve their goals.”
Meanwhile, Financial Trust Asset Management, based in Boca Raton, Florida, has announced its acquisition of Lakewood Ranch-based Hueston Financial Services. Hueston will continue operating under its existing name as a division of the acquiring firm.
Executives from both firms said the deal enhances their ability to provide client-first service, while expanding capabilities in research, planning, and portfolio management.
From left: Greg Vigrass, president and CEO of FTAM, and Stephen Hueston, founder and CEO of Hueston Financial Services
“This acquisition isn't just about growth; it's about strengthening our commitment to client-centered financial guidance,” said Greg Vigrass, president and CEO of Financial Trust.
"This merger represents a natural evolution for both organizations, and creates a more powerful service offering for our clients," and Stephen Hueston, founder and CEO of Hueston Financial Services.
Clients of the combined firm will gain access to broader investment insights, a larger advisory team, and more streamlined service delivery.
Elsewhere in Utah, Raymond James also welcomed another experienced advisor from D.A. Davidson.
A federal appeals court says UBS can’t force arbitration in a trustee lawsuit over alleged fiduciary breaches involving millions in charitable assets.
NorthRock Partners' second deal of 2025 expands its Bay Area presence with a planning practice for tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners.
Rather than big projects and ambitious revamps, a few small but consequential tweaks could make all the difference while still leaving time for well-deserved days off.
Hadley, whose time at Goldman included working with newly appointed CEO Larry Restieri, will lead the firm's efforts at advisor engagement, growth initiatives, and practice management support.
Orion's Tom Wilson on delivering coordinated, high-touch service in a world where returns alone no longer set you apart.
Barely a decade old, registered index-linked annuities have quickly surged in popularity, thanks to their unique blend of protection and growth potential—an appealing option for investors looking to chart a steadier course through today's choppy market waters, says Myles Lambert, Brighthouse Financial.
