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Beyond AUM Named a Finalist in ThinkAdvisor's 2026 Luminaries Awards

Beyond AUM, a comprehensive marketing and advisory firm dedicated to the financial services sector, recently earned recognition as a finalist in the prestigious ThinkAdvisor 2026 Luminaries Awards. This accolade specifically highlights their unique sell-side RIA matchmaking services and their innovative Concierge Succession Planning approach.

Established to acknowledge significant contributions to the financial services landscape, the Luminaries Awards now enter their sixth year. Beyond AUM's previous success in 2021, when they received the Thought Leadership award, exemplifies their commitment to excellence within the industry.

Focused on More Than Just Transactions

"We are thrilled to receive this esteemed acknowledgment and to be recognized alongside esteemed industry peers," said Gretchen Halpin, co-founder of Beyond AUM. "Our approach centers on more than the transaction itself; it emphasizes a holistic vision for buyer evaluation, cultural synergy, and ongoing operational integration that persists long after any deal has concluded."

Unlike many firms that often conclude their involvement once the sale is finalized, Beyond AUM extends its support beyond the closing table. Their methodology incorporates essential elements of the M&A process—including discovery meetings, due diligence, and offer negotiation—while also prioritizing client communications, maintaining digital continuity, and ensuring staff retention.

A Proven Track Record

This innovative model derives from Beyond AUM's inaugural advisory experience, where they guided long-time client Kimberly Foss through the successful sale of her firm to Mercer Advisors. What started as a singular request evolved into a dedicated service line that emphasizes the importance of advanced planning years before a transaction is even on the horizon.

Beyond AUM invests an average of four to five years in nurturing relationships with RIAs before owners contemplate an exit. This dedication fosters a deep institutional understanding, which is often lacking in traditional brokerage practices. Their fee structure cleverly aligns with client success; rather than just charging for closing a deal, they combine a retainer with a success fee that hinges on optimal transaction outcomes. This has significantly benefitted sellers, allowing them to retain up to 5.5% more value at exit compared to conventional models.

A recent application of this philosophy was showcased in 2025, when Beyond AUM supported The Humphreys Group during its acquisition by Treehouse Wealth Advisors. This relationship not only encompassed strategic advisement throughout but also included a comprehensive one-year integration roadmap. Such care ensured that critical elements, like the seller's digital presence, were safeguarded during the acquisition phase, preserving their SEO and AIO value through the transition.

To date, Beyond AUM has successfully facilitated seven M&A engagements, further demonstrating their prowess and commitment to their clients. Their most recent accomplishment involved the acquisition of Financial Connections Group by Apella Wealth in 2026.

About Beyond AUM

Beyond AUM stands out as a full-service agency, providing a range of marketing, growth, technology, and digital solutions aimed at transforming financial services firms across the United States. Their clientele includes RIAs, wealth managers, financial planners, TAMPs, WealthTech providers, and broker-dealers, all benefiting from their unparalleled expertise and dedicated service.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Gretchen Halpin, Co-Founder
Beyond AUM
Phone: 800-583-2315
Email: [email protected]
Website: Beyond AUM