#United States #Wealth Management #Cetera Financial #Retirement Planning Group #Binghamton, San Ramon, Seattle

The Retirement Planning Group Expands with Strategic Acquisitions in 2025

In an impressive move that signals its commitment to growth and innovation, The Retirement Planning Group (TRPG), part of Cetera Financial Group, has successfully closed three acquisitions in the first quarter of 2025. This strategic initiative not only strengthens TRPG's market positioning but also enhances its operational capabilities across several key states, further solidifying its footprint in the financial advisory sector.

A Flourishing Expansion into New Territories

With these recent acquisitions, TRPG has extended its reach into New York, California, and Washington state, adding approximately $180 million in assets, as reported by the company on April 30, 2025. This expansion is particularly significant for TRPG, an employee-based Registered Investment Adviser (RIA), as it reflects the firm’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional service and financial guidance to its clients throughout the United States.

The acquisitions include:

• - Hawkes Wealth Management: Founded in 1981 by Peyton R. Hawkes' father, this firm has been a cornerstone in Binghamton, NY. Peyton has been influential in its growth since joining in 1987, ensuring a legacy of client-centric service.
• - Wealtheon Advisors: Headquartered in San Ramon, CA, this advisory practice led by the husband-wife duo Jay and Valli Doraiswami is known for its dedication to flexibility and client engagement. The couple sought TRPG's support to transition their practice while maintaining close relationships with their clients.
• - Financial Research, Inc.: Based in Seattle and led by Jay Cowles, this firm is transitioning its book of business to current TRPG professionals who will collaborate actively to enhance client services.

Insights from TRPG Leadership

Kevin Conard, CEO of TRPG, shared insights regarding this growth, stating, "We continue to experience strong interest from independent, client-centric financial advisors seeking to spend more time with their clients and less time running their business. Our latest acquisitions are examples of established wealth management professionals making a change for the benefit of their clients and their business by joining TRPG."

This sentiment underscores a prevailing trend in the industry where financial advisors are increasingly looking for more comprehensive support and resources to thrive in a competitive landscape.

TRPG's Major Milestones

Since its acquisition by Cetera Holdings in May 2023, TRPG has emerged as one of the fastest-growing firms in the Kansas City area, boasting over 2,000 clients and more than $2.63 billion in assets under management. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of wealth management services tailored to meet diverse client needs, from retirement planning to tax preparation.

A Vision for the Future

Cetera Financial Group, with its network of independent retail firms, continues to facilitate growth opportunities for financial professionals through innovative solutions. The company oversees an extensive total of approximately $545 billion in assets under administration and $235 billion in assets under management as of September 30, 2024. TRPG's ongoing success and strategic acquisitions are indicative of the firm’s commitment to navigating the complexities of wealth management in today's evolving financial landscape.

To learn more about TRPG and its wide array of services, or for independent financial advisors interested in exploring a partnership with TRPG, visit Cetera's official website.