Merit Financial Advisors Expands Its Reach with Pradel Financial Group Acquisition

ATLANTA, May 5, 2026 – In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the Pacific Northwest, Merit Financial Advisors, a Georgia-based firm focusing on wealth management and financial planning, announced today its acquisition of the Seattle-based Pradel Financial Group. This acquisition is a significant step for Merit as it looks to further expand its services to high-net-worth individuals and families.

Pradel Financial Group, founded over two decades ago by experienced advisor Paul Pradel, currently manages approximately $420 million in assets across nearly 110 client households. Known for providing personalized financial services, the firm has developed a reputation for its high-touch approach, particularly in handling complex wealth scenarios and concentrated stock positions.

With this acquisition, Merit marks its 58th acquisition in its ongoing national expansion strategy, which prioritizes partnerships with quality advisory firms. This move not only enhances Merit’s capabilities in the financial advisory landscape but also deepens its roots in the competitive Pacific Northwest market.

Paul Pradel, the driving force behind Pradel Financial Group, finds himself drawn to Merit’s nurturing culture and growth orientation. “From the beginning, this decision was about finding the right long-term partner for our clients, Jessica and me,” Pradel stated. He emphasized the desire for a firm that would allow him to maintain a nimble and collaborative approach while expanding the services offered to clients.

Joining Pradel at Merit will be Jessica Moore, a long-time team member who will act as Client Relationship Manager. Together, they have built a practice grounded in trust, accessibility, and a familial atmosphere, which they plan to continue at Merit. “No one I spoke with was as focused on helping me grow as Merit,” Pradel added, highlighting the robust support the firm offers in terms of marketing, infrastructure, and strategic advisory resources that will allow them to dedicate more time to their clients.

Alex Hansen, Chief Advisor Success Officer at Merit, underscored the alignment between Pradel’s client-centric approach and Merit’s overarching vision. “Paul has built an incredibly thoughtful and differentiated practice centered on deep relationships and exceptional client service,” Hansen explained. The partnership not only enhances client service capabilities but also facilitates long-term succession planning, a pressing concern for independent advisors.

Pradel expressed optimism about the future, stating, “This move gives me a better answer for the long term, for my clients, my team, and my family.” His commitment to legacy extends beyond financial advising; he is deeply invested in fostering financial literacy. For seven years, he helped grow a financial literacy program at Michigan State University from a single class to a comprehensive campus-wide initiative while also establishing scholarships for student-athletes.

“Financial planning has the power to change lives, and I'm passionate about helping the next generation understand that,” Pradel noted. His passion reflects in both client interactions and his mentorship of students exploring careers in financial planning.

This acquisition signifies another advancement in Merit Financial Advisors' ambition to partner with distinguished advisors aiming for growth, scalability, and sustained alignment in their practices. Following the acquisition, Pradel Financial Group will rebrand itself as Merit Financial Advisors.

Finalized on April 24, 2026, the terms of the acquisition were not publicly disclosed.

About Merit Financial Advisors

Merit Financial Group, LLC operates under the name Merit Financial Advisors and is a leading national wealth management firm that accommodates both independent broker-dealer and RIA models. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Merit is committed to transforming the client experience, managing approximately $26 billion in assets. With over 55 offices nationwide, its mission is to enrich the lives of those it serves. For more information, please visit www.meritfinancialadvisors.com.

Investment advice is provided through Merit Financial Group, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.