Cetera Expands Reach with Veteran Financial Advisor Michael Zawatsky and Team

Cetera Welcomes Michael Zawatsky and Oasis Asset Management

Cetera Financial Group, a prominent name in the financial advisory space, has made a significant move by welcoming the experienced financial advisor Michael Zawatsky and his dedicated team from Oasis Asset Management Group. This transition marks a noteworthy shift for Zawatsky and his team, who bring with them approximately $600 million in assets under management (AUA).

A Strategic Move for Growth

Situated near Cleveland, Ohio, the Oasis Asset Management team is composed of veteran financial advisors who have collaborated for over three decades. Their notable journey from B. Riley Wealth Advisors, Inc. to Cetera's unique community, Summit Financial Networks, reflects a desire for more robust resources and a shared commitment to delivering exceptional client services.

Zawatsky expressed that his approach to client relations leans heavily towards a personalized service philosophy, referring to their clients as 'friends' rather than the conventional 'clients.' This ideology underscores the importance of relationships in their practice, prompting the search for a firm that aligns with this ethos. Cetera, with its well-established structure and intimate community feel, stood out as the perfect fit.

The Decision-Making Process

The decision for Zawatsky's team to join Cetera was significantly influenced by a Home Office Visit (HOV) to Summit in Boca Raton, Florida. This experience allowed the team to gauge the essence of the firm firsthand. Zawatsky highlighted that the face-to-face meeting provided insights that were pivotal in their decision-making process. He noted that even minor details during their interaction demonstrated how different Cetera and Summit are from their competitors.

Moreover, a conversation with a Summit advisor solidified Zawatsky's confidence in the commitment and transparency of the firm. The advisor's assurance of receiving '110%' from Summit's promises aligns with Zawatsky's expectations, proving beneficial since their integration.

Commitment to All Clients

One of the core values for Zawatsky and his team is the belief in equal treatment for all clients, irrespective of their wealth. They operate under the guiding principle that every client deserves the same high-level service, whether they are investing $50,000 or $50 million. Zawatsky remarked on the supportive nature of both Cetera and Summit regarding this philosophy, demonstrating their shared commitment to exceptional service and mutual respect.

In welcoming Zawatsky and the Oasis Asset Management team, Tom Halloran, the Cetera Advisor Channel Leader, emphasized the team's unwavering dedication to client service. He stated that their commitment to growth and the equitable treatment of clients showcases their strong character, reinforcing the pride Cetera takes in having their team as part of the Summit and Cetera family.

The Future Ahead

As of now, Cetera Financial Group stands as a pivotal player in the financial advisory market, with about $590 billion in assets under administration and $263 billion in assets under management, as of June 30, 2025. Their multi-channel ecosystem fosters an environment where independent advisors can thrive and adapt according to their unique needs.

The integration of Zawatsky's expertise and his team's experience not only enhances Cetera's advisory capability but also reinforces its mission to empower independent advisors with personalized support and overarching growth solutions.

For those interested in learning more about Cetera and its mission, further information can be found on their website or through their various social media channels, including LinkedIn and Facebook.