Credent Wealth Management and Crestline Investors Partner for Strategic Growth and Independence
In a strategic move set to redefine its operational landscape, Credent Wealth Management, known officially as CX Institutional, LLC, has announced an expanded partnership with Crestline Investors, a prominent alternative investment management firm based in Fort Worth, Texas. Credent, which is a fee-only Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) headquartered in Auburn, Indiana, has made significant strides since its inception, amassing over $4 billion in assets under management (AUM). This latest investment aims to enhance Credent’s flexibility, allowing the firm to further its reach and maintain independence in an increasingly competitive market.
The details of the expanded partnership reveal a significant commitment from Crestline, which manages approximately $18 billion in credit assets. This capital infusion not only provides long-term support but also reinforces Credent’s core philosophy of operating with a client-first approach driven by advisor-led ownership. One of the firm’s objectives is to build a sustainable business that resonates with its values and caters to the financial well-being of hardworking Americans.
David Hefty, CEO of Credent Wealth Management, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, "This partnership strengthens our ability to do what we do best serve hardworking Americans who earn more than they spend and value advice rooted in transparency and trust." This sentiment underscores Credent's commitment to fostering a culture of integrity and humility, aiming to set a precedent in the wealth management industry. The partnership is designed to allow Credent to grow organically and on its own terms while enhancing the overall client experience.
The firm has shown strong growth potential since establishing its relationship with Crestline last year, integrating several new partner firms and expanding its advisor network across the nation. The investment from Crestline will further support strategic initiatives such as expanding the Credent Advisor Solutions (CAS) platform, which offers independent advisors a turnkey asset management program (TAMP). This platform is a foundation for providing shared services and comprehensive investment infrastructure that empowers advisors.
Additionally, the partnership will enhance the onboarding experience for both current and new advisors joining Credent’s expanding network. This focus on human capital and technological advancements ensures that the firm remains future-ready and capable of scaling sustainably. Part of this strategic planning includes offering liquidity options for retiring advisors within Credent's innovative succession framework, allowing them to exit their roles smoothly while preserving the firm's culture and values.
Albert Hicks, Director at Crestline Investors, noted the operational excellence exhibited by Credent, reinforcing their commitment to disciplined execution in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. "Credent continues to demonstrate operational excellence and disciplined execution in a rapidly evolving industry. We are proud to deepen our partnership with a firm that we believe is well-positioned to support advisors in their mission, offering transparent economics, independence, and a clear path to ownership and succession," he said.
As this partnership progresses, firms interested in exploring opportunities with Credent are welcomed to discover the advantages of joining its growing network through the website JoinCredentWealth.com.
About Credent Wealth Management: Established in 2018, Credent has rapidly grown through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions tailored for independent advisors desiring a cooperative transition while building their succession plans. The firm’s focus on client-centric wealth management strategies, devoid of commission structures, has made it a respected player in the industry. Recognized on multiple top industry lists since 2023, its growth trajectory showcases the strength of its innovative approaches in financial planning, ensuring that clients can maintain their lifestyle without financial stress.
About Crestline Investors: Founded in 1997, Crestline Investors is a global leader in alternative investment management with a diversified array of credit assets. The firm’s robust platform includes capital solutions, direct lending, and portfolio finance, showcasing its capabilities in delivering value-driven investment options. With offices in key global locations, Crestline continues to expand its impact across various markets.