Merit Financial Advisors Expands to Utah with Acquisition of RCM Investments

Merit Financial Advisors Expands into Utah

In a strategic maneuver to broaden its reach, Merit Financial Advisors, a renowned financial advisory firm based in Georgia, has officially announced the acquisition of RCM Investments. This milestone marks the establishment of Merit’s first office in the state of Utah, significantly enhancing its national footprint in the competitive financial services landscape.

The Acquisition Details

On June 3, 2025, Merit disclosed that the acquisition was not only a step towards geographical expansion but also a substantial financial boost. RCM Investments, located in American Fork, Utah, brought along an impressive portfolio, adding $281 million in assets to Merit’s holdings. This acquisition emphasizes Merit's commitment to providing tailored financial planning and wealth management services to high-net-worth clients, which aligns with RCM’s established reputation for excellence in these areas.

Tony Riggs, President and Chief Investment Officer of RCM, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, "Partnering with Merit allows us to align with a larger organization that shares our commitment to personalized service and long-term client success." This statement highlights the shared values and vision between the two firms.

RCM Investments Overview

RCM specializes in a comprehensive suite of wealth management services. Their offerings include investment management, retirement income planning, insurance analysis, as well as estate and tax planning, making them a well-rounded entity in the financial advisory sector. The firm is well-regarded for its trusted client relationships and dedicated focus on serving affluent clients in Utah, which bodes well for Merit’s ambitious growth strategies.

With this acquisition, the key figures at RCM, including Riggs and his partners, Craig Riggs, Cameron Foster, and James Houston, will join Merit as Wealth Managers and Partners. Their extensive experience is anticipated to drive organic growth opportunities within the region, leveraging the robust resources that Merit provides.

Background on Merit Financial Advisors

Merit Financial Advisors has been on an acquisition spree since a minority investment was made by Wealth Partners Capital Group in December 2020. This latest acquisition is Merit's thirty-seventh, following a series of strategic mergers including a recent acquisition of Safeguard Wealth Management, which added $597 million in assets and enhanced digital marketing capabilities. As of March 31, 2025, Merit manages approximately $15.96 billion in assets, a testament to its rapid growth and expanding market influence.

Tait Lane, Managing Principal and Partner at Merit, acknowledged RCM’s experienced team and strong client relationships as integral to their success in Utah, stating, "We were drawn to RCM's long-term vision—their principals have a 10+ year runway and a strong focus on service and organic growth." This aligns well with Merit's strategic goals of enhancing client service through superior resources and expertise.

Conclusion

With the finalized merger on May 30, 2025, and the integration of RCM Investments, Merit Financial Advisors is poised to have a significant impact on the wealth management landscape in Utah. As they embark on this new journey, both firms are committed to enriching the client experience while fostering long-lasting relationships built on trust and professionalism. This partnership reflects a consistent dedication to adapting and evolving in order to better serve clients' evolving needs in today's financial environment.