Focus Financial Partners Inc. has entered into an acquisition agreement where its partner firm Connectus Wealth Advisers will acquire Watterson Financial Planning Ltd,, a U.K.-based independent financial planning outfit, the company announced today.
The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter, subject to customary closing conditions.
Located in Knutsford, Cheshire, Watterson Financial Planning provides investment management and holistic financial planning that includes retirement, inheritance, and tax and insurance planning to wealthy individuals and corporate clients throughout the U.K. The news release announcing the deal noted that its goals-based approach to wealth management has helped create a long-standing and loyal client base under a recognizable brand in the U.K. market.
Craig Watterson, director of Watterson Financial Planning, said they are pleased to be joining Connectus. “The partnership will enable us to maintain our highly personalized client service model while providing access to the resources and expertise necessary to enhance our existing client experience and ensure continuity for both our clients and employees,” he said in a statement. “Connectus will provide the reach and scale of a global partnership without compromising the boutique nature of our firm.”
Connectus, which also has offices in New York City and Austraila, is designed for founders and teams who want to continue managing their client relationships and maintaining their boutique cultures while gaining the operational efficiencies of shared services, the news release said. As a consortium, it offers integrated technology, investment support and centralized services, including compliance, accounting and talent management.
Headquartered in New York City, Focus Financial Partners is a partnership of independent, fiduciary wealth management firms.