EP Wealth snaps up $1.2B California practice

From left to right: Wacker Wealth Partners' Bryan Krill and Ryan Caldwell, and EP Wealth CEO Ryan Parker

The RIA's acquisition of Wacker Wealth Partners, its second deal this year, bolsters its presence in the state’s Central Coast region.

RIA EP Wealth Advisors has broadened its footprint in California with the acquisition of Wacker Wealth Partners. This not only extends EP Wealth’s reach into the state’s Central Coast region but also augments its assets under management by nearly $1.2 billion.

Based in San Luis Obispo, Wacker Wealth Partners has been a steadfast fiduciary for its diverse clients over 35 years, committed to assisting them in achieving their long-term financial goals.

The firm is recognized for its deep-rooted client relationships and understanding of client priorities, which EP Wealth sees as a natural fit for its own client-centered approach.

“The Wacker team places client service above all other goals, which is just one of the many attributes we share,” Ryan Parker, CEO of EP Wealth Advisors, said in a statement.

Parker also emphasized Wacker’s strong community ties and its proactive involvement in various Central Coast organizations.

Following the acquisition, Ryan Caldwell, CEO and wealth advisor at Wacker, will join EP as regional director for Central California. Meanwhile, Bryan Krill, president and COO at Wacker, will become associate regional director.

The merger will see a total of 22 Wacker staff members joining the EP Wealth team.

“Partnering with EP allows us to continue serving this growing area with the same focus and commitment we have for decades,” said Caldwell, who has been an investment advisor at Wacker for 15 years, according to his record with the SEC.

With EP’s deep roster of specialists in planning, investment, technology, and compliance, Caldwell expects that his practice will be able to build on its significant growth while maintaining the local boutique feel its clients have come to know and trust.

“Having the capabilities of a firm of this size will give our advisors and staff more tools and support as we continue to grow,” he said.

This partnership Marks EP Wealth’s second acquisition in 2024 and its 31st since receiving a minority investment from Wealth Partners Capital Group in July 2017.

At last count, the RIA’s footprint across the US includes $21.4 billion in assets across 13,000 households.