Private equity

RIAs

What’s fueling the M&A frenzy?

Factors driving the dizzying pace of deals are revealed at Schwab’s Impact conference.

By Charles Paikert

November 8

Rush Benton and David DeVoe at Schwab Impact 1119.jpg

Where HighTower is headed: Lightning Round with CEO Bob Oros

A liquidity event for the $50 billion RIA is inevitable, according to the chief executive.

Sponsored by SSGA

RIAs

Another record-breaking year for RIA M&A? Q4 will decide.

Several major deals have accelerated buying momentum.

By Charles Paikert

October 1

RIAs

Mercer Advisors sale: Private equity’s big bet on RIAs just got bigger

A New York PE firm makes a “significant” investment in the $16.5 billion consolidator.

By Charles Paikert

September 17

FA Insight

What’s changed in the RIA M&A market

Interest in acquiring advisory firms appears to be at an all-time high.

By Charles Paikert

September 9

RIAs

Acquisitions fuel Focus Financial’s growth, but debt questions loom

The RIA holding company reports a 30% rise in revenues and 30 M&A deals.

By Charles Paikert

August 8

Focus Financial's revenues through Q2 '19

Asset managers

Jefferies backs firm led by ex-Blackstone, Carlyle directors

The partnership aims to provide exposure to areas such as middle-market private equity, real estate and infrastructure.

April 23

Stonyrock’s launch will “address a growing market opportunity,” Jefferies CEO Rich Handler said in a joint statement with President Brian Friedman.

RIAs

Who will buy United Capital and why?

The large aggregator faces questions about its future.

By Charles Paikert

April 22

Asset managers

Blackstone to become corporation as assets top $500B

The change will boost the firm’s “ability to reach a dramatically larger audience,” said CEO Stephen Schwarzman.

April 18

Changing the company’s structure will increase the firm’s “ability to reach a dramatically larger audience,” said Blackstone CEO Stephen Schwarzman.

Asset management

Voices: BlackRock doesn’t need to roll like a Blackstone

Part of the risk in any pivot to private equity is whether it would be essentially pawning what has been until recently a diamond of a business model.

April 3