EP Wealth Buys $1.2B California Group

EP Wealth Advisors announced Thursday the acquisition of Wacker Wealth Partners, a $1.2 billion wealth management firm located in San Luis Obispo, California.

The acquisition brings 22 employees to EP Wealth Advisors, which manages more than $22.3 billion in assets as of the end of February.

According to the announcement, Wacker Wealth Partners has been in business for 35 years, and its advisors seek to serve clients as trusted fiduciaries that can help them set and achieve long-term financial goals. The firm serves clients in San Luis Obispo and other areas in the Golden State.

Ryan Parker, CEO of EP Wealth, said EP selected Wacker Wealth Partners as an acquisition target because of its commitment to client service “above all other goals.” He also cited the firm’s growth potential and its involvement in community organizations throughout the central California coast.

“Expanding our presence in this important market was a factor in partnering, but it is the way Wacker shows up for their clients, team members and others that sets them apart,” Parker said.

After the acquisition, Wacker CEO and wealth advisor Ryan Caldwell will become EP’s regional director for central California, while the firm’s president and chief operating officer Bryan Krill will become an associate regional director.

Caldwell said his firm looks forward to partnering with EP and continuing to serve the central California region with the same focus and commitment its had for decades — while gaining key support and technology capabilities commensurate with joining a national RIA.

The Wacker partnership marks the second acquisition for EP Wealth in 2024 and its 31st since taking a minority investment from Wealth Partners Capital Group in July 2017.

Pictured: Ryan Parker