Cetera Expands RIA Platform with $1.9B Darnall Sikes Acquisition
Event summary
- Cetera Financial Group acquired Darnall Sikes Wealth Partners, adding $1.9B in AUM to its RIA platform.
- The deal strengthens Cetera's RIA & Branches channel, launched in June 2025.
- Darnall Sikes & Frederick, an affiliated CPA firm, maintains independence but enters a strategic partnership with Cetera.
- The acquisition builds on an existing affiliation between Darnall Sikes and Avantax, a Cetera community.
The big picture
Cetera's acquisition of Darnall Sikes Wealth Partners underscores the ongoing consolidation in the RIA space, as larger platforms seek to attract independent advisors with scalable infrastructure and succession solutions. With approximately $625B in assets under administration, Cetera is positioning itself as a 'forever home' for advisors looking to grow or transition their practices. The deal also highlights the strategic importance of tax-intelligent wealth management solutions in attracting high-net-worth clients.
What we're watching
- RIA Consolidation
- How Cetera's acquisition strategy will impact its position in the RIA space.
- Integration Success
- Whether Cetera can successfully integrate Darnall Sikes' team and clients into its network.
- Growth Trajectory
- The pace at which Cetera can expand its RIA & Branches channel following this acquisition.
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