$3.7 Billion Q2 Advisor Recruitment Pushes Steward Partners' National Expansion
Event summary
- $3.7 billion in client assets added via six advisor teams joining Steward Partners in Q2 2026.
- Teams came from wirehouses, regional banks, and independent RIAs across diverse geographies.
- Largest addition: Zelniker Dorfman Private Wealth with $2.4 billion in AUM.
- Steward Partners' total AUM reached over $50 billion as of June 2026.
The big picture
Steward Partners' Q2 2026 recruitment surge underscores its position as a top destination for advisors seeking independence with infrastructure support. The firm's ability to attract teams from wirehouses, banks, and independent RIAs highlights its flexible affiliation models. With over $50 billion in AUM and a strong pipeline of M&A opportunities, Steward Partners is well-positioned to capitalize on the industry trend of advisors breaking away from traditional firms.
What we're watching
- Diversified Recruitment Strategy
- Whether Steward Partners can sustain its ability to attract advisors from varied backgrounds and firm structures.
- National Expansion Pace
- The pace at which the firm will expand its footprint in existing and emerging markets through its deep pipeline of advisor teams and M&A opportunities.
- Competitive Differentiation
- How Steward Partners' operational depth, modern technology, and succession planning capabilities will continue to differentiate it in a competitive landscape.