Waverly Advisors Expands Maryland Footprint with WealthPlans Acquisition
Event summary
- Waverly Advisors acquires WealthPlans and Cooley & Associates, adding $250M in AUM as of May 26, 2026.
- Transaction marks Waverly’s 33rd acquisition since December 2021 equity investment from WPCG and HGGC.
- Deal closed on May 29, 2026, bringing Waverly’s total AUM to $35.5B.
- Brent Cooley and three team members join Waverly, expanding its Maryland presence.
The big picture
Waverly’s acquisition of WealthPlans and Cooley & Associates underscores the ongoing consolidation in the RIA space, particularly among firms targeting high-net-worth individuals. The deal reflects Waverly’s strategy of leveraging equity investments to fuel rapid growth, now managing $35.5B in AUM across 51 U.S. offices. This expansion into Maryland’s DC Metro area positions Waverly to compete more aggressively in a region with significant wealth management demand.
What we're watching
- Integration Challenges
- How Waverly will assimilate Cooley & Associates’ tax and accounting services into its existing platform.
- Geographic Expansion
- Whether this acquisition signals further focus on the DC Metro area for Waverly.
- M&A Momentum
- The pace at which Waverly continues its acquisition spree under WPCG and HGGC’s investment.
Related topics