Mattioli Woods and Kingswood Group have announced a merger agreement that will see them combine to create a single UK wealth management group, subject to regulatory approval.

The group will serve more than 25,000 core clients with £25bn in assets under administration and advice (AUAA) across over 40 offices with more than 200 advisers.

The firms said the announcement marked a significant milestone in their shared ambition to deepen client relationships, grow their talent base, and enhance their service and product offerings.

Aiming to bring enhanced capabilities across wealth planning, investment management, and client service, the merger was agreed as the firms felt strategically and culturally aligned.

An adviser academy will be introduced that is set to train 50 advisers a year, with the firms’ joint commitment to adviser development, innovation and service supporting a shared vision for sustainable growth.

Commenting on the announcement, Mattioli Woods CEO and founder, Ian Mattioli, said: “Our stated long-term ambition is to become a national wealth management firm with £60bn in assets and up to 300 advisers.

“Combining with Kingswood is a transformational moment and sees us accelerate our journey to achieve these goals. This deal brings together two highly complementary businesses with a shared commitment to putting clients first and delivering long-term value.

“We’ve admired Kingswood’s growth and reputation for some time. Together, we are creating a stronger, more dynamic business that is well-positioned for the future – for our clients and our people.”

Kingswood CEO, Peter Coleman, commented: “The combined business will accelerate our journey towards achieving our vision of having the scale to deliver a best-in-class wealth management service to our clients.

“This is supported by our market leading DFM and IBOSS brands. I am excited to combine with Mattioli Woods, who have a strong reputation of delivering broader services including group benefits and deep expertise in specialist pensions.”

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