US-based wealth management firm Osaic Inc. has completed the acquisition of Veater Financial Group (VFG), a financial advisory firm overseeing approximately $1.1 billion in assets under advisement (AUA). The move marks a significant expansion of Osaic’s Empowered Independence Channel and highlights the ongoing consolidation trend in the wealth management industry.
With this transaction, Veater Financial Group has officially joined Osaic’s advisory network, further strengthening Osaic’s scale, geographic reach, and advisor support platform.
Deal at a Glance
- Transaction Value (AUA): $1.1 billion
- Deal Type: Strategic acquisition / affiliation
- Sector: Wealth Management & Financial Advisory
- Date Announced: December 18, 2025
Unlike a traditional merger, the deal follows a platform-based integration model, allowing Veater Financial Group to operate with greater independence while benefiting from Osaic’s infrastructure and resources.
About Osaic
Osaic Inc. is one of the leading wealth management and financial advisory platforms in the United States. Formerly known as Advisor Group, the company rebranded as Osaic as part of its long-term growth and modernization strategy.
- Supports more than 11,000 financial professionals
- Associated with over $700 billion in client assets
- Headquarters: Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
Osaic provides advisors with technology, compliance, operational support, and business development solutions, allowing them to focus on client relationships and long-term planning.
About Veater Financial Group
Veater Financial Group (VFG) is a well-established financial planning and wealth advisory firm based in California.
- Led by George Veater
- Manages approximately $1.1 billion in client assets
- Offices located in California, USA
The firm had an existing relationship with Osaic Wealth and has now fully transitioned into Osaic’s Empowered Independence Channel.
What Is the Empowered Independence Channel?
Osaic’s Empowered Independence Channel is designed for financial advisors who prefer:
- A W-2 employment structure
- Reduced operational and administrative burden
- Access to centralized compliance, technology, and back-office services
Under this model, advisors gain the stability of employment while retaining autonomy in client management and growth strategy.
Why This Acquisition Matters
1. Network Expansion
The addition of Veater Financial Group significantly boosts Osaic’s assets under advisement and strengthens its advisory footprint, particularly in the western United States.
2. Succession Planning
The deal offers long-term continuity for Veater Financial Group by providing structured succession planning and operational stability.
3. Operational Efficiency
Osaic’s scalable infrastructure enables Veater Financial Group to streamline compliance, reporting, and administrative functions.
4. Competitive Positioning
The acquisition enhances Osaic’s competitive standing against major industry players such as LPL Financial, Ameriprise Financial, and Raymond James.
Impact on the Wealth Management Industry
Industry experts view this transaction as another sign of accelerating consolidation within the wealth advisory sector.
Key trends highlighted by the deal include:
- Growing preference for large advisory platforms
- Increased focus on technology-driven service delivery
- Advisors seeking stability, scale, and regulatory support
As margins tighten and regulatory complexity increases, platform-based models like Osaic’s are becoming increasingly attractive.
Benefits for Clients and Advisors
Following the integration, clients and advisors are expected to benefit from:
- Enhanced digital tools and reporting systems
- Stronger compliance and risk management
- Improved service efficiency
- Long-term business stability and growth support
What Lies Ahead
Osaic has indicated that strategic acquisitions will remain a core part of its growth strategy. The integration of Veater Financial Group strengthens Osaic’s regional presence and positions the firm for further expansion in 2026 and beyond.
Analysts expect continued deal activity across the wealth management sector as firms seek scale, efficiency, and competitive advantage.
Outcome
The $1.1 billion acquisition of Veater Financial Group by Osaic is more than a routine business transaction. It reflects a broader shift in the wealth management industry toward scalable platforms that combine technology, operational strength, and advisor independence.
As consolidation accelerates, firms like Osaic are emerging as key beneficiaries of the industry’s transformation.
Source: Osaic
