Steward Partners Secures $475 Million in Strategic Capital
Steward Partners, an esteemed employee-owned independent financial services firm, recently revealed its successful raise of $475 million in strategic capital from Ares Credit Funds. This important development marks a significant expansion of their lending relationship and includes a non-controlling minority investment, emphasizing the firm's commitment to growth while maintaining its independence.
Founded over a decade ago, Steward Partners has transformed from its modest beginnings with just three advisors into a national leader in wealth management, currently managing nearly $50 billion in client assets. The firm prides itself on a strong culture of advisor independence and employee ownership, complemented by a focus on delivering exceptional client services. This blend of stability and entrepreneurial flair makes Steward Partners an attractive choice for both clients and partners alike.
The unique ownership structure of Steward Partners allows its partners to hold substantial equity stakes in the firm, fostering a sense of accountability and commitment to the business's long-term success. This creates a profound alignment of interests among advisors, employees, and clients, helping to craft a business model that is both sustainable and rewarding for everyone involved.
Jim Gold, the Chief Executive Officer of Steward Partners, remarked, "This is another defining milestone for Steward Partners. This transaction signifies a strong endorsement of our achievements and the value fostered by our dedicated team over the years. We’re delighted to see our long-term commitment recognized through this investment.”
Hy Saporta, the President and Chief Operating Officer of Steward Partners, emphasized the importance of alignment in seeking out this capital, stating, "Our goal was to find a partner that respects our independence while promoting collaboration and long-term vision. Ares distinctly stood out for their support of our firm's values and mission, ensuring that we can preserve what makes Steward Partners truly exceptional."
Scott Rosen, a partner at Ares Credit, expressed his enthusiasm for this partnership, saying, "We are excited to provide flexible capital to facilitate Steward Partners' next phase of growth. This investment reflects our confidence in the leadership and market position of the firm, which thrives on alignment across employees and investors.”
Keith Taylor, the Board Chairman of Steward Partners, noted the remarkable vision held by Jim and Hy in creating a distinctive, employee-owned advisory firm that also provides significant profit-sharing advantages to its partners. This last investment by Ares adds to the previous contributions made by Cynosure Group and The Pritzker Organization, fortifying the firm’s financial foundation while rewarding employee owners for their hard work.
Moreover, Jason Sussman from TPO commented on the innovative partnership model established by Steward Partners, stating, "Steward has redefined partnerships in wealth management, achieving impressive growth while preserving its unique ethos. We’re looking forward to participating in this next growth chapter with them.”
As the firm continues to thrive, they have recently been recognized as one of the fastest-growing firms in the industry. Steward Partners achieved a notable #9 ranking on the 2025 Barron's Top 100 RIA Firms list, up from #18 the previous year, a clear testament to its reputation and service excellence. Furthermore, the firm was awarded the title of 2025 Thrivent Employer of Choice by InvestmentNews, which showcases their commitment to a positive and collaborative work culture.
Individual advisors and teams have also gained recognition in the Forbes | SHOOK's 2025 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors and Wealth Management Teams lists, highlighting the outstanding level of service clients receive from Steward Partners’ teams.
Steward Partners operates as a full-service wealth management firm focusing on independent and employee-owned practices. With several substantial services such as wealth planning, private banking, and business solutions, the firm has made significant strides toward achieving its goal of fostering a vibrant culture while facilitating client-driven results.
To discover more about the exciting opportunities and services offered by Steward Partners, visit their official website for more details on how they can assist families, businesses, and investors alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the $475 million investment?
The investment will support Steward Partners in expanding its services while maintaining its independence and commitment to client-focused solutions.
Who are the partners involved in supporting Steward Partners?
Key partners include Ares Credit Funds, Cynosure Group, and The Pritzker Organization, all contributing to the firm's growth and stability.
How has Steward Partners evolved since its inception?
Since its founding, Steward Partners has grown from having three advisors to managing nearly $50 billion in client assets, becoming a prominent firm in wealth management.
What awards has Steward Partners received recently?
The firm was ranked #9 on Barron's 2025 Top 100 RIA Firms list and recognized as a 2025 Thrivent Employer of Choice by InvestmentNews.
What unique model does Steward Partners utilize?
Steward Partners operates under an employee-owned model, allowing partners to hold equity stakes, fostering alignment and accountability within the firm.
