Ares Management Invests in EP Wealth Advisors

EP Wealth Advisors has announced an investment by Ares Management, with Berkshire Partners retaining a minority stake. The partnership aims to accelerate EP Wealth's growth strategy through investments in talent, technology, client offerings, and M&A partnerships. EP Wealth's management team will continue to operate independently, and co-founders Derek Holman and Brian Parker will maintain meaningful ownership.

EP Wealth Advisors, a leading fee-only registered investment advisor (RIA), has announced a significant minority stake acquisition by Ares Management Private Equity funds, with Berkshire Partners retaining a minority stake. The investment, expected to be completed in October 2025, aims to accelerate EP Wealth's growth strategy through targeted investments in talent acquisition, technology, client-facing offerings, and potential mergers and acquisitions (M&A) partnerships.

The partnership will provide EP Wealth with additional growth capital and strategic support, as stated by Ryan Parker, CEO of EP Wealth. "Our firm was founded on the belief that taking care of clients by providing quality service and solutions fosters strong relationships that drive long-term success," Parker said. "This has guided our firm’s efforts and fueled our growth over the last twenty-six years, and it is the foundation that will propel us for decades to come."

The investment will enable EP Wealth to pursue its strategic goals while maintaining the governance, passion, and culture that define the company. Co-founders Derek Holman and Brian Parker will retain meaningful ownership and continue their roles as active advisors and leaders. The management team will operate independently, making strategic and day-to-day decisions.

Jordan Smith, Partner in the Ares Private Equity Group, highlighted EP Wealth's entrepreneurial culture and growth mindset, noting that the combined resources and experience of Ares and Berkshire Partners will support the company's long-term growth. Dave Bordeau, Managing Director at Berkshire Partners, echoed this sentiment, expressing pride in continuing their investment in EP Wealth and the potential for transformative growth.

EP Wealth has completed eight M&A partnerships in 2025, growing its assets under management to nearly $40 billion as of August 31, 2025. The company is on track to complete additional M&A partnerships before the end of the year.

The investment terms were not disclosed. William Blair served as the lead financial advisor, with Houlihan Lokey acting as co-advisor, to EP Wealth Advisors. Jefferies LLC and Moelis & Company LLC served as financial advisors to Ares.

EP Wealth, with more than 54 offices across 19 states, manages nearly $40 billion in assets and has helped families achieve their financial goals for over 25 years. Ares Management, a leading global alternative investment manager, offers complementary primary and secondary investment solutions across various asset classes. Berkshire Partners is a 100% employee-owned, multi-sector specialist investor in private and public equity.

For more information, visit [EP Wealth's website]EP Wealth Announces Investment by Ares Management^[1] and [Ares Management's website].