Cetera's TRPG Expands Footprint with Acquisition of First Financial Advisors, Inc.

Cetera's employee-based RIA, The Retirement Planning Group (TRPG), has successfully closed an acquisition of First Financial Advisors, Inc. and A.G. Tidswell C.P.A., P.C. (collectively, "First Financial"). The acquisition brings over $300 million to Cetera and TRPG, and adds three advisors to TRPG. The acquisition expands TRPG's footprint into Michigan and strengthens its position in the market.

Cetera Investment Advisers, a prominent player in the financial services industry, has recently expanded its footprint through a significant acquisition. The Retirement Planning Group (TRPG), an employee-based RIA (Registered Investment Advisor) of Cetera, has successfully closed a deal to acquire First Financial Advisors, Inc., and A.G. Tidswell C.P.A., P.C. (collectively, "First Financial"). The acquisition brings over $300 million in assets under management to Cetera and TRPG, and adds three advisors to TRPG's roster.

The acquisition is a strategic move for TRPG, which will now have a stronger presence in Michigan. The deal is expected to enhance TRPG's market position and provide additional resources for growth and expansion. The acquisition of First Financial Advisors, a well-established firm with a strong client base, will also bring valuable expertise and experience to TRPG.

This acquisition is part of a broader trend in the financial services industry, where RIAs are increasingly looking to expand their offerings and client base through strategic acquisitions. The move also aligns with Cetera's broader strategy of growth through acquisitions and partnerships.

Institutional Investments in KULR Technology Group

Separately, institutional investors have shown continued interest in KULR Technology Group, Inc. (NYSEAMERICAN:KULR). Cetera Investment Advisers, among other institutional investors, has increased its stake in KULR Technology Group. According to the company's most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC, Cetera acquired 563,549 shares of KULR Technology Group's stock, valued at approximately $744,000. This acquisition represents a significant investment in KULR Technology Group, which develops and commercializes thermal management technologies for electronics, batteries, and other components applications [1].

Other institutional investors have also modified their holdings in KULR Technology Group. Gotham Asset Management LLC, Brevan Howard Capital Management LP, Alteri Wealth LLC, Squarepoint Ops LLC, and Two Sigma Investments LP have all increased their stakes in the company. Institutional investors and hedge funds now own 21.23% of KULR Technology Group's stock [1].

Tokenization Trends in the Financial Sector

Meanwhile, tokenization is becoming a significant trend in the financial sector. SkyBridge Capital, Anthony Scaramucci’s investment firm, has announced plans to tokenize $300 million of its assets under management on Avalanche (AVAX). The tokenization strategy involves two funds, one focusing on crypto investments and the other on venture and other digital assets. This move is part of a broader institutional trend towards adopting blockchain technology and tokenization to enhance efficiency and security [2].

References

[1] https://www.marketbeat.com/instant-alerts/filing-cetera-investment-advisers-invests-744000-in-kulr-technology-group-inc-nyseamericankulr-2025-08-15/
[2] https://finbold.com/anthony-scaramuccis-skybridge-capital-to-tokenize-300-million-on-avalanche/