Achieving Sustainable Growth for Independent Advisors: Strategies for Organic and Inorganic Expansion

Independent financial advisors face challenges in achieving organic growth, with 70% prioritizing it, but only 58% having a strategic plan in place. The primary obstacle is generating leads and referrals, while reducing administrative burdens and inorganic growth through acquisitions can help unlock growth. The report emphasizes the importance of a dual focus on organic and inorganic strategies and long-term strategic planning, including succession planning and clear growth priorities.

Verint Systems Inc. (NASDAQ: VRNT), a leading provider of Customer Experience (CX) Automation solutions, has agreed to be acquired by Thoma Bravo, a prominent software investment firm, in a $2 billion all-cash transaction. The acquisition, which reflects an enterprise value of $2 billion, is expected to close before the end of Verint’s current fiscal year, subject to customary closing conditions [1].

Under the terms of the agreement, Verint common shareholders will receive $20.50 per share in cash, representing an 18% premium to Verint’s 10-day volume weighted average share price up to June 25, 2025. The transaction is not subject to a financing condition and is expected to be completed through a reverse-triangular merger, with a Thoma Bravo-controlled entity acting as the parent company. Upon completion, Verint common stock will no longer be listed on any public stock exchange [1].

The acquisition aligns with Verint’s strategic focus on AI-powered CX Automation solutions. Verint’s CEO and Chairman, Dan Bodner, stated, “Thoma Bravo’s investment is a testament to our CX Automation category leadership. Leading brands around the world are reporting strong AI business outcomes with the Verint CX Automation Platform. We look forward to extending our category leadership together with Thoma Bravo.” Mike Hoffmann, a Partner at Thoma Bravo, added, “Verint’s market leading CX Automation platform, enterprise customer base and talented employees position it well to shape the future of customer experience with AI as part of the Thoma Bravo portfolio” [1].

Thoma Bravo, with approximately $184 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2025, is known for its expertise in growth-oriented, innovative companies in the software and technology sectors. The acquisition of Verint will see the company join forces with Thoma Bravo portfolio company Calabrio, further enhancing the combined entity’s capabilities in CX Automation [1].

Verint’s decision to suspend quarterly earnings conference calls and guidance, as well as its share repurchase program, reflects its focus on the pending transaction. Jefferies LLC serves as the financial advisor to Verint, while Jones Day is the legal counsel. Perella Weinberg Partners LP and Santander serve as financial advisors to Thoma Bravo, with Kirkland & Ellis LLP acting as legal counsel [1].

The acquisition highlights the importance of a dual focus on organic and inorganic growth strategies for financial advisors. While 70% of advisors prioritize organic growth, only 58% have a strategic plan in place. The primary obstacle is generating leads and referrals, while reducing administrative burdens and inorganic growth through acquisitions can help unlock growth [2].

The acquisition of Verint by Thoma Bravo underscores the significance of long-term strategic planning, including succession planning and clear growth priorities. Financial advisors must navigate the challenges of achieving organic growth and consider inorganic strategies to drive sustainable growth.

References:
[1] https://www.morningstar.com/news/business-wire/20250825634473/verint-agrees-to-be-acquired-by-thoma-bravo-for-2-billion
[2] https://www.morningstar.com/news/business-wire/20250825634473/verint-agrees-to-be-acquired-by-thoma-bravo-for-2-billion