SEI and Stratos Wealth Holdings form partnership to support financial advisors.

SEI and Stratos Wealth Holdings have formed a partnership to help financial advisors scale and grow their businesses. SEI will make a strategic investment in Stratos, a family of companies that supports advisors across various business models and affiliation structures. The partnership reinforces the value of financial advice and enables Stratos to continue operating under its brand and existing business model.

SEI (NASDAQ: SEIC) and Stratos Wealth Holdings have announced a strategic investment and business partnership aimed at helping financial advisors scale and grow their businesses. The partnership, announced on July 18, 2025, underscores a shared commitment to delivering wealth management services at scale [1].

SEI, a leading global provider of financial technology, operations, and asset management services, will make a strategic investment in Stratos, a family of companies that supports financial advisors across various business models and affiliation structures. The investment will provide Stratos with the capital and expertise needed to expand its operations and enhance its services [1].

Stratos, led by CEO Jeff Concepcion, will continue to operate under its recognized brand and existing business model. The company's national network of over 360 experienced financial advisors and financial planning practitioners will continue to service clients across 26 states throughout the United States [1].

The partnership aims to reinforce the value of financial advice and enable Stratos to leverage SEI's capabilities in technology, custody, operations, and asset management. SEI's investment will provide Stratos with the resources needed to enhance its service delivery and scale its operations, while maintaining its existing business model and custodial relationships [1].

The transaction is structured to close in two stages. The U.S.-based Stratos business, representing approximately 80% of the transaction value, is expected to close in the second half of 2025. The Mexico-based NSC business is expected to close in the first half of 2026 [1].

The deal is significant for both companies. For SEI, the partnership diversifies its revenue streams and enhances its distribution capabilities for its technology, custody, operations, and asset management solutions. For Stratos, the partnership provides the capital and expertise needed to expand its operations and enhance its services [1].

The partnership also addresses critical industry challenges, including advisor succession planning, operational scaling, and next-generation talent development. The retention of Stratos' founder/CEO Jeff Concepcion and the maintenance of Stratos' brand and custodial relationships demonstrate SEI's focus on preserving the acquired business's value while enhancing it with SEI's resources [1].

In summary, the partnership between SEI and Stratos Wealth Holdings represents a strategic move to enhance financial advisory services and support the growth of financial advisors. The partnership leverages the strengths of both companies to deliver value to advisors and their clients.

References:
[1] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sei-and-stratos-wealth-holdings-announce-strategic-investment-and-business-partnership-302508426.html