\n Martine Lellis tells InvestmentNews that the deal reflects the competitive deal market and the $98B RIA\u2019s advisor continuity strategy.\n <\/p>\n
Mercer Advisors<\/a> is accelerating its expansion in Southern California with the acquisition of Eagleson Arndt Financial Advisors, a Thousand Oaks-based, women-led firm overseeing roughly $100 million in assets under management.<\/p>\n The transaction adds a planning-focused team to Mercer\u2019s growing presence across Greater Los Angeles, reinforcing its strategy of scaling holistic, client-centered advice in key markets.<\/p>\n Founded by Vicki Arndt, the firm has built its reputation on a comprehensive approach to financial planning<\/a>, helping clients navigate major life decisions and long-term financial goals. Arndt will remain actively involved post-acquisition, continuing to work with existing clients while tapping into Mercer\u2019s broader platform.<\/p>\n The deal strengthens Mercer\u2019s foothold in Ventura County and the broader Los Angeles region, where it already operates offices in Woodland Hills, Encino, and Century City.<\/p>\n Growth strategy<\/p>\n In an interview with InvestmentNews, Martine Lellis, executive managing partner for M&A partner development at Mercer Advisors stressed the importance of the region to Mercer\u2019s long-term growth strategy.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Greater Los Angeles market is an important area of focus for Mercer Advisors as we continue to expand our presence in key regions,\u201d she said. \u201cThere is a large opportunity to serve more clients in the region and many value having an advisor located nearby. This partnership helps us further build out our footprint across the broader LA area and specifically in Ventura County.\u201d<\/p>\n The addition of Eagleson Arndt also enhances Mercer\u2019s integrated family office capabilities, particularly in delivering coordinated services across multiple disciplines.<\/p>\n \u201cThis partnership strengthens our ability to deliver a comprehensive, integrated family office experience by adding talented advisors in a key market,\u201d Lellis said. \u201cBy bringing firms like Eagleson Arndt onto our platform, we\u2019re able to extend our capabilities and provide clients with a more coordinated approach across investment management, financial planning, estate planning<\/a> and tax services.\u201d<\/p>\n Cultural alignment<\/p>\n Mercer has been active on the acquisition front, targeting firms that align with its fiduciary, planning-led model. According to Lellis, cultural alignment plays a central role in those decisions.<\/p>\n