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NorthRock Buys $950 Million Midwest RIA

The Firm’s Purchase Of Vantage Financial Partners Adds Locations In Ohio, South Dakota And Wisconsin.

NorthRock Buys $950 Million Midwest RIA
Rob Nelson, CEO & Founder, NorthRock Partners
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NorthRock Partners announced Wednesday that it acquired RIA Vantage Financial Partners, an advisory team with six offices in three Midwest states with 19 team members, including seven advisors who manage about $950 million in assets.

The transaction closed on Wednesday, a NorthRock spokesperson told WSR.

“We are intentional about partnering with firms that align strongly with our approach and values,” the spokesperson said. “We have been in discussions with the Vantage team for several months.”

The spokesperson added, “Over time, the Vantage brand will transition to NorthRock Partners as the team is fully integrated into the firm.”

Vantage has offices in Cincinnati, Columbus and Youngstown, Ohio; Huron and Watertown, South Dakota; and Elm Grove, Wisconsin.

Vantage joined via NorthRock’s Personal Office model, which provides each advisor with a support team for business services, estate planning, insurance, investments, legal, philanthropy, and taxes, NorthRock noted.

“Culture has always been the starting point for any team that joins NorthRock, and Vantage is no exception,” according to Rob Nelson, CEO and Founder of NorthRock Partners. “Their advisors focus on delivering personalized advice tailored to clients’ goals and building long-term client relationships.”

He continued, “Adding this talented team not only strengthens our Personal Office model, but it also expands our presence across the Midwest. It’s a strong way to begin the year as we continue welcoming advisors who align with our values and vision for modern, coordinated advice.”

Jeremy Gardner, Partner and Director of Financial Planning, Vantage Financial Partners

“Joining NorthRock is an exciting next step for our team and our clients,” said Jeremy Gardner, Partner and Director of Financial Planning at Vantage. “We have always viewed growth as a promise, an opportunity to bring more effective and innovative solutions to the people we serve.”

He added, “NorthRock’s Personal Office model reflects that same belief in deep, coordinated advice, and it gives our advisors access to the resources and expertise that help support clients in making informed financial decisions.” 

NorthRock completed three acquisitions in 2025: WGG Wealth Partners, Parkside Advisors and an individual advisor, the spokesperson said.

“Looking ahead, while we expect continued momentum in 2026, our focus is not on a specific number of deals,” the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added, “Our priority is finding the right partners who are looking to deepen the advice and services they provide to clients. Our Personal Office approach continues to resonate with individuals and teams across the country.”

The spokesperson went on to say, “We anticipate continued growth through additional partnerships. Our long-term strategy remains focused on thoughtful, aligned growth with firms and advisors who share our commitment to delivering comprehensive, high-impact advice.”

The addition of Vantage has enabled NorthRock to surpass $12 billion in assets under management (AUM) for more than 4,400 clients, it said.

The deal is NorthRock’s second acquisition of 2026, following its purchase of Illinois-based Martin & Associates, an advisory firm previously affiliated with Ameriprise Financial, announced in January.

Jeff Berman, Contributing Editor and Reporter at Wealth Solutions Report, can be reached at jeff.berman@wealthsolutionsreport.com.

Jeff Berman

Jeff Berman

Jeff Berman brings over 30 years of experience to the Wealth Solutions Report team as a reporter and editor covering a wide range of beats, including the financial services business.

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