SageView Advisory Group: Comprehensive Company Profile
Background
Founded in 1989, SageView Advisory Group is an independent, employee-owned SEC-Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) headquartered in Newport Beach, California. The firm specializes in providing unbiased retirement plan and wealth management consulting services to clients across the United States. With a mission to deliver comprehensive financial planning that aligns with clients' goals, SageView has established itself as a leader in the financial services industry. As of December 31, 2023, the firm advises on over 2,300 retirement plans and serves more than 5,000 households, managing client assets totaling over $202 billion.
Key Strategic Focus
SageView's strategic focus centers on delivering customized financial solutions that address the unique needs of both institutional and individual clients. The firm's core objectives include:
- Retirement Plan Consulting: Advising on 401(k), 403(b), 457, defined benefit, and deferred compensation plans.
- Wealth Management Services: Providing comprehensive financial planning and investment management for individuals and families.
- Fiduciary Risk Management: Ensuring compliance and mitigating risks associated with fiduciary responsibilities.
- Plan Design Consulting: Crafting tailored retirement plan designs to meet specific client objectives.
- Actuarial Consulting: Offering expert actuarial services to support retirement plan sustainability.
By integrating these services, SageView aims to bridge the gap between retirement planning and wealth management, ensuring clients receive holistic financial guidance.
Financials and Funding
SageView has demonstrated robust financial growth, with estimated annual revenues reaching approximately $81.9 million. In July 2021, the firm established a strategic partnership with Aquiline Capital Partners, a leading financial services and technology-focused private equity firm. This partnership has facilitated a series of acquisitions, enhancing SageView's service offerings and expanding its national footprint.
Pipeline Development
SageView's growth strategy includes the acquisition of firms that align with its mission and expand its capabilities:
- Lakeview Wealth Management: In December 2022, SageView acquired this women-led firm based in Deer Park, Illinois, adding $415 million in client assets and enhancing its presence in the Chicago area.
- Horsetooth Financial LLC: Also in December 2022, SageView acquired this Fort Collins, Colorado-based firm, focusing on fee-based asset management and estate planning services.
- RBG Founding Team: In June 2023, SageView agreed to acquire the San Diego-based RBG team, adding $5.2 billion in assets under advisement and strengthening its institutional investment services.
These strategic acquisitions are integral to SageView's plan to enhance its service offerings and expand its market reach.
Technological Platform and Innovation
SageView leverages advanced technologies to deliver superior client services:
- Pontera Partnership: In March 2022, SageView partnered with Pontera to enable advisors to securely manage and trade clients' held-away retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s and 403(b)s. This collaboration enhances the firm's ability to provide comprehensive wealth management services.
- Technology Stack: The firm utilizes a robust tech stack, including Google Analytics for web analytics, Amazon S3 for content delivery, and Google Maps for location services, demonstrating a commitment to leveraging technology for operational efficiency.
Leadership Team
SageView's leadership team comprises seasoned professionals with extensive experience in the financial services industry:
- John Longley: Chief Executive Officer
- Jon Upham: Principal
- Natasha Pfeiffer: Principal
- Sharina Merid: Principal
In March 2024, SageView expanded its executive team to drive the next stage of its growth strategy:
- Christina Walsh: Appointed as Chief Financial Officer. Previously a Principal at Aquiline Capital Partners and a member of SageView's Board of Directors, Walsh brings expertise in aligning corporate finance strategies with growth plans.
- Steve Gaven: Appointed as Chief Growth Officer. Formerly the Chief Financial Officer of RWA Wealth, Gaven has a proven track record in driving organic and M&A-based growth.
Leadership Changes
The appointments of Christina Walsh and Steve Gaven in March 2024 mark significant enhancements to SageView's leadership team, positioning the firm for accelerated growth and expanded service offerings.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics:
The financial advisory industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for comprehensive retirement planning and wealth management services. Clients are seeking advisors who can provide holistic financial solutions, integrating retirement planning with personal wealth management.
Competitor Analysis:
SageView operates in a competitive landscape alongside firms such as:
- Meketa Investment Group: Specializes in investment consulting and advisory services.
- AndCo Consulting: Offers fiduciary consulting services to retirement plan sponsors.
- Segal Marco Advisors: Provides investment consulting services to institutional clients.
- Marquette Associates: Focuses on independent investment consulting.
- Mercer: A global consulting firm.