Cetera Completes Acquisition of $1.9 Billion-Asset Darnall Sikes Wealth Partners
Building on a longstanding affiliation between Darnall Sikes Wealth Partners and Avantax, a Cetera tax-focused community, Cetera has completed the acquisition of Darnall Sikes. Darnall Sikes, a wealth management firm that serves high-net-worth individuals, business owners, and their families, brings approximately $1.9 billion to Cetera’s registered investment adviser model.
The Darnall Sikes team serves clients in more than 40 states from four locations across Louisiana and joins Avantax Planning Partners within Cetera’s RIA model.
“This strategic partnership with Cetera brings clear and compelling benefits to our team, our shared clients, and the long-term growth of our business,” said John P. Armato, president of Darnall Sikes & Frederick. “This next chapter reflects our shared commitment to putting clients first, and we are confident that expanding our collaboration with Cetera provides a strong foundation for the future.”
Cetera said the acquisition will bolster Darnall Sikes’ growth trajectory, deliver succession solutions for team members, and provides the opportunity to evolve within the Cetera network. Separately, Darnall Sikes & Frederick, an affiliated Louisiana-based CPA firm, remains independent and has entered a long-term, strategic partnership with Cetera to further support shared clients.
“This expanded relationship with Darnall Sikes underscores Cetera’s leadership in supporting advisers throughout every phase of their professional journey,” said Jen Hanau, RIA and branches channel leader at Cetera. “More than ever, financial advisers and institutions are choosing Cetera as their ‘forever home’ – a place where they can grow, evolve, and ultimately transition their practices with confidence.”
As reported by AltsWire, Cetera’s RIA and branches channel launched in June 2025 and supports independent RIAs, its owned W-2 RIA businesses, and the supported independence branches model.
Cetera Financial Group, owned by Cetera Holdings, encompasses Cetera Investment Advisers LLC, a registered investment adviser, and the following FINRA/SIPC members: Cetera Wealth Services, Cetera Advisors LLC, Cetera Investment Services LLC (marketed as Cetera Financial Institutions or Cetera Investors), and Cetera Financial Specialists LLC.
Cetera Holdings is home to approximately 12,000 financial professionals and their teams. It oversaw approximately $625 billion in assets under administration and $284 billion in assets under management as of Sept. 30, 2025.
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