Ex-UBS Team With $1.8B in Assets Affiliates With LPL Strategic Wealth
Financial advisers Ronald Ewing, CFP, Edward Macha, Alex Pittz, AAMS, Brian Gudgel, CFP, and Andrew Curiel IV, CFP, CEPA, AWMA, APMA have launched a new independent practice, Decorum Wealth Management, through affiliation with LPL Strategic Wealth, LPL Financial’s supported independence model.
AltsWire previously reported that a slightly different configuration of this team had exited UBS last week. Since then, the majority of that team, plus Curiel, have renamed to Decorum – previously Golden State Wealth Management – and now report having served approximately $1.8 billion in advisory, brokerage and retirement plan assets, from the previous $1.6 billion.
Located near Sacramento, Calif., in Merced, the team have been collaborating for nine years and were brought together by advisers nearing retirement at UBS PaineWebber & Co. to lead the next chapter of the firm. Their clients include a diverse range of individuals and businesses, such as mom-and-pop shops, high-net-worth corporations, and retirees.
“Our practice is very family-centric and we often serve multiple generations of a family. We connect with our clients on a personal level to relate on a higher level,” said Macha. “In a world where technology prevails, our firm commits to having a service-oriented relationship with clients to ensure that additional personal touch. We believe it is essential to safeguard them from fraud and other financial risks, provide ongoing education and demonstrate our commitment to their well-being.”
Gudgel added: “As independent advisers, we recognize that exceptional client service is the foundation of our practice and a strategic differentiator in today’s complex financial landscape. Our approach is built on the understanding that every client relationship represents a long-term partnership guided by trust and transparency. By aligning our services with each client’s unique goals, we deliver not only responsive support but also anticipate their evolving needs – helping them navigate changing markets and life transitions.”
The Decorum Wealth Management team, which includes Clinton Moore, Nicholas Pistoresi, Thomas Ochinero, Melissa Frazier, Suzanne Smith and Holly Jeppesen, chose to affiliate via LPL’s comprehensive supported independence solution, LPL Strategic Wealth, which LPL said combines the freedom and flexibility of entrepreneurship with hands-on business services and support to help practices thrive operationally and strategically.
In addition to having access to LPL’s innovative wealth management platform and sophisticated resources, LPL Strategic Wealth advisers benefit from an integrated service that includes simplified pricing, technology and dedicated support to launch their practice. After the transition is complete, adviser teams receive ongoing operations support managed by a team of experienced professionals including a business strategist, marketing partner, chief financial officer, and administrative assistant. Advisers have one point of contact, a dedicated team, and priority access to advocacy and project management for complex business issues.
“Our team chose LPL because of the differentiated value of Strategic Wealth. At first, the idea of going independent seemed like a tall challenge, but with the stepping stones that Strategic Wealth provides, it became doable and even aspirational, giving us renewed energy for this next phase of our business,” said Ewing.
Pittz stated, “We expect this transition will deliver better technology and experiences for our clients. We are also focused on continuous growth and may consider expanding to more locations in the future. Starting this new chapter with LPL and our team is something we eagerly anticipate.”
As of Aug. 31, 2025, LPL supported more than 29,000 financial advisers. Total advisory and brokerage assets were $1.9 trillion.
Click here to visit the AltsWire directory page.
