Transactions

Focused on the crossroads of insurance,
healthcare services, investment services,
and the technologies that serve those sectors.
a wholly owned subsidiary of
has been acquired by
Financial Advisor to United Community Banks, Inc. September 2024
Park Sutton Advises United Community Banks, Inc. on its divestment of $2.4 Billion FinTrust Capital Advisors to Wealth Enhancement Group
Industry: Investment Services
Type: Sell-Side M&A

Park Sutton Advisors, a Waller Helms Company (“Park Sutton”), is pleased to have represented United Community Banks, Inc. (“UCB”) on its divestment of  FinTrust Capital Advisors (“FinTrust”) to Wealth Enhancement Group (“WEG”), one of the nation’s fastest growing wealth managers with over $94 billion in client assets, headquartered in Minneapolis, MN. 

Founded in 2007, FinTrust Capital Advisors is a hybrid RIA headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina, providing advanced financial planning, investment management, and retirement plan services to business owners, professionals, and high-net-worth families. The team of 14 advisors and 13 support staff oversees more than $2.39 billion in client assets and is led by Chief Investment Officer, Allen Gillespie, CFA®. 

Jeff Dekko, Chief Executive Officer of Wealth Enhancement Group, said, “It is so exciting to expand our presence in the Carolinas by joining forces with FinTrust Capital Advisors. Allen and his knowledgeable team are experienced at their craft. They create customized financial solutions tailored to their clients’ unique needs.”

Allen Gillespie, Chief Investment Officer of FinTrust Capital Advisors, said, “Our firm was built on the premise that the best wealth management advice combines investment management guidance, advanced financial planning, and tax strategies with strong client relationships. Joining Wealth Enhancement Group allows us to strengthen that promise by tapping into their robust network of central services.” 

Jim Cahn, Chief Strategy Officer of Wealth Enhancement Group, said, “We are pleased FinTrust Capital Advisors have chosen to join Wealth Enhancement Group. Our firms have a similar dedication to comprehensive wealth management and top-tier client service which we believe will make for a highly complementary relationship.” 

John Eubanks, Managing Director at Park Sutton, who led the transaction, commented, “We previously represented FinTrust on their 2021 sale to UCB. FinTrust’s new partnership with WEG will enhance their ability to serve clients and accelerate growth. This transaction illustrates how regional banks can unlock significant value by divesting their wealth management practices.”