In a move designed to support the next era of growth for financial advisors, SEI and Stratos Wealth Holdings have officially entered into a strategic business partnership. The collaboration underscores a shared mission: to help independent advisors scale with confidence, flexibility, and stronger resources. As part of the deal, SEI will make a significant investment in Stratos a Beachwood, Ohio-based network of over 360 financial professionals operating across 26 U.S. states.
Stratos will continue to be led by its founder and CEO, Jeff Concepcion, and maintain its brand identity and independent service model. What will change is the depth and breadth of tools, technology, and operational support now at the firm’s disposal thanks to SEI. “For us, this partnership isn’t just about capital it’s about alignment,” said Concepcion.
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“SEI brings not only the investment backing but also the expertise, solutions, and a shared vision to empower advisors. We’ve worked together for 15 years, and this is a natural extension of a trusted relationship.” He added, “Advisors want flexibility. They want scale. But they also want to feel supported without being boxed in. SEI’s robust platform enhances our ability to do just that deliver best-in-class service without compromising independence.
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”Ryan Hicke, CEO of SEI, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the firm’s long-standing commitment to the advisor community. “This is more than an investment it’s a partnership grounded in our belief in the value of advice,” Hicke said. “Stratos brings a unique understanding of the advisory business, from client acquisition to succession planning. Together, we’re building a future where advisors have more ways to grow organically and sustainably.
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” The agreement includes the formation of a new entity that will purchase the operating arms of the current Stratos business. SEI will acquire a 57.5% stake for approximately $527 million, while existing Stratos stakeholders will retain 42.5%, with future options that could lead to SEI acquiring full ownership. Emigrant Partners, a current investor in Stratos, will exit as part of the transaction. The closing will take place in two phases: the U.S.-based portion, which makes up about 80% of the deal, is expected to finalize in the second half of 2025. The Mexico-based NSC business is projected to close in the first half of 2026, pending regulatory approval and other conditions. Goldman Sachs & Co. advised Stratos, with legal counsel from Alston & Bird LLP. SEI was advised by Wells Fargo and legal firm Holland & Knight.
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