Two financial firms merge in Fort Myers

Two financial advising firms say they have merged to create a larger unit to tailor "concierge services" to clients, including asset diversification, trusts, estate plans, investments and retirement.

Both based in Fort Myers, Uhler and Vertich Financial Planners will combine with Scott White Advisors, becoming Uhler Vertich White Advisors, according to a news release.

Both firms were independent of Raymond James Financial Services Inc. but offered securities through the Tampa-based financial giant. The new firm will continue to offer securities through Raymond James.

Uhler and Vertich Financial Planners was founded in 2002 by principals Tom Uhler and Corey Vertich, the new company says. The firm has an established clientele of high net-worth families, the company says. It specialized in helping clients become and remain financially independent "with comprehensive plans designed to maximize income, minimize taxes, protect against the unexpected and provide for the efficient transfer of accumulated wealth."

Scott White Advisors was founded in 2006 by Scott White. The company says White was also known for serving families with significant net worth, helping them develop estate and financial plans.

The merger was completed with no interruption of service to clients, Uhler Vertich White Advisors say. The newly formed Uhler Vertich White Advisors will operate under the leadership of the three principals from both merging companies, the company says.

Raymond James has approximately 8,700 financial advisers throughout the United States, Canada and overseas. Total client assets are approximately $1.22 trillion as of March 31, 2023.