Sarasota finance firm acquired by national wealth management company

Atlas Financial of Sarasota has been acquired by Mariner, a national wealth management company headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas.

The acquisition was part of a pair of deals that will bring about $878 million under management to Mariner. Newport Advisory of Newport Beach, California, was the other agency acquired. 

Mariner will now operate two offices in Sarasota and two in Newport Beach, bringing the agency’s footprint to 126 nationwide. The company has a Sarasota office at 240 South Pineapple Ave., while the former Atlas Financial office is at 8830 S. Tamiami Trail.

“As we welcome Atlas Financial and Newport Advisory to the Mariner family, we’re reinforcing our commitment to meeting clients where they are, both geographically and in their unique financial journeys,” CEO and President of Mariner Marty Bicknell says in a statement. “These firms bring a wealth of expertise and a client-first ethos that perfectly align with our values. Their addition strengthens our capabilities while underscoring our belief that true growth comes from building strong, meaningful relationships — both with our clients and within our team.”

Atlas Financial was created in 1997 as the sister company of Atlas Insurance, the Business Observer previously reported. It serves current and future business owners and retirees, providing asset management, business continuity and wealth transfer strategies, according to a statement.

“At Atlas Financial, we’re dedicated to helping our clients navigate their unique journeys — whether they’re focused on building wealth, preserving it or simply enjoying the fruits of their labor,” Atlas Financial founder Orion Marx says in a statement. “Joining forces with Mariner unlocks a wealth of resources, expertise and services that will enhance our ability to support our clients and their businesses every step of the way. Ensuring their success remains our top priority, and I’m thrilled to embark on this next chapter as part of the Mariner family.”

Atlas Financial and Newport Advisory both adopted the Mariner name following the Dec. 2 closing, according to the statement, which says both are operating with existing teams in place. Dalphia Partners was the financial advisor to Atlas Financial in the transaction.

The Atlas Financial office will become Mariner’s eighth in Florida, while Newport Advisory becomes the firm’s 19th location in California.