WT Financial Group (ASX:WTL) has announced plans to roll up three well-established financial advisory firms—Titan Financial Planning, Darwin Financial & Retirement Services, and Wealth Connect Financial Services—into a newly formed national group called “Hubco.”
This initiative marks the first major step in WTL’s 50/50 joint venture with Merchant Wealth Partners, through the new investment vehicle, WTL & MWP Investco. The innovative strategy is aimed at bringing scale and shared infrastructure to independent advice businesses, while retaining their entrepreneurial roots.
Backed by Strategic Capital
The venture will see Investco inject an initial $3.5 million into the newly formed Hubco, giving it a 36% equity stake. The capital will be used to pay down debt, support business growth, and allow the founding principals to realise some of their equity. WTL will also take a 6% stake in return for its role in advisory and due diligence.
Titan principal David McLean has been named incoming CEO of Hubco, and will lead its integration and expansion. Joining him in the leadership team are Andrew Moo (Darwin FS) and Jeff Stella (Wealth Connect), who will stay on as senior advisers and help guide new acquisitions and adviser mentoring.
A Model for Future Growth
Hubco’s blueprint is designed to attract other advisory businesses seeking growth without giving up local identity. The model provides shared operational support and strategic capital, creating a platform for future “tuck-in” acquisitions across Australia.
Keith Cullen, CEO of WTL and Managing Director of Investco, said:
“This is the beginning of a scalable structure that lets independent advisers keep doing what they do best—while accessing the resources of a larger group. We’re excited to back passionate operators like David, Andrew and Jeff.”
Merchant partner David Haintz, AM, added:
“Our aim is to help advice businesses grow while staying true to their community focus. This first Hubco is just the start—we’re in it for the long haul.”
David McLean, future CEO of Hubco, said:
“We’re bringing together three likeminded teams with shared values. Hubco will give us better systems, stronger support for our advisers and clients, and a springboard for growth.”
Transaction Summary
Titan, Darwin FS, and Wealth Connect to merge into Hubco.
Founders will receive a mix of cash and shares in the new entity.
Hubco will be debt-free post-transaction.
Settlement is expected by end of April 2025, pending final due diligence.
What’s Next
Hubco will focus on operational integration, organic growth, and further acquisitions, with continued support from WTL and Merchant. A webinar to provide investors with further details will be held at:
12.30pm AEST, Monday 7 April 2025
Presenters: Keith Cullen (WTL), David Haintz (Merchant)
Register here:Zoom Webinar Registration
Questions can also be submitted ahead of time to: info@janemorganmanagement.com.au
For more information, please visit https://www.wtfglimited.com
ENDS
About us:
About WT Financial Group Limited (ASX:WTL)
WTL operates one of Australia’s largest networks of independently owned financial advisers, delivering wealth, retirement and risk advice through around 400 advice practices nationwide.
About Merchant Wealth
Merchant Wealth Partners, LLC is a New York-based private investment firm focused on wealth management businesses. With more than 100 partner firms globally managing over AUD$350 billion in assets, it brings world-class experience to the Australian market through its local arm, Merchant Wealth Partners Pty Ltd.
Contact details:
Jane Morgan
Investor and Media Relations
M +61 405 555 618
