Waverly expands presence in the Mid-Atlantic
Waverly Advisors, LLC (“Waverly”), a federally registered investment adviser (“RIA”) that specializes in investment management, financial planning and wealth management solutions for a diverse group of high-net-worth individuals, corporate retirement plans and institutional clients, has acquired WealthPlans, LLC (“WealthPlans”), a wealth management firm based in Frederick, MD. As part of this transaction, Waverly’s affiliate, Waverly Business Services, LLC, has acquired WealthPlans’ affiliate, Cooley & Associates, P.C. (“C&A” and together with WealthPlans, “Cooley”), a tax preparation and accounting services business also based in Frederick, MD. This partnership supports Waverly’s strategic growth and represents Waverly’s second location in Maryland.
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“Brent and his team bring exceptional technical expertise and an unwavering commitment to serving clients with integrity,” said Justin Russell, President and CEO of Waverly.
Founded by President Brent Cooley, Cooley provides comprehensive financial planning, investment management and tax-efficient strategies tailored to the unique goals of its clients. With decades of experience helping clients navigate complex financial and tax decisions, Brent leads a team that is dedicated to building lasting client relationships. Brent and the entire team will join Waverly, and the acquisition will contribute approximately $250 million in assets (as of 5.26.2026) to Waverly.
“Brent and his team bring exceptional technical expertise and an unwavering commitment to serving clients with integrity,” said Justin Russell, President and CEO of Waverly. “This combination of qualities strengthens the firm’s collective ability to deliver outstanding outcomes and a world-class client experience.”
“Partnering with Waverly gives us access to an expanded suite of resources and a national network of professionals, allowing the team to remain focused on the client relationships we have cultivated over the years,” said Brent. “Our clients will benefit from Waverly’s robust platform capabilities while continuing to receive the personalized service they have come to expect.”
The acquisition of Cooley marks Waverly’s 33rd transaction since accepting an equity investment in December 2021 from Wealth Partners Capital Group (WPCG) and HGGC’s Aspire Holdings platform. The transaction closed on May 29, 2026, and will increase Waverly’s assets under management to approximately $35.5 billion (as of 5.29.2026).
“From the start, it was clear that Brent and Waverly share a commitment to client-centric values and fiduciary responsibility,” said Pete Wheatley, Director at WPCG. “This partnership enhances Waverly’s ability to deliver exceptional client service across the DC Metro area and represents a meaningful step in Waverly’s continued growth.”
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