Advisors Bassem Moez and James Darden of Fortress Financial Planning have joined LPL Financial's broker-dealer and Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) platform, bringing approximately $150 million in advisory, brokerage, and retirement plan assets. The team transitioned to LPL from MassMutual, seeking a platform that supports their commitment to independence and customized financial advice. This move expands LPL's footprint in the Detroit metro area, where Fortress Financial Planning serves a diverse client base including pre-retirees, retirees, physicians, and business owners.

The transition was driven by the advisors' desire for greater flexibility and open architecture. Moez, who previously affiliated with LPL for eight years, stated that the firm provides the necessary tools to deliver financial advice in clients' best interests. The advisors emphasized that the new platform allows them to offer a broader range of solutions and tailor their approach to individual client needs, enhancing transparency and long-term relationships.

Key Details of the Transition

The following table outlines the primary details regarding the move of Fortress Financial Planning to LPL Financial:

Strategic Alignment and Future Growth

LPL Financial's Chief Growth Officer, Marc Cohen, expressed enthusiasm for the addition of the Fortress Financial Planning team, noting their alignment with LPL's purpose to empower advisors. The firm supports more than 32,000 financial advisors and services approximately $2.3 trillion in brokerage and advisory assets. By joining LPL, Moez and Darden aim to continue building a practice that prioritizes client education and informed decision-making, acting as the 'CFO' while clients remain the 'CEO' of their financial lives.

LPL Financial LLC announced today that advisor Les Smith has joined its broker-dealer and Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) platform. Smith reported serving approximately $185 million in advisory, brokerage, and retirement plan assets and joins LPL from Edward Jones. The move enhances LPL's advisor network as Smith brings more than a decade of experience serving pre- and post-retirement clients.

Smith's Background and Approach

Based in Spring Hill, Tenn., Smith is the founder of Smith Complete Wealth. He focuses on blue-collar individuals and families, building his business organically through direct outreach. Smith's approach emphasizes consistent communication and ongoing refinement of financial plans to help clients achieve long-term goals.

Rationale for Joining LPL

Smith selected LPL for its advanced technology, flexibility, and advisor-first model. He cited the platform's ability to support deeper engagement in tax and estate planning while maintaining decision-making autonomy. Smith believes LPL's capabilities will enable a more customized and tactical investment approach.

LPL's Perspective

Marc Cohen, chief growth officer at LPL Financial, expressed enthusiasm for Smith's addition. He noted that Smith's dedication to client communication aligns with LPL's purpose to empower advisors with tools and support. Cohen highlighted that LPL looks forward to supporting Smith's business growth and client impact.

Key Details

LPL Financial Holdings Inc. supports more than 32,000 financial advisors and services approximately $2.3 trillion in brokerage and advisory assets. Smith Complete Wealth and LPL Financial are separate entities.