News

Hightower Adds First External Acquisition to Hightower Signature Wealth with $5B Journey Strategic Wealth

By Hightower Advisors / March 4, 2026

CHICAGO – March 4, 2026 – Hightower Advisors, one of the leading independent wealth management firms in the U.S., today announced it has entered into an agreement with Journey Strategic Wealth (Journey), marking its first external acquisition into Hightower Signature Wealth (HTSW). Journey will bring approximately $5 billion in assets under management*, furthering HTSW’s national footprint and broadening capabilities for both clients and advisors. Upon close, HTSW will represent more than $25 billion in assets under management*, across 27 locations. The transaction is expected to close at the end of this month.

Journey, led by Penny Phillips, was founded on the same core principles that define Hightower: a longstanding commitment to clients, thoughtful guidance, and long-term partnership. That shared philosophy has shaped the firm’s growth from the beginning. Now, as part of Hightower Signature Wealth, Journey will continue to expand and evolve how it serves clients, building on that foundation with enhanced resources, deeper capabilities, and the same steadfast commitment that has always guided its path.

“Under Penny’s leadership, Journey has built a highly respected advisory business defined by incredible talent, consistent organic growth, and a clear client-first culture—all closely aligned with what we have built at Hightower Signature Wealth,” said Larry Restieri, CEO of Hightower Advisors. “As we continue to be a destination for advisors who want to scale thoughtfully, Penny will play an instrumental role in shaping advisor strategy and experience.”

Journey Strategic Wealth includes a team of 24 professionals, including 16 advisors, serving nearly 1,000 clients. As part of the integration, Phillips will assume expanded responsibilities within HTSW as Head of Advisor Strategy and Client Experience.

“The future of wealth management belongs to firms that deliver personalization at scale, comprehensive services, and an integrated client experience,” said Phillips. “The expansion of HTSW brings together entrepreneurial leadership and enterprise resources, enhancing our ability to support advisors and serve clients. Through expanded capabilities—including tax preparation, trust and estate planning, and access to public and private markets—we are well positioned to deepen client relationships and support long-term growth.”

Hightower continues to invest strategically in the expansion of HTSW, most recently announcing the addition of five advisory practices in January. These moves reflect the firm’s commitment to expanding a platform that supports both external advisors and members of the Hightower community in enhancing the client experience. The Journey transaction is scheduled to close at the end of the first quarter and Hightower expects to announce additional acquisitions into the HTSW brand in the first half of 2026.

Today, Hightower’s nationwide community includes 648 advisors across 33 states and the District of Columbia. As of December 31, 2025, Hightower and its affiliates manage approximately $353.7 billion in assets.

Dalphia Partners served as financial advisor and Seward & Kissel served as legal counsel to Journey Strategic Wealth for the transaction.

*As of December 31, 2025

About Hightower
Hightower is a wealth management firm that provides investment, financial, and retirement planning services to individuals, families, and institutions, as well as 401(k) consulting and cash management services to corporations. Through its community of advisor businesses, Hightower offers sophisticated planning solutions and a robust platform designed to help clients achieve their financial goals.

Headquartered in Chicago with offices nationwide, Hightower serves as a growth partner to independent-minded advisors seeking to scale their practices, elevate the client experience, and access the benefits of a national brand. Learn more about Hightower’s collaborative business model at http://www.hightoweradvisors.com.

Hightower Advisors, LLC is an SEC registered investment adviser. Registration as an investment advisor does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Securities are offered through Hightower Securities, LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

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Hightower Advisors is a group comprised of investment professionals registered with Hightower Advisors, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser. Some investment professionals may also be registered with Hightower Securities, LLC (member FINRA and SIPC). Advisory services are offered through Hightower Advisors, LLC. Securities are offered through Hightower Securities, LLC.

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