Strategic move builds on the firm's growth trajectory
Wellington-Altus Financial Inc. has acquired Wickham Investment Counsel Inc. in a strategic move to enhance its growth trajectory and expand its presence in Ontario.
The deal adds Wickham’s offices in Hamilton and Burlington to Wellington-Altus’ footprint as well as adding to its growing assets under administration which recently surpassed $30 billion before the firm’s seventh anniversary.
"With their outstanding track record in professional investment management and personalized client services, Wickham Investment Counsel Inc. aligns with the core values we uphold at Wellington-Altus, and we are thrilled to welcome their prestigious team to our firm," said Shaun Hauser, Founder & CEO, Wellington-Altus. "As we continue our mission to revolutionize wealth management in Canada, we actively seek strategic opportunities that propel us toward our goals. Identifying such potential in Wickham strengthens our presence in Ontario and reaffirms our commitment to advisor and client excellence."
Wellington-Altus raised $40 million in a second-round equity investment from The Cynosure Group at the end of 2023 which it said would accelerate its plans following ‘parabolic growth’ in recent years.
Wickham is the longer established of the two firms, having been founded by a group of experienced portfolio managers in 1999, while Wellington-Altus was founded in 2017. Wickham is registered as a Portfolio Manager with the provincial securities commissions in Ontario and Alberta and has five PMs dedicated to serving the needs of high net worth and ultra-high net worth clients, corporations, institutions, and other investors.
"We believe this exciting partnership with one of Canada's fastest-growing independent wealth management firms ensures our continued success and will enormously benefit Wickham and its clients,” said Douglas Lane, former president and current portfolio manager at Wickham Investment Counsel Inc. “We are owned and operated by our managing directors, and through this acquisition, we will become partners within a much larger entity—one that is compatible with our vision."
