Versant Capital Management, Inc., an RIA (independent registered investment advisory) in the wealth management industry, with more than $900 million in assets under management, announced that it has acquired the clients of Barnes Investment Advisory, Inc., also an RIA.

For more than 14 years, Versant Capital Management’s team of professionals has dedicated itself to helping high net worth individuals and families reach their financial goals by focusing on sound wealth management strategies and evidence-based investment vehicles. As a fiduciary, the firm has earned a reputation for its comprehensive and ethical standards, qualifications, and credentials to provide financial advice to its clients.

Barnes Investment Advisory, a wealth management firm founded in 1989 by Stephen Barnes CFA®, CFP® and Kathie Barnes CFP®, MC, earned a reputation for client service and investment competence. A recent health event with Stephen was instrumental in the firm’s transition of clients to Versant Capital Management. Kathie Barnes, a Certified Financial PlannerTM, and Master of Counseling has also moved to Versant, where she continues to focus on retirement planning, legacy planning, and financial literacy for clients.

Clients of Barnes Investment Advisory will benefit from Versant’s full-service practice through increased resources, additional talent, and the technical expertise necessary for high-level wealth management. Along with Kathie Barnes, two of her firm’s professional staff have joined Versant, adding to decades of industry knowledge, experience, and Versant’s full suite of services to address the complex financial challenges that clients will face throughout their lives.

“It was clear from the beginning that both firms love what they do, and it shows through our mutual dedication to our clients,” stated Liz Shabaker CFP®, Versant’s chief executive officer. “We are proud of the talent and commitment of our combined teams, and the enthusiasm and collaboration that went into this process. The increasing complexity of the wealth management space and market factors can be confusing for people to navigate. Combining key service areas within the firms has uniquely positioned Versant to address the expanded range of client needs so that each client can feel confident they are getting the best possible expertise and advice.”

“Our firms share a common vision and client-centric focus,” stated Kathie Barnes, president of Barnes. “Our combined proficiency and financial strategies will be a tremendous advantage to our clients that have moved from Barnes to Versant. Our focus will continue in the wealth management industry, with the elevated resources that support our client’s expanding financial goals.”

Tom Connelly CFA®, CFP® founded Versant Capital Management in 2004 and is the firm’s president and chief investment officer. CEO Liz Shabaker manages the practice. Versant Capital Management is located at the Biltmore Financial Center in Phoenix and currently has 20 employees.