Mark Armbruster Featured in Recent Wall Street Journal Story on Wealth-Management Dealmaking

We’re proud to share that our CEO, Mark Armbruster, was featured prominently in the December 30, 2025, front‑page Wall Street Journal article, “Boom in Dealmaking Rocks Wealth‑Management Business.” The piece looks at the surge in mergers and acquisitions reshaping the wealth‑management landscape, and his perspective provides a grounded counterpoint to the industry’s current frenzy.

In the article, Mark reflects on the dramatic shift happening across the Rochester, NY, market and the country at large. As many independent wealth management firms are being acquired by national companies, often backed by private‑equity capital, Mark stands out for his long‑term, community‑rooted approach. While dealmaking has accelerated and buyers frequently reach out, his focus remains on growing our firm independently.

The Journal highlights several forces driving today’s consolidation wave from aging firm owners seeking succession plans, private‑equity firms drawn to the sector’s stability, and the growth in household wealth since the pandemic. Against this backdrop, Mark’s comments underscore the value of independence, continuity, and client‑first stewardship—qualities that have defined Armbruster Capital Management since its founding.

The article also explores how large national firms are scaling rapidly, acquiring dozens of smaller practices to expand their reach and offer increasingly comprehensive services to high‑net‑worth and ultra‑high‑net‑worth families. Mark’s inclusion in this broader narrative reinforces the relevance of our firm’s philosophy at a moment when the industry is undergoing profound change.

For those interested in reading the full story, you can find it here (subscription required): A Dealmaking Frenzy Is Reshaping the Booming Wealth-Management Business – WSJ.

Disclaimer: As portrayed in this post, Armbruster Capital Management’s views are subject to change based on market conditions and other factors. These views should not be construed as a recommendation for any specific security or sector. Investing involves risks, and the value of your investment will fluctuate over time; you may gain or lose money. Past performance does not guarantee future results.