Clifton Wealth Partnership (CWP) has acquired Essex-based financial planning firm Cutting & Carter for an undisclosed sum.

The firm brings around 500 active clients and £60m in assets under management (AUM) to the group.

The deal continues CWP’s strategy of supporting established advice businesses through succession and long-term integration.

Cutting & Carter has been providing financial advice to individuals and families across mid-Essex for 25 years.

Its directors, Steve Carter and Gary Smith, will remain involved with the business for up to two years to oversee the transition to CWP and provide continuity to clients.

Their involvement will gradually reduce, with each director expecting to retire over the next 12 to 24 months.

“This has been a long and detailed process, and it has not happened overnight,” commented Smith.

“We took time to understand Clifton and how they operate. They have been professional, friendly and hard-working throughout. We are confident our clients will be in capable hands with the new team.”

Carter added: “CWP have a strong team in place, and that has helped make the transition as smooth as it could be.

“This isn’t a process we’ve experienced before, but we have felt supported at every stage.”

CWP is a financial planning and wealth management business that is part of Bristol-based Clifton Group, which has more than 15,000 clients and £3.55bn in AUM.

Commenting on its latest acquisition, CWP managing director, Anthony Carty, said: “We recognise that selling a business built over decades is a significant decision. Our role is to provide reassurance and structure, so that clients continue to receive consistent advice and service.

“With Cutting & Carter, there has been a clear alignment in values and approach. We have taken time to build that understanding, and that has supported a smooth transition.

“We continue to invest in the systems and people that allow us to integrate firms carefully and effectively. That matters for clients, and it matters for the advisers we partner with.”

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