Hightower Acquires $5 Billion RIA, Grows Employee Advisor Division
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Mar 04 2026
0mins
Should l Buy WFC?
Source: Barron's
Acquisition Announcement: Hightower Advisors has agreed to acquire Journey Strategic Wealth, which manages approximately $5 billion in assets.
New Initiative: This acquisition is part of Hightower's new initiative, Hightower Signature Wealth, allowing advisors to work under Hightower's brand as employees.
Leadership: The initiative is led by CEO Larry Restieri, marking Hightower's first external acquisition in this area.
Business Model Shift: The move signifies a shift in Hightower's business model, transitioning from independent practices to a more integrated employee structure.
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Analyst Views on WFC
Wall Street analysts forecast WFC stock price to rise
17 Analyst Rating
10 Buy
6 Hold
1 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 78.300
Low
74.00
Averages
98.66
High
113.00
Current: 78.300
Low
74.00
Averages
98.66
High
113.00
About WFC
Wells Fargo & Company is a financial services company. The Company provides a diversified set of banking, investment and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance, to individuals, businesses and institutions. The Company operates through four segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth & Investment Management. The Company provides consumer financial products and services, including checking and savings accounts, credit and debit cards, and auto, residential mortgage, and small business lending. In addition, the Company offers financial planning, private banking, investment management, and fiduciary services. It also provides financial solutions to businesses through products and services including traditional commercial loans and lines of credit, letters of credit, asset-based lending and leasing, trade financing, treasury management, and investment banking services.
About the author

Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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