Ex-FPA director’s firm merges with self-licensed group

In a statement, Apt Wealth Partners said it had merged with Melbourne-based advice firm Unified Financial Services, led by Michelle Tate-Lovery, who recently stepped down from the FPA board.

The deal would see Unified come under the Apt Wealth Partners brand, with the practice’s staff to join Apt’s Melbourne office. Ms Tate-Lovery would be a senior financial adviser at the new merged firm, with Apt managing director James McGregor to continue in his current role.

Mr McGregor said he was pleased to see Ms Tate-Lovery’s firm join the Apt brand.

“Unified Financial Services is a well-regarded advisory firm. Michelle and her team share our approach to financial life planning, helping clients to live for today while planning for tomorrow,” he said.

“We believe our team is our greatest asset, and the Unified Financial Services group only further strengthens this. Together, our years of experience and dedication to providing tailored and holistic financial solutions to our clients means we always provide the highest level of advice and support.”

Ms Tate-Lovery said the merger would be beneficial for Unified staff and clients.

“The alignment of attitude and care was critical to our selection of Apt Wealth Partners. Most importantly, we share the common values of client first, people care and transparency,” she said. 

“We believe our clients will benefit immensely from being part of Apt Wealth. Clients will continue to receive services from their current advisers, as well as access to a range of enhanced services and investment offerings, such as environmental and social investment and philanthropic structuring provided by Apt Wealth Partners.”

Apt has offices in Sydney, Melbourne and Geelong, and manages over $2 billion in client assets.