Atomos has bought north-London-based Equanimity Independent Financial Advisers Limited.
The independent advice business was founded in 2004 by chartered financial planner Helen Howcroft with the aim of bringing a holistic approach to clients’ finances.
It places a specialist focus on empowering women to make informed decisions about their money.
The firm has 12 employees, offering advice to predominantly female, high-net-worth clients and business owners across financial planning, wealth management, and financial protection.
It has particular expertise in helping women who are going through divorce, providing advice on the legal implications and the impact on pensions and other assets.
Separation, divorce or bereavement can involve taking on sole responsibility for finances and Equanimity provides guidance on decision-making during what is often a very difficult time.
Atomos will work closely with Howcroft and her team to deliver inclusive advice services, focusing initially on enhancing services for clients experiencing significant life changes.
The business will also look to increase its offer to people who typically may not have accessed financial advice, in line with the Financial Conduct Authority’s focus on improving outcomes for under-served or vulnerable consumers.
Atomos chief commercial officer Chris Kraft said: “We are delighted to welcome Equanimity into our business.
“This is a key strategic acquisition for Atomos and will allow us to leverage Equanimity’s expertise in specialist advice and roll it out nationally across our regional offices.
“In this way we’ll be able to support more of our clients through specific life events and challenges. We look forward to working closely with Helen and her team to achieve this goal.”
Howcroft added: “In Atomos we have found a partner who shares our ambition and can help our team to develop client relationships free of the increasing burdens placed on advice businesses.
“With Atomos’s support, we can help many more individuals and families achieve their financial goals.”
Atomos announced it was rebranding from Sanlam Wealth in July last year. It laid out plans to become a “truly hybrid” wealth business to meet rising demand for remote consultations.
In April this year, the firm appointed Jon Taylor as chair, to succeed Alison Endemano.
