Stearns Financial Group Joins Hightower Signature Wealth
We’re excited to announce that Stearns Financial Group (SFG) has joined Hightower Signature Wealth (HTSW). This addition brings approximately $2.5 billion in AUM* and 30 new team members to HTSW, further expanding our national footprint.
With locations in Greensboro and Chapel Hill, North Carolina, SFG has provided comprehensive financial planning since 1991. The practice first partnered with Hightower in 2020 and, as part of HTSW, will gain access to expanded operational and investment capabilities through a fully integrated model.
“SFG has been a valued part of the Hightower community for several years, making this a natural next step in our relationship,” said Larry Restieri, Chief Executive Officer of Hightower. “We are proud to welcome the team to HTSW and help them build on the trusted client relationships they have fostered for more than three decades.”
HTSW launched in October 2025 and combines personalized advice with centralized capabilities across investment management, operations, technology, compliance, marketing, and client service. Our model enables advisors to spend more time serving clients while benefiting from the scale and resources of a larger organization. Year to date, we have added nearly $30 billion in AUM* through a combination of internal and external acquisitions.
“Since founding SFG more than 35 years ago, we have focused on helping clients navigate life’s biggest financial decisions with thoughtful, personalized advice,” said Dennis Stearns, Founding Partner and Senior Wealth Advisor at SFG. “Joining Hightower Signature Wealth allows us to build on the strong foundation we have created while positioning our business for the future,” said Haleh Moddasser, Managing Partner and Senior Wealth Advisor at SFG.
“By streamlining our day-to-day operations, our team can work even more efficiently and spend more time focused on clients,” added John Thomas, Managing Partner and Senior Wealth Advisor at SFG.
This addition brings HTSW to approximately $40 billion in AUM*, more than 160 advisors, and more than 35 locations nationwide. Additional acquisitions are expected through the end of the year. We extend a warm welcome to our new clients and team members.
*As of June 30, 2026.
This material is for general information and educational purposes only. Information is based on data gathered from what we believe are reliable sources. It is not guaranteed as to accuracy, does not purport to be complete and is not intended to be used as a primary basis for investment decisions.
Find answers to your questions about Hightower Signature Wealth
Hightower Signature Wealth is a fiduciary wealth management practice that provides investment management, financial planning, estate strategies, insurance, and banking solutions. We work with families, business owners, professionals, women, and retirees across more than 40 offices nationwide. Our advisors take the time to understand your financial priorities, develop a plan around your goals, and adjust that plan as your life and circumstances evolve.
Hightower Signature Wealth provides a broad range of wealth management services designed to address different aspects of your financial life. Our capabilities include investment management, financial planning, retirement planning, estate strategies, insurance and risk management, banking solutions, and charitable giving strategies. By considering these areas together, our advisors can develop a coordinated approach based on your goals, priorities, financial circumstances, and plans for the future.
Hightower Signature Wealth advisors work with a broad range of clients, including women, families, business owners, professionals, retirees, and high-net-worth individuals navigating major life or financial transitions. Rather than applying a generic playbook, each advisor tailors the plan to a client’s specific goals and current stage of life – from early-career decisions to multigenerational wealth transfer.
Yes. Hightower Signature Wealth advisors serve as fiduciaries, which means they are committed to acting in their clients’ interests when providing investment advice. We offer fee-based advisory services, with fees depending on the services provided and the specifics of your relationship. Your advisor will discuss the applicable fee structure with you so you can understand how you are charged and what services are included.
Hightower Signature Wealth has more than 40 offices nationwide, allowing our advisors to serve individuals, families, and organizations across the country. Depending on your location and preferences, you may be able to work with an advisor locally or connect with a team in another market. Visit our Locations page to explore our office locations, learn more about the teams in each market, and find an office near you.
Getting started with Hightower Signature Wealth is simple. Complete our online contact form with some basic information about yourself and what you are looking for, and we’ll connect you with an advisor who can discuss your needs and financial priorities. That initial conversation is an opportunity to learn more about our approach, ask questions, and determine whether working with a Hightower Signature Wealth advisor may be a good fit.
Your first conversation is an opportunity for us to learn more about you, your financial circumstances, and what you hope to accomplish. An advisor may ask about your goals, current investments, family considerations, business interests, and other priorities that could influence your financial plan. You’ll also have an opportunity to ask questions, learn about our approach, and discuss what working together could look like.
