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.
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Hightower Signature Wealth is a group comprised of investment professionals registered with Hightower Advisors, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser. Some investment professionals may also be registered with Hightower Securities, LLC (member FINRA and SIPC). Advisory services are offered through Hightower Advisors, LLC. Securities are offered through Hightower Securities, LLC.
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