The Power of Strategic Partnerships with Clearstead and WST

Rosemont Roundtable: Exploring the Business of Investment Management

In the latest episode of the Rosemont Roundtable podcast, we sit down with two special guests for a conversation about a transaction between two Rosemont Investments – Wilbanks Smith and Thomas (WST) and Clearstead – in which WST was acquired by Clearstead and rebranded as Clearstead Advisory Solutions. Today, Clearstead has $44 billion assets under advisement*, including a significant chunk of assets under management.

Co-Chairman of Clearstead, Carl Tippit, CFA, and Executive Managing Director of Clearstead (formerly of WST) Wayne Wilbanks CFA, explored the intricacies of WST’s acquisition into Clearstead. Host Chas Burkhart, CEO of Rosemont, set the stage by detailing the long-standing relationships and critical strategic decisions that led to WST’s acquisition by Clearstead.

Now, six months post-merger, Wilbanks and Tippit share their personal reflections, recounting the journey from separate entities to a unified, forward-thinking team. The discussion calls attention to the importance of cultural fit, strategic alignment and a shared vision for long-term growth.

Key talking points from the conversation:

• Clearstead's acquisition strategy, particularly their integration of OCIO (Outsourced Chief Investment Officer) services.
• The development of Clearstead's alternatives platform, designed to make efficient investments in private equity, has proven to be a cornerstone of the company's success.
• Wayne highlighted the crucial role of cultural fit in their partnership, emphasizing the need for a partner who would support WST's existing team and nurture the next generation of leaders.
• Their shared long-term vision for continued growth, the need for strategic planning and the importance of maintaining aligned financial partners to ensure long-term success and sustainability.

Tune in now for insights on the power of strategic alignment and business growth. All episodes of the Rosemont Roundtable podcast are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more.

*Approximate AUM of Clearstead at the time of recording.