Carson Group Acquires ZeroCelsius Wealth Studio in Strategic Expansion Move

Carson Group announced the acquisition of ZeroCelsius Wealth Studio, effective March 8, 2026. The transaction includes the transfer of approximately $380 million in client assets under management (AUM) and a team of 14 financial advisors. ZeroCelsius, founded in 2018, specialized in fee-based wealth planning and retirement strategy for high-net-worth individuals and small business owners. The integration will be managed through Carson’s advisory network, which now exceeds 240 affiliated firms and more than $42 billion in combined AUM. The acquisition reflects Carson Group’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in the independent advisory space, particularly in the Mountain West region. With a focus on technology-enabled advisory models, the integration of ZeroCelsius’s digital platforms and client onboarding tools is expected to enhance Carson’s operational efficiency and scalability. This move aligns with increasing industry trends toward consolidation among boutique wealth firms seeking economies of scale and enhanced service delivery. Carson Group, a public company traded on the NYSE under the ticker CG, reported second-quarter 2025 revenue of $187 million, with a 12% year-over-year growth in advisory revenue. The addition of ZeroCelsius is projected to contribute approximately $3.2 million in annualized revenue and improve margins through shared back-office and compliance infrastructure. The deal was structured as an all-cash transaction, with no equity consideration. Market participants note that while the acquisition does not significantly impact broader financial indices such as the S&P 500 or volatility measures like the VIX, it contributes to the ongoing normalization of the fragmented wealth management sector. The move may signal increased momentum for mid-tier advisory firms to align with larger platforms, potentially reshaping competitive dynamics in the $12 trillion U.S. wealth management industry.