Clifton Wealth Partnership (CWP) has completed the acquisition of Cutting & Carter, a Maldon-based financial planning firm serving clients across mid Essex.
The transaction marks a further step in CWP’s strategy to support established advice businesses through succession and long-term integration. The firm brings approximately 500 active clients and £60 million AUM to the partnership.
About Cutting & Carter
Cutting & Carter has operated for 25 years from its base in Maldon, providing financial advice to individuals and families across mid Essex. The firm’s two directors, Steve Carter and Gary Smith, have each worked in financial services for more than 40 years.
Carter and Smith will remain involved in the business for up to two years to oversee the transition to CWP and maintain continuity for clients. Their involvement will taper gradually, with each expecting to retire over the next 12 to 24 months.
In retirement, Smith plans to spend more time travelling and visiting family in Australia while Carter plans to dedicate more time to scuba driving, his long-standing hobby. For both directors, the transition provides a natural point to step back from day-to-day responsibilities while ensuring clients remain well supported.
Gary Smith, Director at Cutting & Carter comments: “This has been a long and detailed process, and it has not happened overnight. We took time to understand Clifton and how they operate. They have been professional, friendly and hard-working throughout. We are confident our clients will be in capable hands with the new team.”
Steve Carter, Director at Cutting & Carter comments: “CWP have a strong team in place, and that has helped make the transition as smooth as it could be. This isn’t a process we’ve experienced before, but we have felt supported at every stage.
“On behalf of the team at Cutting & Carter, I want to extend a huge thank you to our clients, who have put their trust in us over the years.”
A structured approach to consolidation
CWP’s focus remains on partnering with firms that value continuity for clients and a measured transition for advisers. The integration process is supported by an established operational framework and in-house capabilities.
Clifton Wealth Partnership is a financial planning and wealth management business and is part of the Bristol-based Clifton Group, which has over 15,000 clients, 180 employees and £3.55bn in assets under management.
Since its formation in 1986, Clifton has specialised in developing and implementing innovative financial services, products and technologies. Its continuous investment in market-leading financial technology and in-house expertise helps minimise the well-known challenges of integrating new advice firms.
Anthony Carty, Managing Director, Clifton Wealth Partnership, comments: “We recognise that selling a business built over decades is a significant decision. Our role is to provide reassurance and structure, so that clients continue to receive consistent advice and service.
“With Cutting & Carter, there has been a clear alignment in values and approach. We have taken time to build that understanding, and that has supported a smooth transition.
“We continue to invest in the systems and people that allow us to integrate firms carefully and effectively. That matters for clients, and it matters for the advisers we partner with.”
CWP has continued to expand through acquisitions across the UK, supported by its broader group infrastructure and ongoing investment in technology and operational processes.
