Creative Planning Expands Presence in Southwest Florida With Acquisition of MarkhamNorton Accountants+Advisors

Creative Planning, a prominent independent registered investment advisor, has announced its agreement to acquire MarkhamNorton Accountants+Advisors, a well-regarded accounting and advisory firm based in Southwest Florida. The deal, which is set to close on July 1, 2026, aims to enhance Creative Planning's service offerings and expand its footprint in the region. While the financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed, the acquisition is expected to significantly benefit MarkhamNorton’s clients by providing access to a broader range of integrated financial services.

Founded over 45 years ago, MarkhamNorton has established a strong reputation for delivering high-quality tax, accounting, litigation support, and advisory services to businesses, families, and individuals throughout Southwest Florida. The firm’s commitment to client service and its deep-rooted expertise in the local market have made it a trusted partner for many clients. With this acquisition, Creative Planning intends to leverage MarkhamNorton’s established relationships while integrating its own comprehensive suite of services, which includes investment management, retirement planning, estate and trust services, and business consulting, among others.

The strategic rationale behind this acquisition is clear: as the financial needs of clients become increasingly complex, the combination of Creative Planning’s extensive resources and MarkhamNorton’s local expertise is expected to create a more robust service offering. According to Karen Mosteller, Managing Partner at MarkhamNorton, the decision to join Creative Planning was driven by the need to position the firm for long-term success and to better address the evolving requirements of its clients. The alignment of both firms' client-first philosophies and commitment to personalized service further underscores the potential for a successful integration.

Creative Planning, which manages over $710 billion in assets as of December 31, 2025, has been actively expanding its national platform through strategic acquisitions. This latest transaction not only enhances its service capabilities in Florida but also reflects a broader trend within the wealth management and advisory sectors, where firms are increasingly seeking to consolidate and diversify their service offerings to meet client demands. The acquisition of MarkhamNorton is likely to set a precedent for similar transactions in the industry, as firms recognize the value of combining local expertise with comprehensive financial solutions.

In conclusion, the acquisition of MarkhamNorton by Creative Planning represents a strategic move that is expected to benefit both firms and their clients. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, the integration of specialized services and local knowledge will be crucial for firms looking to maintain a competitive edge. This transaction not only positions Creative Planning for growth in Southwest Florida but also highlights the ongoing consolidation trends within the financial advisory sector, suggesting that further M&A activity may be on the horizon as firms strive to enhance their service offerings and client relationships.