Mariner, a national financial services firm, has significantly bolstered its wealth management capabilities through the acquisition of Taurus Asset Management, a New York City-based firm specializing in high-net-worth individuals and professional athletes, with approximately $1.4 billion in assets under advisement. This strategic move not only expands Mariner's service offerings but also strengthens its position in the niche market of professional athletes and ultra-high-net-worth families. Founded in 2004 by Brad Peck, Taurus Asset Management has carved out a reputation for providing tailored wealth planning and investment management services. Peck's extensive experience, particularly in advising professional athletes since 1996, brings a unique perspective and deep client relationships to Mariner.
The acquisition is seen as a perfect alignment of values and client service approaches between the two firms. Marty Bicknell, CEO and president of Mariner, highlighted the strategic importance of the acquisition, noting the enhanced capabilities and expertise Taurus brings to the table. The deal, which closed on May 31, 2025, integrates Taurus Asset Management into Mariner's brand, with the team continuing to operate from its Madison Avenue location. This merger is expected to offer clients a more comprehensive suite of services, including estate planning, tax preparation, and personal finance, under the Mariner umbrella. Brad Peck emphasized the benefits of the partnership, pointing to Mariner's scale and in-house expertise as key factors that will enable Taurus to elevate its service offerings without losing the personalized approach its clients value.
The acquisition is a testament to Mariner's commitment to expanding its footprint and enhancing its service delivery in the competitive wealth management industry. By integrating Taurus Asset Management, Mariner gains access to specialized expertise in serving professional athletes and ultra-high-net-worth families, a demographic that requires sophisticated financial strategies. This move allows Mariner to offer more tailored solutions, such as advanced estate planning and tax preparation services, which are critical for clients with complex financial portfolios. The retention of Taurus's team at its Madison Avenue location ensures continuity of service and maintains the client relationships that have been built over years.
This acquisition matters because it reflects a broader trend in the financial services industry toward consolidation and specialization to better serve high-net-worth clients. As wealth management becomes increasingly competitive, firms like Mariner are seeking to differentiate themselves by acquiring niche players with proven track records. The integration of Taurus Asset Management enhances Mariner's ability to provide holistic financial planning, addressing unique needs such as those of professional athletes who face distinct challenges like short career spans and variable income streams. Ultimately, this strategic move positions Mariner to capture a larger share of the lucrative high-net-worth market, driving growth and reinforcing its reputation as a comprehensive wealth management provider.
