SEI Completes First Stage of Strategic Investment in Stratos Wealth Holdings - SEI Investments (NASDAQ:SEIC)

Core Insights - SEI has completed the first stage of its strategic investment in Stratos Wealth Holdings, acquiring the U.S.-based Stratos business for approximately $441 million, which constitutes about 81% of the total transaction value [1] - The partnership aims to enhance the wealth management ecosystem by combining SEI's strengths in advice, asset management, and administration with Stratos' independent advisory platform [3][4] - Stratos operates a national network of over 350 financial advisors across 29 states, advising approximately $38 billion in client assets [5][8] Company Overview - SEI is a leading global provider of financial technology, operations, and asset management services, managing approximately $1.8 trillion in assets as of September 30, 2025 [7] - Stratos Wealth Holdings supports independent financial advisors through flexible affiliation models and offers practice management consulting, operations, IT, and compliance services [8] Transaction Details - SEI will pay a total cash consideration of approximately $544 million for 57.5% of the equity of SEI-Eclipse Holding Company, with legacy Stratos equity holders retaining 42.5% [5] - The second stage of the transaction, involving the purchase of the Mexico-based NSC business, is expected to close in 2026, subject to regulatory approval [6]