Ladenburg Thalmann — which owns Securities America and four other independent advisor broker-dealers — says its annuity unit has acquired assets and the brand of Kestler Financial Group's insurance distribution business. The firm expects the deal to benefit both Ladenburg Thalmann Annuity Insurance Services and sister firm Highland C apital Brokerage.
Kestler has selling agreements with over 20 independent broker-dealers, RIAs and other firms that have 3,000-plus affiliated financial advisors.
"This is a significant step forward in our strategic vision for LTAIS and the entire Ladenburg insurance and annuity platform, especially with respect to reinforcing our leadership position in the independent financial advice space at a time when insurance and annuity solutions are becoming increasingly important to individuals and families across the country," according to Ladenburg President and CEO Richard Lampen.
