Private equity (PE) firm CBPE Capital has made a major investment in Clifton Asset Management. CBPE will take a majority stake in the Bristol-based advice firm, while Clifton’s management team will continue to run the business.

Founded in 1986, Clifton has a long history in pensions administration and wealth management. Over the past decade, it has grown into a vertically integrated, client-focused wealth manager, offering a comprehensive range of services. These include retirement planning, tax advice, asset management, and a wealth platform, with a particular focus on individuals and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Currently, Clifton manages over £1.8 billion in group assets and serves more than 9,000 clients with the support of 110 employees. The company has developed its own proprietary technology platform, Connects-X, which integrates a client-facing portal with a back-office system to streamline operations. This technology has been key in successfully integrating four advisory firm acquisitions over the past two years, including Burnett & Reid Wealth Management, Noble James and G B Financial Services.

Neil Greenaway, CEO of Clifton, commented: “We are pleased to welcome CBPE as our strategic investor. This partnership marks a transformative milestone in Clifton’s journey, building on the robust infrastructure we’ve created to deliver exceptional client outcomes within a strong compliance framework.”

“CBPE’s proven track record in supporting high-growth financial services companies makes them the ideal partner for us. Our proprietary, technology-enabled platform and scalable operating model uniquely position Clifton to integrate quality financial advisory firms into our community. With CBPE’s expertise and financial backing, we are excited to accelerate our acquisition strategy while maintaining the high standards that have driven our success.”

Richard Thompson, Partner at CBPE, added: “We are delighted to be working with the Clifton team. We have been impressed with what Management have built. Clifton is well invested, with a deep commitment to client service and regulatory compliance. With a scalable business model and a clear focus on accelerating its M&A strategy, focusing on small and medium sized IFAs, the business is well-positioned to continue its growth journey”