By Allen Giese, CLU®, ChFC®, ChSNC®
You have most likely heard by now that Northstar Financial Planners will be entering into a transaction with Modera Wealth Management, another fee-only firm. Personally, I’m excited about what this merger means for the future of our clients, our employees, and the stability of the firm.
If all continues to go smoothly, on June 15, 2026, Northstar Financial Planners will become part of Modera Wealth Management. Just to be clear, Northstar will cease doing business as Northstar, and we will, from that day forward, be known as Modera Wealth Management.
This is a decision we did not make lightly. I’ve known members of Modera’s leadership team for more than a decade. We share a deep alignment in our values — a commitment to thoughtful financial planning, disciplined investment advice, and always putting clients first. Modera currently serves over 5,300 clients across 19 offices along the East Coast and oversees more than $17 billion in assets under management. With this transaction, Northstar will become part of that growing and well-respected organization.
Why This Matters for You
First and foremost, we believe this is in the best interest of our clients. With Northstar joining Modera, you will gain access to expanded resources across investment management, financial planning, tax guidance, and technology. These enhancements allow us to elevate the level of service and insight we provide. In our experience, even small improvements, applied consistently over time, can make a meaningful difference in long-term outcomes.
A Stronger Future for Our Team
Equally important, this is a positive step for the people of Northstar. Our team has always been at the heart of what we do. This transaction creates new opportunities for professional growth, additional resources, and long-term career paths for our employees. A strong, supported team ultimately leads to a better experience for you.
A Clear and Durable Succession Plan
Finally, this partnership establishes a clear and responsible path forward for the firm. As Northstar has grown, it has become increasingly important to ensure that the firm’s future is not dependent on any one individual. This transaction creates a durable succession plan designed to provide continuity, stability, and confidence for years to come.
What Will Not Change
While this is an exciting step forward, it’s equally important to understand what remains the same:
You will continue working with the same Northstar team you know and trust.
Our investment philosophy and planning approach remain unchanged.
Our fiduciary commitment — always acting in your best interest — remains central to everything we do.
Your assets will continue to be custodied at Schwab and Nationwide, with additional flexibility to access other custodians, such as Fidelity, if appropriate.
Our office location will remain the same, now complemented by Modera’s broader East Coast presence.
In the near term, the most noticeable change will simply be our name.
Looking Ahead
As I mentioned, we expect that transition to occur on June 15, 2026.We are genuinely excited about what this means for you, our team, and the firm's long-term strength. The trust our clients have put in us over the last 26 years will continue — just under a different name. We thank you for that trust, and we do not take it lightly as we look forward to continuing to serve you — now with even greater resources and support behind us.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or your advisor at Northstar.