Absolute Financial Group, a new independent financial advice (IFA) consolidator, has officially launched.

The new business, led by former CMS Wealth CEO, David Carter, has been backed by Inflexion Private Equity.

Absolute has also exchanged on its first acquisition, Absolute Financial Management, a South East-based IFA firm with headquarters in Ashford, Kent and £1.1bn in assets under advice. This transaction remains conditional on FCA change in control approval.

The firm said it plans to unite advisory businesses within a “unified, well-resourced structure”, promoting adviser support, holistic financial planning, outstanding client outcomes, and enduring client value.

Absolute Financial Management will serve as the central hub for subsequent acquisitions under a single national brand.

Carter commented: “We know there is concern amongst the IFA community about losing independence and a decline of client service standards when selling their business. We created Absolute to ensure that the ethics, integrity and legacy of an IFA’s business is maintained within a group that shares their values.

“Whether business owners are seeking succession planning or simply looking to join a larger values-led organisation, we are confident we will be able to meet their requirements through a range of options, underpinned by deep sector expertise and robust financial backing.”

Absolute is also being supported by non-executive chairman, Paul Hogarth, the founder of Tatton Asset Management and Perspective Financial Group.

The group will offer flexible acquisition structures, including both majority and minority sale options, and the business has an equity commitment of £115m from Inflexion Private Equity Partners, Tatton Asset Management and the management team.

Hogarth said: “I have always been passionate about the IFA sector and partnering with Inflexion, alongside a leadership team I trust, presents an exceptional opportunity to build a business that genuinely champions the IFA profession.

“Our ambition is not to commoditise advice, but to build lasting partnerships with client-focused firms, while supporting the long-term integrity and value of independent financial planning across the UK.”

Inflexion Private Equity partner and head of financial services, Andrea Bertolini, added: “With a clear market differentiation and a bold vision, we have a unique opportunity to create one of UK’s leading financial planning businesses. This investment perfectly aligns with our strategy – backing ambitious financial services businesses with the capital and expertise to scale for the long term.”

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