Two leading global financial advisors – Elizabeth (Lisa) van Walleghem and Thomas J. (Jim) Butler III – with previous responsibility for managing $550 million in client assets, announced yesterday that they have left Merrill Lynch and are partnering with Dynasty Financial Partners to launch a new firm, MAXIMAI Investment Partners.
Based in Coral Gables, Florida, MAXIMAI Investment Partners is an independent boutique investment advisory firm focused on working with ultra-high-net worth entrepreneurs and families from around the world. In addition to Mr. Butler and Ms. van Walleghem, Alejandro Behrens, Daniella Viete, and Ana Bueso are joining the firm– all from the Merrill Lynch Miami Latam Complex.
The team of the new firm is multigenerational, multilingual and global – as are their clients. It provides concierge services to those entrepreneurs and families with international financial interests, and also provides a keen understanding of the entrepreneurial perspective and the Latin American experience.
“One of the main reasons that we have decided to launch MAXIMAI is our desire to build stronger relationships with our clients, their families and communities by offering objective and transparent advice unconstrained by the structure of a one-firm model,” said Ms. van Walleghem.
According to Mr. Butler, “Given the pace of change within global markets, we must maintain the agility to identify new developments, tap attractive opportunities around the world and deliver advanced solutions while safeguarding client assets. Independence equips us to do all this and more.”
“Lisa, Jim and their team have a strong track record working with institutions and families in Latin America, Europe and around the world on a broad array of complex financial issues. Now, as an independent financial advisory firm, they are well positioned for success in the future as they build out their business. At Dynasty, we are delighted to be partnering with MAXIMAI in expanding our Latin American and international business,” said Shirl Penney, President and CEO of Dynasty.
“One feature that distinguishes the independent wealth management segment is the ability to choose platforms and providers that uniquely meet the client’s needs, which is especially relevant for global clients,” said Javier Rivero, Senior Vice President, International Division at Dynasty. “MAXIMAI recognizes that the independent model is the future for advisors working with global clients that require a truly open platform and we congratulate them on their decision.”