First Financial joins BT Select

BT Select is pleased to announce Melbourne-based wealth management business First Financial will join BT Select. This follows a competitive review of business service providers undertaken by First Financial.

First Financial was established last year following a 50:50 joint venture with Crowe Horwath, the listed accounting and financial services group. First Financial was formerly the financial services division of Crowe Horwath. It has 60 staff, including 17 financial planners, four lending and finance advisers, and an SMSF administration team. It has approximately $1.1 billion in funds under advice.

BT Select’s managing director Phil Butterworth said this announcement demonstrates BT Select’s continued growth strategy and its ability to attract high quality businesses."

“We are delighted to welcome another outstanding group such as First Financial to BT Select. First Financial shares many of the key attributes of the existing BT Select community – high quality professionals with an appreciation for innovation and a desire to grow its business and service its clients.”

“First Financial’s future growth aspirations are very exciting and we look forward to supporting both their organic growth objectives and potential acquisition opportunities.”

First Financial managing director, Chris White, said BT Select’s capacity to transition practices was a critical factor in its decision to partner with BT Select.

“Back office efficiency is critical for us and BT Select’s approach to embedding experienced staff within our team during this crucial phase is a big plus for us. The strength, insight and innovation of BT Financial Group is also a benefit, and I have confidence that BT Select has the knowledge, experience and ability to help us transition efficiently. Longer term, BT Select’s focus on growth aligns with our strategic plans.”

BT Select helps financial planning practices to grow using innovation, insights and tailored solutions.

BT Select was launched in 2012 and has attracted 67 practices with approximately $7.5 billion funds under advice. It provides a range of business services including licensing solutions, a wide range of market-leading practice solutions and access to a peer support network of like-minded advisers with a culture of innovation and growth. Practices pick and choose the services they need to meet their individual practice situation, including utilising the AFSL or maintaining their own licence.