Corporate and Commercial
Jeff Rubenstein
December 2025
Lawrence Stephens is delighted to have advised the owners of Aspire Independent Financial Planners LLP, Gary Plein and Jeff Maze, on the successful sale of their business to HCF Partnership Ltd.
This transaction forms part of our ongoing work in the consolidation of the Wealth management and Independent Financial Advisers (IFAs) sector, an area in which we have extensive experience and a proven track record.
This latest deal follows similar transactions we have advised on in the sector, including advising Fidelius on its investment in Vobis and advising HFMC Wealth on a series of strategic acquisitions further demonstrating our commitment to supporting clients through the entire lifecycle of their business be it sales or acquisitions.
The transaction presented unique challenges due to the structure of the deal and changes to the sale mechanism during the process.
Our team led by Jeff Rubenstein and assisted by Associate Isobel Moran, Solicitor, Avni Patel and the employment team, adapted swiftly to these developments to ensure a successful outcome for all parties.
Jeff Rubenstein, Head of Corporate and Commercial and lead on the transaction, commented:
“This was a particularly intricate deal, with evolving requirements and structural changes that demanded flexibility and creative solutions. Our ability to adapt and deliver under these circumstances reflects the depth of knowledge and expertise we bring to IFA consolidation transactions.”
Jeff Maze, co-owner of Aspire Independent Financial Planners LLP added:
“We were delighted to have appointed Jeff and his team at Lawrence Stephens to guide us through this once in a lifetime sale. They gave us confidence throughout a complex process. Their proactive approach and ability to navigate unexpected changes ensured that the transaction was completed smoothly and efficiently and we would be delighted to recommend them to anyone in our sector who needs their expertise.”
