Bard Financial Joins Osaic’s Empowered Independence Channel

Osaic, Inc. has added Bard Financial Services, a Branford, Connecticut-based advisory firm overseeing approximately $1.2 billion in assets under management, to its Empowered Independence (W-2) channel. 

Bard Financial has been affiliated with Reverence Capital Partners-backed Osaic since 1986. The firm provides comprehensive wealth management and retirement plan services, including 401(k) consulting. The team is led by financial advisor Kenneth “Ken” Spitzbard, alongside partner Jeffrey Welsh, managing director Julie Cross Hoko, wealth advisor Mickey Goldberg, and senior operations professional Jackie Weston. 

“As we looked ahead, we wanted a business model that allows us to devote more time to clients and provide mentoring to the next generation of advisors, while continuing with a trusted partner for operational support,” Spitzbard said. 

Under the new structure, Bard Financial will continue to utilize Osaic’s brokerage and advisory platform while operating under Osaic’s corporate RIA. The Empowered Independence model centralizes infrastructure, compliance, and technology, allowing advisors to reduce administrative burdens while maintaining autonomy in client relationships. 

Designed for entrepreneurial advisors seeking scale without relinquishing independence, the W-2 channel provides operational leverage and institutional support. 

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