Kestra PWS Adds Ascend Private Wealth Partners to Advisor Platform 

Kestra Private Wealth Services (Kestra PWS), a registered investment advisor subsidiary of Kestra Financial, Inc., announced that Ascend Private Wealth Partners has joined its national platform. The Scottsdale, Arizona–based firm manages $866 million in assets and is led by David Barnett and Ashley Ament. 

Ascend Private Wealth Partners specializes in holistic financial planning, encompassing investment management, retirement and tax planning, and estate strategies for individuals and families. By aligning with Kestra PWS, the team gains access to enhanced operational, technology, and compliance resources, empowering them to deepen client relationships while preserving their independence and entrepreneurial culture. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Ascend Private Wealth Partners to Kestra PWS,” said Rob Bartenstein, Founder and President of Kestra Private Wealth Services. “Their client-first mindset and entrepreneurial spirit exemplify the qualities we value most in our advisor partners.” 

The addition of Ascend marks another milestone in Austin, TX-based Kestra PWS’s continued growth trajectory. Earlier this year, the firm added Turas Wealth Partners, led by father-son advisors John and Shea Marmion, further expanding its network of independent practices nationwide.