LPL Financial Welcomes Women-Led West Texas Investments
LPL Financial has welcomed West Texas Investments, a women-led advisory team based in Lubbock, TX, to its broker-dealer, RIA, and custodial platforms. The team, consisting of Stephanie Stewart, Debra Hedgcoth, and Madison Wentland, previously managed approximately $170 million in advisory, brokerage, and retirement plan assets at B. Riley Wealth Advisors before transitioning to LPL.
Founded in 2012 by Stewart and her late partner, David Barber, West Texas Investments expanded with Hedgcoth joining in 2018 after a 25-year career with the IRS, followed by Wentland in 2019. The team emphasizes a holistic, client-first approach, using a “Discover, Design, and Deliver” methodology to help clients achieve their financial goals.
The advisors cited LPL’s integrated technology, back-office support, and marketing solutions as key factors in their decision to join. “I was taught that you design your own life, and part of that means working towards a future that aligns with your values and aspirations. Moving our business to LPL will help us achieve that goal,” Wentland said.
West Texas Investments is the latest to move to LPL. Last month, the broker-dealer announced that Trimp Wealth Management, a father-son duo managing $220 million in assets joined the firm. Other recent moves include Townsgate Wealth Management, a Westlake Village, CA-based team, managing approximately $1.15 billion in assets, and Legacy Premier Wealth Management, $275 million firm in Colorado.
West Texas Investments’ move to LPL Financial reflects a broader industry trend where independent advisory teams seek more autonomy, technology integration, and back-office support to enhance client service. Major firms like LPL, Raymond James, and Wells Fargo are actively competing to onboard experienced advisors, reflecting a dynamic market for talent.
