Taking the Market by Storm
Fairstone Ireland Commences 2025 with Strategic Partnership of Financial Architects
Fairstone Ireland has commenced the new year with a significant announcement: the partnership with Financial Architects, a prominent financial planning firm based in Meath. This marks Fairstone’s seventh strategic partnership and underscores its commitment as a leading provider of financial planning services in Ireland.
Following closely on the heels of its partnership with John F Loughrey Financial Services, this latest milestone bolsters Fairstone’s reputation as a dynamic and influential presence in the financial planning and wealth management industry. Financial Architects has established itself as a trusted provider of personalised financial solutions, earning acclaim for its client-focused approach and tailored services. This alignment with Fairstone’s ethos of innovation and prioritising client needs makes the partnership seamless.
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, said: “We are delighted to welcome Derek, Michelle and the team at Financial Architects to the Fairstone family. This partnership represents a pivotal step in our journey to become Ireland’s premier financial planning & wealth management firm. Expanding into Meath enables us to serve even more clients with exceptional financial planning solutions, while solidifying our presence in key regions across the country.”
This partnership builds upon the momentum of a highly successful 2024, during which Fairstone partnered with six brokers, firmly establishing its position as a pioneer in the Irish financial services landscape. With this latest development, Fairstone’s total Assets Under Management (AUM) now exceeds €1.6 billion—a significant milestone in its growth trajectory.
Derek Maguire, Managing Director of Financial Architects, added: “Joining Fairstone is an exciting opportunity for our team and clients. With Fairstone’s extensive resources and expertise, we can enhance our bespoke financial planning offerings and deliver even greater value to the clients we serve.”
Anthony O’Driscoll, Head of Mergers and Acquisitions at Fairstone Ireland, emphasized the strategic significance of the acquisition: “Partnering with Financial Architects reinforces our presence in Meath and strengthens our position in the Irish market. As we expand, we are committed to addressing the evolving needs of clients in an increasingly complex financial landscape.”
This partnership further establishes Fairstone Ireland as a key influencer shaping the future of financial planning and wealth management in Ireland. With ambitious growth strategies and a steadfast commitment to its clients, Fairstone continues to set a benchmark for excellence in 2025 and beyond.
Fairstone Ireland was established in 2022 when the Fairstone Group entered the Irish market via the acquisition of PAX Financial (the financial planning firm behind the market-leading ‘askpaul’ brand). Since then, Fairstone Ireland has grown its AUM to over €1.5 billion through both organic growth and strategic partnerships with Carey Financial, Murray & Spelman, Premier Financial and Cleere Life & Pensions.
Headquartered in Sunderland, the Fairstone Group is one of the fastest-growing financial services businesses in the UK, operating from over 55 locations and with fee income in excess of c. £130 million.
The Fairstone Group is made up of financial management, private wealth, corporate solutions, mortgage solutions and estate planning channels.
Today, The Fairstone Group has over 1,200 operational staff and regulated advisers who oversee £17 billion in funds under management on behalf of over 49,000 wealth management clients.
Financial Architects, based in Ratoath is a trusted provider of bespoke financial planning and advisory services. With a client-centric approach, they specialise in creating tailored financial solutions for individuals, families, and businesses. Our expertise spans wealth management, retirement planning, investment strategies, and life insurance, ensuring every client achieves their financial goals with confidence.