News Summary
Ducere Wealth, a new fee-only registered investment advisory firm, has opened in Newport Beach with a goal of providing unbiased investment advice. Founded by Rick and Zane Keller, the firm aims to manage assets exceeding $1 billion within the next year. With a strong team and strategic partnerships, Ducere Wealth seeks to differentiate itself by focusing on client needs and innovation in the wealth management landscape.
Newport Beach, California – Ducere Wealth, a new fee-only registered investment advisory (RIA) firm, officially launched on July 28, 2025, with the aim of providing unbiased investment advice. The firm was founded by Rick Keller and his son Zane Keller, both of whom previously held positions at First Foundation Bank, a notable financial institution managing $5.4 billion in assets. Ducere Wealth commenced operations with over $100 million in assets under management, aiming to grow that figure to $1 billion within the next year.
Zane Keller serves as the firm’s CEO, while Rick Keller holds the position of Chairman and Chief Economist. Obviously skilled in wealth management, Rick Keller brings over 30 years of experience to the firm, having co-founded First Foundation in 2007 along with a history of founding Keller Group Investment Management in 1990. The firm is positioned to recruit homegrown advisors, offering attractive compensation packages and the potential for equity acquisition.
To address potential conflicts of interest often seen in larger wealth management firms, Ducere Wealth promises to provide clients with unbiased advice. This leads to a clear focus on client needs without the distractions of product sales, which can affect advisory integrity.
Operational Setup and Future Plans
Ducere Wealth has expanded its operations, opening a satellite office in Las Vegas to better serve its clientele. Currently, the firm employs seven full-time team members and is well-prepared to double its workforce as demand for their services potentially increases. The firm has begun establishing a custody agreement with Charles Schwab, laying the groundwork for a flexible tech stack that supports multiple custodial arrangements.
A notable addition to the management team is Nicholas Bzovi, who has been appointed as the Director of Alternative Investments. Bzovi’s extensive experience—spanning over 20 years—will drive Ducere Wealth’s focus on private market strategies, including manager selection, and presenting unique investment opportunities to clients. Under his leadership, the firm plans to enhance client education about private market investments, aiding clients in their wealth accumulation efforts.
Technological and Marketing Partnerships
To optimize its operational efficiency and client service, Ducere Wealth has partnered with JIFFY.ai, a financial services platform developed at Stanford University, in addition to collaborating with Intention.ly for marketing services. This integration of technology aims to streamline operations and enhance client interactions.
Ambitious Growth Goals
Looking ahead, Ducere Wealth aspires to significantly increase its assets under management to $2 billion in the near future. The firm’s strategy is centered around recruiting well-qualified advisors, offering supportive compensation structures, and emphasizing team growth and development.
Foundational Background
The name “Ducere,” derived from Latin meaning “to lead” or “to guide,” encapsulates the firm’s mission to provide clients with coherent and trustworthy financial guidance. While the firm is relatively new, it stands on the shoulders of seasoned financial professionals whose previous endeavors laid the groundwork for this latest venture.
Ducere Wealth’s establishment comes at a time when clients increasingly seek personalized, conflict-free financial advice. By addressing direct client needs and utilizing innovative financial technology, Ducere Wealth is positioned to make a significant impact in the competitive wealth management landscape.
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Additional Resources
- Wealth Management: Father-Son Duo Leaves Bank to Form RIA
- Wikipedia: Registered Investment Advisor
- Orange County Business Journal: Keller Starts Wealth Management Firm
- Google Search: Wealth Management
- Business Wire: UBS Advisor Teams Named to Forbes List
- Google Scholar: Wealth Management Trends
- AdvisorHub: Citizens Lands Merrill Private Wealth Team
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Finance
- Plan Adviser: Advisory M&A News
- Google News: Wealth Management News
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
