News Summary
Ducere Wealth, a newly launched wealth management firm in Newport Beach, California, has appointed Jack Stemper as Senior Wealth Advisor. Stemper, who brings over 30 years of financial services experience, will help drive the firm’s growth strategy. Ducere Wealth aims to reach $1 billion in assets under management within a year while prioritizing client-focused service and bias-free advice. Founded by the Kellers, the firm emphasizes innovation and a personalized approach in wealth management amidst a competitive industry landscape.
Newport Beach, California – Ducere Wealth, a new wealth management firm, has added a key member to its team, welcoming Jack Stemper as a Senior Wealth Advisor. Stemper brings over 30 years of experience in financial services, which the firm will leverage as it aims for substantial growth within the next year.
Founded by Rick Keller and his son Zane Keller, Ducere Wealth officially launched on July 28, 2025. The firm opened shortly after the Kellers departed from First Foundation Bank, where they were involved in the private wealth division managing $5.4 billion in assets. Ducere Wealth begins its operations with over $100 million in assets under management and has set an ambitious goal of reaching $1 billion in assets within the next 12 months.
Ducere Wealth is distinguished by its commitment to providing bias-free advice and fostering personalized client experiences. The firm seeks to maintain a client-focused approach, free from the conflicts of interest that are often present in larger financial institutions. Zane Keller, who serves as the CEO, emphasized the importance of developing a strong foundation for the firm through homegrown advisors rather than relying heavily on recruitment.
As part of its growth strategy, Ducere Wealth will initially custody its assets with Schwab and aims to implement a technology stack that supports multi-custodial capabilities. To enhance its operational efficiency, the firm has partnered with JIFFY.ai, a platform developed by Stanford University, along with Intention.ly, a marketing firm specializing in financial services.
The name Ducere, meaning “to lead or guide” in Latin, reflects the firm’s mission to assist clients in their wealth accumulation journey. Additionally, Ducere plans to invest in diverse areas such as alternative investing, real estate, private equity, and venture capital. The firm aims to educate clients about private investments and prepare them for accreditation stages.
Rick Keller, who holds the position of chairman and chief economist, has voiced the firm’s aspiration to return to a more client-centric model of wealth management, distancing itself from the constraints of banking regulations. In tandem with his leadership at Ducere, he will focus on advising clients regarding private debt opportunities, which are increasingly recognized as essential in the current lending environment.
Since its inception, Ducere Wealth has successfully recruited seven full-time employees and is poised for further expansion, with an initial satellite office established in Las Vegas. The firm’s growth strategy underscores a desire to build a robust team that can effectively serve clients while maintaining a nimble and innovative approach to wealth management.
It is worth noting that the Kellers’ previous entity, First Foundation, has faced notable challenges recently, including significant losses tied to its real estate loan portfolio. In light of this context, Ducere Wealth is structured as a fee-only registered investment advisory (RIA), which helps avoid common conflicts such as those that arise from selling insurance products, ensuring fidelity to client interests.
As Ducere Wealth enters a competitive landscape, its strategic direction and commitment to personalized, conflict-free service aim to resonate with clients looking for more thoughtful guidance in their wealth management endeavors.
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Additional Resources
- Wealth Management: Father-Son Duo Leaves Bank
- Orange County Business Journal: Keller Starts Wealth Management Firm
- Newport Beach Independent: UBS Advisors Named Top Women Wealth Advisors
- Business Wire: UBS Financial Advisors Named to Forbes List
- AdvisorHub: Citizens Lands Merrill Private Wealth Team
- Wikipedia: Wealth Management
- Google Search: Wealth Management
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