US-based registered investment advisor Invst has acquired NS Capital to create a combined retirement practice that will change employee retirement solution offerings for businesses.

The acquisition creates Invst Unity Pooled Employer Plan (PEP), the combined entity that will harness the expertise of both firms, unifying their strengths to serve business clients.

Invst Unity PEP provides advanced financial education through courses, videos, articles, and other interactive content to address the needs of employers.

It combines critical features such as investment and administrative fiduciary protection, low-cost, high-quality institutional investments, and minimal administrative requirements.

Also, the combined retirement practice will provide employers and employees with an easy and cost-effective retirement experience.

Invst said the acquisition enhanced its ability to deliver advanced retirement plan offerings customised to the growing needs of businesses and their employees.

Invst founder Scott Jarred said: “Our mission is to help one million people live the life they want. With this acquisition, we will be able to widen our reach and serve even more companies and their employees, empowering them to achieve their desired quality of life.”

NS Capital senior managing partner Louis Day said: “I’ve known Invst for years and have always been impressed by the quality of their advisory services.

“The alignment of our cultural values centred around fiduciary advice, client service, and a genuine care for individuals, made this partnership a natural fit.”

According to Invst, traditional pension plans are becoming outdated, and the future of retirement benefits lies with 401(k) plans.

Businesses are increasingly adopting 401(k) plans as not just optional, but essential components of their employee benefits package.

The Pooled Employer Plan (PEP), born from the Secure Act, forms the most significant legislative shift in 401(k) plan management since the Pension Protection Act of 2006.

PEP allows employers in different sectors to unify efforts into a single, professionally managed retirement plan while reducing liability and costs associated with 401k plans.

Invst and NS Capital, both specialise in 401(k) plans customised for business clients.

In 2021, NS Capital introduced the Unity 401(k) Pooled Employer Plan, becoming one of the pioneering independent PEPs in the nation, and Invst formed the MyInvst401K PEP.

Invst Unity PEP is anticipated to create opportunities for businesses of all sizes as they help their employees with financial literacy and retirement planning, said Invst.

Invst qualified plans VP Steven Shackelford said: “Our focus remains steadfast on providing innovative retirement solutions that prioritise both accessibility and quality.

“By integrating NS Capital’s expertise into our operations, along with our existing breadth of retirement solutions, we are poised to enhance our service offerings significantly.

“Together, we can ensure that businesses not only meet the retirement needs of their employees but also thrive in today’s competitive market.

“This is about creating a lasting impact on the lives of our clients and their teams, reinforcing our commitment to a brighter financial future for all.”