A Landmark Moment: OneDigital and PWL Capital

A milestone partnership that reflects OneDigital’s commitment to Culture, Integration, and long-term growth, expanding our platform into Canada alongside PWL Capital to shape the future of wealth management.

Yesterday marked a watershed moment for OneDigital in our 25 years of growth. I’ve written before about embracing a “second-half mindset,” and our decision to partner with PWL Capital is a powerful example of that philosophy in action. This partnership is more than an international expansion—it’s the coming together of two culturally-aligned teams with a shared vision for what’s possible.

How It Started

For OneDigital, acquisitions are never just about numbers or clean exits for owners. They’re about shared purpose and potential. PWL embodies that potential. Their team is dynamic and forward-thinking, with young, talented advisors serving a client base as true fiduciaries with a low-fee, evidence-based investment philosophy. On top of that solid base, they’ve built a robust marketing engine, reaching a global audience through their influential Rational Reminder podcast and YouTube channel.

When I first reached out to Cameron Passmore , CEO of PWL, in 2023, I immediately felt what set PWL apart. Their vision for the future was clear, and Cam’s confidence in their team was unwavering. As a matter of fact, that confidence showed clearest when PWL’s leadership briefly stepped back from our initial conversations, determined to continue building their business independently. That steadfastness only deepened my excitement about their potential and the alignment between our organizations.

A Platform for Growth

Of the 200+ acquisitions OneDigital has completed over the past 15 years, only a handful stand out as what I call “platform-level” acquisitions—partnerships that form the foundation for something entirely new. With PWL, we’re not just entering a new market; we’re investing in and amplifying PWL as they build a differentiated value proposition in Canada.

PWL is uniquely positioned to challenge the status quo in Canada’s financial services landscape. Much like the U.S. 5-15 years ago, Canada’s wealth management industry is dominated by a few large banks, with high fees and limited options for individual clients. PWL’s mission is to offer evidence-based investment management at a lower cost, making wealth services more accessible at scale. Their vision is bold, and together, we’ll help more people live their best lives now and into the future.

Looking Ahead

Getting to know Cam, Karine St-Amour, Ben Felix , Brenda Bartlett , Tessa McGirr , and the broader PWL team has been nothing short of inspiring. They’ve already taught us invaluable lessons, and their entrepreneurial spirit mirrors the energy that has driven OneDigital’s success. Together, we’re building a platform that’s about more than growth—it’s about truly impacting millions of lives across the U.S. and Canada.

This is a special moment in OneDigital’s story and one that has me more excited than ever about the future we can build together.

Read the full series from Mike and Connect with him on LinkedIn, here . To hear more from leaders who joined OneDigital through acquisition, visit the Why OneDigital Hub.

Publish Date:Jan 24, 2025Categories:Mergers & Acquisitions, Wealth Management