Raymond James welcomes North Carolina financial advisors managing over $120 million in assets
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Raymond James recently welcomed financial advisors Matt Kern and Brad Collins to Raymond James Financial Services (RJFS) – the firm’s independent advisor channel – according to Todd Gartrell, Southeast division director for RJFS.
The duo arrives from MML Investors Services where they managed over $120 million in client assets. As Diamond Grove Wealth Management, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, they provide holistic financial planning and guidance to a variety of clients, specializing in business owners, corporate executives and retirees.
“I have guided clients through nearly every kind of market and life event and my goals have always been the same: keep them steady and move them forward,” said Kern. “With the technology and planning resources at Raymond James, we can continue providing detailed strategies that are built to last.”
Kern has served the financial needs of professionals, business owners and their families for more than 35 years. His experience is backed by bachelor's degree in finance from James Madison University.
“We chose to partner with Raymond James because it enabled us to build Diamond Grove Wealth Management with true independence, where we can make decisions that are right for our clients,” said Collins. “The firm’s resources help deliver sophisticated, customized strategies while maintaining the personal, relationship-driven service that defines our business.”
Collins earned his bachelor’s degree from Gardner-Webb University and began his financial services career in 2017. He focuses on serving the Charlotte community, offering holistic planning solutions that address wealth accumulation, preservation and legacy planning.
About Raymond James Financial Services
Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. (RJFS), member FINRA/SIPC, is a financial services firm supporting independent financial advisors nationwide. Since 1974, RJFS provides a wide range of investment and wealth planning-related services through its affiliate, Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. Both firms are wholly owned subsidiaries of Raymond James Financial, Inc. (NYSE-RJF), one of the nation’s premier diversified financial services companies with financial advisors throughout the United States, Canada and overseas. Total client assets are approximately $1.75 trillion as of Oct. 31, 2025. Additional information is available at raymondjames.com.
Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Diamond Grove Wealth Management is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.