Fairstone Ireland has today announced a new strategic partnership with Castle Capital in Limerick, marking its second partnership of 2026 and 15th nationwide, as the firm continues to accelerate its ambitious national growth strategy.
This latest partnership further strengthens Fairstone’s presence in the Mid-West and builds on the company’s momentum in 2025 and strong start to 2026. It represents another significant milestone in Fairstone’s mission to become Ireland’s most trusted and progressive financial planning firm.
Castle Capital, a highly respected local advisory firm, joins the Fairstone network, bringing deep regional expertise and long-standing client relationships. In line with Fairstone’s partnership model, Castle Capital will retain its leadership team, staff, and client-first culture, while benefiting from Fairstone’s national scale, regulatory strength, advanced technology, and enhanced investment solutions.
With assets under management now exceeding €2.9 billion, Fairstone Ireland continues to attract high-quality advisory firms seeking long-term security, operational excellence, and a future-proof platform without sacrificing independence or personal service.
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, commented:
“This partnership represents another major step forward in our expansion across the Mid-West and is a strong statement of intent for 2026. Limerick is a strategically important region for us, and Castle Capital is exactly the kind of firm we want to partner with values-driven, professional, and deeply committed to its clients.
I’m delighted to welcome Fergus, Jonathan, and the entire team to Fairstone. Our ambition is clear: to build Ireland’s most trusted financial planning firm, one great partnership at a time.”
He added:
“What truly differentiates Fairstone is our people-first philosophy our advisers, our teams, and our clients. This is not about consolidation for its own sake; it’s about building something better for the future of financial advice in Ireland.”
Jonathan McDonnell, Director of Castle Capital, said:
“Joining Fairstone allows us to protect what makes our business special while gaining access to the scale, support, and expertise of a national organisation. This partnership will enable us to invest further in our people, broaden our capabilities, and ultimately deliver even stronger outcomes for our clients.”
Anthony O’Driscoll, Head of M&A at Fairstone Ireland, added:
“The calibre of firms choosing to partner with Fairstone continues to rise, and this latest deal in Limerick is a testament to the strength of our model. We are building a truly national firm, grounded in local trust, long-term thinking, and professional excellence. Our pipeline for 2026 is exceptionally strong.”
This announcement reinforces Fairstone Ireland’s commitment to regional growth, adviser empowerment, and redefining best-in-class financial planning nationwide. With further partnerships expected in the months ahead, Fairstone is firmly on track to reshape the future of financial advice in Ireland.
Dublin, Ireland – January 14, 2026
Fairstone Ireland has announced its first strategic partnership of the year with All Financials, marking a powerful start to 2026 and building on the firm’s record-breaking growth in 2025. The partnership follows Fairstone’s final pre-Christmas deal with Fortitude Financial Planning and represents another major milestone in its ambitious national expansion strategy.
The partnership further strengthens Fairstone Ireland’s rapidly growing footprint and highlights the increasing demand for its Downstream Buy-Out (DBO) model among high-quality advisory firms seeking long-term stability, enhanced operational support, and a truly client-first culture. With assets under management now exceeding €2.7 billion, Fairstone enters the year with scale, confidence, and a clear strategic vision.
Under the terms of the agreement, All Financials will transition to the Fairstone brand while retaining its existing leadership team and staff. This ensures continuity for clients, while unlocking access to Fairstone’s market-leading technology, investment solutions, regulatory support, and national infrastructure.
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, commented:
“It’s hugely encouraging to begin 2026 with another high-calibre firm like All Financials joining the Fairstone family. This partnership reflects the strength of our proposition and the confidence that advisory businesses have in our long-term vision. We are building something truly distinctive in Ireland an integrated, client-first national firm that empowers advisers at every stage of their journey.”
Fran Cooke, Managing Director of All Financials, said:
“From our first conversations with Fairstone, it was clear that our values and ambitions were strongly aligned. We were looking for a partner that would protect our independence, enhance our capabilities, and ultimately allow us to deliver even better outcomes for our clients. Joining Fairstone gives us the best of both worlds: the strength of a national firm combined with the personal relationships and culture that define our business.”
Anthony O’Driscoll, Head of M&A at Fairstone Ireland, added:
“Our growth is not about scale for scale’s sake. It’s about bringing together like-minded firms that share our commitment to professionalism, independence, and exceptional client outcomes. This first partnership of the year sets the tone for what we expect will be another record-breaking year, with a strong pipeline of high-quality firms already in discussion.”
The announcement signals Fairstone Ireland’s intention to build on the exceptional success of 2025, with further strategic partnerships expected throughout the year. The firm remains focused on redefining what best-in-class financial planning looks like in Ireland combining trusted local relationships with the power of a national platform.
Dublin, Ireland – December 17, 2025
Fairstone Ireland has concluded a landmark year of growth with the announcement of its final strategic partnership of 2025, welcoming Fortitude Financial Planning into its expanding national network. This latest agreement caps a bumper year for the business and coincides with Fairstone Ireland surpassing €2.7 billion in assets under management (AUM), underscoring its continued momentum as Ireland’s fastest-growing independent financial planning and wealth management firm.
Fortitude Financial Planning based in Drogheda, is a well-established advisory firm with a strong reputation for delivering trusted, client-focused financial advice and building long-term relationships. Under the terms of the partnership, Fortitude Financial Planning will transition to the Fairstone brand while retaining its existing leadership team and staff, ensuring continuity of service for clients alongside access to Fairstone’s enhanced infrastructure, technology, and investment capabilities.
This final partnership of the year marks another significant step in Fairstone Ireland’s ambitious growth strategy. Over the course of the year, the firm has completed a record number of strategic partnerships, reflecting both the strength of its Downstream Buy Out (DBO) model and its appeal to high-quality advisory firms seeking sustainable growth while preserving their independence and client-first culture.
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, commented:
“We are delighted to announce Fortitude Financial Planning as our final partnership of the year. Reaching €2.7 billion in AUM and completing such a strong series of partnerships reflects an exceptional year for Fairstone Ireland. It’s a testament to the trust that leading advisory firms place in our model and our shared commitment to delivering outstanding outcomes for clients across the country.”
Francis McTaggart, Owner of Fortitude Financial Planning added:
“Partnering with Fairstone represents a positive and exciting step for our firm. We share a common philosophy around client care and long-term planning, and this partnership allows us to continue serving our clients with the same personal approach, now supported by the scale, expertise, and resources of a national business. This was a natural evolution for the business and look forward to delivering a best in class service to our clients”
With this latest announcement, Fairstone Ireland closes the year with strong momentum, a growing nationwide presence, and a clear focus on the future. Building on a standout year of partnerships and growth, the firm remains committed to redefining excellence in financial planning and wealth management for clients throughout Ireland.
Fairstone Ireland has continued its rapid expansion with the announcement of its 12th strategic partnership, welcoming ERA Financial Planning Ltd. into its growing national network. This milestone coincides with the achievement of €2.5 billion in assets under management (AUM), further cementing Fairstone’s position as Ireland’s fastest-growing provider of independent financial planning and wealth management.
Based in Birr, Co. Offaly, ERA Financial Planning is a respected, family-run advisory firm led by Managing Director Aidan O’Neill. Known for its trusted, personalised approach and long-standing client relationships, ERA will transition to the Fairstone brand under the agreement while retaining its leadership and team. This ensures clients continue to benefit from the firm’s relationship-driven service, now enhanced by Fairstone’s scale, infrastructure, and investment expertise.
With 12 partnerships in Ireland and more than 100 across the UK and Ireland, Fairstone continues to execute its proven Downstream Buy Out (DBO) model, enabling high-quality advisory firms to grow sustainably while preserving their client-first ethos.
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, commented:
“We’re delighted to welcome Aidan and the ERA team into Fairstone. Reaching €2.5 billion in AUM is a major milestone, and this partnership strengthens our mission to build a truly national, client-centric advice business that delivers the very best financial solutions to individuals and families across Ireland.”
Aidan O’Neill, Managing Director of ERA Financial Planning, added:
“Joining Fairstone represents an exciting next chapter for us. We are dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals. Partnering with Fairstone allows us to enhance that commitment with greater resources and expertise, while maintaining the personal service our clients know and trust.”
With ERA Financial Planning joining the group, Fairstone Ireland continues to expand its nationwide footprint, combining local expertise with national strength to deliver exceptional outcomes for clients and redefine standards within Ireland’s financial planning sector.
Fairstone has accelerated its growth with the announcement of its 11th strategic partnership, welcoming Everlake into its national network. This milestone coincides with the launch of Fairstone Funds and the achievement of €2.5 billion in assets under management (AUM), underscoring Fairstone’s position as the fastest-growing provider of financial planning and wealth management in Ireland.
Based in Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, Everlake’s team of advisers brings a strong client-first ethos and an evidence-based approach to financial planning and wealth management. Under the agreement, Everlake will transition to the Fairstone brand while retaining its leadership and staff, ensuring clients continue to receive personalised service backed by Fairstone’s scale, infrastructure, and investment expertise.
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, said:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Gerry, Marc, and the Everlake team. With the launch of Fairstone Funds and the achievement of €2.5 billion in AUM, our focus is on building a truly national, client-centric financial advice business that delivers the very best solutions to individuals and families across Ireland.”
Marc Westlake, Managing Director of Everlake, commented:
“This partnership combines Fairstone’s scale with our shared commitment to client-first, evidence-based planning. Together, we can raise standards across the profession and deliver the highest-quality advice to clients nationwide.”
Gerry Murphy, Chairman of Everlake, added:
“Joining Fairstone is an exciting next step. Our mission has always been to provide transparent, honest and holistic financial advice that aligns with client’s goals. Partnering with Fairstone allows us to strengthen that mission with greater scale and resources, while maintaining the personal service our clients rely on.”
With Everlake on board, Fairstone Ireland continues to expand its nationwide presence, setting new benchmarks in financial planning by combining local expertise with national strength.
Fairstone Kilkenny is proud to announce the appointment of Michael Fennelly as Head of SME, a newly created role designed to accelerate growth and deliver hands-on financial guidance to small and medium-sized enterprises across Kilkenny and beyond.
For business owners, this appointment is more than just news, it’s an opportunity. Michael combines the financial acumen of a former business banker with the mindset of a high-performance leader. With five years in finance, over a decade as a lecturer at Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), and two years as performance lead with Kilkenny GAA, he knows exactly how to help businesses unlock growth and perform at their best.
In his new role, Michael will work directly with SME owners to design and implement tailored strategic plans that strengthen financial resilience, create sustainable growth, and free business leaders to focus on what they do best. He will continue his academic post alongside his work with Fairstone.
Speaking about the appointment, Gearoid Cleere, Director at Fairstone Kilkenny, said:
“We are thrilled to welcome Michael to the Fairstone Kilkenny team. His combined background in banking and elite performance makes him a perfect fit for supporting SMEs in achieving their financial goals. This appointment strengthens our commitment to Kilkenny’s business community, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact Michael will bring.”
Michael Fennelly shared his excitement about the role:
“Helping local businesses succeed is a genuine passion of mine. I know the challenges SME owners face like balancing growth with stability, managing risk while chasing opportunity. At Fairstone Kilkenny, we have the tools and expertise to guide SMEs toward real, lasting success. I’m excited to roll up my sleeves and work side by side with business owners to make that happen.”
Fairstone Kilkenny remains dedicated to empowering local businesses and providing strategic, long-term solutions that support financial resilience and success. Michael’s appointment marks a significant step in advancing that mission.
Dublin, Ireland – September 18, 2025
Fairstone Ireland is set to transform the way families and individuals approach financial planning with the unveiling of the Fairstone Funds at its Annual Fairstone Conference on September 18th, 2025, at the Intercontinental Hotel, Dublin.
This landmark event comes on the back of a defining year for Fairstone Ireland. In November 2024, the company announced the creation of 100 new jobs nationwide, building on 35% year-on-year revenue growth and cementing its position as one of the most dynamic players in the Irish financial services market.
The highlight of this year’s conference will be the launch of the Fairstone Market Funds, designed to provide investors with globally diversified, expertly managed portfolios.
The funds provide blended strategies combining active oversight with efficient passive funds and tailored options to suit different risk appetites:
In tandem with this launch, Fairstone Ireland is pleased to announce the appointment of Bernard Walsh as its new Head of Investments & Pensions. With deep expertise in portfolio management and global markets, Bernard will lead Fairstone’s investment strategy and play a pivotal role in ensuring the continued growth and success of the Fairstone Funds.
Bernard Walsh, Head of Investments & Pensions Fairstone Ireland, said:
“I am delighted to join Fairstone Ireland at such an exciting time, with the launch of the Fairstone Market Funds. This is a unique opportunity to help shape how we bring smarter, more accessible investment solutions to clients across Ireland.”
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, said:
“The launch of the Fairstone Funds represents a major milestone in our growth journey. These funds deliver globally diversified, professionally managed investment solutions designed specifically for Irish clients. At the same time, the appointment of Bernard Walsh as our new Head of Investments underscores our commitment to building a best-in-class leadership team. Together, these developments mark an exciting new chapter for Fairstone Ireland.”
Fairstone Ireland is pleased to announce the appointment of Derek Delany as Managing Director, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to becoming Ireland’s most trusted name in financial planning and wealth management.
Derek’s appointment comes at a pivotal time as Fairstone focuses on delivering first-class financial planning solutions to clients. With extensive industry experience and a strong commitment to client-first advice, Derek is ideally positioned to support the development of Fairstone’s advisor model and help shape a new benchmark for the industry.
Derek will lead the development of Fairstone’s advice model, helping the company expand in new regions and build the systems needed to support its network of financial planners across the country. Fairstone has outlined a bold roadmap, including the establishment of 30 regional hubs and the management of over €5 billion in client assets by 2027.
Commenting on his appointment, Derek Delany said:
“This is an exciting time for financial advice in Ireland, and I’m proud to be part of a firm that’s committed to doing things differently. My focus is on building from the ground up, leading a team where planners are supported, clients are prioritised, and long-term trust is earned through action, not just words.”
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, added:
“Derek’s leadership will have a significant impact, and his insight, experience, and values are a strong match for the direction we’re heading. I’m confident he’ll continue to guide our team and our partners with clarity and purpose.”
Fairstone Ireland is building a new model for financial advice that is collaborative, transparent, and client-focused. The appointment of Derek Delany marks another step forward in delivering that vision.
Fairstone Ireland has announced its latest strategic partnership with DMFS, a highly regarded financial advisory firm based in Thurles, Co. Tipperary. This marks Fairstone’s tenth partnership to date — and its fourth in 2025 — further solidifying the firm’s position as Ireland’s fastest-growing provider of financial planning and wealth management services.
This new partnership closely follows Fairstone’s recent partnership with Gilroy Gannon Financial Services in Sligo and forms part of its ambitious national expansion strategy. Renowned for delivering high-quality, independent financial advice, Declan has built a strong regional presence over the past two decades, with particular expertise in retirement planning, investment management, and tailored financial strategies.
Under the terms of the partnership, DMFS will adopt the Fairstone brand and operational model, ensuring a seamless transition that retains the firm’s leadership and staff. Declan Maher will continue to lead the Tipperary-based team, delivering the same personalised client service—now enhanced by Fairstone’s extensive national infrastructure and support systems.
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, commented:
“We’re delighted to welcome Declan and his outstanding team to Fairstone. This partnership strengthens our presence in Munster and aligns with our vision of building a unified, client-focused financial services network across Ireland. We’re not just expanding, we’re elevating the standard of financial planning nationwide.”
The addition of DMFS brings Fairstone Ireland’s assets under management to over €1.9 billion — a key milestone that highlights the firm’s rapid growth trajectory. The deal also reinforces the continued success of Fairstone’s distinctive partnership model, which is designed to empower advisory firms while delivering enhanced value for clients.
Declan Maher, Managing Director of DMFS Group, said:
“Partnering with Fairstone is a natural evolution for our firm. Our clients will now benefit from broader resources and a deeper bench of expertise, without sacrificing the independent, personalised service they know and trust.”
Anthony O’Driscoll, Head of Mergers & Acquisitions at Fairstone Ireland, added:
“Declan Maher is a respected and ambitious business leader in the financial services sector who shares our positive vision for the industry. We are delighted to be able to support Declan in driving the next phase of growth for DMFS, whilst also allowing him to unlock value that he continues to build in his business over time via our Downstream Buy Out (DBO) programme. We have now partnered with over 100 firms across the UK & Ireland, demonstrating our proven track record of helping quality firms to scale sustainably while maintaining their client-first ethos.”
As Fairstone charts an ambitious path through 2025 and beyond, this latest partnership underscores its mission to redefine what it means to deliver a truly client-centric, nationwide financial advice firm by firm, region by region.
Fairstone Ireland is delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Kelly as Director of Brokerage, a strategic move that highlights his exceptional contributions to the company’s rapid growth and positions Fairstone for its next phase of expansion.
A visionary leader in the financial services industry, Paul co-founded ClearChoice in 2015, transforming it into a leading brokerage services firm. Following its acquisition—alongside Broker Assist and Pax Asset Management—by Fairstone in 2022, Paul played a key role in integrating advanced technology, optimising business processes, and strengthening a robust brokerage network. His leadership has been instrumental in positioning Fairstone Ireland as a dominant force in the market, attracting top-tier partners through its innovative Downstream Buyout (DBO) model.
In his new role as Director of Brokerage, Paul will lead Fairstone’s strategic brokerage initiatives, leveraging his extensive industry expertise to drive the company’s ambitious expansion plans
Commenting on his appointment, Paul Kelly stated:
“I am incredibly excited to take on this new role at Fairstone Ireland. The brokerage sector is evolving rapidly, and our goal is to provide brokers with the tools, technology, and support they need to thrive in this dynamic environment. By fostering strong partnerships and leveraging innovation, we are well-positioned to set new benchmarks in the industry.”
Fairstone Ireland is on an aggressive growth trajectory, with plans to partner with 20 additional brokerages over the next three years. Two major partnerships are set to be announced in 2025, reinforcing the company’s commitment to fostering strong, like-minded partnerships.
Paul Kelly continued:
“The Irish financial advice market, over the decades, has tried & failed to build a cohesive M & A strategy that is built on growth, succession planning and enhancing the financial planning experience for Brokerage owners, their staff & most importantly their clients. Fairstone Ireland is ready to drive towards 30 regional offices with assets under management of €5 Billion + by 2027. There has never been a model like this in Ireland, and I am excited to enhance my role with Brokerages by bringing them into this partnership”
