06 AUG 2025 / M&A UPDATES

Ascend Platform Firms Expand Through Strategic Mergers

- MYCPE ONE Insights Team

Summary

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Firms associated with the Arlington-based Ascend growth platform, backed by private equity firm Alpine Investors, have announced three acquisitions in July. The acquisitions were completed by IPA 200 firm LMC of New York, Lucas Horsfall of California and IPA 400 firm TSS Advisors of New Hampshire.

Firms operating on the Arlington, Va.-based Ascend growth platform, supported by private equity firm Alpine Investors, have announced three acquisitions completed in July.

As of July 1, IPA 200 firm LMC of New York (FY25 net revenue of $39.5 million) integrated Stephen A. Kepniss & Associates, PC of Springfield, N.J. Pasadena, Calif.-based Lucas Horsfall acquired the practice of Lew Adams of Los Angeles. IPA 400 firm TSS Advisors of Lebanon, N.H., added the practice of Patricia Morse.

“Our partnership with Ascend has given us the resources, network and strategic support to accelerate our growth in a meaningful way,” said Lee Cohen, CEO of LMC. “We’ve been able to pursue smart acquisitions, invest in top talent, and scale our service offerings—all while staying true to our mission of delivering white-glove service.”

David Wurtzbacher, founder & CEO of Ascend, added, “We focus on vision, people, culture, leadership, resources, collaboration and lots of investment. It is a joy to see these firms reaching their growth goals by adding great people, clients and service capabilities.”

James Godfrey, CEO of TSS, highlighted that the platform provides the resources to support legacy clients while expanding specialized services and technology capabilities. Mike Amerio, CEO of Lucas Horsfall, emphasized that growth is part of the firm’s identity, and the Ascend platform enables them to unite high-performing, forward-thinking accountants.

Until next time…

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