Former Merrill and Hightower Advisors Launch Independent Wealth Management Firm in Connecticut
Two veteran financial advisors with over $1 billion in managed assets have established Granite Islands Private Wealth as an independent firm to provide fiduciary-focused wealth management services with enhanced resources and technology.
Granite Islands Private Wealth, LLC has launched as a new independent advisory firm in Connecticut, founded by former Merrill Lynch and Hightower advisors Charles Andriole and Robert DeLucca. The partners bring decades of experience from their previous collaboration as The Andriole Group, having managed over $1 billion in client assets before making the transition to independence over ten years ago.
The firm provides comprehensive wealth management and investment services tailored to individuals, families, and businesses, focusing on simplifying financial life and transforming wealth into impact. Andriole emphasized the firm's fiduciary commitment, stating they have designed Granite Islands as a highly focused, planning-driven firm to cater to clients' unique needs and protect their best interests. The firm has aligned with tru Independence for robust infrastructure, compliance, technology, and operational support.
Andriole brings significant credentials to the new venture, holding both Certified Portfolio Manager® and Certified Investment Management Analyst® designations. He has been recognized in Barron's "Top 1000 Advisors by State" and the Financial Times' Top Retirement Plan Advisors, and was inducted into Research Magazine's Advisor Hall of Fame. DeLucca has also been honored by the Financial Times in their list of Top Retirement Plan Advisers and maintains active community involvement, including mentoring through programs at Bryant University.
The founding team is joined by Michele Arsenault as Operations Manager, bringing over 20 years of experience in personalized client service from her previous work with the partners at both The Andriole Group and Merrill Lynch. Lorenzo P. Gaudioso CFP®, C(k)P®, CRPS® serves as Wealth Advisor and Retirement Plan Advisor, contributing over 25 years of experience advising corporate retirement plans and non-profit organizations. The firm operates from its headquarters in Guilford, CT, serving clients throughout the United States and internationally.
This launch represents a significant development in the wealth management industry as experienced advisors continue moving toward independent models that prioritize fiduciary standards and client-focused service. The establishment of Granite Islands Private Wealth demonstrates the growing trend of financial professionals seeking greater autonomy while maintaining access to industry-leading resources and technology through strategic partnerships.