Partnership positions SHOOK Research for continued expansion as the leading provider of research, rankings and curated experiences for financial advisors and asset managers under the leadership of founders R.J. and Elisabeth Shook.

SHOOK Research (“SHOOK”), the premier research organization for evaluating financial advisors, today announced an investment from PPC Enterprises (“PPC”), a middle-market private equity firm specializing in high-potential service businesses. The partnership will bolster SHOOK's mission to promote professional excellence across the wealth management industry through continued innovation in research, rankings and curated experiences.

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SHOOK has established itself as the definitive authority in financial advisor rankings, known for its rigorous qualitative and quantitative methodology. Distributed through Forbes, SHOOK’s rankings are fully endorsed by the industry and recognize the most outstanding financial advisors.

The company will continue to operate independently. R.J. and Liz Shook will remain in their leadership roles alongside managing partner Frank Berland, while leveraging PPC's resources and expertise to expand its market presence and enhance its service offerings.

"This is an exciting time at SHOOK in light of the growth and evolution of the wealth management industry where trusted and vetted information is increasingly needed by advisors, their clients and asset managers," said R.J. Shook, President of the company. "PPC's deep expertise in service-based businesses and long-term proven track record will be invaluable as we continue to raise the bar for excellence in wealth management. We're better positioned than ever to broaden our reach and deliver even greater value to the industry."

SHOOK is focused on continuing to expand its research methodologies and advisor coverage in the U.S. and internationally. Additionally, the company is committed to growing its industry events and custom media opportunities, as well as the development of new products and services for wealth and asset management professionals and firms.

"SHOOK has built an exceptional reputation as the trusted authority in financial advisor recognition and industry excellence," said Thomas Uger, Partner and Head of PPC’s Business and Financial Services team. Ali Willet, Principal at PPC, added, "R.J., Liz and the team have created a unique platform that serves a critical role in bringing together the highest caliber of wealth and asset management constituents in the industry. We are excited to partner with the company to accelerate their growth trajectory while maintaining the integrity and objectivity that sets them apart in the marketplace."

Piper Sandler served as the exclusive investment banking advisor and Dechert LLP served as legal counsel to SHOOK. Covington & Burling LLP served as legal counsel to PPC.

About SHOOK^® Research

SHOOK Research is the organization behind Forbes' prestigious financial advisor rankings and recognizes the most outstanding financial advisors in the business through comprehensive qualitative and quantitative research, mostly through telephone and in-person meetings. Founded by R.J. and Liz Shook, the company's mission is to promote best practices, ethics, and professional excellence throughout the wealth management industry. Known for producing the industry’s largest and most respected events, SHOOK brings together top financial advisors nationwide to share insights and elevate standards. R.J. and Liz built the world’s-first advisor rankings with their Winner’s Circle business which they sold to Barron’s in 2008. For more information, visit www.shookresearch.com.

About PPC Enterprises

PPC Enterprises is a middle-market private equity firm specializing in acquisitions and accelerations of high-potential service businesses. The firm manages approximately $2.0 billion in committed capital on behalf of pensions, endowments, insurance companies, and foundations. PPC invests in a select group of industries, including Business & Financial Services, Industrial Services and Healthcare Services. For more information, visit www.ppcenterprises.com.

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