Press Release
Strategic Partnership: ESI & Summit Global Investments Expand Asset Management & BD Growth
Summit Global Private Wealth — a team of financial professionals affiliated with Summit Global Investments (SGI) — has affiliated with Equity Services Inc. (ESI) for their broker-dealer (BD) needs. SGI, an SEC-registered investment adviser, will continue to operate independently. This milestone marks a bold new chapter for ESI—advancing its Direct-to-BD Distribution Model in its most significant implementation to date. The partnership furthers its strategy to diversify distribution through intentional partnerships with independent Registered Investment Advisers (RIAs).
“We are very excited to partner with Summit Global Investments,” said Ata Azarshahi, President and CEO of ESI. “At ESI, we believe true growth comes from alignment—shared values, mutual respect, and a clear vision for the future. Dave Harden, CEO/CIO of SGI, has built a world class organization that we are proud to partner with. This relationship reflects our ongoing commitment to independent growth, with the right partner who shares a similar servant leadership culture and who values choice, stability, and long-term growth.”
The addition of the Summit Global Private Wealth team, composed of experienced professionals working primarily in high-net-worth markets, helps establish a new regional growth hub for ESI—one that will serve as a foundation for future recruitment and expansion.
As part of this partnership, SGI’s Asset Management Solutions will become available to ESI’s investment advisor representatives (IARs), further expanding the broad range of investment strategies they can offer clients. This enhancement underscores ESI’s commitment to giving advisors the flexibility and choice they need to serve clients their way.
"This partnership reflects our shared values and vision, creating a foundation where advisors thrive, clients are better served, and relationships remain at the center of growth," said Dave Harden, CEO/CIO, Summit Global Investments.
As the financial services industry continues to consolidate, ESI remains committed to providing choice, flexibility, and stability to advisors. This partnership reinforces ESI’s identity as a firm that leads with innovation, grows with intention, and stays grounded in what matters most—strong relationships and advisor success.
About Equity Services, Inc. (ESI)
Founded in 1968, Equity Services Inc. (ESI) is a registered broker-dealer and investment adviser committed to advisor growth, client confidence, and lasting partnership. Backed by the strength of 175+ year-old mutual company National Life Group, ESI offers a flexible affiliation model, access to industry-leading solutions, and a strong, independent platform for financial professionals nationwide. We believe relationships are the foundation of this industry and are committed to delivering a personal and exceptional advisor experience.
About Summit Global Investments
Summit Global Investments (SGI), named one of America’s Top Financial Advisory Firms 2025, is an SEC-registered investment adviser managing portfolios through a disciplined, rules-based investment process. SGI delivers innovative institutional-quality investment strategies and solutions to advisors and investors nationwide.
Media Contact:
Daphne Larkin
External Communications & Medial Relations Director, Corporate Communications
dlarkin@nationallife.com
802.229.3607.
National Life Group® is a trade name of National Life Insurance Company (NLIC), Montpelier VT, and its affiliates. Equity Services, Inc. is a Broker/Dealer and Registered Investment Adviser affiliate of NLIC.
TC8373955(0925)1