Brian was born and raised in Newburgh, NY and graduated from Mt. St. Mary College with a degree in Accounting in 1997. His career began in New York in November 1998 as a Mutual Fund Analyst at Equitable Financial, which became AXA Advisors in 2001. Brian spent the first three years of his financial services career in the corporate office setting forming valuable relationships and gaining the education and knowledge necessary to begin a private asset management practice.

In April, 2002 he changed roles and moved to the AXA Advisors Woodbridge, NJ office as a Financial Consultant and quickly became a leading asset manager for all AXA Advisors’ New Jersey offices. In January of 2005, he accepted the role of Branch Asset Manager and has served as the wealth and asset management authority for what has now become Equitable Advisors' New Jersey branches in Edison, Woodbridge, Morristown, and Wall Township since that time.

Wishing to bring his expertise and unique experience to a further range of clients, Brian founded Ascendancy Wealth Management in November of 2014. The company was founded first and foremost to provide a premier service model to clients as well as potential and future clients. Through relationships with Linsco Private Ledger (LPL), Equitable Network, AB Global, and many other mutual fund and private management companies he was able to enhance the Ascendancy Wealth Management asset management process and provide the best recommendations to those seeking financial advice and counseling.

For many years the Woodbridge, NJ office served as headquarters for Brian’s client service operations. When an opportunity presented that would allow Brian to work closer to home and be more readily available to his clients, he secured the purchase of a historic building in Colts Neck, NJ which has allowed Brian and his partners to begin taking care of client needs in a more localized manner.

Brian’s accolades in the financial industry include being a member of the Elite Advisor Group, recognition from Equitable Advisors in the Hall of Fame, and his professional qualifications include holding an active and current RICP® (Retirement Income Certified Professional) designation administered by The American College in Bryn Mawr, PA, which is accredited by The Middle States Commission on Higher Education located in Philadelphia, PA – a designation often sought by financial services professionals whose focus includes investment and retirement planning. He also holds the Retirement Planning Specialist designation from the Wharton School, at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as FINRA Series 7, 24 and 66 securities registrations. He also holds active and current Variable and Fixed Annuity, as well as Life and Health Insurance licenses in various states.

He currently resides in Monmouth County, NJ with his wife Lisa, and their two children Sophia and Aiden.

My professional qualifications are:
Retirement Income Certified Professional^®
Retirement Planning Specialist
Life & Health insurance in various states
FINRA Securities registrations: Series 7, 24 , 66

The RICP^® (Retirement Income Certified Professional®) designation is sought by financial services sales professionals whose focus includes clients planning for their retirement income. The designation's required curriculum is administered by The American College in Bryn Mawr, PA, which is accredited by The Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Philadelphia, PA 19104. The mark RICP® is the property of The American College and may be used only by individuals who have successfully completed the initial and ongoing certification requirements for this designation. Complaints about a designee can be made by e-mail at Registrar@TheAmericanCollege.edu. or by calling 888-263-7265. To verify a designee, visit http://www.designationcheck.com.

The Retirement Planning Specialist title is awarded by Equitable Advisors, LLC (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI and TN) based upon the Financial Professional's (FP) receipt of a Certificate in Retirement Planning from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. In a collaboration between the Wharton School and Equitable Advisors' affiliate, Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company (NY, NY), coursework for the certificate was developed exclusively for Equitable Advisors FPs, and the title may be used only by FPs who have completed the required coursework and maintain the title through ongoing continuing education requirements. To verify that an FP has earned and holds the title in good standing, contact atretirement@equitable.com. Complaints about an Equitable Advisors FP should be directed to customer.relations@equitable.com 

Michael Maggiore graduated from the Leon Hess Business School at Monmouth University with an honors degree after completing a four-year long dissertation. Mike received the accolade of a Summa Cum Laude diploma while achieving the highest GPA of his graduating class in 2008 with a concentration in Finance. Mike started his career with Equitable Advisors in 2009 with a passion for financial planning and helping others. Mike spent 10 years as a decorated regional vice president at Equitable before becoming the Managing Partner of the Ascendancy Financial Group where he has developed a team of highly specialized advisors that account for over 100 years of combined experience across many disciplines.

Mike has a passion for learning and understands that we must always remain a student of our industry to offer the best solutions that empower our clients to make informed decisions. For this reason, he furthers his education with programs at The American College & at the Faculty Club at Harvard University. Being a firm believer in comprehensive planning and a power user of eMoney planning tools, as Mike understands his client's situation, feelings and family dynamics that shape their current situation, he will explore the possibilities of where they would prefer to be in the future while planning for inevitable surprises along the way.

Mike's accolades in his industry include being a member of the Elite Advisor Group, which is a group of the top advisors within his current organization, recognition among the Million Dollar Round Table, recognition from Equitable Advisors in the Hall of Fame, awards from Wealth & Finance since 2017 as a top money manager and financial planner in the industry, and is recognized as a Five Star Wealth Manager by Five Star Professional*.

Michael currently resides in Naples, Florida with his wife Ashleigh and his children Leo, Chase, Milo, Phoenix and Ivy. Mike's interests include mentoring others in his industry, real estate development & design, and spending time with his family. Mike's charitable interests include the Special Olympics and many not-for-profit 9/11 organizations. Mike’s family & friends were deeply effected by 9/11 and it has been a passion of his to work within this community.

For more information about Michael's expertise, please visit michael-maggiore.com

Michael's professional qualifications are:

Life & Health insurance in various states
FINRA Securities registrations: Series 7, 24, 66

Columbia University Certified Holistic Financial Coach

* This Five Star Wealth Manager Award was given on December 12, 2021, remains valid for the year of 2022 and is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC (dba Five Star Professional). Neither the named award recipient nor any other party has paid or otherwise compensated Crescendo Business Services, LLC to be considered for or to win the award. The Credentialed Holistic Financial Coach title and custom coaching credential is available exclusively to financial professionals (FPs) of Equitable Advisors who seek to have deeper more personal conversations with their clients. The credential is awarded by Equitable Advisors, based upon the FP’s receipt of a certificate of completion of the Holistic Financial Coach Program. In collaboration between Columbia University’s Coaching Center of Excellence and Equitable Advisors’ affiliate. Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company (NY, NY), coursework was developed exclusively for Equitable Advisors FPs, and the title may be used only by FPs who have completed the required coursework and maintain the title through ongoing continuing education requirements. Columbia’s Coaching Center of Excellence ahs earned a global reputation as the “Ivy-league” of evidence-based, high-impact coaching education and training. To verify that a Financial Professional has earned and holds the title in good standing, contact Lynsey Capone-Smith at lynsey.caponesmith@equitable.com.

Jonathan Massey from his earliest memory has always been passionate; About people and creative vision. This combination of entrepreneurial and artistic spirit has driven him to build a practice focused on advising super-successful Business Visionaries and Creatives.

Jon graduated from Bard College (where he was a two-time qualifier for the NAIA Cross Country National Championship), with a degree in American History, and from the University of Colorado at Boulder with a teaching certification in Secondary Social Studies.

In his early career he was an international account manager for Macmillan Publishing, in conjunction with the United States Information Agency, distributing a multi-media educational program, including a television show, teaching American English around the world.

In 1993, the same year he married his brilliant and beautiful wife Maria, Jon joined his late father, Marvin D. Massey, CLU, in Marvin's nationally acclaimed financial services practice started in 1959. Together they branded as The Massey Group.

In 2012, Jon continued his pursuit of providing a best-in-class financial consulting firm, with a wide array of specialization, by co-founding Envision Strategic Financial, LLC, serving as Managing Director.

And in January of 2020, Jon merged his team with that of his long-time outstanding money manager, Brian Patterson, to form Ascendancy Financial Group. With a deep roster of top professionals and back office staff, Ascendancy provides the highest level of white glove service and expertise in wealth management, insurance, business/group planning and benefits. As President and Financial Coach, Jon brings his clients all the resources needed for creative, visionary planning and execution.

As he nurtures and promotes for his clients, Jon enjoys a variety of interests and pursuits outside of helping lead a firm and coaching his clients. Jon is a lead singer and songwriter. His past band, The Pleasure Kings, for many years played some of the premier live music venues in New York City, including Kenny's Castaways and the Elbow Room. They released an album in 2019.

As a solo artist and with his current band Reason For Being, Jon works mostly in the studio developing music for licensing in films, tv, and for commercial use.

Jon also has an ongoing music history project:
Mapping The DNA of American Music 1600-1959

My professional qualifications are:

Life & Health insurance in various states
FINRA Securities registrations: Series 6, 7, 63, 65

Columbia Certified Holistic Financial Coach

CA Insurance License #0H12747

The Credentialed Holistic Financial Coach title and custom coaching credential is available exclusively to financial professionals (FPs) of Equitable Advisors who seek to have deeper more personal conversations with their clients. The credential is awarded by Equitable Advisors, based upon the FP’s receipt of a certificate of completion of the Holistic Financial Coach Program. In collaboration between Columbia University’s Coaching Center of Excellence and Equitable Advisors’ affiliate. Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company (NY, NY), coursework was developed exclusively for Equitable Advisors FPs, and the title may be used only by FPs who have completed the required coursework and maintain the title through ongoing continuing education requirements. Columbia’s Coaching Center of Excellence ahs earned a global reputation as the “Ivy-league” of evidence-based, high-impact coaching education and training. To verify that a Financial Professional has earned and holds the title in good standing, contact Lynsey Capone-Smith at lynsey.caponesmith@equitable.com.

Rich Callaghan is a CFP® certificant. 

Rich Callaghan's passion and specialization is to develop custom investment portfolios and financial planning solutions for his clients which are designed specifically for integration with their long and short-term investment goals.  He has broad experience in analyzing individual fixed income (bonds) and equity (stocks) holdings and is also involved with advising and managing retirement and 401(k) plans.

Rich’s portfolio designs utilize individual fixed income and equity securities as well as other customized hybrid designs, and he specifically plans his client investment portfolios with the goal of not only maximizing their 'upside', but also to help protect against market 'downturns'.

Rich began his career in Finance after earning his MBA in Finance from Seton Hall University in 1994 and has since held several key positions including Principal Investment Strategist, Managing Director of Portfolio Investments and Sr. Vice President of Asset Management.  

Rich obtained his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification in 2001.  He has also earned the Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) certification in 2025. Both have enhanced his knowledge of comprehensive financial planning for his clients.

Mr. Callaghan joined Ascendancy Financial Group in 2024 as a Senior Partner and continues to serve his clients as a dedicated Financial Advisor.  His experience and expertise bring an additional level of excellence to the group and furthers a mutual commitment to white-glove client experience.

Rich has been one of New Jersey’s ‘Top Wealth Managers’, sits as a trustee and chair of several boards for organizations which represent thousands of members.

He holds degrees in BS in Civil Engineering from Bucknell and an MBA in Finance from Seton Hall University, and is actively involved in community organizations, charities, his church, and his local YMCA as a volunteer.  

Rich is a husband and father, a recreational golfer at Fiddlers Elbow CC, and an avid US Masters swimmer and coach.

Rich Callaghan’s professional qualifications are:

FINRA Securities registrations:  Series  7, 24, 27, 53, 63, 65

NJ, NY Life & Health Insurance Licenses

Securities offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (NY, NY 212-314-4600), member FINRA, SIPC (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN). Investment advisory products and services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.  Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC. Equitable Network conducts business in CA as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC, in UT as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC, in PR as Equitable Network of Puerto Rico, Inc.  Equitable Advisors and Equitable Network are affiliated companies and do not provide tax or legal advice.  Representatives may transact business, which includes offering products and services and/or responding to inquiries, only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed.  Your receipt of this e-mail does not necessarily indicate that the sender is able to transact business in your state.  Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.  For more information about Equitable Advisors, LLC you may visit https://equitable.com/crs to review the firm’s Relationship Summary for Retail Investors and General Conflicts of Interest Disclosure. Ascendancy Financial Group is not a registered investment advisor and is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors or Equitable Network.

Paul Colte graduated from Queens College part of CUNY with a B.A. in economics and a minor in accounting. He went on to build numerous successful businesses starting from the ground up. Those experiences have given him an insight into some of the challenges his clients face and the importance of quality financial advice.

Paul started his career with Equitable Advisors in 2005 and served as a district manager for six years. During this time, he mentored new advisors in the business. He went on to earn his Certified Financial Planner Professional ^® designation in Feb.2012.

Paul believes that one of his primary tasks is to help his clients understand what is involved in meeting their goals to make an informed decision. He uses his knowledge and expertise to construct a personalized financial plan that puts the client on the right path to achieve their goals.

Paul's accolades in his industry include recognition from Equitable Advisors in the Hall of Fame, recognition from the Million Dollar Round Table as a life, and Top of the Table Qualifier of MDRT. Paul was also recognized in N.J. Monthly Magazine as a "Five Star Wealth Advisor."

Paul has been a resident of Marlboro, NJ, for the past 32 years. His interests include hiking, skiing, boating, and traveling. Paul's charitable interests include supporting the American Heart Association, The American Cancer Society, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

To learn more about Paul's expertise, please visit paulcolte.com

Paul's professional qualifications are:
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™
Life & Health insurance in various states
FINRA Securities registrations: Series 7, 24, 66

CFP^® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ are certification marks owned by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. These marks are awarded to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

As Managing Principal at Modern Planning Group, George brings over 20 years’ experience to the team.

George's responsibilities include servicing his existing clients and talent acquisition.

Outside of his professional life, George spends all of his time with his wife Joann and 4 children.

Currently residing in Brick Township, George currently serves his townships planning board and volunteers his time coaching multiple sports teams.

My professional qualifications are:

Life & Health insurance in various states

FINRA Securities registrations: Series 7, 24, 66

I joined AXA Advisors, LLC in 1993 with a BS in Business Management from Fairleigh Dickinson University. After embarking on a career in financial services, I met my friend and business partner Paul Donnelly, with whom I started Oracle Financial Group, LLC. Together we have guided our clients towards their financial goals for over 25 years.

My professional qualifications are:
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™
Retirement Planning Specialist
Qualified Plan Specialist
Executive Benefits Specialist
Life & Health insurance in various states
FINRA Securities registrations: Series 6, 7, 63, 65

CFP^® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ are certification marks owned by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. These marks are awarded to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Qualified Plan Specialist title awarded by Equitable Advisors, based upon successful completion of an internal training program and written assessment.

The Retirement Planning Specialist title is awarded by Equitable Advisors, based upon the Financial Professional’s (FP) receipt of a Certificate in Retirement Planning from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.

My professional qualifications are:

Chartered Financial Consultant, Chartered Life Underwriter
Retirement Planning Specialist
Qualified Plan Specialist
Executive Benefits Specialist
Life & Health insurance in various states
FINRA Securities registrations: Series 6, 7, 63, 65

Retirement Planning Specialist title awarded by Equitable Advisors, based upon receipt of a Certificate in Retirement Planning from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Qualified Plan Specialist title awarded by Equitable Advisors, based upon successful completion of an internal training program and written assessment.

The Retirement Planning Specialist title is awarded by Equitable Advisors, based upon the Financial Professional’s (FP) receipt of a Certificate in Retirement Planning from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. In a collaboration between the Wharton School and Equitable Advisors’ affiliate, Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company (NY, NY), coursework for the certificate was developed exclusively for Equitable Advisors FPs, and the title may be used only by FPs who have completed the required coursework and maintain the title through ongoing continuing education requirements. To verify that an FP has earned and holds the title in good standing, contact atretirement@equitable.com. Complaints about an Equitable Advisors FP should be directed to customer.relations@equitable.com.

California Insurance License #: 0D43075

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (NY,NY 212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC(Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN). Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC, in Utah as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC, and in Puerto Rico as Equitable Network of Puerto Rico, Inc. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.

Working with business owners and individual's. I help businesses implement, maintain and administer group benefit package including medical, dental, vision & retirement plans. I help individuals with personal financial and insurance goals based on their individual needs.

Some of the financial products and services that I can offer companies and individuals; Medicare Planning, Group Life and Disability Income Insurance, Group Dental and Vision Insurance and Buy Sell Agreement Funding.

My Professional Qualifications are:
Life & Health insurance in various states,
FINRA Securities registrations: Series 7, 66

Eric graduated from Monmouth University in 2012 with a degree in Marketing. Eric joined Equitable in 2012 as a financial advisor. Eric’s areas of focus include helping individuals with asset allocation strategies, tax aware investments, and overall financial planning. Due to his strong leadership skills, in 2018 Eric was promoted to Divisional Vice President where his passion for training and developing advisors was realized. In 2021, Eric was accepted into the Emerging Leaders Group, which recognized his success as a trailblazer in growing and developing advisors across his peers on a national scale.

However, Eric’s passion has always most aligned with helping his clients reach their financial freedom. In 2022, Eric was recruited by a leading team in the financial services industry and is now a part of Ascendency Financial Group. This collaboration enables Eric and his clients to leverage the experienced financial planning minds within the group, with a focus on holistic financial planning. Eric deeply values the relationships he builds with his clients and believes a well-rounded financial plan will help achieve their goals.

Eric's accolades include being inducted into the Elite Advisor Group, which is a group of the top advisors within his current organization and is also a recipient of 2024 and 2025 Five-Star Wealth Management Award as well as being a recipient of the Fortune Wealth Under 40 Award.

Eric supports the ALS association as well as other charitable organizations. He is a passionate sports fan and volunteers his time coaching youth basketball programs that impacted his life as a child too. Currently, Eric resides at the Jersey Shore with his wife, Alyssa, and four children, Penelope, Milo, Donato, and Sunday.

 Arkansas Insurance License #: 16702613

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (NY,NY 212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC(Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN). Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC, in Utah as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC, and in Puerto Rico as Equitable Network of Puerto Rico, Inc. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer. Ascendency Financial Group is not a registered investment advisor and is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors or Equitable Network. Five Star Wealth Manager 2024 and 2025 Awarded by Crescendo Business Services, LLC (dba Five Star Professional). Fortune Wealth Under 40 Award 2024 Awarded by Crescendo Business Services, LLC (dba Five Star Professional). AGE-7999500.1 (Exp. 05/2029).

Margarita V. Mayor graduated from Drexel University in Philadelphia with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Marketing. Marge began her career in financial services while pursuing her undergraduate degree as an intern with NatWest Bank Financial Markets Group, working in their compliance group and then on their Fixed Income trading desk. After her graduation from Drexel, Marge began her full time career on the Fixed Income trading desk at JP Morgan Securities Inc., then subsequently spent 17 years with Tradeweb Markets LLC. Marge transitioned from the Institutional side of Finance to the Retail side of Finance in 2016 as she knew there is a strong need for women advisors.

Marge follows a holistic goals-based approach to Financial Planning. Through proactive engagement, Marge listens to her clients in order to fully understand their specific situation. Strategies are then developed and discussed and with thoughtful collaboration and partnership, she helps her clients in achieving their goals.

At Equitable, Marge completed coursework for a Wharton Certificate in Retirement Planning, in order to be designated a Retirement Planning Specialist. Marge believes that to deliver quality advice, you must constantly strive to educate yourself and your clients in order to empower them to make good decisions.

Marge is a lifelong resident of Monmouth County and is a soccer and baseball mom.  On the weekends (and most evenings) she can be found at the “fields”.  Marge's charitable interests include volunteering at her parish, St. Anselm in Tinton Falls in addition to being an active member at The Woman's Club of Asbury Park, where she is currently serves on the board as Financial Secretary.

My Professional Qualifications are:
Retirement Planning Specialist
Life & Health insurance in various states,
FINRA Securities registrations: Series 7, 63, 66

Columbia University Certified Holistic Financial Coach

Retirement Planning Specialist title awarded by Equitable Advisors, based upon receipt of a Certificate in Retirement Planning from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. The Credentialed Holistic Financial Coach title and custom coaching credential is available exclusively to financial professionals (FPs) of Equitable Advisors who seek to have deeper more personal conversations with their clients. The credential is awarded by Equitable Advisors, based upon the FP’s receipt of a certificate of completion of the Holistic Financial Coach Program. In collaboration between Columbia University’s Coaching Center of Excellence and Equitable Advisors’ affiliate. Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company (NY, NY), coursework was developed exclusively for Equitable Advisors FPs, and the title may be used only by FPs who have completed the required coursework and maintain the title through ongoing continuing education requirements. Columbia’s Coaching Center of Excellence ahs earned a global reputation as the “Ivy-league” of evidence-based, high-impact coaching education and training. To verify that a Financial Professional has earned and holds the title in good standing, contact Lynsey Capone-Smith at lynsey.caponesmith@equitable.com. Equitable Advisors is the brand name of Equitable Advisors, LLC (member FINRA, SIPC) (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI and TN).

Robert Amato joined Equitable Advisors in 2021 following a successful career as a student athlete and graduating from CUNY Queens College in NYC with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology.  He currently holds FINRA Series 7, 63 and 66 registrations.

As a Financial Consultant specializing in understanding the needs of new investors and working to expand their financial knowledge base, Robert also specializes in helping experienced investors plan for retirement. He is passionate about helping his clients develop their own personalized financial plans and strategies, and his holistic and supportive approach helps his clients make well-informed decisions about their financial futures and work towards their financial goals.

Robert spent the first three years of his career in the Woodbridge, NJ office outside of New York City forming valuable relationships and gaining the education and knowledge necessary to expand his practice, and due to his hard work and dedication to his clients, was asked to join the distinguished and elite Ascendancy Financial Group in 2024.

Residing in New York City, Robert is actively involved in coaching summer travel baseball teams as a volunteer in Staten Island, and enjoys playing baseball and recreational golf.

Robert’s professional qualifications are:

FINRA Securities registrations:  Series  7, 63, 66

Life & Health Insurance Licenses in Varying States

Securities offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (NY, NY 212-314-4600), member FINRA, SIPC (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN). Investment advisory products and services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.  Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC. Equitable Network conducts business in CA as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC, in UT as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC, in PR as Equitable Network of Puerto Rico, Inc.  Equitable Advisors and Equitable Network are affiliated companies and do not provide tax or legal advice.  Representatives may transact business, which includes offering products and services and/or responding to inquiries, only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed.  Your receipt of this e-mail does not necessarily indicate that the sender is able to transact business in your state.

For more information about Equitable Advisors, LLC you may visit https://equitable.com/crs to review the firm’s Relationship Summary for Retail Investors and General Conflicts of Interest Disclosure. Ascendancy Financial Group is not a registered investment advisor and is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors or Equitable Network.

Alexander graduated from Thomas Jefferson University in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and earned his Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance in May 2024.

He gained early hands-on experience as a Finance and Accounting Intern at Hosokawa Micron Powder Systems, where he supported audit preparation, sales tax reconciliation, and internal financial processes. Upon obtaining his MBA, Alexander began his role as a Fund Administration Associate at Suntera Fund Services, where he supported fund accounting, reconciliations, and financial reporting for investment funds over several years.

Alexander joined Ascendancy Financial Group’s team of highly specialized advisors in January 2026 to further develop his passion for finance and financial planning while contributing to the firm’s operational excellence and client-focused approach.

His professional accomplishments include being a member of an Elite Advisor Group within the nationally recognized financial firm Equitable Advisors, as well as his academic achievements and experience as a NCAA Division II student-athlete, which reflect his discipline, leadership, and commitment to excellence.

Alexander currently resides in New Jersey, and outside of work, his interests include fitness, sports, and continuous personal and professional development.

Elliot graduated from Rider University with a BA in Communications in 1986, and quickly began his career in Finance as a Financial Professional at First Investors in 1987.

He grew in this role consulting, creating business strategies and planning, analyzing financial statements and balance sheets, and cultivating relationships with corporate and personal clients.

He subsequently founded his own firm, Benson Financial Services, in 1995 - in which he still holds the position of Founder and Managing Principal.

To further enhance his ability to serve his clients, Elliot joined AXA Equitable Advisors in 2015, gaining experience as a Finance Consultant and Advisor for several years.

Wishing to bring his expertise and unique experience to a further range of clients, Elliot joined Ascendancy Financial Group’s team of specialized advisors in January 2026 to enhance his passion for finance and financial planning.

Elliot’s professional qualifications are:

FINRA Securities registrations:  Series  6 and 63

Life & Health Insurance Licenses in Varying States

I started my career in television where I truly learned how to thrive the fast paced and extremely efficient workplace that is Martha Stewart Omnimedia. The skills that I cultivated with Martha would set the tone for my work ethics and successes that they have brought me.

I have extensive knowledge in fashion as an editorial assistant where I witnessed NY Fashion Week, styled outfits and costumes for television and independent films and as a well-trained salesperson and manager for the prestigious customer service retailer, Nordstrom.

My passion for what was trendy on Seventh Avenue shifted to what was hot on the menu, where food and lifestyle became my focus.

This led me to Whole Foods Market, which is the leader of natural products and service standards with a genuine focus and culture of training and growth. In this environment of shared culture and goals, I have advanced my own career and the evolution of Whole Foods Market.

Working in retail for over ten years has been my platform to express my passion, creativity, innovation, and growth as a successful businessperson.

As the Director of Operations & Planning, I provide excellent value and service to our team and clients. It is the best opportunity to utilize all my skills and passion to ensure our mutual growth.

*Discloser – Sandy Daus offers support to our registered representatives but is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state.

Christian Stine serves as the Director of Investments and Portfolio Management at Ascendancy Financial Group. He studied at The College of New Jersey, earning a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics. After completing his degree, Christian spent one year as a teacher before transitioning into the financial sector as a Junior Analyst at Ascendancy.

In his role as a Junior Analyst, Christian was instrumental in assisting with the selection of mutual funds and ETFs for Ascendancy’s client investment portfolio. He also managed various administrative tasks that supported the investment team's operations. After four years of dedicated service, Christian's expertise and commitment were recognized, leading to his promotion to Senior Analyst.

As a Senior Analyst, Christian took on greater responsibilities, including managing asset class weightings and fund selections in collaboration with the investment committee. His strategic insights and analytical skills significantly contributed to the firm's investment strategies.

Continuing his professional development, Christian pursued and achieved the Certified Fund Specialist (CFS) designation. His advanced knowledge and leadership capabilities led to his promotion to Director of Investments and Portfolio Management. In this role, Christian heads the investment committee, engaging with industry experts to shape Ascendancy’s investment philosophy, macroeconomic perspectives, and overall asset allocation strategies.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Christian enjoys hiking, kayaking, and cooking. These activities provide a balanced and fulfilling personal life, complementing his dedication to Ascendancy and its clients.

Kristin's background encompasses over 30 years’ professional experience including Operations Management, Practice Management, Financial Analysis, A.I. Pilot Programs, I.T. Systems and Application Training, Regional Acquisition Training, FINRA Licensing and Registrations, Recruiting, Onboarding, Marketing, Content Creation, Purchasing, Planning, and Client Service.

After a 14 year career in Healthcare, having worked primarily in office environments as well as a Nursing Assistant and a Volunteer Companion for terminally ill patients at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Kristin transitioned into a career in Finance in 2015, where she has worked primarily as an Administrative Director and Operations Manager specializing in process improvement, growth, client engagement, and placing talented professionals based on their expertise.

Kristin has volunteered in many communities over the past two decades including helping children on the autism spectrum by volunteering at local equestrian centers, volunteering overseas in medical clinics and orphanages for children in Africa, and helping to raise awareness for several causes through radio, television and digital campaigning, art gallery showcases, and fund-raising events and festivals.

*Discloser – Kristin Rients offers support to our registered representatives but is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state.

Benedetta Rienzo has a diverse professional experience including a background in customer service, administrative management, Broker/Dealer relationship management, and Institutional Sales trading.

She is skilled in office operations, client relationship management, and quality control.

She holds a Bachelor's degree in Literature and Communications from Pace University in Pleasantville, New York and has also received her Grande Diploma from in Pastry Arts from the French Culinary Institute in New York City, New York.