Acumen Financial Advantage, LLC, alongside Modern Capital Executive Solutions, Inc., and Ryan Millman, have launched a legal battle against several financial entities for alleged breaches of contract and defamation. The complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio on February 17, 2026, targeting Stearns Financial Group, LLC (SFG), Infineo Holdings, Inc., and Capaxa, LLC. This case highlights the intricate dynamics within the financial services sector and underscores the complexities involved in business relationships and contractual obligations.
The plaintiffs claim that despite initially entering into agreements to market SFG’s products, including Supplemental Executive Retention Plans (SERPs) and Collateral Assignment Split Dollar (CASD) life insurance solutions, SFG failed to honor its payment commitments as stipulated in their Producer Agreement. The plaintiffs argue that this breach has led to significant financial harm. They also allege that SFG attempted to impose non-solicitation clauses on Acumen without proper agreement or justification. Furthermore, Acumen contends that it is not bound by certain non-disclosure agreements purportedly enforced by SFG.
Beyond contractual disputes, the plaintiffs accuse the defendants of engaging in a smear campaign designed to damage their reputation within the industry. According to Acumen and its co-plaintiffs, false statements were disseminated among industry partners and potential clients, suggesting misconduct such as regulatory violations and fraudulent activities. These allegations have reportedly led to damaged business relationships and lost opportunities for Acumen.
In response to these grievances, Acumen seeks declaratory judgments affirming its lack of obligation under disputed agreements with SFG. Additionally, they are pursuing damages for defamation and intentional interference with business relationships. The lawsuit aims not only to rectify financial losses but also to restore Acumen’s standing in the financial services community.
Representing the plaintiffs are attorneys Jon J. Pinney, Michael R. Cantu, Isra T. Ghanem, and Josephine F. Forney from Kohrman Jackson & Krantz LLP. The case is presided over by an unnamed judge under Case ID 1:26-cv-00163-MWM.
Source: 126cv00163_Acuman_Financial_Advantage_LLC_v_Stearns_Financial_Group_LLC_Complaint_Southern_District_Ohio.pdf
