View Document Text
Item 1: Cover Page
Advisor Resource Council
Form ADV Part 2A Investment Advisor Brochure
15110 Dallas Pkwy Ste 500
Dallas, TX 75248
(972) 421-1360
www.advisorresourcecouncil.com
June 2025
Other Names Under Which Business is Conducted:
360 Wealth Management, 360 Wealth Partners, 360 Wealth Planners LLC, Abacus Wealth
Builders, AIQ Asset Management, ARC Retirement Consultants, ARK Capital, Azalea Wealth
Partners, Barfield Wealth Management, Benge Financial Group, CSB Wealth Management,
Dallas Financial Planner, Don Hubbard Financial Services, Encore Wealth Management,
Foundation Wealth Partners, Generations Financial Management, Jackson Wealth
Management, Lemoine Wealth Management, Lightforce Financial, McLemore Financial Group,
Mergent Group, Napa Valley Financial, Parsons Wealth Management, RLBrown Financial,
Ridgemark Financial, Royal Stone Wealth Management, Simmons Wealth Management, The
Texas Money Manager, Valtrum, Values First Planning, and VTI Financial
Firm Contact: Angela Alexander, Chief Compliance Officer
This Brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Advisor
Resource Council (“we”, “us”, “our”). If you have any questions about the contents of this
Brochure, please contact Angela Alexander, Chief Compliance Officer at (972) 421-1360 or
RIACompliance@thearcfirm.com.
Additional information about our Firm is also available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. The information in this Brochure has not been approved or verified
by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or by any state securities authority.
We are a registered investment adviser. Please note that use of the term “registered
investment advisor” and a description of the Firm and/or our employees as “registered” does
not imply a certain level of skill or training. For more information on the qualifications of the
Firm and our employees who advise you, we encourage you to review this Brochure and the
Brochure Supplement(s).
2
Item 2: Summary of Material Changes
Material Changes since the Last Update
Since the last annual amendment filing, dated March 21, 2024, Advisor Resource Council, or the
“Firm,” has the following Material Change to report:
•
This Form was updated to further describe our trade allocation and aggregation procedures.
Please see Item 12 (Brokerage Practices).
Annual Update
You will receive a summary of any material changes to our Form ADV brochure within 120 days
of our fiscal year end. We may also provide updated disclosure information about material
changes on a more frequent basis. Any summaries of changes will include the date of the last
annual update of the ADV.
The Supplement to our Form ADV Brochure (Form ADV Part 2B) provides you with information
regarding our employees that provide investment advice.
Full Brochure Available
Our Form ADV may be requested at any time, without charge, by contacting Angela Alexander,
Chief Compliance Officer at (972) 421-1360 or RIACompliance@thearcfirm.com. Additional
information about the Firm is also available via the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
The SEC’s website also provides information about any employees affiliated with the Firm who
are registered as investment adviser representatives.
3
Item 3: Table of Contents
Item 1: Cover Page .......................................................................................................................... 1
Item 2: Summary of Material Changes ........................................................................................... 3
Item 4: Advisory Business ............................................................................................................... 5
Item 5: Fees and Compensation ................................................................................................... 14
Item 6: Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management ............................................... 22
Item 7: Types of Clients ................................................................................................................. 23
Item 8: Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies, Risk of Loss ............................................... 24
Item 9: Disciplinary Information ................................................................................................... 30
Item 10: Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations ........................................................ 31
Item 11: Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions, Personal Trading........ 33
Item 12: Brokerage Practices ........................................................................................................ 34
Item 13: Review of Accounts and Plans ........................................................................................ 37
Item 14: Client Referrals and Other Compensation ..................................................................... 38
Item 15: Custody ........................................................................................................................... 41
Item 16: Investment Discretion .................................................................................................... 42
Item 17: Voting Client Securities .................................................................................................. 43
Item 18: Financial Information ..................................................................................................... 44
4
Item 4: Advisory Business
Information about the Firm
Advisor Resource Council (the “Firm,” “we,” “us” or “our,”) is an investment advisor registered
with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.
The Firm is a limited liability company formed in the State of Texas. We have been registered as
an investment advisor since 2012.
As explained more fully in this Brochure, we provide asset management services, financial
planning and consulting, retirement plan consulting, and referrals to third party money
managers. We are dedicated to providing individuals, including high net worth individuals,
families, retirement plans, and business enterprises, with a wide array of investment advisory
services.
We provide our services through investment advisor representatives, or “IARs.” More
information about each IAR providing advisory services may be obtained in the Brochure
Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B, for the IAR, which is provided by the IAR before or at the time
the IAR is engaged. IARs are required to obtain training and licenses to sell certain investments
and services. Clients should carefully review the Brochure Supplement for the IAR that has been
or may be engaged to determine the investments and services the IAR is licensed or qualified to
sell.
In some circumstances, investment advisory services may be provided by third party managers.
These relationships are summarized below in this Item 4. Additional information about any
third party providing advisory services may be obtained by requesting a brochure and related
supplements directly from the third-party manager.
Fiduciary Statement
We are fiduciaries under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and when we provide investment
advice to you regarding your retirement plan account or individual retirement account, we are
also fiduciaries within the meaning of Title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act,
(“ERISA”) and/or the Internal Revenue Code, (“IRC”), as applicable, which are laws governing
retirement accounts.
We have to act in your best interest and not put our interest ahead of yours. At the same time,
the way we make money creates some conflicts with your interests. We must take into
consideration each client’s objectives and act in the best interests of the client. We are
prohibited from engaging in any activity that is in conflict with the interests of the client. We
have the following responsibilities when working with a client:
• To render impartial advice;
• To make appropriate recommendations based on the client’s needs, financial
5
circumstances, and investment objectives;
• To exercise a high degree of care and diligence to ensure that information is presented
in an accurate manner and not in a way to mislead;
• To have a reasonable basis, information, and understanding of the facts in order to
provide appropriate recommendations and representations;
• Disclose any material conflict of interest in writing; and
• Treat clients fairly and equitably.
Regulations prohibit us from:
• Employing any device, scheme, or artifice to defraud a client;
• Making any untrue statement of a material fact to a client or omitting to state a material
fact when communicating with a client;
• Engaging in any act, practice, or course of business which operates or would operate as
fraud or deceit upon a client; or
• Engaging in any manipulative act or practice with a client.
We will act with competence, dignity, integrity, and in an ethical manner, when working with
clients. We will use reasonable care and exercise independent professional judgement when
conducting investment analysis, making investment recommendations, trading, promoting our
services, and engaging in other professional activities.
Advisory Services
We provide asset management services, financial planning and consulting, retirement plan
consulting, and referrals to third party money managers, including referrals to LPL Financial,
LLC, referred to as “LPL.” Our services may be provided on a discretionary basis, meaning that
we, or a third-party manager, possess the discretion to buy and sell individual stocks, bonds,
and other investments. Our services may also be nondiscretionary, meaning that our client
retains the authority to make buy and sell decisions. Each of our asset management services is
briefly described below.
Asset Management
We manage individual investment portfolios, which may consist of individual stocks or bonds,
exchange traded funds (“ETFs”), options, mutual funds and other public and private securities
or investments. Each client’s portfolio is invested using an individual investment strategy that
addresses specific goals and objectives and may include some or all of the previously
mentioned securities. Once the appropriate portfolio has been determined, we review the
portfolio at least annually and, as necessary, we rebalance the portfolio based upon the client’s
needs and stated goals and objectives. Our advisors may exercise discretion over the
investment of the portfolio, the portfolio may be subject to the discretion of a third-party
investment manager or a portfolio may be maintained on a nondiscretionary basis. Information
about the fees we receive for our investment advisory services is included in Item 5.
If appropriate, we offer actively managed investment strategies as separately managed
6
accounts: AIQ Asset Allocation Models, AIQ SMA and UMA Strategies, and ARC Innovative
Solutions. Each strategy is managed by one or more of our advisors and is briefly described
below.
AIQ Asset Allocation Models: The AIQ Asset Allocation Models consist of a series of separate
actively managed model portfolios invested in mutual funds or Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs).
Each model is tuned to a specific risk tolerance, from conservative to aggressive, while
providing diversified exposure to different asset classes including, but not limited to, fixed
income, equity, hedged equity, alternatives, international securities, and commodities. The
model portfolios are generally invested in similar mutual funds or ETFs, however, the
weightings of each investment vary according to the model’s specific risk tolerance. Asset
allocation decisions are made using a combination of artificial intelligence tools and traditional
fundamental analysis performed by the team’s highly experienced investment professionals.
Additional criteria such as assets under management, performance relative to peers,
consistency, standard deviation, upside/downside capture, beta, and scenarios analyses
utilizing Bloomberg Multi-asset risk testing model, as well as conversations with managers, may
be considered. A minimum investment of $10,000 is required to establish a model portfolio,
although in some circumstances the minimum may be lower.
AIQ SMA and UMA Strategies: AIQ Asset Management offers a diverse set of equity and fixed
income strategies designed to meet the investment objectives of a wide range of clients. The
strategies are offered within separately managed accounts (i.e., not within a mutual fund or
ETF) on a stand-alone basis or in combination with one another via one of its Unified Managed
Accounts (UMAs). Benchmarks for individual strategies are based on the specific asset class
while UMA benchmarks are a blend of the individual strategies based on the risk objective of
the strategy (Conservative, Moderate, Growth). Asset allocation decisions (for the UMAs) as
well individual security selection for all of the portfolios are based on a combination of artificial
intelligence tools and traditional fundamental analysis performed by the team’s highly
experienced investment professionals. For hedged strategies, protection or “hedging” is
provided by put options. Short-term, covered calls may also be used to generate additional
income.
ARC Innovative Solutions: The ARC Innovative Solutions models consist of a series of separate
actively managed model portfolios based on the size of the account and the client’s risk profile,
ranging from conservative to aggressive. Portfolios are generally invested in a combination of
individual stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, structured products, and may use options to
reduce risk. Portfolios will generally be invested in the same securities, but holdings will vary in
terms of both individual holdings and the relative weightings of those holdings in the portfolio
based on the size and risk profile of the model. Asset allocation decisions as well as individual
security selection are based on a combination of artificial intelligence tools and traditional
fundamental analysis performed by the team’s highly experienced investment professionals. A
minimum investment of $10,000 is required to establish a model portfolio.
Financial Planning and Consulting
7
We provide a variety of financial planning and consulting services to individuals, families and
other clients based upon an analysis of each client’s current situation, goals, and objectives.
Generally, our financial planning services involve the preparation of a financial plan or a less
formal financial consultation. Our plan or consultation may encompass one or more of the
following: investment planning; retirement planning; estate planning; charitable planning;
education planning; corporate and personal tax planning; cost segregation study; corporate
structure; real estate analysis; mortgage/debt analysis; insurance analysis; lines of credit
evaluation; and other business and personal financial planning. Our written financial plans or
consultations usually include general recommendations for a course of activity and may suggest
more specific actions. For example, we may advise clients to begin or revise investment
programs, create or revise wills or trusts, obtain or revise insurance coverage, commence or
alter retirement savings rates or establish education or charitable giving programs.
• For financial planning engagements, we provide our clients with a written summary of
their financial situation, including our observations and recommendations. We may also
refer clients to an accountant, attorney or other specialist, as necessary, for non-
advisory services.
• For consulting engagements, which are less formal that our planning services, we may
provide our clients with a written summary of our observations and recommendations,
including financial advice about assets or accounts that are not in our custody (or in the
custody of a custodian we have selected). For financial consulting engagements, we
have no obligation to instruct any broker or custodian to take any action in furtherance
of any advice we provide.
We do not provide accounting, legal, tax or similar professional advice and may recommend
non-affiliated professionals for this purpose.
Estate Planning Services
Some of our IARs may offer the ability to obtain estate planning document preparation legal
services through our professional partnership with independent attorneys and/or law firms.
Our investment advisory and financial planning services and that of the attorney or law firm we
may refer you to are separate and distinct from one another. Each entity will require that their
respective clients complete a separate agreement with its own compensation arrangement
detailing the distinct services that each will render. At our discretion, subject to client
investment management asset levels, we may choose to cover part or all of the fee for this
specific service. Furthermore, there is no common ownership or revenue sharing between our
firm and any attorney or law firm we may refer you to.
Retirement Plan Consulting
We provide investment consulting services to the sponsors or other fiduciaries of retirement
plans, primarily defined contribution plans with participant-directed investments that are
subject to the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended,
or ERISA. As requested by the sponsor or other fiduciary, our retirement plan consulting
services may include:
8
• The development of an investment policy statement, including periodic reviews and
modifications of the statement;
• The designation of investment options, including periodic investment reviews and
monitoring;
• The conduct of investment searches, as appropriate;
• The conduct of participant education;
• The analysis and benchmarking of fees; and
• Additional consulting services, such as third-party provider searches, assistance with
plan conversions, and review of plan provisions.
There are some asset classes for which we do not provide retirement plan consulting services,
including participant loans, employer securities, real estate (except real estate acquired
through a publicly traded REIT or similar fund), individual brokerage accounts or “windows,”
non-publicly traded securities and similar property, and hard-to-value or illiquid securities.
We provide retirement plan consulting services as a “3(21) fiduciary” within the meaning of
ERISA. As a 3(21) fiduciary, we monitor the plan’s investment options and provide advice and
recommendations, but the plan sponsor or other designated fiduciary makes all final
determinations about matters affecting the investments offered under the plan. Alternatively,
we may provide retirement plan consulting services as a “3(38) fiduciary” within the meaning of
ERISA. In this capacity, we monitor the plan’s investment options and we possess the discretion
to designate, substitute or replace investment options, change the investment policy statement
to add or remove asset classes, and take similar discretionary actions.
Referrals to Third Party Money Managers
We may refer clients to third party money managers, instead of directly providing investment
advisory services. As part of this process, we assist clients in identifying appropriate third-party
managers using information about a client’s financial situation, investment objectives and
goals, and any desired investment restrictions. For clients who use third party managers, we do
not offer advice on any specific securities or other investments; investment advice and trading
of securities is provided by or through the designated manager.
We periodically review the reports third party money managers provide to our clients, but no
less often than annually. We contact our clients from time to time to review their current
financial situation and objectives, we communicate with the third-party managers as
warranted, and we assist our clients with the evaluation of the services provided by the
managers. Our clients are expected to notify us of any changes in their financial situation and
investment objectives and to provide us with any other information that might affect the
management of their accounts. We expect our clients to provide similar information to the
third-party manager.
Portfolio Management Services Through LPL Financial, LLC
9
When appropriate, we provide advisory services using programs sponsored by LPL. Five LPL
advisory programs are currently available to our clients:
• Manager Access Select Network (MAN)
• Optimum Market Portfolios (OMP)
• Personal Wealth Portfolios (PWP)
• Model Wealth Portfolios (MWP)
• Guided Wealth Portfolios (GWP)
Each LPL advisory program is briefly summarized below and general information about the fees
we receive from LPL is below in Item 5.” For more detailed information about any LPL advisory
program, including information about the services that are provided, fees, the types of
investments that are available in each program, and potential conflicts of interest, please see
the LPL Financial, LLC Form ADV Part 2, including any applicable Wrap Fee Program Brochure
and client agreement, which may be obtained from LPL or upon request from an IAR.
Manager Access Select Network (MAN): MAN is an LPL advisory program that enables high net
worth investors to access a variety of institutional portfolio managers at lower account
minimums. By using portfolio managers, clients may enjoy a higher level of specialization and
service. A broad range of portfolio managers and investment styles are available through MAN,
including equity, fixed income, balanced, international, ETF, REIT, and socially responsible
portfolios. A minimum account value of $100,000 is generally required to participate in MAN,
although in some circumstances the minimum may be higher or lower.
Optimum Market Portfolios (OMP): OMP is an LPL advisory program that offers the ability to
participate in a professionally managed asset allocation program using Optimum Funds shares.
Asset allocation portfolios are designed by LPL. LPL has the discretion to purchase and sell
Optimum Funds, subject to the mandate of each allocation portfolio, and to rebalance the
securities held in the portfolio. Our clients designate a specific asset allocation portfolio and
authorize LPL, on a discretionary basis, to purchase and sell mutual funds for the portfolio. We
assist our clients to determine the suitability of OMP and to designate an asset allocation
portfolio that is consistent with their investment goals and objectives. A minimum account
value of $10,000 is required for OMP, but under certain circumstances a lower minimum may
be acceptable.
Personal Wealth Portfolios (PWP): PWP is an LPL advisory program that offers our clients the
ability to participate in an asset management portfolio that is designed and overseen by LPL.
LPL makes available model asset allocation portfolios that invest in mutual funds, exchange
traded funds, ETFs, and investment models provided by third party managers. We assist our
clients to determine the suitability of PWP and to set investment goals and objectives. Our
client authorizes us to select an appropriate portfolio and to direct the purchase and sale of
securities from those offered through the portfolio. LPL possesses the discretion to administer
the portfolios, including the authority to purchase and sell on a discretionary basis mutual funds
10
and equity and fixed income securities held in the accounts and portfolios. A minimum account
value of $250,000 is required for PWP, although in some circumstances a lower minimum may
be acceptable.
Model Wealth Portfolios (MWP): MWP is an LPL advisory program that offers our clients a
professionally managed mutual fund asset allocation program. We work with our clients to set
appropriate investment objectives and determine the suitability of the MWP program. We then
have the discretion to select a model portfolio, consistent with our clients’ particular
investment objectives, which is designed by LPL. For each model portfolio, LPL (or a third-party
strategist) selects the mutual funds, monitors the funds, and may replace, remove or add funds.
The client authorizes LPL to act on a discretionary basis to purchase and sell mutual funds,
including in certain circumstances exchange traded funds, to liquidate previously purchased
securities, and to rebalance accounts. The minimum asset value varies with the model portfolio
that is selected; the minimum required for MWP is $25,000, although in certain circumstances a
lesser amount may be acceptable.
Guided Wealth Portfolios (GWP): GWP is an LPL advisory program that offers our clients the
ability to participate in a centrally managed, algorithm-based investment program using a web-
based, interactive account management portal. We assist our clients to determine the
suitability of GWP and to develop an appropriate investment objective, taking into account risk
tolerance, anticipated retirement age, and investment horizon. Consistent with the objective,
each client is invested in a model portfolio that has been constructed by LPL. Recommendations
to buy and sell exchange-traded funds and open-end mutual funds are generated through the
proprietary, automated, computer algorithms of Xulu, Inc., doing business as FutureAdvisor. LPL
possesses the discretion to purchase and sell securities for the portfolio and to adjust the
portfolio’s asset allocation as our client nears retirement age and the investment horizon
changes. We remain available to discuss the account or investment strategies and objectives,
whether in person or via telephone. A minimum account value of $5,000 is required to enroll in
GWP.
A preview of GWP is available for up to 45 days, during which interested clients may determine
whether participation in GWP and the receipt of ongoing advice from LPL and FutureAdvisor
through GWP is appropriate. Users of the GWP preview are not considered clients of LPL,
FutureAdvisor or us, they do not enter into an advisory agreement with LPL, and they do not
receive ongoing investment advice, supervision of their assets or trading services.
Individual Advice; Restrictions on Investing
All of our advice is based on an assessment of each client’s individual needs, which we identify
at the onset of each relationship using, as appropriate, client questionnaires and profiles, a
review of existing investments and financial status, and other means. We review each client’s
individual investments and investment profile at least as frequently as annually. When a client’s
investment profile or needs change and we have notice or receive additional information, we
modify our advice, as appropriate.
11
If we manage a client’s portfolio, we may permit a client to impose restrictions on the types of
investments that are acquired or held. These restrictions must be reasonable and practicable
and permit us to manage the account without undue difficulty. If we do not directly manage a
client’s portfolio, such as when a third-party manager is designated, individually imposed
restrictions on investments are generally not permitted.
Wrap Fee Program
We offer a wrap fee program as further described in Part 2A, Appendix 1 of our Brochure (the
“Wrap Fee Program Brochure”). Investment advice for our wrap and non-wrap fee accounts is
provided on an individual basis, based upon each client’s investment objectives, financial goals,
risk tolerance, and similar factors.
The benefits under a wrap fee program depend, in part, upon the size of the account, the costs
associated with managing the account, and the frequency or type of securities transactions
executed in the account.
For example, a wrap fee program may not be suitable for all accounts, including but not limited
to accounts holding primarily, and for any substantial period of time, cash or cash equivalent
investments, fixed income securities or no-transaction-fee mutual funds, or any other type of
security that can be traded without commissions or other transaction fees.
In order to evaluate whether a wrap fee arrangement is appropriate for you, you should
compare the agreed-upon wrap program fee and any other costs associated with participating
in our wrap fee program with the amounts that would be charged by other advisers, broker-
dealers, and custodians, for advisory fees, brokerage and execution costs, and custodial
services comparable to those provided under the wrap fee program. In evaluating the wrap fee
program, a client should consider that, depending upon the level of the wrap fee, the amount
of portfolio activity in the client’s account, and other factors, the wrap fee may or may not
exceed the aggregate cost of such services if they were to be provided separately.
Conflict of Interest
When managing a client's account on a wrap fee basis, we receive as compensation for our
investment advisory services, the balance of the total wrap fee you pay after custodial, trading,
and other management costs (including execution and transaction fees) have been deducted.
Accordingly, we have a conflict of interest because we have a financial incentive to maximize
our compensation by seeking to reduce or minimize the total costs incurred in your account(s)
subject to a wrap fee. Clients are advised to carefully consider the total costs and benefits of
the wrap fee program compared to paying for advisory services, brokerage, and custodial
services separately. The Firm regularly reviews and monitors the performance of client
accounts and the appropriateness of the wrap fee program for their investment needs.
However, clients are encouraged to review their account statements and performance reports
to ensure that the wrap fee program continues to meet their investment objectives.
We do not manage wrap fee accounts in a different fashion than non-wrap fee accounts. As
12
further described in our Wrap Fee Program Brochure, we receive a portion of the wrap fee for
our services.
Assets Under Management
As of January 31, 2025, we had approximately $3,015,318,532 in assets under management;
$2,908,616,532 is managed on a discretionary basis and $106,702,000 is managed on a
nondiscretionary basis.
13
Item 5: Fees and Compensation
This item describes the fees we charge for our advisory services, including general descriptions
of the fees charged by third party money managers and how our fees are calculated and paid.
Investment Advisory Services
Fees for Advisory Services
For investment advisory services that we provide, clients pay fees based on assets under our
management, using one of the methods below. The maximum fee schedules are as follows:
WRAP FEE PROGRAM
PERCENTAGE OF ASSETS UNDER MANAGEMENT*
Assets Under Management
$0 to $499,999
$500,000 to $999,999
$1,000,000 to $1,999,999
$2,000,000 to $4,999,999
Over $5,000,000
Maximum Annual Fee
2.50%
2.50%
2.50%
2.50%
2.50%
Please note that the Firm’s internal strategies are only available in the Wrap Fee Program.
TRADITIONAL ASSET MANAGEMENT
PERCENTAGE OF ASSETS UNDER MANAGEMENT*
Assets Under Management
$0 to $499,999
$500,000 to $999,999
$1,000,000 to $1,999,999
$2,000,000 to $4,999,999
Over $5,000,000
Maximum Annual Fee
2.25%
2.25%
2.25%
2.25%
2.25%
*Fees are billed quarterly in advance, based on the value of each client’s account on the last
day of the previous quarter. More information about how fees are calculated and paid is
provided below the Section “Calculation and Payment of Fees.”
FLAT ANNUAL FEE*
Assets Under Management
$0 to $499,999
$500,000 to $999,999
Maximum Annual Fee
$11,500
$22,000
14
$1,000,000 to $1,999,999
$2,000,000 to $4,999,999
Over $5,000,000
$42,000
$100,000
Maximum of $100,000 for each
$5,000,000 increment
*Fees are billed in arrears, quarterly, semi-annually or annually. More information about how
fees are calculated and paid is provided below in the Section “Calculation and Payment of
Fees.”
Our maximum fees (above) are negotiable under appropriate circumstances. When we
negotiate fees, we may consider factors such as the fees that our client has paid to a
competitor for similar services, the totality of our relationship with the client, the potential for
future business, the complexity of the client’s investment strategy, and the degree to which we
provide discretionary asset management. The annual fee rate is subject to change based on the
client’s asset levels and any associated risks. This includes scenarios where a client’s fee rate, as
a percentage of assets under management, may substantially increase if their assets decrease.
The Firm will calculate the flat fee as a fixed dollar amount, which, when divided by a lower
asset base, results in a higher percentage fee.
Financial Planning and Consulting Fees
For financial planning and consulting services, we charge an hourly or flat fee. The total
estimated fee, as well as the actual fee, is based upon the scope and complexity of the
engagement. Our hourly fees range between $100 and $500 based upon the experience of a
client’s advisor. Our flat fees range between $50 and $15,000. Fees are charged in advance.
Retirement Plan Consulting Fees
Fees for retirement plan consulting may be charged using one or more of the following
methods:
• An hourly fee or fixed fee for a specific transaction or project;
• An ongoing fixed fee, charged quarterly or annually;
• An ongoing fixed fee for each participant in the plan, charged quarterly or annually;
and/or
• An ongoing asset-based fee.
Our fees for retirement plan consulting services (both the amount and type) are negotiated,
taking into consideration factors such as the size of the retirement plan, the number of
participants in the plan, whether we serve as a 3(21) or a 3(38) fiduciary, the size of individual
accounts maintained in the plan, fees previously paid by the plan for similar services, total fees
paid by the plan, and similar factors. If we charge an asset- based fee, the fee will not exceed
the asset-based fees we charge for other investment advisory services (described above under
the heading “Fees for Advisory Services”), taking into account other forms of fees we may be
paid for our retirement plan consulting services.
15
When providing consulting services to retirement plans, we do not receive additional
compensation, whether direct or indirect, from any third-party vendor providing services to a
retirement plan for which we provide consulting services, nor do we share or receive revenue
from any mutual fund, exchange traded fund or similar investment offered under a plan.
Referrals to Third Party Money Managers
If advisory services are provided by a third-party money manager, including LPL, fees will be
paid to that manager. Fees charged by third party managers are included in each manager’s
Form ADV Part 2, including any relevant supplement.
We are paid by third party money managers when we make a referral to them and a managed
account is opened or an LPL program is selected and funded, usually between 1.00% and 1.70%
of the fee that our client pays to the third-party manager. We generally receive these fees while
the managed account or LPL program remains open and is funded. When we refer a client to a
third-party manager, the manager does not charge our client a higher fee because of our
referral.
We may receive additional types of compensation from LPL, summarized below in Item 10.
Calculation and Payment of Fees
Fees for Our Advisory Services
Each client selects a billing method (and in some circumstances the manner in which fees will
be calculated) and provides us with the authorization for the direct (account) billing of our fee
and other applicable fees and charges (primarily transaction charges) when an account is first
established. Statements are provided at least quarterly by each account’s custodian, which
indicate all disbursements, including advisory fees paid to us.
Depending upon the type of fee selected by a client, billing and collection periods may be as
follows:
• On a quarterly basis payable in advance, based on the value of the account on the last
business day of the previous quarter;
• On a quarterly basis payable in arrears, based on the value of the account on the last
business day of the quarter;
• On a semi-annual basis payable in arrears, based on the value of the account on the last
business day of the semi-annual period; or
• On an annual basis payable in arrears based on the value of the account on the last
business day of the year.
Fees for accounts that are maintained for less than a full billing period will be prorated. Fees
that are collected in advance will be prorated and returned, without interest, if an account is
terminated before the billing period ends.
16
Fees for Financial Planning and Consulting
We generally require a retainer of 50% of the estimated financial planning or consulting fee,
with the remainder of the fee due 30 days after the financial plan or consultation is completed.
In all cases, we do not require a retainer in excess of $1,200 if our services cannot be rendered
within six months.
Fees for Retirement Plan Consulting
Our asset-based fees, at the election of each client, may be paid:
• Quarterly or monthly in arrears, based on the value of the plan’s assets as of the last
business day of the quarter or month; or
• Quarterly or monthly in advance, based on the value of the plan’s assets as of the last
business day of the preceding quarter or month.
The calculation of our asset-based fees does not include the value of assets for which we do not
provide advisory services, such as participant loans, employer securities and brokerage
windows.
Project-based fees, whether hourly fees or fixed fees, are usually due when invoiced and may
be subject to a retainer. Retainers in excess of $1,200 are not required if the services will not be
completed within six months. Annualized fees, whether calculated on a fixed fee basis or by the
number of participants, may be paid quarterly or monthly in arrears or in advance, similar to
the payment of asset-based fees.
As directed by each client, fees may be billed to and directly paid by a retirement plan’s sponsor
or fees may be equitably deducted from participants’ accounts. Fees for less than a full billing
period will be prorated. Fees collected in advance will be prorated and returned, without
interest, if an engagement is terminated before the billing period ends.
Billing Procedures of Third-Party Money Managers
Third party money managers, including LPL, establish and maintain their own billing processes
and procedures, which we do not control. Information about the billing practices of LPL and
other third-party money managers may be found in their separate written disclosure
documents.
Other Charges and Expenses
As applicable, all clients should expect to pay the following additional expenses charged by
third parties:
• Clients remain responsible for custodial and similar fees and costs customarily
associated with the maintenance of a custody or brokerage account.
• Clients will be charged internal expenses associated with products such as mutual funds
and ETFs, including investment management and 12b-1 fees. These internal expenses
17
are typically calculated as a percentage of the fund’s assets under management. Some
of these fees are retained by the product issuers, and some are paid to third parties,
such as a custodian, for services including the maintenance of shareholder accounts and
the distribution of prospectuses and similar items. More information about specific
expenses charged by a fund or ETF may be found in the applicable prospectus. Because
these expenses are directly deducted from a fund’s assets, they have the effect of
reducing the performance of the investment.
• Products, primarily mutual funds, may have multiple share classes, each class with
different fee and compensation structures, including deferred sales charges. Charges for
internal expenses may also differ among share classes, including investment
management fees and 12b-1 fees. Mutual fund shares may be subject to these varying
fees and expenses, and we may acquire shares other than those with the lowest fees
and costs (those commonly designated for advisory or institutional accounts). More
information about compensation related to mutual fund share classes may be found
below, under the heading “Compensation for the Sale of Securities and Similar Items.”
• Other types of charges and expenses may be incurred, including mark-ups and mark-
downs, odd-lot differentials, spreads paid to market makers from whom securities were
are obtained, transfer taxes, wire transfer and electronic fund fees, and other fees and
taxes on brokerage and securities transactions.
Advisory clients who do not participate in our wrap fee program will also be responsible for
brokerage and other transaction costs incurred for trades executed in their accounts. Brokerage
and transaction costs are separate from our fees and will be disclosed by the firm that executes
the trades. Clients participating in our wrap fee program will have no separate brokerage or
transaction charges.
With respect to wrap fee accounts, the Firm has a potential conflict of interest in selecting No-
Transaction Fee (NTF) funds, which may have higher expense ratios compared to Transaction
Fee (TF) funds. To mitigate this conflict, the Firm’s policy is to select the mutual fund share class
that is in the best interest of the client, considering both the advisory fee structure and the
total cost of ownership in light of the client’s anticipated holding period.
Regardless of the fee arrangement, applicable brokerage and transaction charges will be
deducted from each client’s account and reflected in quarterly statements delivered by the
account’s custodian. More information about our brokerage practices may be found below in
Item 12.
Advisory clients representing retirement plans remain responsible for the items listed above, as
applicable, as well as all administrative and trustee fees and specific costs associated with the
maintenance and administration of the plan and individual participant accounts, such as
distribution fees, fees for participant loans, fees for the processing of domestic relations orders
and similar items.
Cash Balances
18
Some of your assets may be held as cash and remain uninvested. Holding a portion of your
assets in cash and cash alternatives, i.e., money market fund shares, may be based on your
desire to have an allocation to cash as an asset class, to support a phased market entrance
strategy, to facilitate transaction execution, to have available funds for withdrawal needs or to
pay fees or to provide for asset protection during periods of volatile market conditions. Your
cash and cash equivalents will be subject to our investment advisory fees unless otherwise
agreed upon. You may experience negative performance on the cash portion of your portfolio if
the investment advisory fees charged are higher than the returns you receive from your cash.
Retirement Plan Rollover Recommendations
As part of our investment advisory services to our clients, we may recommend that clients roll
assets from their employer’s retirement plan, such as a 401(k), 457, or ERISA 403(b) account
(collectively, a “Plan Account”), to an individual retirement account, such as a SIMPLE IRA, SEP
IRA, Traditional IRA, or Roth IRA (collectively, an “IRA Account”) that we will advise on the
client’s behalf. We may also recommend rollovers from IRA Accounts to Plan Accounts, from
Plan Accounts to Plan Accounts, and from IRA Accounts to IRA Accounts.
If the client elects to roll the assets to an IRA that is subject to our advisement, we will charge
the client an asset-based fee as set forth in the advisory agreement the client executed with our
firm. This creates a conflict of interest because it creates a financial incentive for our firm to
recommend the rollover to the client (i.e., receipt of additional fee-based compensation).
Clients are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to complete the rollover. Moreover,
if clients do complete the rollover, clients are under no obligation to have the assets in an IRA
advised on by our firm. Due to the foregoing conflict of interest, when we make rollover
recommendations, we operate under a special rule that requires us to act in our clients’ best
interests and not put our interests ahead of our clients’.
Under this special rule’s provisions, we must:
• meet a professional standard of care when making investment recommendations (give
prudent advice);
• never put our financial interests ahead of our clients’ when making recommendations
(give loyal advice);
• avoid misleading statements about conflicts of interest, fees, and investments;
•
follow policies and procedures designed to ensure that we give advice that is in our
clients’ best interests;
• charge no more than a reasonable fee for our services; and
• give clients basic information about conflicts of interest.
Many employers permit former employees to keep their retirement assets in their company
plan. Also, current employees can sometimes move assets out of their company plan before
they retire or change jobs. In determining whether to complete the rollover to an IRA, and to
the extent the following options are available, clients should consider the costs and benefits of
19
a rollover. Note that an employee will typically have four options in this situation:
1. leaving the funds in the employer’s (former employer’s) plan;
2. moving the funds to a new employer’s retirement plan;
3. cashing out and taking a taxable distribution from the plan; or
4. rolling the funds into an IRA rollover account.
Each of these options has positives and negatives. Because of that, along with the importance
of understanding the differences between these types of accounts, we will provide clients with
an explanation of the advantages and disadvantages of both account types and document the
basis for our belief that the rollover transaction we recommend is in your best interests.
Payments and Refunds
In the Section above, “Calculation and Payment of Fees,” under the headings “Fees for our
Advisory Services” and “Fees for Retirement Plan Consulting,” we describe when fees will be
paid (in advance or in arrears) and under what circumstances a refund of fees paid in advance
will be provided. Third party money managers may have different procedures for the payment
and refund of fees.
Compensation for the Sale of Securities and Similar Items
Below is information about compensation we or our IARs may receive for the sale of securities
and investment products, which are in addition to the advisory fees that are described above.
Clients may purchase securities and investment products that we recommend through brokers
and agents that are not affiliated with the Firm; other brokers and agents may have different
fee and compensation structures.
Commissions
Certain of our IARs are also registered representatives of LPL and are subject to LPL’s policies
and procedures when acting in that capacity. Such IARs may sell securities through LPL and
receive normal and customary commissions and other types of compensation, including mutual
fund 12b-1 fees or variable annuity trails. The potential for receipt of commissions and other
compensation may give such IARs an incentive to recommend investment products based on
compensation, rather than clients’ needs, and may create a conflict of interest. We address this
conflict by requiring our IARs to evaluate the suitability of products considering various factors
such as clients’ investment objectives, financial goals, and risk tolerance to ensure our clients’
interests are always considered ahead of personal gain. Clients have the right to request and
receive information about commissions and other compensation in respect of any
recommendation we make.
Fee Arrangements
Clients who receive asset management from our IARS may elect of two fee arrangements,
which may result in different compensation considerations:
• Clients who elect to pay a comprehensive wrap fee, with no transaction-based charges,
20
should understand that the wrap account transaction charges will be allocated to the
account’s IAR. While these charges may be less than conventional brokerage costs, they
may be a factor when an advisor decides which securities or mutual funds to purchase
or sell and whether to place transactions for the account. Clients should also consider
that these conflicts may have an impact on the investment performance of their wrap
account.
• Clients who elect to pay separate transaction-based charges should consider the
requirement that LPL Financial, LLC (“LPL”), or Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab
(each a broker-dealer registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and a
member of FINRA and SIPC) act as custodian of the account, as well as the number of
transactions that are anticipated. More information about the Firm’s relationship with
LPL may be found below in Item 10. More information about our wrap fee program may
be found in our Wrap Fee Program Brochure, which may be requested by telephone at
(972) 421-1360 or at RIACompliance@thearcfirm.com
Mutual Fund Share Classes
As explained above, mutual funds generally offer multiple share classes, with each class subject
to certain eligibility or purchase requirements (such as minimum investments or participation in
an investment advisory program) and different expense ratios and costs. In some
circumstances, our advisors may receive additional compensation from a mutual fund based on
the share class that is acquired, which creates a conflict of interest in the share class selection
process. Even though the transaction fees are payable to the account custodian, and not the
Firm or any of its members, the Firm will conduct periodic reviews of client accounts to ensure
the appropriateness of share class holdings to mitigate any possible conflicts, considering such
factors as the intended purchase amount, the amount of the transaction fee, the difference in
expense ratios, the intended holding period, and the availability of the institutional share class.
Regardless of these actions, our clients should not assume that the share class with the lowest
expense ratio or charges will be acquired.
Actively Managed Investment Strategies
We may pay a portion of the investment advisory fees we receive for our actively managed
investment strategies to our investment advisor representatives who provide advisory services
for the strategy. Although this practice does not increase the advisory fees we charge our
clients who invest in these strategies, it may be a factor when an advisor recommends
investment in one of the strategies. Clients should determine whether their advisor also
provides advisory services to one of our investment strategies and whether fees paid to the
advisor with respect to the strategy are material.
21
Item 6: Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management
“Performance-based fees” are fees based on the capital gains or capital appreciation in an
account. We do not charge performance-based fees. “Side-by-side management” refers to the
practice of managing accounts that are charged a performance-based fee and accounts that are
charged other types of fees, such as asset-based fees and hourly fees. Because we do not
charge performance-based fees, we do not engage in side-by-side management.
22
Item 7: Types of Clients
We have the following types of clients:
Individuals, including high net worth individuals;
•
• Retirement plans, such as 401(k), pension and profit-sharing plans;
• Charitable organizations; and
• Business enterprise, including corporations, limited liability companies, and
partnerships.
Account Minimums
Account minimums may be imposed by third-party money managers or in LPL advisory
programs, which are disclosed above in Item 4.
Some of our investment strategies also require a minimum investment amount as described
below:
AIQ Asset Allocation Models
• A minimum investment of $10,000 is required
AIQ SMA and UMA Strategies:
• A minimum investment of $35,000 is required to establish an AIQ Large Cap
Opportunities or an AIQ Small Cap Opportunities account;
• A minimum investment of $40,000 is required to establish a hedged equity,
Yield Opportunities, Investment Grade Opportunities, or Enhanced Yield
account;
• A minimum investment of $200,000 is generally required to establish a UMA
account. In some circumstances, lower minimums may be negotiated;
ARC Innovative Solutions
• A minimum investment of $10,000 is required
23
Item 8: Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies, Risk of Loss
When providing investment advice, each of our IARs uses methods of analysis and investment
strategies that may be the same or different from the analysis and strategies used by other
advisors. Before selecting an advisor, each client should obtain specific information about the
investment analysis and strategies used by a particular advisor and consider the risk of loss
associated with the advisor’s strategies. Below is general information about the analysis and
strategies that may be used by our advisors and the risk of loss associated with various types of
investments.
Methods of Analysis
Our IARs may use all or any of the following methods of analysis to evaluate securities and
other investment products.
Charting: When using charting, we review charts of market and security activity in an attempt
to identify when the market may be moving up or down, to predict when or how long the trend
may last, and to estimate when that trend might reverse.
Fundamental Analysis: Fundamental analysis is used to measure the intrinsic value of a security
by looking at economic and financial factors (including the overall economy, industry
conditions, and the financial condition and management of the company itself) to determine if
the security is underpriced (indicating it may be a good time to buy) or overpriced (indicating it
may be time to sell). Fundamental analysis does not attempt to anticipate market movements,
which may present an additional risk since the price of a security may move up or down with
the overall market regardless of the economic and financial factors considered in evaluating the
stock.
Technical Analysis: Using technical analysis, we analyze past market movements and use the
analysis to recognize recurring patterns of investor behavior to predict future price movement.
Technical analysis does not consider the intrinsic value of a security, which may present a risk
since a poorly managed or financially unsound company may underperform regardless of
market movement.
Cyclical Analysis: Cyclical analysis is used to measure the movement of a particular stock
against the overall market in an attempt to predict the price movement of the security.
Investment Strategies
Each of our advisors may use any or all of the following strategies to manage accounts,
provided that the strategies are appropriate for the needs of a client and consistent with the
client's investment objectives, risk tolerance, time horizons, investment restrictions, and other
considerations.
Long-Term and Short-Term Purchases: We may purchase securities to hold for a relatively long
24
time (typically for more than one year). Risks associated with long-term purchase include that
we may not take advantage of short-term gains that could be profitable or that a security may
decline sharply in value before we make the decision to sell. We may also purchase securities
with the idea of selling them within a relatively short time (typically one year or less). We do
this in an attempt to take advantage of conditions that we believe will soon result in a price
swing.
Margin Transactions: We may purchase stocks with money borrowed from a brokerage
account. This may allow the purchase of more stock than could be purchased with available
cash and the purchase of stock without the liquidation of other holdings. Margin transactions
include a risk that any loss will be magnified or that margin calls will occur if the securities
pledged to collateralize the loans decline in value.
Option Writing: We may use options as an investment strategy. An option is a contract that
provides the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an asset (such as a share of stock) at a
specific price on or before a certain date (this is when you own the option “long”). An option,
just like a stock or bond, is a security. An option is also considered a derivative because it
derives its value from the underlying stock or other asset. Options can be used to speculate,
which is a relatively risky practice, can be used as a replacement security owning the option
rather than the stock (stock replacement), or they can be used to hedge to reduce the risk of
holding an asset. In terms of speculation, option buyers and writers have conflicting views
regarding the performance of:
• Call Option: A “call” is the right to buy an asset at a certain price within a specific period
of time, so the call buyer would want the stock, index, or underlying security to go up.
Conversely, an option seller would need to provide the underlying shares in the event
the option gets exercised by the holder which can happen when the security’s market
price exceeds the strike price, when an expected dividend payment exceeds the
extrinsic value of the option, or other unique circumstances. An option seller who sells a
call will do so for a variety of reasons: to generate income, to profit from a near-term
consolidation in the stock where seller believes that the underlying stock’s price will stay
flat (below strike price) or drop in value during the life of the option, as that is how he
will profit. That is the opposite outlook of the option buyer. The buyer believes that the
underlying stock will rise, if this happens, the buyer will be able to acquire the stock for
a lower price and then sell it for a profit. However, if the underlying stock does not close
above the strike price on the expiration date, the option buyer would lose the premium
paid for the call option.
• Put Option: A “put” option is the right to sell an asset at a certain price within a specific
period of time, so the buyer would want the stock to go down. The opposite is true for
put option writers. For example, a put option buyer believes the underlying stock will
fall or at risk of falling below the specified strike price on or before the contract’s
specified date. An option writer who sells a put option believes that the underlying
stock’s price will increase or stay above a specified price on or before the expiration
25
date. If the underlying stock’s price closes above the specified strike price on or before
the expiration date, the put option writer will profit. A put option holder would only
benefit from a fall in the underlying stock’s price below the strike price. If the underlying
stock’s price falls below the strike price, the put option writer is obligated to purchase
shares of the underlying stock at the strike price.
The potential risks associated with these transactions are:
• All options expire. The closer the option gets to expiration, the quicker the premium in
the option deteriorates; and
• Prices can move very quickly. Depending on factors such as time until expiration and the
relationship of the stock price to the option’s strike price, small movements in a stock
can translate into big movements in the underlying options.
We primarily use options to:
• “Hedge" the purchase of an underlying security; “hedging” occurs because the option
limits the potential upside due to the cost of purchase put options but also limits the
downside risk of the security.
•
•
•
• Write "covered calls," which are options written on a security owned by an account.
Using this strategy, an account receives a fee for selling an option covering a security
that it owns, and the person purchasing the option has the right to buy the security at a
specified price during a specified period.
Implement a “collar” strategy in which covered calls are written on a security and
protective put options on the same security are purchased. This limits both upside and
downside risk of the singular security.
Implement a "spread strategy," in which two or more option contracts (puts or calls) on
the same security. This is similar to buying a call or a put; however, the benefit is capped
by the second option that creates the spread. In the case of a long call option spread,
the buyer would benefit from the gap between the long call strike price and the
sold/written strike price less the option premium paid to enter the position.
In rare instances for clients with investment objectives of aggressive growth we may
purchase calls or sell puts in an attempt to generate income.
Risk of Loss
All investing involves a risk of loss that clients should be prepared to bear, including the risk
that the entire amount invested may be lost.
Our investment strategies involve active management and could lose money over short or long
periods of time. There are no assurances that our investment strategies will succeed, and we
cannot guarantee that we will achieve the investment objectives established by a client, or that
any client will receive a return on investment. Our investment decisions and recommendations
consider both the prospect for return and the risk of loss. In considering the risk of loss, we
26
contemplate both the probability of loss and the potential magnitude of any loss. Some of the
risks associated with our strategies and analysis are summarized below.
Risk Associated with Debt Obligations: In addition to the risks generally applicable to an
investment in securities, an investment in debt obligations and instruments may be further
subject to some unique risks:
•
If debt obligations are downgraded by ratings agencies, go into default or if
management, legislation or other action reduces the issuer’s ability to pay principal and
interest when due, the value of debt obligations may decline. Because the ability to pay
principal and interest when due is typically less certain for an issuer of lower-rated or
unrated obligations (including “junk” or “high yield” bonds), when compared to an
issuer of higher-rated obligations, lower-rated and unrated obligations are generally
more vulnerable to default, ratings downgrades, and liquidity risk.
• Political risk may adversely affect governmental issues, in addition to risks associated
with the economy and similar factors.
• When interest rates increase, the value of interest-bearing investments may decline.
This effect is typically more pronounced for intermediate and long-term obligations and
for mortgage and other asset-backed securities.
• When interest rates decrease, current income may decline.
• Decreases in interest rates may result in the prepayment of debt obligations and may
result in reinvestment at lower rates.
Derivatives Risk: Investments in derivatives involve risks associated with the securities or other
assets underlying the derivatives, as well as risks that are different or greater than the risks
affecting the underlying assets. Risks unassociated with the underlying assets include the
inability or unwillingness of the counterparty to perform its obligations, inability or delay in
selling or closing positions, and difficulties in valuation.
Foreign Investment Risk: Investments in the securities of foreign issuers may involve risks
including adverse fluctuations in currency exchange rates, political instability, confiscations,
taxes or restrictions on currency exchange, liquidity risk, and reduced legal protection. These
risks may be more pronounced for investments in developing or emerging countries.
Liquidity Risk: Due to a lack of demand or other factors, there may be no market for particular
investments. In that event, sales may not occur, or sales may be made at less than desired
prices.
Market and Economic Risk: An account’s value may decline due to changes in general
economic and market conditions. The value of a security may change in response to
developments affecting entire economies, markets or industries, including changes in interest
rates, political and legal developments, and general market volatility.
27
Risks Affecting Specific Issuers: The value of an equity security or debt obligation may decline
in response to developments affecting the issuer of the security or obligation, even if the
overall industry or economy is unaffected, such as management issues, corporate disruption,
political factors adversely affecting governmental issuers, a decline in revenues or profitability,
an increase in costs, or adverse changes in the issuer’s competitive position.
Smaller Company Risk: Investments in smaller companies may involve additional risks
attributable to limited product lines, limited access to markets and financial resources, greater
vulnerability to competition and changes in markets, lack of management depth, increased
volatility in share price, and possible difficulties in valuing or selling the investments.
ETF Risk: In addition to the investment risks generally applicable to all securities, investment in
an exchange-traded fund, or ETF, may involve unique risks:
• ETFs are listed on securities exchanges and transacted at negotiated prices in the
secondary market. Generally, ETF shares trade at or near their most recent net asset
value, or NAV, which is calculated at least once daily for indexed-based ETFs and more
frequently for actively managed ETFs. Certain market inefficiencies may cause the
shares to trade at a premium or discount to NAV.
• An ETF redeems shares on an aggregate basis (usually 20,000 shares or more). If a liquid
secondary market ceases to exist, shares may not be timely sold (redeemed), or the
value of the shares may decline.
Master Limited Partnerships (MLPs) Risks: MLPs are collective investment vehicles publicly
traded on a national securities exchange. MLPs invest primarily in companies in the energy
sector or that are engaged in natural resource production and mineral refinement. MLPs are
subject to the underlying volatility of these industries and may be adversely affected by
changes in supply and demand, regional instability, currency spreads, and inflation and interest
rate fluctuations, among other factors. In addition, MLPs operate as pass-through tax entities,
meaning that investors may be liable for their pro rata share of the partnership’s items of gain
and loss, regardless of the type of account in which the interests are held.
Real Estate and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Risks: We may recommend an
investment in one or more real estate investment trusts (“REITs”), the shares of which may be
publicly traded or privately placed. REITs are collective investment vehicles with portfolios
comprised primarily of real estate and mortgage related holdings. REITs may hold concentrated
investments in commercial and/or residential developments, which inherently subject investors
to risk associated with a downturn in the real estate market. Real estate investments
concentrated in particular geographic regions that experience volatility may experience
fluctuations in value. Mortgage related holdings may give rise to additional concerns related to
interest rates, inflation, liquidity and counterparty risk.
Pandemic Risk: Large-scale outbreaks of infectious disease can greatly increase morbidity and
mortality over a wide geographic area, crossing international boundaries, and causing
28
significant economic, social, and political disruption.
Cybersecurity Risk: A breach in cyber security refers to both intentional and unintentional
events that may cause an account to lose proprietary information, suffer data corruption, or
lose operational capacity. This in turn could cause an account to incur regulatory penalties,
reputational damage, and additional compliance costs associated with corrective measures,
and/or financial loss.
Custodial Risk: This risk is the probability that a party to a transaction will be unable or
unwilling to fulfill its contractual obligations either due to technological errors, control failures,
malfeasance, or potential regulatory liabilities.
It is not possible to list all risks associated with each class of securities or assets or each market
sector. Clients should consult their IAR for more information about specific risks that may be
associated with the advisor’s investment strategy.
29
Item 9: Disciplinary Information
We are required to disclose all pertinent facts regarding any legal, regulatory or disciplinary
events that would be material to your evaluation of the Firm or the integrity of our
management.
In 2024, we settled an enforcement action by the Securities and Exchange Commission, Division
of Enforcement (the “SEC”) arising out of a since terminated` investment advisor
representative’s cherry picking, which occurred in 2020. As part of the settlement, we
consented to the entry of a final judgment, without admitting or denying the allegations of the
SEC’s complaint. The court’s final judgment dated February 16, 2024 ordered: (i) that the firm
is permanently restrained and enjoined from violating Section 17(a)(2) of the Securities Act of
1933; (ii) the firm is permanently restrained from violating Sections 204(a) and 206(2)&(4) of
the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and its implementing rules; and (iii) the firm is to pay a
civil penalty of $300,000 to the SEC. Additionally, the court’s final judgment ordered the firm
to retain an outside compliance consultant to review the firm’s policies and procedures, as
well as its customer disclosures.
30
Item 10: Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
Broker/Dealer and Registered Representatives
The Firm is not registered as a broker-dealer. Some of our investment advisor representatives
are registered as registered representatives of LPL, an unaffiliated SEC registered broker-dealer
and FINRA member, and some of our advisors may not be registered representatives.
Material Relationships
Relationships with LPL
As described above in Item 5 our IARs may sell securities through LPL and receive normal and
customary commissions and other types of compensation, including mutual fund 12b-1 fees or
variable annuity trails. The potential for receipt of commissions and other compensation may
give our IARs an incentive to recommend investment products based on compensation, rather
than needs, and may create a conflict of interest. We address this conflict by ensuring that our
clients’ interests are always considered ahead of personal gain.
When our clients engage LPL, we receive a portion of the fees paid to LPL by our clients. We
believe that this conflict of interest is mitigated since our clients pay no more than would be
charged for participation in an LPL advisory program absent our referral. However, our receipt
of a portion of the fees paid to LPL by our clients creates incentives for our IARs to recommend
LPL advisory programs over similar advisory programs offered by other investment advisory
firms.
While LPL does not participate in, or influence the formulation of, the investment advice we
provide, certain of our supervised persons are “dually registered persons.” Dually registered
persons are registered representatives with LPL who also serve as our investment advisor
representatives. These persons are restricted by FINRA rules and policies from maintaining
client accounts at another custodian or executing client transactions through a broker-dealer or
custodian that is not approved by LPL. As a result, the use of trading platforms other than LPL
must be approved not only by us, but also by LPL.
As explained below in Item 14 some of our IARs who are dually registered persons may receive
monetary payments and other forms of consideration from LPL as transition assistance. This
arrangement presents a potential conflict of interest because dually registered IARs have
financial incentives to trade on the LPL platform in order to receive transition assistance. Clients
should review an advisor’s Brochure Supplement to determine whether assistance is provided
and the potential for conflicts of interest that may arise from the assistance.
We allow our IARs to select LPL or Schwab to custody client assets. Clients should understand
that LPL is responsible under FINRA rules for supervising certain business activities of the Firm
and the trading activity of our dually registered persons that is conducted through broker-
dealers and custodians other than LPL. LPL charges a fee for its oversight and supervision. This
31
arrangement presents a conflict of interest for IARs that custody client assets at LPL because we
have a financial incentive to avoid the oversight fee by recommending that accounts be
maintained with LPL, rather than with another broker-dealer or custodian. For some clients and
trading strategies, other broker-dealers may have lower costs than LPL. We mitigate this
conflict through a periodic review of best execution at LPL and Schwab, and by sharing those
results with our IARs.
Insurance Company or Agency
The Firm owns a majority position in ARC Insurance Ventures (ARC IV), an insurance agency
selling life and health insurance, which also provides merchant services. ARC IV owns 50% of
ARC Insurance Consultants, an insurance agency selling property and casualty insurance.
Insurance
Many IARs are licensed insurance agents or brokers. In such capacity, they may offer fixed and
variable life insurance products and receive normal and customary commissions as a result of
any purchase. We also own interests in two insurance brokerage businesses. In the course of
providing advisory services, our IARs may recommend the purchase of insurance products from
these related entities and may use any insurance agent or broker they choose. Other insurance
agencies may offer similar products that cost more or less. Clients should obtain quotes from
more than one insurance professional before any purchase is made or authorized.
Insurance compensation, including commissions and trails, is separate from any investment
advisory fee charged by the Firm. The potential for receipt of commissions and other
compensation when acting as an insurance agent may provide an incentive to recommend
insurance products based on the compensation received, rather than on a client's needs.
Other IAR Considerations
Many of our investment advisor representatives are independent contractors and conduct or
engage in other businesses, such as other advisory programs. Some of our IARs are advisory
representatives of LPL’s registered investment advisor and may offer advisory programs
sponsored and/or offered by LPL. Fees for programs offered through us, as compared to LPL,
may be higher or lower.
Our IARs generally provide services in an advisory capacity. In certain cases, this may present a
conflict of interest. In an advisory account, a client is provided with ongoing investment advice,
and we receive an ongoing advisory fee for that service. If a client intends to follow a buy and
hold strategy or does not wish to purchase ongoing investment advice or management services,
an advisory account may not be appropriate.
32
Item 11: Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions,
Personal Trading
Code of Ethics
We have a duty to exercise our authority and responsibility for the benefit of our clients, to
place the interests of our clients first, and to refrain from having outside interests that conflict
with the interests of our clients. We, our employees, and all affiliated investment advisor
representatives avoid any circumstances that might adversely affect, or appear to affect, our
duty of loyalty. To address potential conflicts, we have adopted a Code of Ethics (the Code); the
Code’s key provisions include:
• A statement of general principles;
• A policy concerning the reporting of personal securities transactions;
• A prohibition on insider trading;
• Restrictions on the acceptance of significant gifts;
• Procedures to detect and deter misconduct and violations; and
• A requirement to maintain the confidentiality of client information.
Our employees and all affiliated investment advisor representatives must acknowledge the
terms of the Code at least annually. Any individual not in compliance with the Code may be
subject to termination. We will provide a copy of our Code upon request.
Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Principal/Agency Cross Trades
We do not recommend any securities to our clients in which we have a material financial
interest.
“Cross trading” refers to the practice of buying and selling securities between advisory accounts
or between us (acting as principal or agent) and advisory accounts, rather than buying and
selling securities in the market. We do not engage in principal or agency cross trading and we
do not cross trade between client accounts.
Personal Trading Practices
Both the Firm and our employees may invest in the same securities at the same time as the
securities we recommend to our clients. This practice presents an inherent conflict of interest, as our
employees may have a financial incentive to favor their personal accounts. To mitigate this conflict,
we have implemented policies and procedures designed to ensure that client interests are placed
ahead of personal gain. These include pre-trade approval requirements, restrictions on trading
certain securities, and regular reviews of personal trading activities, including but not limited to, any
personal trades allocated through block trades, by our Compliance staff.
33
Item 12: Brokerage Practices
Research and Other Soft Dollar Benefits
The term “soft dollar” generally refers to the practice of using client brokerage commissions to
obtain research and other services used in the conduct of our business, rather than purchasing
the services directly. We do not receive formal soft dollar benefits other than execution from
broker/dealers in connection with client securities transactions. See disclosure below in
“Brokerage – Other Economic Benefits”
Brokerage for Client Referrals
We do not receive client referrals from broker/dealers.
Directed Brokerage
We generally recommend Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”) or LPL Financial, LLC (“LPL”),
each a member FINRA/SIPC, and independent and unaffiliated broker-dealers (“Broker-
Dealers”). Broker-Dealers provide us with access to its institutional trading and custody
services, which are typically not available to retail investors. These services generally are
available to independent investment advisors on an unsolicited basis and are not otherwise
contingent upon our commitment to each Broker-Dealer for any specific amount of business
(assets in custody or trading). Broker-Dealer services include the execution of securities
transactions, custody, research, and access to mutual funds and other investments that are
otherwise generally available only to institutional investors or would require a significantly
higher minimum initial investment.
For our client accounts maintained there, each Broker-Dealer is compensated through
commissions or other transaction-related fees for securities trades that are executed through
that Broker-Dealer or that settle into Broker-Dealer accounts. The brokerage commissions
and/or transaction fees charged by Schwab or any other designated broker-dealer are exclusive
of and in addition to our fees.
Directed Brokerage – Other Economic Benefits
We may receive from Broker-Dealers , at no cost to us, professional services, computer
software and related systems support, enabling us to better monitor client accounts
maintained at each Broker-Dealer. We may receive this support without cost because of the
portfolio management services rendered to clients that maintain assets at each Broker-Dealer.
The support provided may benefit us, but not our clients directly. In fulfilling our duties to our
clients, we endeavor at all times to put the interests of our clients first. Clients should be aware,
however, that our receipt of economic benefits from a broker-dealer may create a conflict of
interest since these benefits may influence our choice of broker-dealer over another broker-
dealer that does not furnish similar services, software and systems support.
The commissions paid by our clients shall comply with our duty to obtain “best execution.”
However, a client may pay a commission that is higher than another qualified broker-dealer
34
might charge to effect the same transaction where we determine, in good faith, that the
commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services
received. In seeking best execution, the determinative factor is not the lowest possible cost, but
whether the transaction represents the best qualitative execution, taking into consideration the
full range of a broker-dealer’s services, including among others, the value of research provided,
execution capability, commission rates, and responsiveness. Consistent with the foregoing,
while we will seek competitive rates, we may not necessarily obtain the lowest possible
commission rates for client transactions.
Broker-Dealers also make available to us other products and services that benefit us but may
not directly benefit our clients’ accounts. Many of these products and services may be used to
service all or some substantial number of our accounts, including accounts not maintained at
each Broker-Dealer.
Broker-Dealer products and services that assist us in managing and administering clients’
accounts include software and other technology that (i) provide access to client account data
(such as trade confirmations and account statements); (ii) facilitate trade execution and
allocate aggregated trade orders for multiple client accounts; (iii) provide research, pricing and
other market data; (iv) facilitate payment of our fees from our clients’ accounts; and (v) assist
with back-office functions, recordkeeping and client reporting.
LPL Advisory Programs
Clients who participate in one of the LPL advisory programs and some of the arrangements
available under our wrap fee program must designate LPL to custody assets and execute trades
as a condition of participation. Clients should be aware that if LPL serves as custodian, we are
limited to offering services and investment vehicles approved by LPL. Services and investment
vehicles available through broker-dealers and custodians other than LPL may be more suitable
than the services and investment vehicles offered through LPL. We cannot ensure that all
trades executed by LPL are on most favorable terms; better terms may be offered through
other broker-dealers. Clients should understand that not all investment advisors recommend or
require that client’s custody their accounts and trade through specific broker-dealers, and other
arrangements may be available.
LPL charges us an asset-based administration fee for the administrative services it provides.
This fee is not a brokerage or transaction fee, and it is not directly paid by our clients but may
be considered when we negotiate advisory fees with clients.
Trade Allocation and Aggregation
We allocate client investments based on factors including investment objectives, account size,
and risk tolerance, ensuring that each client’s portfolio aligns with their specific financial goals,
needs and objectives. Allocation decisions are also influenced by other relevant parameters
such as time horizon, liquidity needs, and market conditions. These factors are carefully
considered to tailor investment strategies that are suitable and appropriate for each client’s
unique circumstances.
35
Orders for the same security entered on behalf of more than one client may be aggregated (i.e.,
blocked or bunched), subject to the aggregation being in the best interests of all participating
clients. Aggregation typically applies to equities, fixed income, and other publicly traded
securities when doing so achieves more favorable execution for clients, such as better pricing or
reduced transaction costs. Aggregation is conducted under conditions where all clients benefit
equally, ensuring that no single account gains an advantage or incurs a disadvantage relative to
others in the aggregated order. Trades are aggregated only when we reasonably believe that
the combination of orders will result in an overall economic benefit, including lower transaction
costs or improved execution quality, compared to placing orders separately. Exceptions to
aggregation may occur in cases where specific client instructions, account restrictions, or
unique investment needs necessitate individualized execution.
If an order is filled at different prices during a single day, the prices are averaged for the day, so
that all participating accounts receive the same price. If an order has not been filled completely,
so that there are not enough shares to allocate among all clients equally, shares will be
allocated in good faith, based on the following considerations: the amount of cash in the
account; existing asset allocation and industry exposure; risk profile; and type of security. If
partial execution is attained at the end of a trading day, we generally will allocate shares on a
pro rata basis but may fill small orders entirely before applying the pro rata allocation. Pro rata
allocation is used to distribute shares proportionally based on the size of each participating account's
order, ensuring a fair and consistent approach where each client receives an equitable portion of the
available shares relative to their intended purchase. This method helps maintain fairness, prevent
favoritism, and align allocations with each client’s original investment intent. However, alternative
allocation methods, such as filling smaller orders entirely or adjusting for specific account
requirements, may be applied in certain scenarios where pro rata distribution is impractical or would
disadvantage certain clients. All clients participating in an aggregated order receive the average
price and subject to minimum ticket charges, pay a pro-rata portion of commissions. Our
allocation procedure seeks to be fair and equitable to all clients with no particular group or
client being favored or disfavored over any other. To prevent cherry-picking, we have specific
policies and procedures in place. These include pre-allocation of shares prior to block trading
when practicable, the review of trade data reflecting the time of order entry and time the trade
was allocated to the accounts to ensure that allocations are performed consistent with pre-
trade instructions and our fiduciary duty. Any deviations from these procedures are subject to
review and possible disciplinary action.
Prior to execution, we review orders to ensure they align with the client’s investment profile
and strategy, and after execution, we monitor and verify trade allocations to confirm adherence
to our policies and to address any discrepancies promptly. Accounts for the Firm or our
employees may be included in a block trade with client accounts, provided that such inclusion
does not disadvantage any client and is conducted in a manner consistent with our fiduciary
duty.
36
Item 13: Review of Accounts and Plans
Generally, we review accounts at least annually. The nature of our review is to determine
whether each client’s account remains invested in a manner consistent with the client’s
investment objectives and is appropriately positioned based on our analysis of market
conditions and other factors. Only investment advisor representatives and portfolio managers
conduct reviews. We may review client accounts more frequently, based on major market or
economic events, a client’s life events or at a client’s specific request. Our advisory clients
receive periodic reports in the form of quarterly statements from their custodian; we do not
separately provide written periodic reports.
Financial planning clients do not receive reviews of their written plans unless they schedule a
financial consultation with us, or they have contracted with us for periodic review. We may also
meet as requested to update financial plans and discuss changes in circumstances and similar
factors. Financial planning clients who have contracted with us for a post-financial plan meeting
or an update to their initial written financial plan will receive a written plan or update.
Retirement plan consulting clients receive periodic reviews of their investment policies and
designated investment options for the duration of our consulting service, annually or at the
frequency requested by the client. We also provide additional services upon request, for items
such as vendor reviews, fee review and benchmarking, and updates to plan document
provisions. Retirement plan consulting clients receive written reports, at the frequency
requested.
37
Item 14: Client Referrals and Other Compensation
Other Compensation for Advisory Services
This Item 14 describes the compensation or economic benefits we and our IARs may receive
from others when we provide advisory services to our clients. These amounts are in addition to
the fees and other amounts described above in Item 5.
Non-Soft Dollar Compensation
We receive economic benefits from LPL and Schwab in the form of the support products and
services they make available to us and other independent investment advisors whose clients
maintain their accounts at each firm. You do not pay more for assets maintained at these
custodians as a result of these arrangements. However, we benefit from the referral
arrangement because the cost of these services would otherwise be borne directly by us. You
should consider these conflicts of interest when selecting a custodian. The products and
services provided by both LPL and Schwab, how they benefit us, and the related conflicts of
interest are described above in Item 12.
Compensation – Client Referral Arrangements
We have a written arrangement to receive compensation from a bank (“Bank”) to whom we
refer clients to for commercial lending. If a referred client receives a loan from the Bank, our
IAR will receive a referral fee equal to up to 1.0% of the loan amount. Referral fees paid by the
Bank are not charged to the client. We will provide a written disclosure document, which
explains to the client the terms under which we are working with the Bank and the fact that the
IAR is being compensated for the referral activities. This written disclosure document will be
signed by both the IAR and the client.
We have a written arrangement to receive compensation from an unaffiliated internet-based
lending platform (“Platform”) providing a network of lenders who can assist clients with a
variety of different types of personal and business loans (i.e., mortgage, home equity, auto,
commercial, working capital, etc.).The Platform seeks to match the client with those lenders
who can best fulfill the client’s borrowing needs. Once matched with a lender, the Platform
serves to help facilitate the loan application and fulfillment process. If a referred client receives
a loan from a Platform lender, our IAR will receive a referral fee equal to up to 0.025% of the
loan amount. Referral fees paid by the Platform not charged to the client. We will provide a
written disclosure document, which explains to the client the terms under which we are
working with the Platform and the fact that the IAR is being compensated for the referral
activities. This written disclosure document will be signed by both the IAR and the client.
We have a written arrangement to receive compensation from a cash management platform
(“Platform 2") to whom we refer clients to for cash management solutions. We will assist clients
in the on-boarding and ongoing account maintenance that is associated with Platform 2. If a
referred client uses the cash management program, our IAR will receive a referral fee equal to
up to 0.47% of the interest earned by the client. The interest earned by the client from Platform
38
2 is net of all fees, including the referral fee to us.
Transition Assistance Benefits Provided by LPL to Dually Registered Persons
A “dually registered person” is a registered representative with LPL, a broker-dealer, and an
investment advisor representative for us. LPL provides various benefits and payments to dually
registered persons that are new to the LPL platform, primarily to assist with the costs (including
foregone revenues during account transition) associated with transitioning to the LPL platform.
Transition assistance is intended to be used for a variety of purposes, including to provide
working capital, to satisfy outstanding indebtedness owed to a prior firm, to offset account
transfer fees (ACATs) payable to LPL when clients transition to the LPL platform, and to offset
technology set-up fees, marketing and mailing costs, stationary and licensure transfer fees,
moving expenses, office space expenses, staffing support and termination fees.
The amount of the transition assistance provided by LPL is often significant in relation to the
overall revenue earned or compensation received by an advisor at his or her prior firm.
Payments are generally based on the size of the advisor’s business at the prior firm or assets
under custody on the LPL platform. Please refer to the relevant Brochure Supplement for more
specific information about any transition assistance an advisor receives.
Transition assistance payments and similar benefits may create a conflict of interest relating to
our advisory business because the payments and benefits may create a financial incentive to
recommend LPL. We attempt to mitigate these conflicts by evaluating and recommending that
clients use LPL based on the benefits LPL provides to our clients, rather than the payments and
benefits LPL may provide to us and our advisors. Among the benefits of LPL are:
• The ability to seek best execution;
• The financial strength, reputation, pricing, research, and service of LPL; and
• The ability to obtain many mutual funds without transaction charges and to obtain
other funds and securities at nominal transaction charges.
Transition Assistance Benefits Provided by Schwab
Schwab provides us assistance in an amount not to exceed $25,000, based on the reimbursement of
Transfer of Account Exit Fees for client accounts that transfer to Schwab. This assistance is required
to be used toward technology, research, marketing, or compliance-related expenses.
In evaluating whether to recommend or require that clients custody their assets at Schwab, we may
take into account the availability of some of the foregoing products and services and other
arrangements as part of the total mix of factors we consider, and not solely the nature, cost, or
quality of custody and brokerage services provided by Schwab, which may create a potential conflict
of interest.
Referrals to Third Party Money Managers
We are paid by third party money managers when we refer a client and the client opens a
39
managed account. Information about these payments is summarized above in Item 5. Clients
who are referred to third party money managers will be provided with the money manager’s
Form ADV Part 2, all relevant brochures, and a disclosure statement, which will include the
specific fees we are paid.
Referral Fees
We may pay fees to other independent professionals for the referral of clients to our Firm. The
referral fees represent a share of the investment advisory fee that we charge to our clients, but
do not result in higher costs. Any client who is referred to us by another professional will be
given full written disclosure describing the terms and fee arrangements
40
Item 15: Custody
Rule 206(4)-2 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Custody Rule”)
governs whether a registered investment adviser has “custody” of client assets (i.e., holding,
directly or indirectly, client funds or securities, or having any authority to obtain possession of
them). We do not custody client securities and other funds. Instead, pursuant to the Custody
Rule, client securities and other funds are held in a custody arrangement with a Qualified
Custodian (as defined under the Custody Rule). Clients receive written account statements
directly from the custodian at least quarterly. We recommend that our clients review each
custodial statement carefully and promptly notify us and the custodian if any statement is not
timely received or includes errors or inconsistencies.
IARs may select between the Firm’s approved Qualified Custodians (i.e., LPL, Schwab, or both)
for client assets based on a variety of factors to ensure that the chosen custodian provides the
best possible service to the applicable client. These factors include, but are not limited to, fees,
best execution, facilitation of trading, research, client preferences, technology and tools,
regulatory compliance, security and safekeeping, customer service, and corporate actions
management. Specific client needs or preferences for a custodian are addressed on a case-by-
case basis in consultation with the Chief Compliance Officer. Certain restrictions imposed by a
specific custodian may impact the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of a client’s investment
strategies. For example, LPL prohibits trading away and Schwab charges a per trade fee for
allocating any trades done away. Consequently, IARs might select one custodian over the other
based on these restrictions. The Firm will provide clear and comprehensive disclosures to
clients regarding any such restrictions to ensure clients are fully informed about any limitations
that may materially affect their investment decisions or strategy.
Our retirement plan consulting clients have separate trust and custody arrangements. We have
no control over or responsibility for these arrangements.
41
Item 16: Investment Discretion
For advisory accounts and certain retirement plan consulting engagements, we are granted a
limited power of attorney in favor of the Firm, permitting us to exercise full discretion as to the
nature, type and amount of securities to be purchased without preapproval by the client. Our
exercise of discretion may be limited by any investment guidelines and objections that are
furnished by a client or that we develop with the client and by any restrictions on investment
that we have accepted and agreed to administer.
If we have not been given discretionary authority, we will consult with the client prior to each
trade.
42
Item 17: Voting Client Securities
Proxy Voting
We do not have any authority to and do not vote proxies on behalf of clients, nor do we make
any express or implied recommendation with respect to voting proxies. Clients retain the sole
responsibility for receiving and voting proxies that they receive directly from either their
custodian or transfer agents. Clients may contact us for information about proxy voting.
43
Item 18: Financial Information
We have no financial commitment that impairs our ability to meet contractual and fiduciary
commitments to clients and have not been the subject of a bankruptcy proceeding.
We are not required to provide a balance sheet; we do not serve as a custodian for client funds
or securities and do not require prepayment of fees of both more than $1,200 per client, and
more than six months in advance.
44