Overview
Assets Under Management: $246 million
Headquarters: NEEDHAM, MA
High-Net-Worth Clients: 140
Average Client Assets: $2 million
Services Offered
Services: Financial Planning, Portfolio Management for Individuals
Fee Structure
Primary Fee Schedule (COMMONS DISCLOSURE BROCHURE AND BROCHURE SUPPLEMENTS)
| Min | Max | Marginal Fee Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | and above | 2.00% |
Illustrative Fee Rates
| Total Assets | Annual Fees | Average Fee Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $1 million | $20,000 | 2.00% |
| $5 million | $100,000 | 2.00% |
| $10 million | $200,000 | 2.00% |
| $50 million | $1,000,000 | 2.00% |
| $100 million | $2,000,000 | 2.00% |
Clients
Number of High-Net-Worth Clients: 140
Percentage of Firm Assets Belonging to High-Net-Worth Clients: 95.78
Average High-Net-Worth Client Assets: $2 million
Total Client Accounts: 648
Discretionary Accounts: 572
Non-Discretionary Accounts: 76
Regulatory Filings
CRD Number: 165738
Last Filing Date: 2025-02-20 00:00:00
Website: https://commonsllc.com
Form ADV Documents
Primary Brochure: COMMONS DISCLOSURE BROCHURE AND BROCHURE SUPPLEMENTS (2025-03-18)
View Document Text
Commons Capital, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A – Disclosure Brochure
Effective: March 18, 2025
This Form ADV 2A (“Disclosure Brochure”) provides information about the qualifications and business practices
of Commons Capital, LLC (“Commons Capital” of the “Advisor”). If you have any questions about the content of
this Disclosure Brochure, please contact the Advisor at (617) 431-7200 or by email at info@commonsllc.com.
Commons Capital is a registered investment advisor with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
(“SEC”). The information in this Disclosure Brochure has not been approved or verified by the SEC or by any
state securities authority. Registration of an investment advisor does not imply any specific level of skill or
training. This Disclosure Brochure provides information about Commons Capital to assist you in determining
whether to retain the Advisor.
Additional information about Commons Capital and its Advisory Persons is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with the Advisor’s firm name or firm CRD# 165738.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857) 401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Item 2 – Material Changes
Form ADV 2 is divided into two parts: Part 2A (the "Disclosure Brochure") and Part 2B (the "Brochure
Supplement"). The Disclosure Brochure provides information about a variety of topics relating to an Advisor’s
business practices and conflicts of interest. The Brochure Supplement provides information about the Advisory
Persons of Commons Capital. For convenience, the Advisor has combined these documents into a single
disclosure document.
Commons Capital believes that communication and transparency are the foundation of its relationship with
clients and will continually strive to provide you with the complete and accurate information at all times. We
encourage all current and prospective clients to read this Disclosure Brochure and discuss any questions you
may have the Advisor.
Material Changes
There have been no material changes to this Disclosure Brochure since the last annual amendment filing on
February 5, 2024.
Future Changes
From time to time, the Advisor may amend this Disclosure Brochure to reflect changes in our business practices,
changes in regulations, or routine annual updates as required by the securities regulators. This complete
Disclosure Brochure or a Summary of Material Changes shall be provided to each you annually and if a material
change occurs in the business practices of Commons Capital.
At any time, you may view the current Disclosure Brochure online at the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public
Disclosure website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with the Advisor’s firm name or our firm CRD#
165738. You may also request a copy of this Disclosure Brochure at any time by contacting the Advisor at (617)
431-7200 or by email at info@commonsllc.com.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 2
Item 3 – Table of Contents
Item 1 – Cover Page ............................................................................................................................................... 1
Item 2 – Material Changes ..................................................................................................................................... 2
Item 3 – Table of Contents .................................................................................................................................... 3
Item 4 – Advisory Services ................................................................................................................................... 4
A. Firm Information ..................................................................................................................................... 4
B. Advisory Services Offered ...................................................................................................................... 4
C. Client Account Management .................................................................................................................. 5
D. Wrap Fee Programs ............................................................................................................................... 6
E. Assets Under Management .................................................................................................................... 6
Item 5 – Fees and Compensation ......................................................................................................................... 6
A. Fees for Advisory Services ..................................................................................................................... 6
B. Fee Billing ............................................................................................................................................... 7
C. Other Fees and Expenses ..................................................................................................................... 7
D. Advance Payment of Fees and Termination .......................................................................................... 7
E. Compensation for Sales of Securities .................................................................................................... 7
Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management .................................................................. 8
Item 7 – Types of Clients ....................................................................................................................................... 8
Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss .......................................................... 8
A. Methods of Analysis ............................................................................................................................... 8
B. Risk of Loss ............................................................................................................................................ 9
Item 9 – Disciplinary Information ....................................................................................................................... 10
Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations ......................................................................... 10
Item 11 – Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal Trading .............. 11
A. Code of Ethics ...................................................................................................................................... 11
B. Personal Trading with Material Interest ................................................................................................ 11
C. Personal Trading in Same Securities as Clients .................................................................................. 11
D. Personal Trading at Same Time as Client ........................................................................................... 11
Item 12 – Brokerage Practices ............................................................................................................................ 11
A. Recommendation of Custodian[s] ........................................................................................................ 11
B. Aggregating and Allocating Trades ...................................................................................................... 12
Item 13 – Review of Accounts ............................................................................................................................ 12
A. Frequency of Reviews .......................................................................................................................... 12
B. Causes for Reviews ............................................................................................................................. 12
C. Review Reports .................................................................................................................................... 13
Item 14 – Client Referrals and Other Compensation ........................................................................................ 13
A. Compensation Received by Commons Capital .................................................................................... 13
B. Compensation for Client Referrals ....................................................................................................... 13
Item 15 – Custody ................................................................................................................................................ 13
Item 16 – Investment Discretion ......................................................................................................................... 13
Item 17 – Voting Client Securities ...................................................................................................................... 14
Item 18 – Financial Information .......................................................................................................................... 14
Appendix 1 - Wrap Fee Program Brochure……………………………………………………………………………15
ADV Part 2B (Straus, Jonathan) ......................................................................................................................... 21
ADV Part 2B (Thompson, Rose) ......................................................................................................................... 24
ADV Part 2B (Smith, Malik) ................................................................................................................................. 27
ADV Part 2B (Jamieson, Helen) .......................................................................................................................... 31
ADV Part 2B (Halsey, Kimball) ............................................................................................................................ 34
ADV Part 2B (Manschot, Robert) ........................................................................................................................ 36
Privacy Policy ...................................................................................................................................................... 38
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 3
Item 4 – Advisory Services
A. Firm Information
Commons Capital, LLC (“Commons Capital” or the “Advisor”) is a registered investment advisor with the U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The Advisor is organized as a Limited Liability Company (“LLC”)
under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Commons Capital was founded in August 2009 and was
formed as a registered investment adviser in December 2012, and is owned and operated by Jonathan D. Straus
(Founding Principal, Chief Compliance Officer and Portfolio Manager). This Disclosure Brochure provides
information regarding the qualifications, business practices, and the advisory services provided by Commons
Capital.
B. Advisory Services Offered
Commons Capital offers investment advisory services to individuals, high net worth individuals, families, trusts,
and estates (each referred to as a “Client”).
The Advisor serves as a fiduciary to Clients, as defined under the applicable laws and regulations. As such, each
recommendation made as part of the advisory services are based on the belief that the recommendation is in the
Client's best interest. Commons Capital’s fiduciary commitment to each Client is further described in the
Advisor’s Code of Ethics. For more information regarding the Code of Ethics, please see Item 11 – Code of
Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal Trading.
Wealth Management Services
Commons Capital provides wealth management services for its Clients. These services generally include a
broad range of comprehensive financial planning in connection with discretionary investment management of
Client portfolios. These services are described below.
Investment Management Services - Commons Capital provides customized investment advisory solutions for its
Clients. This is achieved through continuous personal Client contact and interaction while providing discretionary
and non-discretionary investment management and related advisory services.
Commons Capital works closely with each Client to identify their investment goals and objectives as well as risk
tolerance and financial situation in order to create a portfolio strategy. Commons Capital will then construct a
portfolio consisting of low-cost, individual equity securities, individual bonds, exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”),
limited partnerships, and real estate investment trusts (“REITS”) to meet the needs of its Clients. The Advisor
may also utilize other types of investments to meet the needs of its Clients. The Advisor may retain other types of
investments from the Client’s legacy portfolio due to fit with the overall portfolio strategy, tax-related reasons, or
other reasons as identified between the Advisor and the Client.
The Advisor employs a seven step risk management process as part of its investment discipline.
1. Utilize Modern Portfolio Theory to create an “efficient portfolio” as a strategic allocation
2. Overweighting and underweighting assets class decisions
3. Pairing of passive and active strategies
4. Limitation on position sizes to 5% or less of a Client’s portfolio
5. Daily monitoring of security positions
6. Research with a combination of 3 methodologies: quantitative (numbers and ratios), fundamental
(products, markets and management), and technical (price movement and trading volume)
7. Hedging risk in significant downturns
Commons Capital’s investment approach is primarily long-term focused, but the Advisor may buy, sell or re-
allocate positions that have been held for less than one year to meet the objectives of the Client or due to market
conditions. Commons Capital will construct, implement, and monitor the portfolio to ensure it meets the goals,
objectives, circumstances, and risk tolerance agreed to by the Client. Each Client will have the opportunity to
place reasonable restrictions on the types of investments to be held in their respective portfolio, subject to the
acceptance by the Advisor.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 4
Commons Capital evaluates and selects investments for inclusion in Client portfolios only after applying their
internal due diligence process. Commons Capital may recommend selling positions for reasons that include, but
are not limited to, harvesting capital gains or losses, business or sector risk exposure to a specific security or
class of securities, overvaluation or overweighting of the position[s] in the portfolio, change in risk tolerance of the
Client, generating cash to meet Client needs, or any risk deemed unacceptable for the Client’s risk tolerance.
Retirement Accounts – When the Advisor provides investment advice to Clients regarding ERISA retirement
accounts or individual retirement accounts (“IRAs”), the Advisor is a fiduciary 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. When deemed to be in the Client’s best interest, the Advisor will
provide investment advice to a Client regarding a distribution from an ERISA retirement account or to roll over
the assets to an IRA, or recommend a similar transaction including rollovers from one ERISA sponsored Plan to
another, one IRA to another IRA, or from one type of account to another account (e.g. commission-based
account to fee-based account). Such a recommendation creates a conflict of interest if the Advisor will earn a
new (or increase its current) advisory fee as a result of the transaction. No client is under any obligation to roll
over a retirement account to an account managed by the Advisor.
At no time will Commons Capital accept or maintain custody of a Client’s funds or securities, except for the
limited authority as outlined in Item 15 – Custody. All Client assets will be managed within their designated
account[s] at the Custodian, pursuant to the Client investment management agreement, please see Item 12 –
Brokerage Practices.
Financial Planning Services: Commons Capital will typically provide a variety of financial planning services to
individuals and families, pursuant to a written financial planning agreement. Services are offered in several areas
of a Client’s financial situation, depending on their goals and objectives.
Generally, such financial planning services will involve preparing a financial plan or rendering a financial
consultation for clients based on the Client’s financial goals and objectives. This planning may encompass one or
more areas of need, including, but not limited to investment planning, retirement planning, educational planning,
estate planning, philanthropic giving, insurance needs, and other areas of a Client’s financial situation.
A financial plan developed or rendered to the Client will usually include general recommendations for a course of
activity or specific actions to be taken by the Client. For example, recommendations may be made that the Client
start or revise their investment programs, commence or alter retirement savings, establish education savings
and/or charitable giving programs.
Commons Capital may also refer Clients to an accountant, attorney or another specialist, as appropriate for their
unique situation. For certain financial planning engagements, the Advisor will provide a written summary of
Client’s financial situation, observations, and recommendations. For consulting or ad-hoc engagements, the
Advisor may not provide a written summary. Plans are typically completed within six (6) months of contract date,
assuming all information and documents requested are provided promptly.
Financial planning recommendations poses a conflict between the interests of the Advisor and the interests of
the Client. For example, the Advisor has an incentive to recommend that Clients engage the Advisor for
investment management services or to increase the level of investment assets with the Advisor, as it would
increase the amount of advisory fees paid to the Advisor. Clients are not obligated to implement any
recommendations made by the Advisor or maintain an ongoing relationship with the Advisor. If the Client elects
to act on any of the recommendations made by the Advisor, the Client is under no obligation to implement the
transaction through the Advisor.
C. Client Account Management
Prior to engaging Commons Capital to provide investment advisory services, each Client is required to enter into
one or more agreements with the Advisor that define the terms, conditions, authority and responsibilities of the
Advisor and the Client. These services may include:
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 5
• Establishing an Investment Strategy – Commons Capital, in connection with the Client, will develop a
strategy that seeks to achieve the Client’s goals and objectives.
• Asset Allocation – Commons Capital will develop a strategic asset allocation that is targeted to meet the
investment objectives, time horizon, financial situation and tolerance for risk for each Client.
• Portfolio Construction – Commons Capital will develop a portfolio for the Client that is intended to meet
the stated goals and objectives of the Client.
•
Investment Management and Supervision – Commons Capital will provide investment management and
ongoing oversight of the Client’s investment portfolio.
D. Wrap Fee Programs
Commons Capital includes securities transaction costs (herein “Covered Costs”) together with its investment
advisory fees. Including these fees into a single asset-based fee is considered a “Wrap Fee Program”. The
Advisor customizes its investment management services for its Clients. The Advisor sponsors the Commons
Capital Wrap Fee Program solely as a supplemental disclosure regarding the combination of fees. Depending on
the level of trading required for the Client’s account[s] in a particular year, the Client may pay more or less in total
fees than if the Client paid its own transaction fees. Please see Appendix 1 – Wrap Fee Program Brochure,
which is included as a supplement to this Disclosure Brochure.
E. Assets Under Management
As of December 31, 2024, Commons Capital manages $246,061,209 in Client assets, $212,774,813 of which are
managed on a discretionary basis and $33,286,396 on a non-discretionary basis. Clients may request more
current information at any time by contacting the Advisor.
Item 5 – Fees and Compensation
The following paragraphs detail the fee structure and compensation methodology for services provided by the
Advisor. Each Client engaging the Advisor for services described herein shall be required to enter into one or more
written agreements with the Advisor.
A. Fees for Advisory Services
Wealth Management Services
Investment advisory fees are paid monthly, in advance of each month, pursuant to the terms of the investment
advisory agreement. Investment advisory fees are based on the market value of assets under management at the
end of the prior month. Investment advisory fees range from 2.00% to 0.25% based on several factors, including:
the complexity of the services to be provided, the level of assets to be managed, and the overall relationship with
the Advisor. Relationships with multiple objectives, specific reporting requirements, portfolio restrictions, and other
complexities may be charged a higher fee.
The investment advisory fee in the first month of service is prorated to the inception date of the account[s] to the
end of the first month. Fees may be negotiable at the sole discretion of the Advisor. The Client’s fees will take into
consideration the aggregate assets under management with the Advisor. All securities held in accounts managed
by Commons Capital will be independently valued by the Custodian. Commons Capital will conduct periodic
reviews of the Custodian’s valuations to ensure accurate billing.
Financial Planning Services
Commons Capital offers financial planning services for a fixed fee of up to $2,000, due upon completion of the
engagement deliverables. Fees may be negotiable based on the nature and complexity of the services to be
provided and the overall relationship with the Advisor. Fees may be reduced if the Client chooses to execute its
financial plan with Commons Capital for ongoing advisory services. An estimate for total costs will be determined
prior to establishing the advisory relationship.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 6
B. Fee Billing
Wealth Management Services
Investment advisory fees are calculated by the Advisor or its delegate and deducted from the Client’s account[s] at
the Custodian. The Advisor shall send an invoice to the Custodian indicating the amount of the fees to be deducted
from the Client’s account[s] at the respective month-end date. The amount due is calculated by applying the
monthly rate (annual rate divided by 12) to the total assets under management with Commons Capital at the end of
the prior month. Clients will be provided with a statement, at least quarterly, from the Custodian reflecting deduction
of the investment advisory fee. Clients provide written authorization permitting advisory fees to be deducted by
Commons Capital directly from their account[s] held by the Custodian as part of the investment advisory agreement
and separate account forms provided by the Custodian.
Financial Planning Services
Financial planning and consulting fees are invoiced upon completion of the engagement deliverable[s] and are due
upon receipt.
C. Other Fees and Expenses
Clients may incur certain fees or charges imposed by third parties in connection with investments made on behalf of
the Client’s account[s]. Commons Capital includes securities transactions as part of its overall investment advisory
fee through the Commons Capital Wrap Fee Program. Securities transaction fees for Client-directed trades may be
charged back to the Client. Please see Item 4.D. above as well as Appendix 1 – Wrap Fee Program Brochure.
In addition, all fees paid to Commons Capital for investment advisory services are separate and distinct from the
expenses charged by mutual funds and ETFs to their shareholders, if applicable. These fees and expenses are
described in each fund’s prospectus. These fees and expenses will generally be used to pay management fees for
the funds, other fund expenses, account administration (e.g., custody, brokerage, and account reporting), and a
possible distribution fee. A Client may be able to invest in these products directly, without the services of Commons
Capital, but would not receive the services provided by Commons Capital which are designed, among other things,
to assist the Client in determining which products or services are most appropriate for each Client’s financial
situation and objectives. Accordingly, the Client should review both the fees charged by the fund[s] and the fees
charged by Commons Capital to fully understand the total fees to be paid. Please refer to Item 12 – Brokerage
Practices for additional information.
D. Advance Payment of Fees and Termination
Wealth Management Services
Commons Capital is compensated for its services in advance of the month, before investment advisory services are
rendered. Either party may terminate the investment advisory agreement, at any time, by providing advance written
notice to the other party. The Client may also terminate the agreement within five (5) business days of signing the
Advisor’s investment advisory agreement at no cost to the Client. After the five-day period, the Client will incur
charges for bona fide advisory services rendered to the point of termination, and such fees will be due and payable
by the Client. The Advisor will refund any unearned, prepaid investment advisory fees from the effective date of
termination to the end of the month. The Client’s investment advisory agreement with the Advisor is non-
transferable without the Client’s prior consent.
Financial Planning Services
Commons Capital is compensated for its financial planning services upon completion of the engagement
deliverable[s]. Either party may terminate a planning agreement by providing advance written notice to the other
party. The Client may also terminate the financial planning agreement within five (5) business days of signing the
Advisor’s financial planning or consulting agreement at no cost to the Client. After the five-day period, the Client will
incur charges for bona fide advisory services rendered to the point of termination, and such fees will be due and
payable by the Client. The Client’s financial planning agreement with the Advisor is non-transferable without the
Client’s prior consent.
E. Compensation for Sales of Securities
Commons Capital does not buy or sell securities to earn commissions and does not receive any compensation
for securities transactions in any Client account, other than the investment advisory fees noted above. However,
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 7
Advisory Persons, each in one’s separate capacity as listed below, may recommend that a Client implement
investments or insurance in a commissionable relationship instead of an investment management engagement.
Certain Advisory Persons are also registered representatives of Leigh Baldwin & Co., LLC (“LBC”) of Cazenovia,
NY. LBC is a registered broker-dealer (CRD No. 38751), member FINRA, SIPC. In one’s separate capacity as a
registered representative of LBC, the Advisory Person will implement securities transactions under LBC and not
through Commons Capital. In such instances, the Advisory Person will receive commission-based compensation
in connection with the purchase and sale of securities, including 12b-1 fees for the sale of investment company
products. Compensation earned by the Advisory Person in one’s capacity as a registered representative is
separate and in addition to the Advisor’s fees. This practice presents a conflict of interest because the Advisory
Person who is a registered representative has an incentive to effect securities transactions for the purpose of
generating commissions rather than solely based on the Client. Clients are not obligated to implement any
recommendation provided by the Advisor nor Advisory Persons. Neither the Advisor nor Advisory Persons will
earn ongoing wealth management fees in connection with any products or services implemented in the Advisory
Person’s separate capacity as a registered representative.
Additionally, Advisory Persons are also licensed as independent insurance professionals. These persons will
earn commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products they sell to
Clients. Insurance commissions earned by these persons are separate and in addition to advisory fees. This
practice presents a conflict of interest because the person providing investment advice on behalf of the Advisor
who is also an insurance agent has an incentive to recommend insurance products to Clients for the purpose of
generating commissions rather than solely based on Client needs. However, Clients are under no obligation,
contractually or otherwise, to purchase insurance products through any Advisory Person affiliated with the
Advisor. Please see Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations.
Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management
Commons Capital does not charge performance-based fees for its investment advisory services. The fees
charged by Commons Capital are as described in Item 5 above and are not based upon the capital appreciation
of the funds or securities held by any Client.
Commons Capital does not manage any proprietary investment funds or limited partnerships (for example, a
mutual fund or a hedge fund) and has no financial incentive to recommend any particular investment options to
its Clients.
Item 7 – Types of Clients
Commons Capital offers investment advisory services to individuals, high net worth individuals, families, trusts,
and estates. The amount of each type of Client is available on the Advisor's Form ADV Part 1A. These amounts
may change over time and are updated at least annually by the Advisor. Commons Capital generally does not
impose a minimum relationship size.
Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
A. Methods of Analysis
Commons Capital employs quantitative, fundamental, and technical analysis methods in developing investment
strategies for its Clients. Research and analysis from Commons Capital are derived from numerous sources,
including financial media companies, third-party research materials, Internet sources, and review of company
activities, including annual reports, prospectuses, press releases, and research prepared by others.
Quantitative analysis seeks to understand the behavior of a security using mathematical and statistical modeling
to measure certain unique characteristics such as, for example, revenues, earnings, margins, and market share.
Mathematical and statistical modeling helps Commons Capital to ascertain security price and risk to ultimately
help identify profitable opportunities.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 8
Fundamental analysis utilizes economic and business indicators as investment selection criteria. These criteria
are generally ratios and trends that may indicate the overall strength and financial viability of the entity being
analyzed. Assets are deemed suitable if they meet certain criteria to indicate that they are a strong investment
with a value discounted by the market. While this type of analysis helps the Advisor in evaluating a potential
investment, it does not guarantee that the investment will increase in value. Assets meeting the investment
criteria utilized in the fundamental analysis may lose value and may have negative investment performance. The
Advisor monitors these economic indicators to determine if adjustments to strategic allocations are appropriate.
Technical analysis involves the analysis of past market data rather than specific company data in determining the
recommendations made to clients. Technical analysis may involve the use of charts to identify market patterns
and trends, which may be based on investor sentiment rather than the fundamentals of the company. The
primary risk in using technical analysis is that spotting historical trends may not help to predict such trends in the
future. Even if the trend will eventually reoccur, there is no guarantee that Commons Capital will be able to
accurately predict such a reoccurrence.
As noted above, Commons Capital generally employs a long-term investment strategy for its Clients, as
consistent with their financial goals. Commons Capital will typically hold all or a portion of a security for more
than a year, but may hold for shorter periods for the purpose of rebalancing a portfolio or meeting the cash needs
of Clients. At times, Commons Capital may also buy and sell positions that are more short-term in nature,
depending on the goals of the Client and/or the fundamentals of the security, sector or asset class.
B. Risk of Loss
Investing in securities involves certain investment risks. Securities may fluctuate in value or lose value. Clients
should be prepared to bear the potential risk of loss. Commons Capital will assist Clients in determining an
appropriate strategy based on their tolerance for risk and other factors noted above. However, there is no
guarantee that a Client will meet their investment goals.
While the methods of analysis help the Advisor in evaluating a potential investment, it does not guarantee that
the investment will increase in value. Assets meeting the investment criteria utilized in these methods of analysis
may lose value and may have negative investment performance. The Advisor monitors these economic
indicators to determine if adjustments to strategic allocations are appropriate. More details on the Advisor’s
review process are included below in Item 13 – Review of Accounts.
Each Client engagement will entail a review of the Client's investment goals, financial situation, time horizon,
tolerance for risk, and other factors to develop an appropriate strategy for managing a Client's account. Client
participation in this process, including full and accurate disclosure of requested information, is essential for the
analysis of a Client's account[s]. The Advisor shall rely on the financial and other information provided by the
Client or their designees without the duty or obligation to validate the accuracy and completeness of the provided
information. It is the responsibility of the Client to inform the Advisor of any changes in financial condition, goals
or other factors that may affect this analysis.
The risks associated with a particular strategy are provided to each Client in advance of investing Client
accounts. The Advisor will work with each Client to determine their tolerance for risk as part of the portfolio
construction process. Following are some of the risks associated with the Advisor’s investment approach.
ETF Risks
The performance of ETFs is subject to market risk, including the possible loss of principal. The price of the ETFs
will fluctuate with the price of the underlying securities that make up the funds. In addition, ETFs have a trading
risk based on the loss of cost efficiency if the ETFs are traded actively and a liquidity risk if the ETFs have a large
bid-ask spread and low trading volume. The price of an ETF fluctuates based upon the market movements and
may dissociate from the index being tracked by the ETF or the price of the underlying investments. An ETF
purchased or sold at one point in the day may have a different price than the same ETF purchased or sold a
short time later. There is also a risk that Authorized Participants are unable to fulfill their responsibilities.
Authorized Participants are one of the major parties involved with ETF creation/redemption mechanism in the
markets. The Authorized Participants play a critical role in the liquidity of ETFs and essentially have the exclusive
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 9
right to change the supply of ETF shares in the market. If the Authorized Participants does not fulfill this expected
role, there could be an adverse impact on liquidity and the valuation of an ETF.
Mutual Fund Risks
The performance of mutual funds is subject to market risk, including the possible loss of principal. The price of
the mutual funds will fluctuate with the value of the underlying securities that make up the funds. The price of a
mutual fund is typically set daily therefore a mutual fund purchased at one point in the day will typically have the
same price as a mutual fund purchased later that same day.
Bond Risks
Bonds are subject to specific risks, including the following: (1) interest rate risks, i.e., the risk that bond prices will
fall if interest rates rise, and vice versa, the risk depends on two things: the bond’s time to maturity and the
coupon rate of the bond. (2) reinvestment risk, i.e., the risk that any profit gained must be reinvested at a lower
rate than was previously being earned, (3) inflation risk, i.e., the risk that the cost of living and inflation increase
at a rate that exceeds the income investment thereby decreasing the investor’s rate of return, (4) credit default
risk, i.e., the risk associated with purchasing a debt instrument which includes the possibility of the company
defaulting on its repayment obligation, (5) rating downgrades, i.e., the risk associated with a rating agency’s
downgrade of the company’s rating which impacts the investor’s confidence in the company’s ability to repay its
debt and (6) Liquidity Risks, i.e. the risk that a bond may not be sold as quickly as there is no readily available
market for the bond.
Past performance is not a guarantee of future returns. Investing in securities and other investments
involve a risk of loss that each Client should understand and be willing to bear. Clients are reminded to
discuss these risks with the Advisor.
Item 9 – Disciplinary Information
There are no legal, regulatory or disciplinary events involving Commons Capital or any of its supervised
person[s]. Commons Capital values the trust Clients place in the Advisor. The Advisor encourages Clients to
perform the requisite due diligence on any advisor or service provider that the Client engages. The backgrounds
of the Advisor and its Advisory Persons are available on the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with the Advisor’s firm name or CRD # 165738.
Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
Broker-Dealer Affiliation
As noted in Item 5 above, certain Advisory Persons of Commons Capital are also registered representatives of
LBC. In one’s separate capacity as registered representative, the Advisory Person will receive commissions for
the implementation of recommendations for commissionable transactions. Clients are not obligated to implement
any recommendation provided by the Commons Capital or the Advisory Persons. Neither the Advisor nor its
Advisory Persons will earn ongoing fees in connection with any services implemented in the Advisory Person‘s
separate capacity as a registered representative where commissions are earned.
Insurance Agency Affiliations
As noted in Item 5 above, certain Advisory Persons of Commons Capital are also licensed insurance
professionals. Insurance recommendations and implementations are separate and apart from an Advisory
Person’s role with Commons Capital. As an insurance professional, an Advisory Person will receive customary
commissions and other related revenues from the various insurance companies whose products are sold.
Advisory Persons are not obligated to recommend the products of any particular insurance company.
Commissions generated by insurance sales do not offset regular advisory fees. This practice presents a conflict
of interest in recommending certain products of the insurance companies. Clients are under no obligation to
implement any recommendations made by Advisory Persons or the Advisor.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 10
Item 11 – Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal Trading
A. Code of Ethics
Commons Capital has implemented a Code of Ethics (the “Code”) that defines the Advisor’s fiduciary
commitment to each Client. This Code of Ethics applies to all persons associated with Commons Capital (
“Supervised Persons”). The Code was developed to provide general ethical guidelines and specific instructions
regarding the Advisor’s duties to the Client. Commons Capital and its Supervised Persons owe a duty of loyalty,
fairness, and good faith towards each Client. It is the obligation of Commons Capital Supervised Persons to
adhere not only to the specific provisions of the Code, but also to the general principles that guide the Code. The
Code covers a range of topics that address employee ethics and conflicts of interest. To request a copy of the
Code, please contact the Advisor at (617) 431-7200 or via email at info@commonsllc.com.
B. Personal Trading with Material Interest
Commons Capital allows Supervised Persons to purchase or sell the same securities that may be recommended
to and purchased on behalf of Clients. Commons Capital does not act as principal in any transactions. In
addition, the Advisor does not act as the general partner of a fund, or advice an investment company. Commons
Capital does not have a material interest in any securities traded in Client accounts.
C. Personal Trading in Same Securities as Clients
Commons Capital allows Supervised Persons to purchase or sell the same securities that may be recommended
to and purchased on behalf of Clients. Owning the same securities that are recommended (purchase or sell) to
Clients presents a conflict of interest that, as fiduciaries, must be disclosed to Clients and mitigated through
policies and procedures. As noted above, the Advisor has adopted the Code to address insider trading (material
non-public information controls) gifts and entertainment; outside business activities and personal securities
reporting. When trading for personal accounts, Supervised Persons have a conflict of interest if trading in the
same securities. The fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of its Clients can be violated if personal trades are
made with more advantageous terms than Client trades, or by trading based on material non-public information.
This risk is mitigated by Commons Capital requiring reporting of personal securities trades by its Supervised
Persons for review by the Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) or delegate. The Advisor has also adopted written
policies and procedures to detect the misuse of material, non-public information.
D. Personal Trading at Same Time as Client
While Commons Capital allows Supervised Persons to purchase or sell the same securities that may be
recommended to and purchased on behalf of Clients, such trades are typically aggregated with Client orders or
traded afterwards. These trades will never occur before placing Client orders. Commons Capital will place trades
at the same time or after Client orders have been placed and filled. At no time, will Commons Capital or any
Supervised Person of Commons Capital, transact in any security to the detriment of any Client.
Item 12 – Brokerage Practices
A. Recommendation of Custodian[s]
Commons Capital does not have discretionary authority to select the broker-dealer/custodian for custody and
execution services. The Client will engage the broker-dealer/custodian (herein the "Custodian") to safeguard
Client assets and authorize Commons Capital to direct trades to the Custodian as agreed upon in the investment
advisory agreement. Further, Commons Capital does not have the discretionary authority to negotiate
commissions on behalf of Clients on a trade-by-trade basis.
Where Commons Capital does not exercise discretion over the selection of the Custodian, it may recommend the
Custodian[s] to Clients for custody and execution services. Clients are not obligated to use the Custodian
recommended by Advisor and will not incur any extra fee or cost associated with using a custodian not
recommended by the Advisor. However, the Advisor may be limited in the services it can provide if the
recommended Custodian is not engaged. Commons Capital may recommend the Custodian based on criteria
such as, but not limited to, reasonableness of commissions charged to the Client, services made available to the
Client, its reputation, and/or the location of the Custodian’s offices. Commons Capital does not receive research
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 11
services, other products, or compensation as a result of recommending the Custodian that may result in the
Client paying higher commissions than those obtainable through other broker-dealers/custodians.
Commons Capital will generally recommend that Clients establish their account[s] at Fidelity Clearing & Custody
Solutions and related entities associated with Fidelity Investments, Inc. (collectively referred to as "Fidelity"), a
FINRA-registered broker-dealer and member SIPC. Fidelity will serve as the Client’s “qualified custodian”.
Commons Capital maintains an institutional relationship with Fidelity, whereby the Advisor receives economic
benefits from Fidelity. Please see Item 14 below.
Following are additional details regarding the brokerage practices of the Advisor:
1. Soft Dollars - Soft dollars are revenue programs offered by broker-dealers/custodians whereby an advisor
enters into an agreement to place security trades with a broker-dealers/custodian in exchange for research and
other services. Commons Capital does not participate in soft dollar programs sponsored or offered by any
broker-dealer/custodian. However, Commons Capital receives certain economic benefits from the
Custodian. Please see Item 14 below.
2. Brokerage Referrals - Commons Capital does not receive any compensation from any third party in
connection with the recommendation for establishing an account.
3. Directed Brokerage - All Clients are serviced on a “directed brokerage basis”, where Commons Capital will
place trades within the established account[s] at the Custodian designated by the Client. Further, all Client
accounts are traded within their respective account[s] at the Custodian. The Advisor will not engage in any
principal transactions (i.e., trade of any security from or to the Advisor’s own account) or cross transactions with
other Client accounts (i.e., purchase of a security into one Client account from another Client’s account[s]).
Commons Capital will not be obligated to select competitive bids on securities transactions and does not have an
obligation to seek the lowest available transaction costs. These costs are determined by the Custodian.
B. Aggregating and Allocating Trades
The primary objective in placing orders for the purchase and sale of securities for Client accounts is to obtain the
most favorable net results taking into account such factors as 1) price, 2) size of the order, 3) difficulty of
execution, 4) confidentiality and 5) skill required of the Custodian. Commons Capital will execute its transactions
through the Custodian as authorized by the Client.
Commons Capital may aggregate orders in a block trade or trades when securities are purchased or sold
through the Custodian for multiple (discretionary) accounts. If a block trade cannot be executed in full at the
same price or time, the securities actually purchased or sold by the close of each business day must be allocated
in a manner that is consistent with the initial pre-allocation or other written statement. This must be done in a way
that does not consistently advantage or disadvantage any particular Clients’ accounts.
Item 13 – Review of Accounts
A. Frequency of Reviews
Securities in Client accounts are monitored on a regular and continuous basis by Mr. Straus, Founding Principal
and Portfolio Manager of Commons Capital. Formal reviews are generally conducted at least annually or more
frequently depending on the needs of the Client.
B. Causes for Reviews
In addition to the investment monitoring noted in Item 13.A. above, each Client account shall be reviewed at least
annually. Reviews may be conducted more frequently at the Client’s request. Accounts may be reviewed as a
result of major changes in economic conditions, known changes in the Client’s financial situation, and/or large
deposits or withdrawals in the Client’s account[s]. The Client is encouraged to notify Commons Capital if changes
occur in his/her personal financial situation that might adversely affect his/her investment plan. Additional reviews
may be triggered by material market, economic or political events.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 12
C. Review Reports
The Client will receive brokerage statements no less than quarterly from the Custodian. These brokerage
statements are sent directly from the Custodian to the Client. The Client may also establish electronic access to
the Custodian’s website so that the Client may view these reports and their account activity. Client brokerage
statements will include all positions, transactions, and fees relating to the Client’s account[s]. The Advisor may
also provide Clients with periodic reports regarding their holdings, allocations, and performance.
Item 14 – Client Referrals and Other Compensation
A. Compensation Received by Commons Capital
Participation in Institutional Advisor Platform
The Advisor has established an institutional relationship with Fidelity to assist the Advisor in managing Client
account[s]. Access to the Fidelity Institutional platform is provided at no charge to the Advisor. The Advisor receives
access to software and related support without cost because the Advisor renders investment management services
to Clients that maintain assets at Fidelity. The software and related systems support may benefit the Advisor, but
not its Clients directly. In fulfilling its duties to its Clients, the Advisor endeavors at all times to put the interests of its
Clients first. Clients should be aware, however, that the receipt of economic benefits from a custodian creates a
potential conflict of interest since these benefits may influence the Advisor's recommendation of this custodian over
one that does not furnish similar software, systems support, or services.
Additionally, the Advisor may receive the following benefits from Fidelity: receipt of duplicate Client confirmations
and bundled duplicate statements; access to a trading desk that exclusively services its institutional participants;
access to block trading which provides the ability to aggregate securities transactions and then allocate the
appropriate shares to Client accounts; and access to an electronic communication network for Client order entry
and account information.
B. Compensation for Client Referrals
The Advisor does not compensate, either directly or indirectly, any persons who are not supervised persons, for
Client referrals.
Item 15 – Custody
Commons Capital does not accept or maintain custody of Client accounts, except for the limited circumstances
outlined below:
Deduction of Advisory Fees - To ensure compliance with regulatory requirements associated with the deduction
of advisory fees, all Clients for whom Commons Capital exercises discretionary authority must hold their assets
with a "qualified custodian." Clients are responsible for engaging a “qualified custodian” to safeguard their funds
and securities and must instruct Commons Capital to utilize that Custodian for securities transactions on their
behalf. Clients are encouraged to review statements provided by the Custodian and compare to any reports
provided by Commons Capital to ensure accuracy, as the Custodian does not perform this review.
Item 16 – Investment Discretion
Commons Capital generally has discretion over the selection and amount of securities to be bought or sold in Client
accounts without obtaining prior consent or approval from the Client. However, these purchases or sales may be
subject to specified investment objectives, guidelines, or limitations previously set forth by the Client and agreed to
by Commons Capital. Discretionary authority will only be authorized upon full disclosure to the Client. The granting
of such authority will be evidenced by the Client's execution of an Investment Advisory Agreement containing all
applicable limitations to such authority. All discretionary trades made by Commons Capital will be in accordance
with each Client's investment objectives and goals.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 13
Item 17 – Voting Client Securities
Commons Capital does not accept proxy-voting responsibility for any Client. Clients will receive proxy statements
directly from the Custodian. The Advisor will assist in answering questions relating to proxies, however, the Client
retains the sole responsibility for proxy decisions and voting.
Item 18 – Financial Information
Neither Commons Capital, nor its management has any adverse financial situations that would reasonably impair
the ability of Commons Capital to meet all obligations to its Clients. Neither Commons Capital, nor any of its
advisory persons, has been subject to a bankruptcy or financial compromise. Commons Capital is not required to
deliver a balance sheet along with this Disclosure Brochure as the Advisor does not collect advance fees of
$1,200 or more for services to be performed six months or more in advance.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 14
Commons Capital, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A – Appendix 1
(“Wrap Fee Program Brochure”)
Effective: March 18, 2025
This Form ADV2A - Appendix 1 (“Wrap Fee Program Brochure”) provides information about the qualifications
and business practices for Commons Capital, LLC (“Commons Capital” or the “Advisor”) services when offering
services pursuant to a wrap program. This Wrap Fee Program Brochure shall always be accompanied by the
Commons Capital Disclosure Brochure, which provides complete details on the business practices of the
Advisor. If you did not receive the complete Commons Capital Disclosure Brochure or you have any questions
about the contents of this Wrap Fee Program Brochure or the Commons Capital Disclosure Brochure, please
contact us at (617) 431-7200 or by email at info@commonsllc.com.
Commons Capital is a registered investment advisor with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
(“SEC”). The information in this Wrap Fee Program Brochure has not been approved or verified by the SEC or by
any state securities authority. Registration of an investment advisor does not imply any specific level of skill or
training. This Wrap Fee Program Brochure provides information about Commons Capital to assist you in
determining whether to retain the Advisor.
Additional information about Commons Capital and its advisory persons are available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching for our firm name or by our CRD# 165738.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 15
Item 2 – Material Changes
Form ADV 2A - Appendix 1 provides information about a variety of topics relating to an Advisor’s business
practices and conflicts of interest. In particular, this Wrap Fee Program Brochure discusses Wrap Fee Programs
offering by the Advisor.
Material Changes
There have been no material changes to this Disclosure Brochure since the last annual amendment filing on
February 5, 2024.
Future Changes
From time to time, we may amend this Wrap Fee Program Brochure to reflect changes in our business practices,
changes in regulations, and routine annual updates as required by the securities regulators. This complete Wrap
Fee Program Brochure (along with the complete Commons Capital Disclosure Brochure) or a Summary of
Material Changes shall be provided to each Client annually and if a material change occurs in the business
practices of Commons Capital.
At any time, you may view this Wrap Fee Program Brochure and the current Disclosure Brochure online at the
SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching for our firm name
or by our CRD# 165738. You may also request a copy of this Disclosure Brochure at any time, by contacting us
at (617) 431-7200 or by email at info@commonsllc.com.
Item 3 – Table of Contents
Item 1 – Cover Page ............................................................................................................................................. 15
Item 2 – Material Changes ................................................................................................................................... 16
Item 3 – Table of Contents .................................................................................................................................. 16
Item 4 – Services Fees and Compensation ....................................................................................................... 17
Item 5 – Account Requirements and Types of Clients ..................................................................................... 18
Item 6 – Portfolio Manager Selection and Evaluation ...................................................................................... 18
Item 7 – Client Information Provided to Portfolio Managers ........................................................................... 19
Item 8 – Client Contact with Portfolio Managers .............................................................................................. 19
Item 9 – Additional Information .......................................................................................................................... 20
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 16
Item 4 – Services Fees and Compensation
A. Services
Commons Capital provides customized investment advisory services for its Clients. This Wrap Fee Program
Brochure is provided as a supplement to the Commons Capital Disclosure Brochure (Form ADV 2A). This Wrap
Fee Program Brochure is provided along with the complete Disclosure Brochure to provide full details of the
business practices and fees when selecting Commons Capital as your investment advisor.
As part of the investment advisory fees noted in Item 5 of the Disclosure Brochure, Commons Capital includes
securities transaction costs (herein “Covered Costs”) as part of the overall investment advisory fee. Securities
regulations often refer to this combined fee structure as a “Wrap Fee Program”. The Advisor sponsors the
Commons Capital Wrap Fee Program.
The sole purpose of this Wrap Fee Program Brochure is to provide additional disclosure relating the combination
of securities transaction fees into the single “bundled” investment advisory fee. This Wrap Fee Program Brochure
references back to the Commons Capital Disclosure Brochure in which this Wrap Fee Program Brochure serves
as an Appendix. Please see Item 4 – Advisory Services of the Disclosure Brochure for details on
Commons Capital’s investment philosophy and related services.
B. Program Costs
Advisory services provided by Commons Capital are offered in a wrap fee structure whereby Covered Costs are
included in the overall investment advisory fee paid to Commons Capital. As the level of trading in a Client’s
account[s] may vary from year to year, the annual cost to the Client may be more or less than engaging for
advisory services where the Covered Costs are borne separately by the Client. The cost of the Wrap Fee
Program varies depending on services to be provided to each Client, however, the Client is not charged more if
there is higher trading activity or other Covered Costs in the Client’s account[s]. A Wrap Fee structure has a
potential conflict of interest as the Advisor may have an incentive to limit the number of trades placed in the
Client’s account[s]. Please see Item 5 – Fees and Compensation of the Disclosure Brochure for complete
details on fees.
C. Fees
Investment advisory fees are paid monthly in arrears, pursuant to the terms of the investment advisory agreement.
Investment advisory fees are based on the market value of assets under management at the end of the prior
month. Investment advisory fees range from 2.00% to 0.25% based on several factors, including: the complexity of
the services to be provided, the level of assets to be managed, and the overall relationship with the Advisor.
Relationships with multiple objectives, specific reporting requirements, portfolio restrictions and other complexities
may be charged a higher fee.
Investment advisory fees are calculated by the Advisor or its delegate and deducted from the Client’s account[s] at
the Custodian. The Advisor shall send an invoice to the Custodian indicating the amount of the fees to be deducted
from the Client’s account[s] at the respective month-end date. The amount due is calculated by applying the
monthly rate (annual rate divided by 12) to the total assets under management with Commons Capital at the end of
the prior month. Clients will be provided with a statement, at least quarterly, from the Custodian reflecting deduction
of the investment advisory fee. Clients are urged to also review and compare the statement provided by the Advisor
to the brokerage statement from the Custodian, as the Custodian does not perform a verification of fees. Clients
provide written authorization permitting advisory fees to be deducted by Commons Capital directly from their
account[s] held by the Custodian as part of the investment advisory agreement and separate account forms
provided by the Custodian.
The investment advisory fee in the first month of service is prorated to the inception date of the account[s] to the
end of the first month. Fees may be negotiable at the sole discretion of the Advisor. The Client’s fees will take into
consideration the aggregate assets under management with the Advisor. All securities held in accounts managed
by Commons Capital will be independently valued by the Custodian. Commons Capital will not have the authority
or responsibility to value portfolio securities.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 17
As noted above, the Wrap Fee Program includes Covered Costs incurred in connection with the discretionary
investment management services provided by Commons Capital.
D. Compensation
Commons Capital is the sponsor and portfolio manager of this Wrap Fee Program. Commons Capital receives
investment advisory fees paid by Clients for participating in the Wrap Fee Program and pays the Custodian for
the costs associated with the normal trading activity in the Client’s account[s].
Item 5 – Account Requirements and Types of Clients
Commons Capital offers investment advisory services to individuals, high net worth individuals, families, trusts,
and estates. Commons Capital generally does not impose a minimum account size for establishing a
relationship. Please see Item 7 – Types of Clients in the Disclosure Brochure for additional information.
Item 6 – Portfolio Manager Selection and Evaluation
Portfolio Manager Selection
Commons Capital serves as sponsor and as portfolio manager for the services under this Wrap Fee Program.
Related Persons
Commons Capital personnel serve as portfolio managers for this Wrap Fee Program.
Performance-Based Fees
Commons Capital does not charge performance-based fees for its investment advisory services. The fees
charged by Commons Capital are as described in Item 5 above and are not based upon the capital appreciation
of the funds or securities held by any Client.
Supervised Persons
Commons Capital Advisory Persons serve as portfolio managers for all accounts, including the services
described in this Wrap Fee Program Brochure. Details of the advisory services provided are included in Item 4.A.
of the Disclosure Brochure.
Methods of Analysis
Please see Item 8 of the Disclosure Brochure (included with this Wrap Fee Program Brochure) for details on the
research and analysis methods employed by the Advisor.
Risk of Loss
Investing in securities involves certain investment risks. Securities may fluctuate in value or lose value. Clients
should be prepared to bear the potential risk of loss. Commons Capital will assist Clients in determining an
appropriate strategy based on their tolerance for risk and other factors noted above. However, there is no
guarantee that a Client will meet their investment goals.
While the methods of analysis help the Advisor in evaluating a potential investment, it does not guarantee that
the investment will increase in value. Assets meeting the investment criteria utilized in these methods of analysis
may lose value and may have negative investment performance. The Advisor monitors these economic
indicators to determine if adjustments to strategic allocations are appropriate. More details on the Advisor’s
review process are included below in Item 13 of the Form ADV Part 2A - Disclosure Brochure.
Each Client engagement will entail a review of the Client's investment goals, financial situation, time horizon,
tolerance for risk and other factors to develop an appropriate strategy for managing a Client's account. Client
participation in this process, including full and accurate disclosure of requested information, is essential for the
analysis of a Client's account[s]. The Advisor shall rely on the financial and other information provided by the
Client or their designees without the duty or obligation to validate the accuracy and completeness of the provided
information. It is the responsibility of the Client to inform the Advisor of any changes in financial condition, goals
or other factors that may affect this analysis.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 18
The risks associated with a particular strategy are provided to each Client in advance of investing Client
accounts. The Advisor will work with each Client to determine their tolerance for risk as part of the portfolio
construction process. Following are some of the risks associated with the Advisor’s investment approach.
ETF Risks
The performance of ETFs is subject to market risk, including the possible loss of principal. The price of the ETFs
will fluctuate with the price of the underlying securities that make up the funds. In addition, ETFs have a trading
risk based on the loss of cost efficiency if the ETFs are traded actively and a liquidity risk if the ETFs have a large
bid-ask spread and low trading volume. The price of an ETF fluctuates based upon the market movements and
may dissociate from the index being tracked by the ETF or the price of the underlying investments. An ETF
purchased or sold at one point in the day may have a different price than the same ETF purchased or sold a
short time later. There is also a risk that Authorized Participants are unable to fulfill their responsibilities.
Authorized Participants are one of the major parties involved with ETF creation/redemption mechanism in the
markets. The Authorized Participants play a critical role in the liquidity of ETFs and essentially have the exclusive
right to change the supply of ETF shares in the market. If the Authorized Participants does not fulfill this expected
role, there could be an adverse impact on liquidity and the valuation of an ETF.
Mutual Fund Risks
The performance of mutual funds is subject to market risk, including the possible loss of principal. The price of
the mutual funds will fluctuate with the value of the underlying securities that make up the funds. The price of a
mutual fund is typically set daily therefore a mutual fund purchased at one point in the day will typically have the
same price as a mutual fund purchased later that same day.
Bond Risks
Bonds are subject to specific risks, including the following: (1) interest rate risks, i.e., the risk that bond prices will
fall if interest rates rise, and vice versa, the risk depends on two things, the bond’s time to maturity, and the
coupon rate of the bond. (2) reinvestment risk, i.e., the risk that any profit gained must be reinvested at a lower
rate than was previously being earned, (3) inflation risk, i.e., the risk that the cost of living and inflation increase
at a rate that exceeds the income investment thereby decreasing the investor’s rate of return, (4) credit default
risk, i.e., the risk associated with purchasing a debt instrument which includes the possibility of the company
defaulting on its repayment obligation, (5) rating downgrades, i.e., the risk associated with a rating agency’s
downgrade of the company’s rating which impacts the investor’s confidence in the company’s ability to repay its
debt and (6) Liquidity Risks, i.e. the risk that a bond may not be sold as quickly as there is no readily available
market for the bond.
Past performance is not a guarantee of future returns. Investing in securities and other investments involve a risk
of loss that each Client should understand and be willing to bear. Clients are reminded to discuss these risks with
the Advisor. Please see Item 8.B. – Risk of Loss in the Disclosure Brochure for details on investment risks.
Proxy Voting
Commons Capital does not accept proxy-voting responsibility for any Client. Clients will receive proxy statements
directly from the Custodian. The Advisor will assist in answering questions relating to proxies, however, the Client
retains the sole responsibility for proxy decisions and voting.
Item 7 – Client Information Provided to Portfolio Managers
Commons Capital is the sponsor and sole portfolio manager for the Program. The Advisor does not share Client
information with other portfolio managers because it is the sole portfolio manager for this Wrap Fee Program.
Please also see the Commons Capital Privacy Policy (included after this Wrap Fee Program Brochure).
Item 8 – Client Contact with Portfolio Managers
Commons Capital is a full-service investment management advisory firm. Clients always have direct access to
the Portfolio Managers at Commons Capital.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 19
Item 9 – Additional Information
A. Disciplinary Information and Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
There are no legal, regulatory or disciplinary events involving Commons Capital or any of its supervised
person[s]. Commons Capital values the trust Clients place in the Advisor. The Advisor encourages Clients to
perform the requisite due diligence on any advisor or service provider that the Client engages. The backgrounds
of the Advisor and its Advisory Persons are available on the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with the Advisor’s firm name or CRD # 165738.
Please see Item 9 of the Commons Capital Disclosure Brochure as well as Item 3 of each Advisory Person’s
Brochure Supplement (included with this Wrap Fee Program Brochure) for additional information on how to
research the background of the Advisor and its Advisory Persons.
Other Financial Activities and Affiliations
Please see Items 10 and 14 of the Form ADV Part 2A – Disclosure Brochure (included with this Wrap Fee
Program Brochure).
B. Code of Ethics, Review of Accounts, Client Referrals, and Financial Information
Commons Capital has implemented a Code of Ethics that defines our fiduciary commitment to each Client. This
Code of Ethics applies to all persons subject to Commons Capital’s compliance program (our “Supervised
Persons”). Complete details on the Commons Capital Code of Ethics can be found under Item 11 – Code of
Ethics, Participation in Client Transactions and Personal Trading in the Disclosure Brochure (included with this
Wrap Fee Program Brochure).
Review of Accounts
Investments in Client accounts are monitored on a regular and continuous basis by Advisory Persons of
Commons Capital under the supervision of the Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”). Details of the review policies
and practices are provided in Item 13 of the Form ADV Part 2A – Disclosure Brochure.
Participation in Institutional Advisor Platform
The Advisor has established an institutional relationship with Fidelity to assist the Advisor in managing Client
account[s]. Access to the Fidelity Institutional platform is provided at no charge to the Advisor. The Advisor receives
access to software and related support without cost because the Advisor renders investment management services
to Clients that maintain assets at Fidelity. The software and related systems support may benefit the Advisor, but
not its Clients directly. In fulfilling its duties to its Clients, the Advisor endeavors at all times to put the interests of its
Clients first. Clients should be aware, however, that the receipt of economic benefits from a custodian creates a
potential conflict of interest since these benefits may influence the Advisor's recommendation of this custodian over
one that does not furnish similar software, systems support, or services.
Additionally, the Advisor may receive the following benefits from Fidelity: receipt of duplicate Client confirmations
and bundled duplicate statements; access to a trading desk that exclusively services its institutional participants;
access to block trading which provides the ability to aggregate securities transactions and then allocate the
appropriate shares to Client accounts; and access to an electronic communication network for Client order entry
and account information.
Please see Item 14 – Other Compensation in the Form ADV Part 2A – Disclosure Brochure (included with this
Wrap Fee Program Brochure) for details on additional compensation that may be received by Commons Capital
or its Advisory Persons. Each Advisory Person’s Brochure Supplement (also included with this Wrap Fee
Program Brochure) provides details on any outside business activities and the associated compensation.
Client Referrals from Solicitors
Commons Capital does not engage paid solicitors for Client referrals.
Financial Information
Neither Commons Capital, nor its management has any adverse financial situations that would reasonably impair
the ability of Commons Capital to meet all obligations to its Clients. Neither Commons Capital, nor any of its
advisory persons, has been subject to a bankruptcy or financial compromise. Commons Capital is not required to
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 20
deliver a balance sheet along with this Disclosure Brochure as the Advisor does not collect advance fees of
$1,200 or more for services to be performed six months or more in advance.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 21
Form ADV Part 2B – Brochure Supplement
for
Jonathan D. Straus
Founding Principal, Chief Compliance Officer, and Portfolio Manager
Effective: March 18, 2025
This Form ADV 2B (“Brochure Supplement”) provides information about the background and qualifications of
Jonathan D. Straus (CRD# 2839717) in addition to the information contained in the Commons Capital, LLC
(“Commons Capital” or the “Advisor” - CRD #165738) Disclosure Brochure. If you have not received a copy of
the Disclosure Brochure or if you any questions about the contents of the Commons Capital Disclosure Brochure
or this Brochure Supplement, please contact us at (617) 431-7200 or by email at info@commonsllc.com.
Additional information about Mr. Straus is available on the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website
at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with his full name or Individual CRD# 2839717.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 22
Item 2 – Educational Background and Business Experience
Jonathan D. Straus, born in 1973, is dedicated to advising Clients of Commons Capital in his role as the
Founding Principal, Chief Compliance Officer and Portfolio Manager. Mr. Straus earned a B.S./B.A. in Marketing
from the University of Hartford in 1995. Additional information regarding Mr. Straus’s employment history is
included below.
Employment History:
07/2009 to Present
Founding Principal and Portfolio Manager,
Commons Capital, LLC (RIA since 10/2012)
Registered Representative, Leigh Baldwin & Co., LLC
Registered Representative, Mutual Securities, Inc.
Portfolio Manager, National Asset Management, Inc.
Registered Representative, National Securities Corp.
Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch, Pierce Fenner & Smith, Inc.
Portfolio Manager, Advest, Inc.
Financial Advisor, RBC Dain Rauscher, Inc.
10/2018 to Present
10/2012 to 10/2018
07/2009 to 10/2012
07/2009 to 10/2012
03/2006 to 07/2009
02/2004 to 03/2006
03/2002 to 03/2004
Item 3 – Disciplinary Information
There are no legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Mr. Straus. Mr. Straus has never been
involved in any regulatory, civil or criminal action. There have been no client complaints, lawsuits, arbitration
claims or administrative proceedings against Mr. Straus.
Securities laws require an advisor to disclose any instances where the advisor or its advisory persons have been
found liable in a legal, regulatory, civil or arbitration matter that alleges violation of securities and other statutes;
fraud; false statements or omissions; theft, embezzlement or wrongful taking of property; bribery, forgery,
counterfeiting, or extortion; and/or dishonest, unfair or unethical practices. As previously noted, there are no
legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Mr. Straus. However, we do encourage you to
independently view the background of Mr. Straus on the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with his full name or his Individual CRD# 2839717.
Item 4 – Other Business Activities
Broker-Dealer Affiliation
Mr. Straus is also registered representative of Leigh Baldwin & Co., LLC. (“LBC”) of Cazenovia, NY. LBC is a
registered broker-dealer (CRD No. 38751), member FINRA, SIPC. In his separate capacity as registered
representative, Mr. Straus will typically receive commissions for the implementation of recommendations for
commissionable transactions. Clients are not obligated to implement any recommendation provided by the
Commons Capital or Mr. Straus. Neither the Advisor nor Mr. Straus will earn any ongoing investment advisory
fees in connection with any services implemented in Mr. Straus’ separate capacity as a registered representative
where commissions are earned.
Insurance Agency Affiliations
Mr. Straus is also licensed insurance professional. Insurance recommendations and implementations are
separate and apart from his role with Commons Capital. As an insurance professional, Mr. Straus may receive
customary commissions and other related revenues from the various insurance companies whose products are
sold. Mr. Straus is not obligated to recommend the products of any particular insurance company. Commissions
generated by insurance sales do not offset regular advisory fees. This may cause a conflict of interest in
recommending certain products of the insurance companies. Clients are under no obligation to implement any
recommendations made by Mr. Straus or the Advisor.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 23
Item 5 – Additional Compensation
Mr. Straus has additional business activities where compensation is received. These business activities are
detailed in Item 4 above.
Item 6 – Supervision
Mr. Straus serves as the Founding Principal, Portfolio Manager, as well as Chief Compliance Officer of
Commons Capital. Mr. Straus can be reached at (617) 431-7200.
Commons Capital has implemented a Code of Ethics, an internal compliance document that guides each
Supervised Person in meeting their fiduciary obligations to Clients of Commons Capital. Further, Commons
Capital is subject to regulatory oversight by various agencies. These agencies require registration by Commons
Capital and its Supervised Persons. As a registered entity, Commons Capital is subject to examinations by
regulators, which may be announced or unannounced. Commons Capital is required to periodically update the
information provided to these agencies and to provide various reports regarding the business activities and
assets of the Advisor.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 24
Form ADV Part 2B – Individual Disclosure Brochure
for
Rose M. Thompson, CRPC®
Private Wealth Advisor
Effective: March 18, 2025
This Form ADV 2B (“Brochure Supplement”) provides information about the background and qualifications of
Rose M. Thompson, CRPC®, (CRD# 848431) in addition to the information contained in the Commons Capital,
LLC (“Commons Capital” or the “Advisor” CRD #165738) Disclosure Brochure. If you have not received a copy of
this Brochure Supplement or if you any questions about the contents of this Brochure Supplement or Commons
Capital’s Disclosure Brochure, please contact us at (617) 431-7200 or by email at info@commonsllc.com.
Additional information about Rose M. Thompson is available on the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure
website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with her full name or Individual CRD# 848431.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 25
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 26
Item 2 – Educational Background and Business Experience
Rose M. Thompson, CRPC®, born in 1951, is dedicated to advising Clients of Commons Capital in her role as a
Private Wealth Advisor. Ms. Thompson earned a Joint Masters from MIT & Tufts in 1976. Additional information
regarding Ms. Thompson’s employment history is included below.
Employment History:
Private Wealth Advisor, Commons Capital, LLC
Registered Representative, Leigh Baldwin & Co., LLC
Registered Representative, Mutual Securities, Inc.
Investment Advisor Representative, National Asset Management, Inc.
Registered Representative, National Securities Corp.
Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch, Pierce Fenner & Smith, Inc.
Financial Advisor, TIAA-CREF Individual & Institutional Services, LLC
10/2012 to Present
10/2018 to 07/2019
10/2012 to 10/2018
02/2011 to 10/2012
10/2011 to 10/2012
08/2006 to 02/2011
10/2001 to 07/2006
Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (“CRPC®”)
Individuals who hold the CRPC® designation have completed a course of study encompassing pre-and post-
retirement needs, asset management, estate planning and the entire retirement planning process using models
and techniques from real client situations. Additionally, individuals must pass an end-of-course examination that
tests their ability to synthesize complex concepts and apply theoretical concepts to real-life situations. All
designees have agreed to adhere to Standards of Professional Conduct and are subject to a disciplinary
process. Designees renew their designation every two years by completing 16 hours of continuing education,
reaffirming adherence to the Standards of Professional Conduct and complying with self-disclosure
requirements.
Item 3 – Disciplinary Information
There are no legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Ms. Thompson. Ms. Thompson has
never been involved in any regulatory, civil or criminal action. There have been no Client complaints, lawsuits,
arbitration claims or administrative proceedings against Ms. Thompson.
Securities laws require an advisor to disclose any instances where the advisor or its advisory persons have been
found liable in a legal, regulatory, civil or arbitration matter that alleges violation of securities and other statutes;
fraud; false statements or omissions; theft, embezzlement or wrongful taking of property; bribery, forgery,
counterfeiting, or extortion; and/or dishonest, unfair or unethical practices. As previously noted, there are no
legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Ms. Thompson. However, we do encourage you to
independently view the background of Ms. Thompson on the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with her full name or her Individual CRD# 848431.
Item 4 – Other Business Activities
Ms. Thompson is dedicated to the investment advisory activities of Commons Capital’s Clients. Ms. Thompson
does not have any other business activities.
Item 5 – Additional Compensation
Ms. Thompson is dedicated to the investment advisory activities of Commons Capital’s Clients. Ms. Thompson
does not have any other business activities.
Item 6 – Supervision
Ms. Thompson serves as a Private Wealth Advisor of Commons Capital and is supervised by Jonathan Straus,
the Chief Compliance Officer. Mr. Straus can be reached at (617) 431-7200.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 27
Commons Capital has implemented a Code of Ethics, an internal compliance document that guides each
Supervised Person in meeting their fiduciary obligations to Clients of Commons Capital. Further, Commons
Capital is subject to regulatory oversight by various agencies. These agencies require registration by Commons
Capital and its Supervised Persons. As a registered entity, Commons Capital is subject to examinations by
regulators, which may be announced or unannounced. Commons Capital is required to periodically update the
information provided to these agencies and to provide various reports regarding the business activities and
assets of the Advisor.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 28
Form ADV Part 2B – Brochure Supplement
for
Malik A. Smith
First Vice President
Effective: March 18, 2025
This Form ADV 2B (“Brochure Supplement”) provides information about the background and qualifications of
Malik A. Smith (CRD# 5068263) in addition to the information contained in the Commons Capital, LLC
(“Commons Capital” or the “Advisor”, CRD# 165738) Disclosure Brochure. If you have not received a copy of the
Disclosure Brochure or if you have any questions about the contents of the Commons Capital Disclosure
Brochure or this Brochure Supplement, please contact us at (617) 431-7200 or by email at
info@commonsllc.com.
Additional information about Mr. Smith is available on the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with his full name or his Individual CRD# 5068263.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 29
Item 2 – Educational Background and Business Experience
Malik A. Smith, born in 1972, is dedicated to advising Clients of Commons Capital as the First Vice President.
Mr. Smith earned a degree in Psychology/Business from Morehouse College. Additional information regarding
Mr. Smith’s employment history is included below.
Employment History:
First Vice President, Commons Capital, LLC
Registered Representative, Leigh Baldwin & Co., LLC
Client Advisor, Alex Brown - Raymond James
Financial Advisor, Morgan Stanley
Consultant, KCG
Licensed Sales Assistant, Mutual Securities
Financial Advisor/CA, Merrill Lynch
07/2019 to Present
07/2019 to Present
07/2018 to 07/2019
12/2015 to 07/2018
11/2012 to 11/2015
06/2013 to 07/2013
11/2005 to 11/2012
Item 3 – Disciplinary Information
There are no legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Mr. Smith. Mr. Smith has never been
involved in any regulatory, civil or criminal action. There have been no client complaints, lawsuits, arbitration
claims or administrative proceedings against Mr. Smith.
Securities laws require an advisor to disclose any instances where the advisor or its advisory persons have been
found liable in a legal, regulatory, civil or arbitration matter that alleges violation of securities and other statutes;
fraud; false statements or omissions; theft, embezzlement or wrongful taking of property; bribery, forgery,
counterfeiting, or extortion; and/or dishonest, unfair or unethical practices. As previously noted, there are no
legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Mr. Smith.
However, we do encourage you to independently view the background of Mr. Smith on the Investment Adviser
Public Disclosure website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with his full name or his Individual CRD#
5068263.
Item 4 – Other Business Activities
Broker-Dealer Affiliation
Mr. Smith is also a registered representative of Leigh Baldwin & Co., LLC (“Leigh Baldwin”). Leigh Baldwin is a
registered broker-dealer (CRD# 38751), member FINRA, SIPC. In Mr. Smith’s separate capacity as a registered
representative, Mr. Smith will typically receive commissions for the implementation of recommendations for
commissionable transactions. Clients are not obligated to implement any recommendation provided by Mr.
Smith. Neither the Advisor nor Mr. Smith will earn ongoing investment advisory fees in connection with any
products or services implemented in Mr. Smith’s separate capacity as a registered representative. Mr. Smith
spends approximately 10% of his time per month in his role as a registered representative of Leigh Baldwin.
Item 5 – Additional Compensation
Mr. Smith has additional business activities where compensation is received that are detailed in Item 4 above.
Item 6 – Supervision
Mr. Smith serves as the First Vice President of Commons Capital and is supervised by Jonathan Straus, the
Chief Compliance Officer. Mr. Straus can be reached at (617) 431-7200.
Commons Capital has implemented a Code of Ethics, an internal compliance document that guides each
Supervised Person in meeting their fiduciary obligations to Clients of Commons Capital. Further, Commons
Capital is subject to regulatory oversight by various agencies. These agencies require registration by Commons
Capital and its Supervised Persons. As a registered entity, Commons Capital is subject to examinations by
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 30
regulators, which may be announced or unannounced. Commons Capital is required to periodically update the
information provided to these agencies and to provide various reports regarding the business activities and
assets of the Advisor.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 31
Form ADV Part 2B – Brochure Supplement
for
Helen G. Jamieson, CFA®
Portfolio Manager
Effective: March 18, 2025
This Form ADV 2B (“Brochure Supplement”) provides information about the background and qualifications of
Helen G. Jamieson, CFA® (CRD# 7039476) in addition to the information contained in the Commons Capital,
LLC (“Commons Capital” or the “Advisor”, CRD# 165738) Disclosure Brochure. If you have not received a copy
of the Disclosure Brochure or if you have any questions about the contents of the Commons Capital Disclosure
Brochure or this Brochure Supplement, please contact us at (617) 431-7200 or by email at
info@commonsllc.com.
Additional information about Ms. Jamieson is available on the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure
website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with her full name or her Individual CRD# 7039476.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 32
Item 2 – Educational Background and Business Experience
Helen G. Jamieson, CFA®, born in 1981, is dedicated to advising Clients of Commons Capital as a Portfolio
Manager. Ms. Jamieson earned a Bachelor of Commerce Honors in Financial Analysis and Portfolio
Management from University of Cape Town in 2002. Ms. Jamieson also earned a Bachelor of Science in
Financial Statistics from University of Cape Town in 2001. Ms. Jamieson’s employment history is included below.
Employment History:
Portfolio Manager, Commons Capital, LLC
Vice President, Radius Capital Management, LLC
01/2025 to Present
11/2018 to Present
Chartered Financial Analyst™ (“CFA®”)
The Chartered Financial Analyst™ (“CFA®”) charter is a professional designation established in 1962 and
awarded by CFA® Institute. To earn the CFA® charter, candidates must pass three sequential, six-hour
examinations over two to four years. The three levels of the CFA® Program test a wide range of investment
topics, including ethical and professional standards, fixed-income analysis, alternative and derivative
investments, and portfolio management and wealth planning. Also, CFA® charter holders must have at least four
years of acceptable professional experience in the investment decision-making process and must commit to
abide by, and annually reaffirm their adherence to the CFA® Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of
Professional Conduct. CFA® is a trademark owned by CFA® Institute
Item 3 – Disciplinary Information
There are no legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Ms. Jamieson. Ms. Jamieson has
never been involved in any regulatory, civil or criminal action. There have been no client complaints, lawsuits,
arbitration claims or administrative proceedings against Ms. Jamieson.
Securities laws require an advisor to disclose any instances where the advisor or its advisory persons have been
found liable in a legal, regulatory, civil or arbitration matter that alleges violation of securities and other statutes;
fraud; false statements or omissions; theft, embezzlement or wrongful taking of property; bribery, forgery,
counterfeiting, or extortion; and/or dishonest, unfair or unethical practices. As previously noted, there are no
legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Ms. Jamieson.
However, we do encourage you to independently view the background of Ms. Jamieson on the Investment
Adviser Public Disclosure website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with her full name or her
Individual CRD# 7039476.
Item 4 – Other Business Activities
Dual Investment Advisor Representative
Ms. Jamieson in his individual capacity is also an investment advisor representative at Radius Capital
Management, LLC (“Radius Capital”) (CRD# 131339). Ms. Jamieson is maintaining her registration with Radius
Capital as he works to transition Clients to Commons Capital.
Item 5 – Additional Compensation
Ms. Jamieson has an additional business activity where compensation is received that is detailed in Item 4
above.
Item 6 – Supervision
Ms. Jamieson serves as a Portfolio Manager of Commons Capital and is supervised by Jonathan Straus, the
Chief Compliance Officer. Mr. Straus can be reached at (617) 431-7200.
Commons Capital has implemented a Code of Ethics, an internal compliance document that guides each
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 33
Supervised Person in meeting their fiduciary obligations to Clients of Commons Capital. Further, Commons
Capital is subject to regulatory oversight by various agencies. These agencies require registration by Commons
Capital and its Supervised Persons. As a registered entity, Commons Capital is subject to examinations by
regulators, which may be announced or unannounced. Commons Capital is required to periodically update the
information provided to these agencies and to provide various reports regarding the business activities and
assets of the Advisor.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 34
Form ADV Part 2B – Brochure Supplement
for
Kimball B. Halsey
Managing Director
Effective: March 18, 2025
This Form ADV 2B (“Brochure Supplement”) provides information about the background and qualifications of
Kimball B. Halsey (CRD# 4650566) in addition to the information contained in the Commons Capital, LLC
(“Commons Capital” or the “Advisor”, CRD# 165738) Disclosure Brochure. If you have not received a copy of the
Disclosure Brochure or if you have any questions about the contents of the Commons Capital Disclosure
Brochure or this Brochure Supplement, please contact us at (617) 431-7200 or by email at
info@commonsllc.com.
Additional information about Mr. Halsey is available on the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website
at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with his full name or his Individual CRD# 4650566.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 35
Item 2 – Educational Background and Business Experience
Kimball B. Halsey, born in 1961, is dedicated to advising Clients of Commons Capital as a Managing Director.
Mr. Halsey earned an MBA from University of Pennsylvania - Wharton School in 1996. Mr. Halsey also earned
an MA from University of Pennsylvania - Arts and Sciences in 1996. Mr. Halsey also earned a BA from
Dartmouth College in 1983. Additional information regarding Mr. Halsey’s employment history is included below.
Employment History:
Managing Director, Commons Capital, LLC
President, Radius Capital Management, LLC
11/2024 to Present
04/2004 to Present
Item 3 – Disciplinary Information
There are no legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Mr. Halsey. Mr. Halsey has never been
involved in any regulatory, civil or criminal action. There have been no client complaints, lawsuits, arbitration
claims or administrative proceedings against Mr. Halsey.
Securities laws require an advisor to disclose any instances where the advisor or its advisory persons have been
found liable in a legal, regulatory, civil or arbitration matter that alleges violation of securities and other statutes;
fraud; false statements or omissions; theft, embezzlement or wrongful taking of property; bribery, forgery,
counterfeiting, or extortion; and/or dishonest, unfair or unethical practices. As previously noted, there are no
legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Mr. Halsey.
However, we do encourage you to independently view the background of Mr. Halsey on the Investment Adviser
Public Disclosure website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with his full name or his Individual
CRD# 4650566.
Item 4 – Other Business Activities
Registered Investment Advisor (“RIA”) Affiliation
Mr. Halsey in his individual capacity is also an investment advisor representative at Radius Capital Management,
LLC (“Radius Capital”) (CRD# 131339). Mr. Halsey is maintaining his registration with Radius Capital as he
works to transition Clients to Commons Capital.
Item 5 – Additional Compensation
Mr. Halsey has an additional business activity where compensation is received that is detailed in Item 4 above.
Item 6 – Supervision
Mr. Halsey serves as a Managing Director of Commons Capital and is supervised by Jonathan Straus, the Chief
Compliance Officer. Mr. Straus can be reached at (617) 431-7200.
Commons Capital has implemented a Code of Ethics, an internal compliance document that guides each
Supervised Person in meeting their fiduciary obligations to Clients of Commons Capital. Further, Commons
Capital is subject to regulatory oversight by various agencies. These agencies require registration by Commons
Capital and its Supervised Persons. As a registered entity, Commons Capital is subject to examinations by
regulators, which may be announced or unannounced. Commons Capital is required to periodically update the
information provided to these agencies and to provide various reports regarding the business activities and
assets of the Advisor.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 36
Form ADV Part 2B – Brochure Supplement
for
Robert M. Manschot
Portfolio Manager
Effective: March 18, 2025
This Form ADV 2B (“Brochure Supplement”) provides information about the background and qualifications of
Robert M. Manschot (CRD# 2850270) in addition to the information contained in the Commons Capital, LLC
(“Commons Capital” or the “Advisor”, CRD# 165738) Disclosure Brochure. If you have not received a copy of the
Disclosure Brochure or if you have any questions about the contents of the Commons Capital Disclosure
Brochure or this Brochure Supplement, please contact us at (617) 431-7200 or by email at
info@commonscapitaladvisors.com.
Additional information about Mr. Manschot is available on the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure
website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with his full name or his Individual CRD# 2850270.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 37
Item 2 – Educational Background and Business Experience
Robert M. Manschot, born in 1972, is dedicated to advising Clients of Commons Capital as a Portfolio Manager.
Mr. Manschot also earned a Bachelors in Economics from Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands in
1996. Additional information regarding Mr. Manschot’s employment history is included below.
Employment History:
Portfolio Manager, Commons Capital, LLC
Portfolio Manager, Cramer Rosenthal McGlynn
01/2017 to Present
04/2002 to 10/2016
Item 3 – Disciplinary Information
There are no legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Mr. Manschot. Mr. Manschot has never
been involved in any regulatory, civil or criminal action. There have been no client complaints, lawsuits,
arbitration claims or administrative proceedings against Mr. Manschot.
Securities laws require an advisor to disclose any instances where the advisor or its advisory persons have been
found liable in a legal, regulatory, civil or arbitration matter that alleges violation of securities and other statutes;
fraud; false statements or omissions; theft, embezzlement or wrongful taking of property; bribery, forgery,
counterfeiting, or extortion; and/or dishonest, unfair or unethical practices. As previously noted, there are no
legal, civil or disciplinary events to disclose regarding Mr. Manschot.
However, we do encourage you to independently view the background of Mr. Manschot on the Investment
Adviser Public Disclosure website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with his full name or his Individual
CRD# 2850270.
Item 4 – Other Business Activities
Mr. Manschot is dedicated to the investment advisory activities of Commons Capital’s Clients. Mr. Manschot
does not have any other business activities.
Item 5 – Additional Compensation
Mr. Manschot is dedicated to the investment advisory activities of Commons Capital’s Clients. Mr. Manschot
does not receive any additional forms of compensation.
Item 6 – Supervision
Mr. Manschot serves as a Portfolio Manager of Commons Capital and is supervised by Jonathan Straus, the
Chief Compliance Officer. Jonathan Straus can be reached at (617) 431-7200.
Commons Capital has implemented a Code of Ethics, an internal compliance document that guides each
Supervised Person in meeting their fiduciary obligations to Clients of Commons Capital. Further, Commons
Capital is subject to regulatory oversight by various agencies. These agencies require registration by Commons
Capital and its Supervised Persons. As a registered entity, Commons Capital is subject to examinations by
regulators, which may be announced or unannounced. Commons Capital is required to periodically update the
information provided to these agencies and to provide various reports regarding the business activities and
assets of the Advisor.
Item 7 – Requirements for State Registered Advisors
Mr. Manschot does not have any additional information to disclose.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 38
Privacy Policy
Effective: March 18, 2025
Our Commitment to You
Commons Capital, LLC (“Commons Capital” or the “Advisor”) is committed to safeguarding the use of your
personal information that we have as your Investment Advisor. Commons Capital (also referred to as "we", "our"
and "us" throughout this notice) protects the security and confidentiality of the personal information we have and
implements controls to ensure that such information is used for proper business purposes in connection with the
management or servicing of our relationship with you. Our relationship with you is our most important asset. We
understand that you have entrusted us with your private information, and we do everything we can to maintain
that trust.
Commons Capital does not sell your non-public personal information to anyone. Nor do we provide such
information to others except for discrete and proper business purposes in connection with the servicing and
management of our relationship with you as discussed below.
Details of our approach to privacy and how your personal non-public information is collected and used are set
forth in this Privacy Policy.
Why you need to know?
Registered Investment Advisors (“RIAs”) share some of your personal information. Federal and State laws
give you the right to limit some of this sharing. Federal and State laws require RIAs to disclose how we collect,
share, and protect your personal information.
What information do we collect from you?
Social security or taxpayer identification number
Assets and liabilities
Name, address and phone number[s]
Income and expenses
E-mail address[es]
Investment activity
Account information (including other institutions)
Investment experience and goals
What sources do we collect information from in addition to you?
Custody, brokerage and advisory agreements
Account applications and forms
Other advisory agreements and legal documents
Investment questionnaires and suitability documents
Transactional information with us or others
Other information needed to service account
How we share your information?
RIAs do need to share personal information regarding its clients to effectively implement the RIA’s services. In
the section below, we list some reasons we may share your personal information.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 39
Basis for sharing
Sharing
Limitations
Servicing our Clients
We may share non-public personal information with non-
affiliated third parties (such as brokers, custodians,
regulators, credit agencies, other financial institutions) as
necessary for us to provide agreed services to you consistent
with applicable law, including but not limited to:
Commons Capital
may share this
information.
Clients cannot limit
the Advisor’s ability
to share.
• Processing transactions;
• General account maintenance;
• Responding to regulators or legal investigations; and
• Credit reporting, etc.
Commons Capital
may share this
information.
Clients cannot limit
the Advisor’s ability
to share.
Administrators
We may disclose your non-public personal information to
companies we hire to help administrate our business.
Companies we hire to provide services of this kind are not
allowed to use your personal information for their own
purposes and are contractually obligated to maintain strict
confidentiality. We limit their use of your personal information
to the performance of the specific service we have requested.
Commons Capital
does not share
personal information.
Clients cannot limit
the Advisor’s ability
to share.
Marketing Purposes
Commons Capital does not disclose, and does not intend to
disclose, personal information with non-affiliated third parties
to offer you services. Certain laws may give us the right to
share your personal information with financial institutions
where you are a customer and where Commons Capital or
the client has a formal agreement with the financial institution.
We will only share information for purposes of servicing
your accounts, not for marketing purposes.
Commons Capital
does share personal
information.
Clients can limit the
Advisor’s ability to
share.
Authorized Users
In addition, your non-public personal information may also be
disclosed to you and persons we believe to be your
authorized agent[s] or representative[s].
Clients can limit the
Advisor’s ability to
share.
Information About Former Clients
Commons Capital does not disclose, and does not intend to
disclose, non-public personal information to non-affiliated
third parties with respect to persons who are no longer our
clients.
Commons Capital
does not share
personal information
regarding former
clients
How do we protect your information?
To safeguard your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we maintain physical, procedural
and electronic safeguards. These include computer safeguards such as passwords, secured files and
buildings.
Our employees are advised about Commons Capital's need to respect the confidentiality of each client’s non-
public personal information. We train our employees on their responsibilities.
We require third parties that assist in providing our services to you to protect the personal information they
receive. This includes contractual language in our third-party agreements.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 40
Changes to our Privacy Policy.
We will send you notice of our Privacy Policy annually for as long as you maintain an ongoing relationship with
us.
Periodically we may revise our Privacy Policy, and will provide you with a revised Policy if the changes
materially alter the previous Privacy Policy. We will not, however, revise our Privacy Policy to permit the
sharing of non-public personal information other than as described in this notice unless we first notify you and
provide you with an opportunity to prevent the information sharing.
State specific regulations
Massachusetts
In response to Massachusetts law, the Client must “opt-in” to share non-public
personal information with non-affiliated third parties before any personal
information is disclosed. Client opt-in is obtained through the Client’s execution
of authorization forms provided by the third parties, by executing an Information
Sharing Authorization Form, or by other written consent by the Client, as
appropriate and consistent with applicable laws and regulations.
Questions: You may ask questions or voice any concerns, as well as obtain a copy of our current Privacy
Policy by contacting us at (617) 431-7200 or via email at info@commonsllc.com.
Commons Capital, LLC
254 Second Avenue, Suite 130, Needham, MA 02494
Phone: (617) 431-7200 * Fax: (857)-401-9207
https://www.commonsllc.com/
Page 41