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9017 S Riverside Dr., Suite 210
Sandy, Utah 84070
801.838.9999
Fax 801.838.9988
Disclosure Brochure (Form ADV Part 2A)
Website Address www.JoinDiversify.com
CRD Number: 326060
Date of Brochure: 07/15/2025
This Brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Diversify Advisory Services, LLC. If you have
any questions about the contents of this Brochure, please contact Diversify Advisory Services, LLC at 801.838.9999. The information
in this Brochure has not been approved or verified by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), or by any
state or local securities authority. Registration with the SEC does not constitute any additional skill or training.
Additional information about Diversify Advisory Services, LLC, (“Diversify,” or the “Firm”) is also available on the United States
Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. For ease of search on the aforementioned website,
please utilize the Diversify’s CRD/IARD number 326060.
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
ITEM 2 – SUMMARY OF MATERIAL CHANGES
This Brochure, replaces the previously filed brochure, dated July 15, 2025, was prepared in accordance with the SEC requirements,
and is only making minor changes to website and clarifying language as needed. Since our update in July, we have updated the
following information:
Item 4 – Advisory Business
Add platform Pontera Retirement Solutions (“PRS”)
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Item 4 – Advisory Business
Add platform Envestnet Portfolio Solutions (“EPS”) and description
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Item 5 – Fees and Compensation
Added fee category for Envestnet Portfolio Solutions Platform
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Item 5 – Fees and Compensation
Added fee category for Pontera Retirement Solutions
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Item 5 – Fees and Compensation
Added fee category for “Options-Based Strategies” under DMS strategies
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Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Strategies, and Risk of Loss
Added Summary details of Options-Based Strategies
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Item 8– Material Risks Associated with Specific Security Types
Added risk characteristics of cryptocurrencies
Added risk characteristics of options
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Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
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Added disclosure regarding Diversify acting as a solicitor for private fund managers and receiving performance-based
compensation, including related conflicts of interest.
Item 14 – Client Referrals and Other Compensation
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Added disclosure regarding compensation arrangements with private fund managers and related conflicts of interest
due to firm and personnel investing in recommended securities.
The most current version of Diversify Advisory Services, LLC Form ADV Part 2A Firm Brochure is always available upon request by
calling the Firm’s Compliance Department at 801.838.9999
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
ITEM 3 – TABLE OF CONTENTS
ITEM 2 – SUMMARY OF MATERIAL CHANGES ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
ITEM 3 – TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
ITEM 4 – ADVISORY BUSINESS ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
ITEM 5 – FEES AND COMPENSATION ...................................................................................................................................................................... 12
ITEM 6 – PERFORMANCE-BASED FEES AND SIDE-BY-SIDE MANAGEMENT................................................................................................. 21
ITEM 7 – TYPES OF CLIENTS ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
ITEM 8 – METHODS OF ANALYSIS, STRATEGIES AND RISK OF LOSS ............................................................................................................. 21
ITEM 9 – DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION .................................................................................................................................................................. 25
ITEM 10 – OTHER FINANCIAL INDUSTRY ACTIVITIES AND AFFILIATIONS ..................................................................................................... 25
ITEM 11 – CODE OF ETHICS ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 26
ITEM 12 – BROKERAGE PRACTICES ......................................................................................................................................................................... 27
ITEM 13 – REVIEW OF ACCOUNTS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 28
ITEM 14 – CLIENT REFERRALS AND OTHER COMPENSATION ......................................................................................................................... 29
ITEM 15 – CUSTODY ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 31
ITEM 16 – INVESTMENT DISCRETION ..................................................................................................................................................................... 31
ITEM 17– VOTING CLIENT SECURITIES .................................................................................................................................................................. 32
ITEM 18 – FINANCIAL INFORMATION ..................................................................................................................................................................... 32
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ITEM 4 – ADVISORY BUSINESS
Diversify Advisory Services, LLC (“Diversify”) is a United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) registered investment
adviser. The company was formed in March of 2023, succeeding its predecessor firm, DFPG Investments, LLC (“DFPG”), and is
headquartered in Sandy, Utah. Diversify’s predecessor, DFPG, began operations in January 2015. Diversify is wholly owned by Falcon
Park Capital, LLC. Some of the members of executive management are also part owners in a joint venture with a non-affiliated
registered investment adviser, Wade Read Capital, LLC. In January of 2024, Falcon Park Capital acquired and consolidated two
registered investment advisers to create Diversify Wealth Management, an affiliate of Diversify. DFPG Investments remains a
broker/dealer and an affiliate of Diversify.
Diversify strives to provide personal attention and professional service to all Clients, incorporating an honest, diligent, and ethical
approach. Diversify also strives to maintain a level of integrity that puts its clients’ needs ahead of their own. Diversify will provide
investment advisory services to Clients through individual accounts, joint accounts, IRA's, trusts, employee benefit plans, and other
types of legal entities. Diversify provides investment advice primarily in mutual funds, equities, bond funds, real estate securities,
private equity, structured notes, and ETFs, but is certainly capable of providing advice on a host of other investment types as well.
As of December 31, 2023, Diversify had total assets under management of approximately $3,206,698,268, for which Diversify had
discretionary authority over approximately $ 3,173,783,090.
Advisory Services
FINANCIAL PLANNING AND CONSULTING SERVICES
Diversify offers financial planning and consulting services by Client request. Financial planning is the process of meeting life goals
through the proper management of your finances. These life goals can include buying a first or second home, saving for your
children’s education, accumulating wealth in your investment portfolio, or planning for retirement. Financial planning and the
related analysis are a multi-step process that provides you with two important things: An in-depth review of your current
financial situation and a blueprint that shows you how to potentially achieve your goals and objectives for the future. You will
engage Diversify through a separate planning and consulting engagement agreement that outlines the services to be provided.
As part of the financial planning process, generally we make recommendations to take certain actions. If you decide to follow the
recommendations provided, you have the option, but are under no obligation, to request that Diversify implement such
recommendations through the Firm’s Investment Management Services. Should you request that we implement the
recommendations, you will engage us separately and receive the services as outlined below under Portfolio/Investment
Management Services. Furthermore, certain IARs of Diversify sell brokerage and insurance products when you and your advisor
believe them to be in your best interest. Insurance products are sold by IARs in their separate capacity as an independent insurance
agent with appointed carriers not affiliated with Diversify. Brokerage products are sold by IARs in their separate capacity as a
registered representative of DFPG Investments. If the IAR implements insurance or brokerage transactions in this separate capacity,
he/she earns a sales commission but does not also charge investment management fees on those investments. This could present
a conflict of interest since the IAR is incentivized and earns compensation and/or commission(s) for implementing insurance and
brokerage product recommendations made as part of the Firm’s Financial Planning Services. This conflict is mitigated by the IAR’s
commitment and obligation to act in your best interest. Please see items 5, 10, and 14 below for additional information regarding
such conflicts.
Diversify’s consulting services include general investment and product-based education. This service also includes investment
guidance as it relates to various securities and their specific features and risks.
CORPORATE CONSULTING SERVICES
Diversify offers a variety of services to business owners that require specific advisory services related to their business. These types
of services include a variety of retirement plan design and strategy, implementation, monitoring and termination; business exit
planning and succession; benefits consulting; buy/sell agreements and funding; executive coaching, planning and benefits; cash flow
planning; and employee benefits consulting. These services are typically performed over and above any asset management services
provided through an investment management agreement, such as short-term cash management or 401k services provided in a
3(21) or 3(38) capacity.
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Services are provided in accordance with a written agreement, and fees are negotiated between the investment adviser
representative and the business owner.
MULTI FAMILY OFFICE SERVICES
Diversify offers Family Office services described below to certain qualified clients. In certain cases, and for some services not
provided directly by Diversify, we will facilitate introductions and coordinate with those third parties as requested by the client,
including but not limited to tax advisors, estate planning and bill pay providers. Clients will engage these third parties under a
separate engagement agreement for services, and the third parties may charge additional fees that are separate from the fees paid
to Diversify. We reserve the right to change or discontinue offering these services at any time. Family Office services generally are
offered to Clients that ultra-high net worth clients with unique and complex needs requiring additional services related to their
financial well-being.
In order to provide these services, information is gathered through in-depth personal interviews designed to elicit the Client’s current
financial status, family obligations, future goals, and attitudes toward risk. Related documents supplied by the client are carefully
reviewed. The IAR will then help the Client set realistic goals, identify key financial issues concerning those goals and prepare a list
of recommendations and alternative strategies for achieving those goals. Each strategy will be recommended in the context of other
strategies, with the goal of achieving optimum overall results. Implementation of the IAR’s recommendations and alternative
strategies may be accomplished as part of our Investment Management Services and are available in a separate agreement.
Family Office Services can include any or all of the following:
Family Governance: Assist with the establishment of a family office constitution and family office council. Help establish
protocols and workflows. Provide advice and training for family members and family office staff.
Charity & Philanthropy: Perform an analysis and provide advice on various alternative structures for planned giving
strategies. Assist with the formation of a charitable foundation if this is the optimal vehicle for the client.
Tax Preparation & Tax Planning: Either conduct the tax preparation or coordinate with the Client’s accountant. Advise on tax
efficiency strategies such as changing tax jurisdiction by relocating internationally, cost segregation, and utilizing captive
insurance, among others.
Trust & Corporate Services: Advisor will advise on various trust structures, coordinate trust administration, and provide advice
and support for closely held businesses. These services include business continuity and succession planning as well as
corporate risk management.
Wealth Planning: Advisor will coordinate with the Client’s estate attorney and insurance agents to optimize strategies and
provide holistic oversight. Investment advice and/or management would be engaged separately should the Client decide
to work with Diversify.
Collaboration with Other Advisors: Collaborate with current advisors and provide referrals for additional advisors if/when
needed to assist with the delivery of services within the scope of this project.
Clients are advised that it remains their responsibility to promptly notify Diversify or their IAR of any change in their financial situation
or investment objectives for the purpose of reviewing, evaluating, or revising our recommendations and/or services. Family Office
clients can engage Diversify as a fixed fee based on project or pay an annual fee for services.
PORTFOLIO/INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES
Diversify offers portfolio/investment management services on both a discretionary and non-discretionary basis as granted by
the Client in the Investment Management Agreement (“IMA”). Clients selecting discretionary services will grant Diversify the authority
to purchase and sell securities and other investment instruments in the account, while implementing asset allocations strategies
and product strategies that are aligned with the individual or entity’s investment profile. Diversify will also have the authority to
retain third parties or sub-advisors, which may include affiliates of Diversify, to perform any of the duties or obligations of
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
Diversify under the Investment Management Agreement. Clients selecting non-discretionary portfolio/investment management
dictate that Diversify’s recommendations and investment decisions must be preceded by approval from the Client.
Diversify offers customized portfolio/investment management to individuals, families, trusts, institutions as well as other legal
registration types. Investment portfolios are developed to meet the Client’s objectives and risk requirements, which includes time
horizon, tax implications, and liquidity needs, which are determined in advance with the Client. Every investment portfolio is
designed and structured with the goal to meet both the short- and long-term financial objectives of the Client. Diversify believes
i n a disciplined approach incorporating time- h o n o r e d principles of investing: diversification, asset allocation, quality, and
patience in assisting Clients in potentially achieving their long- t e r m investment goals.
Diversify offers its portfolio/investment management services through several platforms and strategies, which are more fully
described below.
Advisor Managed Solutions (“AMS”) and AMS Plus (“AMS+”) Platforms
The AMS Platform offers the investment adviser representative (“IAR”) full or limited trading authority to manage the assets and
allocations in Client’s account(s). The IAR acts as the direct manager and does not employ the use of third-party managers. For the
IAR to manage the account(s) appropriately, Diversify requires that the Client complete an Investment Management Agreement and
Investment Policy Statement. These documents will be used to collect the Client’s basic financial information, risk tolerance, time
horizon, and other facts that will be used to guide the decisions the IAR makes in managing the accounts. To obtain full trading
authority, the IAR must obtain the Client’s consent on the Diversify Investment Management Agreement.
Like the standard AMS Platforms, the AMS+ Platform offers the IAR full or limited trading authority to manage the assets and
allocations in Client’s account(s); however, the AMS+ platform is distinct from the standard AMS platform in that it is a Wrap Fee
Program in which the Client pays one total fee, as a percentage of the value of assets in the account, which covers items that might
otherwise be charged separately such as brokerage commissions or individual ticket charges, custody fees, etc. More information
on this program can be found in Diversify’s Wrap Fee Program Brochure.
The AMS and AMS+ Platforms also offer the IAR the ability to execute investments, on a non-discretionary basis, into one or more
illiquid alternative investments within Client’s account(s). An alternative investment is generally defined as an asset that is not one
of the conventional investment types, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or cash. Alternative investment asset classes may
include, but are not limited to, real estate, debt funds, private equity, commodities, hedge funds, venture capital, etc. and typically
have minimum net worth and/or income requirements that must be met. Alternative investments are designed to assist investors
in creating a diversified portfolio and may provide unique advantages; however, they are complex in nature and involve a high
degree of risk. For the IAR to manage the account(s) appropriately, Diversify requires that the Client complete each alternative
investment sponsor’s subscription documents, as well as the Diversify Investment Management Agreement and Investment Policy
Statement Investment Representations and Agreement Form, and investment specific documentation. These documents will be
used to collect the Client’s basic financial information, risk tolerance, liquidity needs, time horizon, and other facts that will be used
to guide the decisions the IAR makes in determining if an alternative investment is appropriate within a Client’s account(s).
Wealth Accumulator Strategy – American Funds Direct
Similar to the AMS and AMS+, Wealth Accumulator strategy offers clients in the wealth building stage of their life access to advisory
services and portfolio management services. Advisors will work with clients to set goals, develop a disciplined strategy, set a time
horizon and monitor the progress. The IAR acts as the direct manager and does not employ the use of third-party managers. For
the IAR to manage the account(s) appropriately, Diversify requires the client to sign an Investment Management Agreement and
provide details regarding their personal financial situation. Portfolios will be invested in low cost, mutual funds directly with
American Funds’ F2 shares that correlate to the individual clients’ goals and objectives. F2 shares have low expense ratios and lower
account minimums allowing wealth accumulators to begin their journey to financial independence.
American Funds has designed this share class for investors who choose to compensate their financial professionals based on the
total assets in their portfolio, rather than via commissions or sales charges. Shares in this class do not have upfront or a contingent
deferred sales charges and do not carry a 12b-1 fee. Clients in this program should consult the fund’s prospectus to have a better
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
understanding of the costs and expenses of the specific mutual fund, including the expenses of the F-2 share class.
Assets will be held at a qualified, Diversify-approved custodian. To implement an AMS Platform account, Diversify and/or the IAR
may utilize third-party technology solutions to provide services such as consolidated billing and reporting, or trade management.
Outside Managed Solutions (“OMS”) Platform
The OMS platform allows the IAR to utilize third-party managers or subadvisors, which are referred to as “outside managers.”
Diversify will conduct due diligence on any potential outside managers prior to engagement. Those outside managers who are
approved will also be subject to ongoing due diligence. The assets in the account(s) will be held by a qualified, Diversify-approved
custodian, other than RBC.
The Client and IAR will work together to select one or multiple managers’ strategies in an effort to achieve the Client’s financial goals.
To accomplish this, the IAR will be required to obtain from the Client an Investment Management Agreement and Investment Policy
Statement. The Adviser has authority to establish, modify, or terminate relationships with third parties, which may include affiliates
of the Adviser, third-party managers, or subadvisors as appropriate.
To implement an OMS Platform account, Diversify and/or the IAR may utilize third-party technology solutions to provide services
such as reporting.
Diversify Managed Solutions (“DMS”) Platform
The DMS platform allows the IAR to select from Diversify-curated third-party managers and/or Diversify-designed models that can
incorporate third-party managers, in multi-asset class strategies. Diversify will conduct due diligence on any potential outside
managers prior to engagement. Those outside managers will also be subject to ongoing due diligence. In addition, Diversify will
conduct ongoing analysis of the allocation of the various managers and assets in its own designed models, making occasional
adjustments to the managers and allocations as it deems appropriate. The assets in the account(s) will be held by a qualified,
Diversify-approved custodian.
The Client and IAR will work together to select one or multiple strategies designed to achieve the Client’s financial goals. To
accomplish this, the IAR will be required to obtain from the Client an Investment Management Agreement and Investment Policy
Statement. Diversify has authority to establish, modify, or terminate relationships with third parties, which may include affiliates of
the Adviser, third-party managers, or subadvisors, as appropriate.
The DMS Platform also offers the ability to execute investments into one or more illiquid alternative investments within Client’s
account(s). An alternative investment is generally defined as an asset that is not one of the conventional investment types, such as
stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or cash. Alternative investment asset classes may include, but are not limited to, real estate, debt
funds, private equity, commodities, hedge funds, venture capital, etc. and typically have minimum net worth and/or income
requirements that must be met. Alternative investments are designed to assist investors in creating a diversified portfolio and may
provide unique advantages; however, they are complex in nature and involve a high degree of risk. For Diversify to manage the
account(s) appropriately, Diversify requires that the Client complete each alternative investment sponsor’s subscription documents,
as well as the Diversify Investment Management Agreement, Investment Policy Statement, and Investment Representations and
Agreement Form. These documents will be used to collect the Client’s basic financial information, risk tolerance, liquidity needs, time
horizon, and other facts that will be used to guide the decisions the IAR makes in determining if an alternative investment is
appropriate within a Client’s account(s).
To implement a DMS Platform account, Diversify may utilize third-party sub-advisors, technology solutions, or other service
providers, to gain access to third-party manager relationships, additional due diligence, and investment analysis, or to obtain services
such as allocation and sleeve management, consolidated billing and reporting, or trade management, in order to curate the options
available to the IAR and Client.
Variable Managed Solutions (“VMS”) Platform
The VMS platform allows the IAR to utilize a tailored suite of Variable Annuity products which are specifically designed by the
insurance companies for portfolio construction through an investment advisor. Diversify will conduct due diligence on any potential
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
Variable Annuity products prior to allowing them to be recommended to you. The assets in the account(s) will be held directly in the
contracts through the insurance company.
The Client and IAR will work together to select a Variable Annuity in an effort to achieve the Client’s financial goals. To accomplish
this, the IAR will be required to obtain from the Client an Investment Management Agreement, Investment Policy Statement, and
the required subscription documents.
To implement an VMS Platform account, Diversify and/or the IAR may utilize third-party technology solutions to provide services
such as reporting.
TownSquare Managed Solutions (“TMS”) Platform
The TownSquare platform is a TPMM whereby Diversify engages in a sub-advisory relationship with a third-party money manager
(“TPMM”). On the TMS Platform, the TPMM is responsible for selecting investments consisting mainly of individual securities,
exchange-traded products and mutual funds within a model portfolio and for making changes to the investments selected. The IAR
is responsible for monitoring the client’s objectives and providing portfolio updates to the TPMM. The TMS Platform is sub advised
by TownSquare Capital, LLC (“TownSquare”), a third-party investment adviser.
Envestnet Portfolio Solutions (“EPS”) Platform
The EPS platform is a partnership with Envestnet Asset Management, Inc., which provides the a curated list of models made available
on the Envestnet technology platform. Diversify will conduct due diligence on any potential managers prior to engagement. Those
managers will also be subject to ongoing due diligence. The assets in the account(s) will be held by a qualified, Diversify-approved
custodian.
The Client and IAR will work together to select one or multiple models designed to achieve the Client’s financial goals. To accomplish
this, the IAR will be required to obtain a Statement of Investment Selections (“SIS”), among other Diversify documents. The SIS will
provide a breakdown of the portfolio recommended and the fees associated with that recommendation. Any changes to the
portfolio will require the client to agree to a new Statement of Investment Selection.
Pontera Retirement Solutions (“PRS”) Platform
Diversify uses a third-party platform (“Pontera Solutions, Inc”) to manage “held away” accounts. A held away account is an account
that you maintain that is not held with a broker-dealer or custodian where we may not have a custodial relationship. For example,
a 401(k) account sponsored by your employer is a held away account.
Prior to us managing any held away account, you will be provided with a link allowing you to connect one or more accounts to the
platform. Once an account is connected to the platform, we will review the current allocations, and when deemed necessary,
rebalance the account to the target asset allocation. When clients engage Diversify in this capacity, they are responsible for keeping
the Pontera platform link active so that Diversify will be able to access and manage the respective accounts without delay. If Diversify
determines that the link has become inactive, Diversify will use its best efforts to notify the client to resolve the issue.
NON-MANAGED COURTESTY ACCOUNT SERVICES
In certain circumstances, Diversify will enter into a relationship with the Client to facilitate the custody of Client assets at a Diversify-
approved custodian without providing investment management services or advice. Such accounts are referred to as Non-Managed
Courtesy Accounts. In these cases, Diversify and its IARs help facilitate the opening and maintenance of the Client’s account, including
transfers of securities and cash or cash equivalents, as directed by Client. Adviser will not direct the investment or reinvestment of
the assets in Client’s account, nor exercise any discretion on the account. Any trades placed by the Adviser in the Account will be
solely on a non-solicited, non-discretionary basis, as requested by Client.
Because of Adviser’s limited role, Adviser is not responsible for ensuring that the investments made in the Account conform to the
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Client’s financial circumstances, investment objectives, investment time horizon, and risk tolerance, even if such information is
available to Adviser within the Diversify Investment Policy Statement. However, the Adviser may assist the Client procedurally in
imposing guidelines and/or restrictions (if any) that have been provided by the Client below. Such guidelines and restrictions may
be amended or supplemented from time to time by agreement of the parties and in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.
Legacy Advisory Services
RBC Managed Solutions (“RMS”) Platform
The RMS platform is closed to new accounts, but some existing accounts remain. RMS accounts are charged an Advisory Fee
negotiated between the client and the IAR, subject to a maximum annual rate of 2.0%. RMS accounts require that at least one third-
party money manager be selected. As a result, RMS accounts are also charged management, trade overlay, or other fees for the
implementation of the third-party managers’ strategy or strategies. These fees will be disclosed separately, at or before the time of
account opening, and included in the total fee charged at the custodian.
This Advisory Fee is billed in advance on a quarterly basis based on the market value of the assets in the account as valued by the
custodian and may include prorated fees for assets deposited to the account during the prior quarter. The Advisory Fee is a flat
negotiated fee.
Upon payment, the Advisory Fee is divided into two portions. First, Diversify retains a portion of the Advisory Fee for administrative
and other services, including the coverage of costs charged to Diversify by RBC for custody, clearing, and trade execution. Diversify
shares the remaining portion of the Advisory Fee with the IAR, based on the agreement between the IAR and Diversify.
Sub-Advisory Services
Certain IARs are also registered with an affiliated broker dealer, some of Diversify’s broker dealer representatives may also be
investment adviser representatives of an outside registered investment adviser, or “outside RIA.” In such cases, Diversify offers sub-
advisory services to those outside RIAs and their clients, allowing for the execution of investments, on a non-discretionary basis, into
one or more illiquid alternative investments within Client’s account(s), with Diversify acting as a sub-advisor to the primary adviser.
Client becomes a client of Diversify through Diversify’s Sub-Advisory Services Agreement but Diversify defers to the IAR of record at
the outside RIA to maintain the primary relationship and direct communication with Client. Diversify also relies on other information
about Client provided by the IAR of the outside RIA. Specific details of the sub advisory relationship can be found in the Sub-Advisory
Services Agreement.
An alternative investment is generally defined as an asset that is not one of the conventional investment types, such as stocks, bonds,
mutual funds, or cash. Alternative investment asset classes may include, but are not limited to, real estate, debt funds, private
equity, commodities, hedge funds, venture capital, etc. and typically have minimum net worth and/or income requirements that
must be met. Alternative investments are designed to assist investors in creating a diversified portfolio and may provide unique
advantages; however, they are complex in nature and involve a high degree of risk.
For Diversify to manage the account(s) appropriately, Diversify requires that the Client complete each alternative investment
sponsor’s subscription documents, as well as the Diversify Investment Management Agreement, Fee Schedule, Investment Policy
Statement, Investment Representations and Agreement Form, and investment specific documentation. Some of these documents
are obtained as Client conducts the initial trade through Diversify’s affiliated broker dealer. These documents will be used to collect
the Client’s basic financial information, risk tolerance, liquidity needs, time horizon, and other facts that will be used to guide the
decisions the IAR of the outside RIA makes in determining if an alternative investment is appropriate within a Client’s account(s).
Sub-advisory accounts are billed either in whole or in part by Diversify.
When billed in whole by Diversify: Sub-advisory accounts are charged an Advisory Fee negotiated between the client and the IAR,
subject to a maximum annual rate of 1.75%. Sub-advisory accounts are also charged a Management Fee of 0.25%. The Advisory Fee
and Management Fee are combined and billed as a single fee by Diversify. This single fee is billed in advance on a quarterly basis
based on the market value of the assets in the account as valued by the custodian and may include prorated fees for assets deposited
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
to or withdrawn from the account during the prior quarter in excess of $500.
When billed in part by Diversify: Sub-advisory accounts are charged a Management Fee of 0.25%, billed in advance on a quarterly basis
based on the market value of the assets in the account as valued by the custodian and may include prorated fees for assets deposited
to or withdrawn from the account during the prior quarter in excess of $500. The outside RIA may also charge their own advisory
fee or other fees, as negotiated with the outside RIA.
The Advisory and Management Fees do not include other possible fees, such as custodian fees, underlying investment fees, or other
third-party fees. When applicable, a transaction fee and custody fees may be charged per alternative investment in sub-advisory
accounts by the qualified custodian.
Tailoring of Advisory Services
Diversify tailors its advisory services to the individual needs of its Clients. IARs begin by gathering information about the Client’s
personal financial situation and then meet with the Client to clarify and confirm the financial information and determine each
Client’s specific goals, objectives, needs, and risk tolerance. Then, the IAR recommends a proper asset allocation based on the
Client’s personal financial situation.
Clients may impose limitations or restrictions on investing in certain securities or types of securities by providing separate written
instruction to Diversify. However, Diversify reserves the right not to enter into a contract with a prospective Client, or to terminate
an agreement with an existing Client, if the proposed limitation or restriction is likely, in Diversify’s opinion, to impair its ability to
effectively provide services to the Client.
Wrap Fee Programs
As mentioned above, Diversify provides a Wrap Fee Program, including the AMS Plus (“AMS+”) Platform. Under the Programs,
Diversify offers portfolio/investment management services on a discretionary basis as granted by the clients in the Investment
Management Agreement. The IAR’s discretion will include the authority to purchase and sell securities and other investment
instruments in the account, while implementing asset allocation strategies and product strategies that are aligned with the Client’s
investment profile.
Unlike non-wrap accounts where clients will pay brokerage commissions or transaction charges, in a wrap account the Client pays
one total fee for management, brokerage, and custody. Diversify does not manage wrap fee accounts in a different manner than
non-wrap fee accounts, as Diversify and its IARs tailor their portfolio/investment management strategies to the individual needs of
each Client regardless of the Platform the Client chooses. Both Diversify and the IAR will receive a portion of the wrap fee for their
services. More information on the Wrap Fee Programs is available in Diversify’s Wrap Fee Program Brochure, which can be provided
upon request.
Retirement Plan Consulting Services
Diversify provides Retirement Plans with investment management services and/or Communication and Education Services
(“Services”), as agreed to in Diversify’s Retirement Plan Services Agreement.
Plan Fiduciary Services
Diversify serves as an ERISA 3(21) Fiduciary in support of the Plan Sponsor, depending on the terms of the agreement with the Plan.
Diversify provides the following Fiduciary Services, under the terms of the Retirement Plan Services Agreement with each Plan
Sponsor:
Vendor Analysis
•
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
Employee Enrollment and Education Tracking
Investment Policy Statement
Investment Monitoring
Performance Reports
ERISA 404(c) Assistance
Benchmarking Services
Plan Design
•
•
•
•
• Ongoing Investment Recommendation and Assistance
•
•
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Retirement Account Rollovers Conflict of Interest: When we provide investment advice to you regarding your retirement plan
account or individual retirement account, we are fiduciaries within the meaning of Title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security
Act and/or the Internal Revenue Code, as applicable, which are laws governing retirement accounts. The way we make money creates
some conflicts with your interests, so we operate under a special rule that requires us to act in your best interest and not put our
interest ahead of yours. Under this special rule’s provisions, we must:
Meet a professional standard of care when making investment recommendations (give prudent advice);
Never put our financial interests ahead of yours when making recommendations (give loyal advice);
Avoid misleading statements about conflicts of interest, fees, and investments;
Follow policies and procedures designed to ensure that we give advice that is in your best interest;
Charge no more than is reasonable for our services; and
Give you basic information about conflicts of interest.
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A client or prospective client leaving an employer typically has four options regarding an existing retirement plan (and may engage
in a combination of these options): (i) leave the money in the former employer’s plan, if permitted, (ii) roll over the assets to the
new employer’s plan, if one is available and rollovers are permitted, (iii) roll over to an Individual Retirement Account (“IRA”), or (iv)
cash out the account value (which could, depending upon the client’s age, result in adverse tax consequences). In the event
Diversify recommends that a client roll over their retirement plan assets into an account to be managed by Diversify, such a
recommendation creates a conflict of interest if Diversify will earn an advisory fee on the rolled over assets. When acting in such
a capacity, Diversify serves as a fiduciary under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).
There is a conflict of interest when a Diversify IAR makes a recommendation that a participant roll over assets from a retirement
account into a new or existing account or investment (e.g. rollover IRA) managed by Diversify. The conflict of interest exists because
Diversify will receive compensation (e.g., management fees) if the money is rolled over, but it will not if the recommendation is not
accepted.
Compliance with Prohibited Transaction Exemption PTE 2020-02
In December 2020, the DOL adopted a new exemption under ERISA (“PTE 2020-02”), which specifically covers three activities
prohibited under Section 406(a). These activities are self-dealing, receiving compensation from third parties in connection with any
transactions involving an ERISA plan, and principal transaction activity.
PTE 2020-02 can be relied upon by, among others, SEC registered investment advisers and their investment professionals that
are deemed investment advice fiduciaries, so long as all the exemption’s requirements are met, as applicable. There are five
main components to PTE 2020-02, which are designed to safeguard against the conflicts of interest that apply to the prohibited
activities covered by the exemption. These include:
Adhering to specific Impartial Conduct Standards
Providing specific disclosure to each ERISA Plan client 8
Maintaining applicable written policies and procedures
Performing and documenting a retrospective review
Having a senior officer make certain written certifications.
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Diversify is deemed to be an investment advice fiduciary. At all times, the Firm will act in the client’s best interest in making
11
Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
any recommendations related to assets covered by ERISA. Diversify will comply with all applicable rules in order to maintain
this exemption.
Communication and Participant Education Services
Diversify provides Communication and Education to the Plan and its Participants, under the terms of the Retirement Plan Services
Agreement with each Plan Sponsor:
Investment education
Comprehensive financial planning
Periodic company-wide employee survey of retirement plan understanding
Customer satisfaction surveys
Periodic employee group education opportunities
• Upon eligibility, direct employee contact by phone, e-mail, or letter to promote enrollment
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ITEM 5 – FEES AND COMPENSATION
Diversify is compensated for services based on Clients’ assets under management. Diversify also charges fixed or hourly fees for
financial planning and consulting. The fees and other charges the Client pays will vary depending on which Platform or service the
Client selects. Clients should be aware that because the compensation Diversify and the IAR receive will differ depending on which
management Platform the Client selects, Diversify and the IAR may have financial incentive to recommend a particular Platform over
other programs or services. Fees also vary depending on the particular IAR managing the Client’s account and the Platform option
that is chosen and may be higher or lower than the fees other clients pay for similar services. It should be noted that while all fees
charged by Diversify are negotiable, the fees charged by other third parties, such as outside managers and custodians, may not be
negotiable and are outside of the control of Diversify. See Item 12 Brokerage Practices for additional disclosure regarding fees.
When calculated by Diversify, Fees are due on the first day of the calendar quarter, and are based on the account’s asset value, as
determined by the custodian, as of the last business day of the prior calendar quarter. Fees are deducted directly from Client’s assets,
or charged by invoice, on a quarterly basis. Fees for accounts opened during the quarter, or for new assets deposited to the account(s)
during the prior quarter, are prorated and billed on the next quarterly cycle. Changes to fee schedules generally become effective
the following billing cycle. The fee schedules applicable to each Platform are described below.
FAMILY OFFICE SERVICES FEES
Fees for services performed under the Family Office engagement agreement are charged in two ways. A fixed fee based on project
work, which generally does not exceed $25,000 per project or as a fixed annual fee, paid quarterly in advance, not to exceed,
$100,000 per project. If the project’s complexity and level of work are significant, a high fee outside of the general range can be
negotiated between the Client and the IAR.
You can pay fees for this service via a check or by a direct debit from a custodial account managed by Diversify through a separate
Investment Management Agreement. Please note that fees may not be drafted from a tax-qualified advisory account.
PORTFOLIO/INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT FEE SCHEDULES
Advisor Managed Solutions (“AMS”) and AMS+ Platforms
AMS accounts are charged an Advisory Fee negotiated between the client and the IAR, subject to a maximum annual rate of 1.75%.
This Advisory Fee is billed in advance on a quarterly basis based on the market value of the assets in the account as valued by the
custodian and may include prorated fees for assets deposited to the account during the prior quarter. In rare cases, some legacy
accounts may be billed in arrears.
12
Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
Advisors using the AMS and AMS+ Platforms will typically utilize one of three fee billing methods for client accounts. These billing
methods include:
•
Fixed Percentage – Diversify applies a fixed percentage to client account(s) regardless of total assets under management
(“AUM”). The Linear fee schedule will be identified in the Investment Management Agreement and agreed to by the client.
For example:
Advisory Fee
1.25%
•
Linear Fee Schedule – Diversify applies its fee to the client account(s) through a series of breakpoints based on increases
and decreases to the total AUM. When total AUM rises above a breakpoint, the client’s fee will correspondingly decrease,
and conversely, when the client’s AUM falls below a certain breakpoint, the fee will correspondingly increase. The Linear fee
schedule will be identified in the Investment Management Agreement and agreed to by the client. For example:
ADVISORY FEE*
1.00%
1.00%
0.85%
0.85%
0.70%
0.70%
0.50%
ASSET LEVEL
$500,000
$500,001 - $1,000,000
$1,00,001 - $2,000,000
$2,000,001 - $3,000,000
$3,000,001 - $4,000,000
$4,000,001 – 5,000,000
$5,000,001 or more
*Advisory fee is negotiated.
•
Tiered Fee Schedule – Diversify applies its fee to the client account(s) based on achieving certain asset tiers. Similar to the
tax code where specific tax rates are applied to each level of gross income, under this method, Diversify will apply a different
fee to each corresponding level of AUM and the total fee is a blend based on the total AUM. The tiered fee schedule will be
identified in the Investment Management Agreement and agreed to by the client. For example:
ASSET TIER
$500,000
$500,001 - $1,000,000
$1,00,001 - $2,000,000
$2,000,001 - $3,000,000
$3,000,001 - $4,000,000
$4,000,001 – 5,000,000
$5,000,001 or more
ADVISORY FEE*
1.00%
1.00%
0.85%
0.85%
0.70%
0.70%
0.50%
First
Next
Next
Next
Next
Next
Next
*Advisory fee is negotiated.
The specific billing method employed by Diversify on the client account(s) will always be documented in the client’s Investment
Management Agreement, and clients are encouraged to consult with their Advisor regarding the billing method being utilized. As
indicated above,
Upon payment, the Advisory Fee is divided into two portions. First, Diversify retains a portion of the Advisory Fee for administrative
and other services. Diversify shares the remaining portion of the Advisory Fee with the IAR, based on the agreement between the
IAR and Diversify.
The Advisory Fee does not include other fees, such as strategy fees, custodial fees, underlying investment fees or other third-party
fees. When applicable, a trading fee is charged per trade in AMS Platform accounts by the qualified custodian. Trades may also be
subject to nominal SEC charges at the custodian.
The AMS+ Platform is a wrap fee program and is discussed in more detail in Diversify’s Wrap Fee Program Brochure.
Outside Managed Solutions (“OMS”) Platform
13
Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
OMS accounts are generally billed by the outside money manager, not Diversify, according to the schedule and structure of the
particular outside money manager(s) selected. In this case, the total fee billed by the outside money manager typically includes a
portion remunerated to Diversify as the Advisory Fee. In other cases, Diversify may charge its Advisory Fee separately from the
outside money manager’s fee.
The Advisory Fee is negotiated between the client and IAR, subject to a maximum annual rate of 1.75% imposed by Diversify. The
Advisory Fee may be subject to even lower maximums imposed by the outside manager(s).
Upon payment, the Advisory Fee is divided into two portions. First, Diversify retains a portion of the Advisory Fee for administrative
and other services. Diversify shares the remaining portion of the Advisory Fee with the IAR, based on the agreement between the
IAR and Diversify.
OMS accounts at Charles Schwab may also be charged up to 0.08% annually in lieu of ticket charges, directly by the custodian. This
fee is dependent on the agreement between the outside money manager and the custodian. Clients are encouraged to review Form
ADV Part 2A and their advisory agreement with the outside manager for additional information related to these fees and how they
are charged. For certain managers, ticket charges are applied instead of the 0.08% annual fee, in an effort to reduce overall costs to
the client. All OMS accounts may also be charged other fees by the outside manager(s) and/or custodian(s). These outside managers’
or custodians’ fees will be disclosed and agreed to separately, at or before the time of account opening.
In some cases, OMS managers remunerate a portion of their management fee to Diversify, which results in a financial benefit to
Diversify and possibly to the IAR, but in all cases such remuneration is paid out of the OMS managers’ management fee, without an
increased fee to the Client.
Diversify Managed Solutions (“DMS”) Platform
DMS accounts are billed by Diversify. DMS accounts are charged an Advisory Fee negotiated between the client and the IAR, and a
Strategy Fee, disclosed and agreed to at or before account opening. A portion of the advisory fee is retained by Diversify and the
remainder is shared with the IAR, and the Strategy fee covers fees paid to any sub-advisors or third-party investment managers
directly or covers the cost of the Strategies employed by Diversify in the management of the account. The Advisory Fees portion is
subject to a maximum of 1.75%. Advisors using the DMS Platform will typically utilize one of three fee billing methods for client
accounts. These billing methods include:
•
Fixed Percentage – Diversify applies a fixed percentage to client account(s) regardless of total assets under management
(“AUM”). The Linear fee schedule will be identified in the Investment Management Agreement and agreed to by the client.
For example:
Advisory Fee
1.25%
•
Linear Fee Schedule – Diversify applies its fee to the client account(s) through a series of breakpoints based on increases
and decreases to the total AUM. When total AUM rises above a breakpoint, the client’s fee will correspondingly decrease,
and conversely, when the client’s AUM falls below a certain breakpoint, the fee will correspondingly increase. The Linear fee
schedule will be identified in the Investment Management Agreement and agreed to by the client. For example:
ADVISORY FEE*
1.00%
1.00%
0.85%
0.85%
0.70%
0.70%
0.50%
ASSET LEVEL
$500,000
$500,001 - $1,000,000
$1,00,001 - $2,000,000
$2,000,001 - $3,000,000
$3,000,001 - $4,000,000
$4,000,001 – 5,000,000
$5,000,001 or more
*Advisory fee is negotiated.
14
Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
•
Tiered Fee Schedule – Diversify applies its fee to the client account(s) based on achieving certain asset tiers. Similar to the
tax code where specific tax rates are applied to each level of gross income, under this method, Diversify will apply a different
fee to each corresponding level of AUM and the total fee is a blend based on the total AUM. The tiered fee schedule will be
identified in the Investment Management Agreement and agreed to by the client. For example:
ASSET TIER
$500,000
$500,001 - $1,000,000
$1,00,001 - $2,000,000
$2,000,001 - $3,000,000
$3,000,001 - $4,000,000
$4,000,001 – 5,000,000
$5,000,001 or more
ADVISORY FEE*
1.00%
1.00%
0.85%
0.85%
0.70%
0.70%
0.50%
First
Next
Next
Next
Next
Next
Next
*Advisory fee is negotiated.
The specific billing method employed by Diversify on the client account(s) will always be documented in the client’s Investment
Management Agreement, and clients are encouraged to consult with their Advisor regarding the billing method being utilized. As
indicated above,
The Advisory Fee and Strategy Fee are combined and billed as a single fee. This single fee is billed in advance on a quarterly basis
based on the market value of the assets in the account as of the last day of the prior quarter as valued by the custodian and includes
any prorated fees for assets deposited to or withdrawn from the account in excess of $500 during the prior quarter.
The Advisory and Strategy Fees do not include other possible fees, such as custodian fees, underlying investment fees, or other
third-party fees or expenses. When applicable, a trading fee is charged per trade in DMS Platform accounts by the qualified
custodian, as reflected under the AMS Platform Fees section. Otherwise, DMS Platform accounts may be charged up to 0.08%
annually directly by the custodian, in lieu of trading fees.
Alternative Investments within AMS, AMS+ and DMS Platforms
Alternative Investments utilized within the AMS, AMS+ and DMS Platforms are charged an Advisory Fee negotiated between the
client and the IAR, subject to a maximum annual advisory fee of 1.75%. This Advisory Fee is billed in advance on a quarterly basis
based on the market value of the assets in the account as valued by the custodian as of the last day of the prior period and includes
any prorated fees for assets deposited to or withdrawn from the account in excess of $500 during the prior quarter. Due to the
illiquid nature of most alternative investments, there may be no prevailing market for the securities or underlying assets and the
alternative investments may be hard to value. The custodians typically make a good faith effort to obtain updated valuations from
the investment sponsors or they will “fair value” the securities based on each custodian’s valuation policies and procedures.
For billing purposes, please note that DAS will not perform valuations on any securities managed by the firm, and furthermore,
select private fund, private placement, and other alternative investments will typically be held at the original investment value unless
an updated valuation is provided by the issuer or sponsor of the investment.
Upon payment, the Advisory Fee is divided into two portions. First, Diversify retains a portion of the Advisory Fee for administrative
and other services. Diversify shares the remaining portion of the Advisory Fee with the IAR, based on the agreement between the
IAR and Diversify.
The Advisory Fee does not include other possible fees, such as strategy fees, custodian fees, underlying investment fees, or other
third-party fees. When applicable, a transaction fee and custody fees are charged per alternative investment in accounts by the
qualified custodian.
Wealth Accumulator Strategy – American Funds Direct
Fees for the Wealth Accumulator Strategy are negotiated by the client and the IAR, not to exceed 1.00% and memorialized in the
client’s Investment Management Agreement. Fees are debited from client accounts quarterly in arrears based on the account’s
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
average daily balance as calculated by American Funds. Fees are then remitted to Diversify.
Diversify Managed Solutions (“DMS”) Platform Strategy Fees
In addition to the advisory fee, the following strategy fees are charged in accordance with the client’s Investment Management
Agreement:
Strategy
Fees
Diversify Strategies
.25% – 35%
Alternative Investment Strategies
.35%
Third Party Manager Strategies*
.20% - .75%*
UMA Strategies
.30% - .65%
DRIP Strategy
.50%
Short-Term Cash Management Strategy
Options-Based Strategies
.15%
.45%- .75%
*Third party manager strategies utilize a curated list of industry recognized third party SMA strategies using model delivery
execution.
Below are examples of how fees will work as described above on a sample $1,000,000.00 portfolio under DAS' management:
Example 1: Single Strategy
Advisory Fee Strategy Fee Total Fee
1.25%
.50%
1.75%
Example 2: Multi Strategy
Strategy Allocated Amount Advisory Fee Strategy Fee Total Fee
1
2
3
$500,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
1.25%
1.25%
1.25%
.50%
.30%
.30%
1.75%
1.55%
1.55%
As the IAR makes adjustments to the portfolio the total fee will go up and down depending on the strategy selected. While the
strategy fee may fluctuate, the advisory fee will remain the same as what was agreed to in the Client’s Investment Management
Agreement.
A detailed report of the fees paid, the calculations for the fee, or a breakdown of the models deployed, is available at any time upon
request.
Variable Managed Solutions (“VMS”) Platform
VMS accounts as generally billed by the insurance company who sponsors the contract. Variable Annuities utilized within the VMS
DMS Platform are charged an Advisory Fee negotiated between the client and the IAR, subject to a maximum annual advisory fee of
1.50%.
Upon payment, the Advisory Fee is divided into two portions. First, Diversify retains a portion of the Advisory Fee for administrative
and other services. Diversify shares the remaining portion of the Advisory Fee with the IAR, based on the agreement between the
IAR and Diversify.
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
In certain cases, you may elect to have the fee calculated by Diversify and billed to a separate account managed by Diversify. This is
generally used to facilitate client preference or in cases where billing the annuity directly is unavailable or unadvisable. This Advisory
Fee is billed in advance on a quarterly basis based on the market value of the assets in the account as valued by the custodian as of
the last day of the prior period and includes any prorated fees for assets deposited to or withdrawn from the account in excess of
$500 during the prior quarter.
Envestnet Portfolio Solutions (“EPS”) Platform
Envestnet Portfolio Solutions accounts are billed by Envestnet Asset Management, Inc., a third-party technology provider. Envestnet’s
billing includes the Advisory Fee negotiated between the client and the IAR, subject to a maximum annual rate of 2.00%. Envestnet’s
billing also includes a Platform Fee and the Strategy Fee of the portfolios selected (“Envestnet Fee”). These fees are disclosed and
agreed to separately from the Advisory Fee, which is provided to you in a Statement of Investment Selection, which you will agree
to before the portfolio is implemented.
Envestnet bills in advance on a quarterly basis based on the market value of the assets in the account as valued by the custodian
and include prorated fees for assets deposited to or withdrawn from the account during the prior quarter. The Envestnet Fee does
not include other possible fees, such as custodian related fees or underlying investment fees.
Pontera Retirement Solutions (“PRS”) Platform
Any fees associated with Pontera’s services are included within the overall advisory fee negotiated between the client and their IAR,
subject to a maximum advisory fee of 2.00%.
Clients should be aware that additional fees may be incurred outside of Diversify. These may include fees from the 401(k) plan
provider, the recordkeeper, third-party administrator, the underlying company your assets are held at, or expenses related to the
underlying investments held within the plan.
TownSquare Managed Solutions (“TMS”) Platform
TMS accounts are generally billed by the TPMM, not Diversify, according to the schedule and structure of the TPMM. In this case, the
total fee billed by the TMM typically includes a portion remunerated to Diversify as the Advisory Fee. The TPMM retains their platform
fee. The Advisory Fee is negotiated between the client and the IAR, subject to a maximum annual rate of 1.75% imposed by Diversify.
The Advisory Fee may be subject to even lower maximums imposed by the outside manager(s).
Upon payment, the Advisory Fee is divided into two portions. First, Diversify retains a portion of the Advisory Fee for administrative
and other services. Diversify shares the remaining portion of the Advisory Fee with the IAR, based on the agreement between the
IAR and Diversify.
TMS accounts at Charles Schwab may also be charged up to 0.08% annually in lieu of ticket charges, directly by the custodian. This
fee is dependent on the agreement between the outside money manager and the custodian. Clients are encouraged to review Form
ADV Part 2A of the outside manager for additional information related to these fees and how they are charged. For certain managers,
ticket charges are applied instead of the 0.08% annual fee, in an effort to reduce overall costs for the client. All TMS accounts may
also be charged other fees by the outside manager(s) and/or custodian(s). These outside managers’ or custodians’ fees will be
disclosed and agreed to separately, at or before the time of account opening.
The TPMM remunerates the advisory fee to Diversify and then maintains the remainder for the platform fee, which results in a
financial benefit to Diversify and possibly to the IAR, but in all cases such remuneration is paid out of the TMS strategy fee, without
increasing the fee to the Client.
FINANCIAL PLANNING AND CONSULTING FEES
Upon engaging Diversify, clients may opt to pay for financial planning and consulting services on an hourly, fixed project, or fixed
17
Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
annual fee rate. If selected, hourly fees will be set at a maximum of $400 per hour, to be negotiated between the Client and IAR, and
is billed in arrears. Fixed project-based fees are billed at a rate of fifty percent (50%) in advance and the remainder due upon the
completion of services. Fixed annual fees are billed quarterly in advance. The hours and related services vary depending on the
scope of services provided, complexity of the process undertaken, types of issues addressed, and frequency of services rendered.
Such fees and the related services will be outlined and enumerated within an agreement titled “Agreement for Financial Planning &
Consulting Services” or within a separate agreement. Financial planning, Consulting, and Advisory Fees do not include fees incurred
by the Client with other professionals (i.e. personal attorney, accountant, etc.) in connection with the financial planning, consulting,
and advisory processes.
As enumerated within the Agreement for Financial Planning & Consulting, fixed project fees will be based on the estimated hours
needed to complete the financial planning services. Diversify will discuss in advance with each Client the amount of time estimated
to complete the project and the associated cost (ex: number of hours X $400.00 per hour). Clients will be notified either electronically
or by written hard copy if additional material hours are required to complete the project, above what was initially discussed. Diversify
anticipates that in all cases, the project will be completed in less than six (6) months.
Clients will be billed either in accordance with the Portfolio/Investment Management Fee Schedule or with the billing provisions as
stated in the Financial Planning Fees and Consulting Fees section as selected solely by the Client.
CORPORATE CONSULTING SERVICES
Fees for Corporate Consulting services are negotiated between the client and the IAR and are separate from other services the client
has contracted with from Diversify such as asset management and/or financial planning. Fees are charged as a fixed fee, and Fees
are billed quarterly in advance, or the client may choose to pay one lump sum at the time of engagement. Fees generally do not
exceed $10,000 depending on the complexity of the work being done. Clients should review their specific agreement for fees that
will be charged.
SERVICE FEES FOR NON-MANAGED COURTESY ACCOUNTS
Non-Managed Courtesy Accounts are y not charged an advisory fee Diversify.
There are fees beyond Diversify’s control that will be charged to the account. Other possible fees can include but are not limited to,
custodian fees, underlying investment fees, or other third-party fees. When applicable, a trading fee is charged per trade in Courtesy
accounts by the qualified custodian, as reflected in the table above. Trades may also be subject to nominal SEC charges at the
custodian.
Legacy Advisory Services Fees
Unified Managed Solutions (“UMS”) Platform
UMS accounts are billed by Envestnet, a third-party technology provider. Envestnet’s billing includes the Advisory Fee negotiated
between the client and the IAR, subject to a maximum annual rate of 2.0%, as agreed to by the Client in the Diversify Investment
Management Agreement. Envestnet’s billing also includes: a Sponsor Fee, a portion of which will be paid to Diversify in lieu of the
portion normally paid to Diversify out of the Advisory Fee in other platforms; and the management fees of any third-party managers
involved in the strategy selected. These other fees are disclosed and agreed to separately, at or before account opening.
Envestnet bills in advance on a quarterly basis based on the market value of the assets in the account as valued by the custodian
and may include prorated fees for assets deposited to the account during the prior quarter. Upon payment, the Advisory Fee is paid
to the IAR, based on the agreement between the IAR and Diversify.
The Advisory Fee does not include other possible fees, such as custodian fees, underlying investment fees, or other third-party fees.
RBC Managed Solutions (“RMS”) Platform
18
Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
RMS accounts are charged an Advisory Fee negotiated between the client and the IAR, subject to a maximum annual rate of 2.0%.
RMS accounts require that at least one third-party money manager be selected. As a result, RMS accounts are also charged
management, trade overlay, or other fees for the implementation of the third-party managers’ strategy or strategies. These fees will
be disclosed separately, at or before the time of account opening, and included in the total fee charged at the custodian.
This Advisory Fee is billed in advance on a quarterly basis based on the market value of the assets in the account as valued by the
custodian and may include prorated fees for assets deposited to the account during the prior quarter. The Advisory Fee is a flat
negotiated fee.
Upon payment, the Advisory Fee is divided into two portions. First, Diversify retains a portion of the Advisory Fee for administrative
and other services, including the coverage of costs charged to Diversify by RBC for custody, clearing, and trade execution. Diversify
shares the remaining portion of the Advisory Fee with the IAR, based on the agreement between the IAR and Diversify.
Other Fees and Expenses
The account custodian will also charge fees, which are in addition to and separate from the Investment Advisory Fee. Custodians
may charge accounts for various transaction costs, wire transfers, expedited shipping, retirement plans and administration fees.
Client will be solely responsible for paying all fees or charges of the custodian.
It should be noted that certain mutual fund share classes may be subject to deferred sales charges and/or 12(b)-1 fees, and other
mutual fund annual expenses as described in each fund’s prospectus. Many mutual funds may have lower cost share classes that
do not charge some of these fees. The custodian may receive distribution or service (“trail”) fees from the sale of certain mutual
funds (including money market funds) pursuant to a 12(b)-1 distribution plan or other such plan as compensation for distribution
or administrative services. However, in an effort to mitigate conflicts of interest, Diversify has chosen not to receive the 12(b)-1
distribution or service fees and in instances where said fees are eligible to be paid to Diversify from a custodian, Diversify has chosen
to reimburse such fees to the Client account.
Depending upon the strategy selected by the Client, the Client may also be subject to fees from third-party money managers, which
would be in addition to the Advisory Fee paid to Diversify.
Advisory Clients should also note that fees for comparable services vary and lower fees for comparable services may be available
from other sources.
Payment and Billing
Fees must be paid quarterly and are negotiable based on several factors including, but not limited to, longevity of the account, the
type of Client, whether the Client wishes to impose restrictions on Diversify’s discretionary investment authority, the amount of
assets under management with Diversify, and other business considerations. Diversify does not necessarily aggregate household
accounts for a reduction in advisory fees, however, fees are negotiable with each investment adviser representative based on,
among other criteria, is the total amount of assets under management. Fees are also assessed on allocations to cash and on margin
balances. Whether the fee shall be paid in advance or arrears will also depend upon the Platform(s) chosen by Client and any third-
party money managers utilized by Diversify in the fulfillment of its obligations under the terms of the Investment Management
Agreement. Accounts opened or closed during a given calendar quarter may be prorated or rebated, as appropriate, depending on
whether the account is billed in advance or arrears. Changes to fee schedules generally become effective the following billing cycle.
Agreements for financial planning/consulting and investment management services shall continue in effect until terminated by
either party by giving to the other party written notice at least thirty (30) days prior to the date on which the termination is to be
effective. Upon termination, Client shall promptly receive a pro-rated refund of that portion of any prepaid fees that have yet to be
earned by Advisor. There will be no termination fee; however, Client accounts may be subject to a modest cost of reimbursement
of fees, charged by the Custodian, related to transferring the account and the Custodian may impose a fee to close the account.
Client has the right to terminate the contract without penalty within five (5) business days after entering into this Agreement. If the
Client terminates the contract within this time frame, all fees paid by the Client will be refunded. On the termination of these
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agreements, the Adviser will have no obligation to recommend or take any action with regard to the securities, cash or other
investments or assets in the Account. If Client is a natural person, the death, disability, or incompetency of Client will not terminate
or change the terms of the Agreement. However, Client’s executor, guardian, attorney-in-fact, or other authorized representative
may terminate this Agreement by giving written notice to Adviser.
Conflicts of Interest
In select situations, Diversify will serve as a promoter/solicitor for other investment advisers managing private funds and receive
compensation in the form of a percentage of the carry, promote, or performance-based fee. In these situations, the firm and/or
select firm personnel will often purchase the same securities recommended to advisory clients. This represents a conflict of interest
because the firm and its personnel are incentivized to recommend the purchase or sale of securities to advisory clients for which
the firm itself also has a sales interest and receives compensation. Clients are made aware that they are under no obligation to any
of these private fund security products.
Certain IARs of Diversify are also registered representatives of Diversify’ affiliated broker-dealer, brokerage products and services.
During the investment process and analysis, these representatives may recommend securities, variable annuities, or other
investment products that could potentially generate commissions and other forms of compensation rather than generating advisory
fees.
Some of Diversify’s IARs are also insurance agents offering insurance products and services. In their capacity of an insurance agent,
they may recommend insurance products that could potentially generate commissions and other forms of compensation rather
than generating advisory fees.
Several of Diversify’s IARs are also dually registered with other registered investment advisers, some with affiliated advisers and
some with an unaffiliated adviser. Diversify permits this for a short time period to facilitate the transition of clients from one adviser
to the other. Once the transition is complete, the dual registration is terminated. Nevertheless, this presents a conflict of interest
as there are multiple advisers involved and each carries some conflicts. These conflicts include, but are not limited to, advisory fees,
custodial platforms, availability of products and services, and other compensation related conflicts. Please refer to the Form ADV
Part 2A of the other investment adviser to understand the other adviser’s conflicts, as well as each investment adviser
representative’s Part 2B, supplemental disclosure document for additional details.
Clients should be aware that the receipt of broker-dealer commissions, advisory fees, and other forms of compensation creates a
conflict that impairs the objectivity of the persons making the recommendations. However, Diversify does not permit its IARs to earn
commissions or markups on securities and insurance purchased or sold when advisory fees are charged for management of the
same assets. Please refer to Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations for additional disclosure related to
these types of activities.
Diversify continuously monitors and reviews such activities and transactions to try to ensure that the securities transacted on
behalf of Clients are selected for the appropriate reasons. However, it should be noted nonetheless that a conflict of interest
does exist.
Diversify and the IAR will be compensated differently depending on the Platform selected. There is a conflict of interest for Diversify
and the IAR to recommend the services that offer a higher level of compensation due to either higher management fees or reduced
administrative expenses. Diversify mitigates this conflict through its procedures of reviewing Client accounts relative to the Clients’
financial situation to ensure the investment management service provided is appropriate. Furthermore, Diversify is committed to
its obligation to ensure associated persons adhere to its Code of Ethics and to ensure that Diversify and its associated persons fulfill
their fiduciary duty to clients.
Diversify policy is to ensure that its investment advisory Clients’ interests receive the highest priority at all times. To meet this end,
Diversify utilizes the following policy guidelines:
1. Diversify discloses the existence of material conflicts of interest to its Clients;
2. Diversify makes Clients aware that they are under no obligation to purchase any recommended products from its IARs,
and that Clients have the right to take their business elsewhere;
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
3. Diversify requires that all representatives and employees receive prior approval of all outside business activities;
4. Diversify supervisors review accounts and Client information to ensure that transactions are consistent with Client’s
financial objectives, goals, and risk tolerance;
5. Diversify does not permit its IARs to earn commissions or markups on securities and insurance purchased or sold when
advisory fees are charged for management of the same assets;
6. Diversify provides business ethics and compliance training to all representatives, supervisors, and associated persons
to reinforce the importance of ethical behavior and fiduciary responsibility; and
7. Although certain conflicts of interest do exist, Diversify’s representatives strive to act in the Client’s best interest at all
times.
ITEM 6 – PERFORMANCE-BASED FEES AND SIDE-BY-SIDE MANAGEMENT
Diversify does not charge any performance-based fees (fees based on a share of capital gains or capital appreciation of the assets
of a Client) or participate in side-by-side management. Side-by-side management refers to the practice of managing accounts that
are charged performance-based fees while at the same time managing accounts that are not charged performance-based fees.
Diversify’s fees are asset-based, fixed, or hourly, which Diversify feels aligns its motivations with that of its Clients. Please refer to
Item 5 – Fees and Compensation for additional information related to how Diversify assesses and collects advisory fees.
ITEM 7 – TYPES OF CLIENTS
Diversify provides portfolio/investment management and financial planning services to individuals, high net worth individuals,
corporations, pension and profit-sharing plans, trusts, charitable institutions, foundations, medical professionals, various business
professionals, and small business owners.
ITEM 8 – METHODS OF ANALYSIS, STRATEGIES AND RISK OF LOSS
Investment Strategies
Diversify’s goal is to improve the lives of clients by delivering honest investment and wealth management services that create value
through personal relationships, a truly independent approach, and a properly diversified portfolio.
Diversify believes its philosophy is unique, and the execution of that philosophy makes Diversify stand out from its competitors.
Diversify’s IARs work alongside clients to construct portfolios that are based on the client’s financial goals and stated objectives.
Diversify’s IARs meet regularly with clients to review their investments, discuss their financial plan, answer questions, and measure
progress.
Diversify believes that investments must be tactically diversified. This means that Diversify sees value in assisting clients in creating
investment portfolios that are balanced with more than one type of product. To accomplish this, IARs utilize a broad base of
investment offerings, selecting primarily those that are analyzed through Diversify’s due diligence process.
Diversify believes in an investment strategy that seeks to mitigate the risks inherent in every type of investment through
diversification. Although one can never fully eliminate the risks associated with making an investment, Diversify’s philosophy and its
team of financial advisors seek to navigate these risks by employing an informed strategy of portfolio diversification. It should be
noted and carefully considered that strategies that are more aggressive in nature are generally accompanied by an increase in risk
and carry with them a greater likelihood for loss, up to and including the loss of principal. (Please see below for additional risk
disclosure.)
Diversify’s advisory services and strategies are provided based on discussions with the Client regarding his or her goals, financial
circumstances, investment objectives, and expected investment time horizon, and risk tolerance. Based on this information, and any
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
additional data obtained from the Client, Diversify will assist the Client in determining the allocation of the Client's assets among
investment classes in an attempt to meet his or her goals and objectives. Diversify will make a determination regarding the suitability
of the allocation for the Client. If the allocation appears suitable, Diversify will execute transactions within the investment classes in
a manner consistent with the Client's investment objectives and allocation.
Diversify's services may include financial planning. These services involve preparation of financial plans and recommendations as to
the allocation of present financial resources among different types of assets, including investments, savings, and insurance, with a
view toward better correlation of the assets with the Client's financial planning goals.
Depending on the Platform selected by the Client, the Client’s account may be managed by a third-party manager or subadvisor.
Although the third-party manager or subadvisor is responsible for its own investment methodology and strategy, Diversify will review
the strategy being employed in managing the Client’s account to determine if it appears suitable based on the Client’s goals, financial
circumstances, investment objectives, expected investment time horizon, and risk tolerance. In such circumstances, Diversify will
have the authority to establish, modify, or terminate relationships with third parties, which may include affiliates of the Adviser,
third-party managers, or subadvisors, who may be retained to perform any of the duties or obligations of Diversify under the
Investment Management Agreement. Diversify will also have the authority to perform any and all other acts in its judgment
necessary or appropriate for the management of the Client’s account or are necessary to enable Diversify to carry out its obligations
under the Investment Management Agreement without obtaining the prior approval or direction of the Client.
Diversify offers the following strategies to its clients on the DMS Platform:
Diversify Strategies
Internal strategies that range from passive to active. The Diversify Allocator series has five strategies ranging from Conservative
(20/80) to Aggressive (100/0) in 20% increments. The Allocator series provides highly efficient, cost effective, and broadly diversified
exposure to the global public markets using a suite of exchange traded funds (ETFs). The Diversify Elements series provides specific
portfolio solutions or aims to complement other allocations. The Elements series has strategies in each of fixed income, equity, and
alternative investments. The Diversify SMA series provides customized, direct ownership to actively managed equity and fixed
income strategies.
Alternative Investment Strategies:
Exposure to Alternative Investments across Private Real Estate, Private Credit, Private Equity, and Structured Notes. These strategies
include standalone fee-based private placements, SMA strategies that hold underlying interval funds, and SMA strategies of
Structured Notes.
Third Party SMA Strategies:
Utilizing a curated list of best-in-class third party strategists using model delivery execution. Third party strategists are derived from
Orion Communities and offer access to models for fixed income, equities and alternatives.
UMA Strategies:
Multi-asset class unified managed accounts that bring together internal and external SMA strategies into one model portfolio. These
UMA strategies range from Conservative (20/80) to Aggressive (100/0) in 20% increments. The Signature series includes some
Diversify internal equity SMAs in some segments of the market, whereas the Advantage series uses exclusively third-party SMAs for
the equity component.
DRIP Strategy:
Strategy is designed for clients currently in or entering retirement desiring a portfolio designed to derive income from investments.
On occasion, this strategy can also be utilized with clients not in retirement but need income.
Custom Bond Ladder:
Utilizing custom bond ladders, holding individual investment grade bonds that typically span maturities of 1-5 years. Bond ladders
are available in Corporate, Municipal, Treasury, and blended sectors depending on the account type, the client’s tax bracket and
state of residency, unique goals, and risk tolerance.
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
Short-term Cash Management:
This strategy is designed to provide direct ownership of short-term investment grade securities with maturities of one year or less.
The portfolio is structured as a rolling 12-month ladder with quarterly maturities, or it may be customized to meet an investor’s
specific maturity preferences. By default, the ladder is constructed using U.S. Treasuries, but the portfolio can be customized to
accommodate an investor’s tax sensitivity by using Municipal Bonds in place of U.S. Treasuries.
Options-Based Strategies:
Strategies are designed to allow for exposure to option types and help generate potential income, manage risk on existing positions,
or enhance overall return. Option strategies are client specific and may be tailored to more specifically to each client portfolio.
Risk of Loss
Please be aware that investing in securities involves risk of loss that you should be prepared to bear. Diversify does not represent
or guarantee that its services or methods of analysis can or will predict future results, successfully identify market tops or
bottoms, or insulate Clients from losses due to market corrections or declines. Diversify also cannot offer any guarantees or
promises that your financial goals and objectives will be met. Past performance is in no way an indication of future results. All
investments involve risk, including the potential loss of initial capital invested. Investors face risks including, but not limited to, the
following:
Market and Economic Risk
This is the risk that the value of securities owned by an investor may go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, due to
changes in economic and market conditions. The value of a security held in an account may change in response to developments
affecting entire economies, markets, or industries, including changes in interest rates, political and legal developments, changes in
Federal Reserve policy, and general market volatility.
Interest Rate Risk
This is the risk that fixed income securities will decline in value because of an increase in interest rates; a bond or a fixed income
fund with a longer duration will be more sensitive to changes in interest rates than a bond or bond fund with a shorter duration.
Liquidity Risk
This is the risk that a lack of demand in the marketplace, or other factors, may result in an inability to sell some or all of the
investments promptly, or only being able to sell investments at less than desired prices. In some cases, no secondary market for a
security exists, making the security completely illiquid.
Credit Risk
This is the risk that an investor could lose money if the issuer or guarantor of a fixed income security is unable or unwilling to meet
its financial obligations.
Inflation Risk
This is the risk that the value of assets or investment income will decrease as inflation decreases the purchasing power of a currency.
Margin Risk
Margin trading involves interest charges and risks, including the potential to lose more than deposited or the need to deposit
additional collateral in a falling market. A margin transaction occurs when an investor uses borrowed assets by using other securities
as collateral to purchase financial instruments. The effect of purchasing a security using margin is to magnify any gains or losses
sustained by the purchase of the financial instruments on margin. To the extent that a client authorizes the use of margin, and
margin is thereafter employed by the Firm in the management of a client’s investment portfolio, the market value of the client’s
account and corresponding fee payable by the client to the Firm will generally be increased, unless accounts hold options, in which
case the fee may be decreased under certain market conditions. As a result, in addition to understanding and assuming the
additional principal risk associated with the use of margin, clients authorizing margin are advised of the potential conflict of interest
whereby the client’s decision to employ margin will correspondingly increase the advisory fee payable to the Firm.
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
Material Risks Associated with Specific Security Types
Diversify provides advisory advice and services for several security types including mutual funds, equities, bond funds, real estate
securities, private equity, and ETFs. As previously mentioned, all investments involve some degree of risk. The risks associated with
investing in stocks and mutual funds, and overweighing small company and value stocks, may potentially include increased volatility
(up and down movement in the value of your assets) and possible loss of principal. Small cap stocks may be less liquid than large-
cap stocks. Foreign securities involve additional risks including foreign currency changes, taxes, and different accounting and
financial reporting methods.
Closed-end mutual funds, like open-end mutual funds, involve general market risk. Risk associated with closed-end funds also
includes liquidity risk, credit risk, volatility and the risk of magnified losses resulting from the use of leverage.
Bond funds have their own terms, interest rates, and maturity dates. As such, bond funds are subject to very specific risks such as
price fluctuation (interest rate risk), credit risk, opportunity cost risk, inflation risk, call risk, reinvestment risk, rating downgrades,
liquidity risk (mostly corporate bonds), and default risk.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), like other investment types, have their own specific risks which include, but are not limited to, market
risk, liquidity risk, concentration risk, interest rate risk (bond ETFs), foreign investment risk, tracking error risk, index matching risk,
narrowly focused ETF risk, as well as the cost of fees, commissions, and transactional costs.
Leveraged or inverse ETFs have heightened levels of risk as they seek to return multiples of the performance of whatever index or
benchmark they are tracking. They may be less tax-efficient and may have higher costs. Leveraged or inverse ETFs are complex
products requiring a high degree of investor sophistication.
Alternative and Illiquid complex products have similar risks as other investments but these products present additional liquidity
risk based on the terms of the investment which could result in limited or no access to the investors original capital investment. In
addition, these products can contain concentration and diversification risks depending on the underlying strategy of the investment.
For each alternative investment. the Client will be provided a prospectus or private placement memorandum prior to making the
investment. The prospectus/private placement memorandum contains detailed information about the investment, including
background and experience of the fund manager, track record of the sponsor, investment strategy and objective, fees and expenses,
and risk factors. Clients are encouraged to carefully review the disclosures in the prospectus/private placement memorandum prior
to making the investments.
Structured Notes Structured products are designed to facilitate highly customized risk return objectives. While structured products
come in many different forms, they typically consist of a debt security that is structured to make interest and principal payments
based upon various assets, rates, or formulas. Many structured products include an embedded derivative component. Structured
products may be structured in the form of a security, in which case these products may receive benefits provided under federal
securities law, or they may be cast as derivatives, in which case they are offered in the over-the-counter market and are subject to
no regulation. Investment in structured products includes significant risks, including valuation, liquidity, price, credit, and market
risks. One common risk associated with structured products is a relative lack of liquidity due to the highly customized nature of the
investment. Moreover, the full extent of returns from the complex performance features is often not realized until maturity. As such,
structured products tend to be more of a buy-and-hold investment decision rather than a means of getting in and out of a position
with speed and efficiency. Another risk with structured products is the credit quality of the issuer. Although the cash flows are
derived from other sources, the products themselves are legally considered to be the issuing financial institution’s liabilities. The
vast majority of structured products are from high-investment grade issuers only. Also, there is a lack of pricing transparency. There
is no uniform standard for pricing, making it harder to compare the net-of-pricing attractiveness of alternative structured product
offerings than it is, for instance, to compare the net expense ratios of different mutual funds or commissions among broker-dealers.
Interval Funds are a type of closed-end fund that is not listed on an exchange that periodically offers to repurchase a limited
percentage of outstanding shares, as defined in its prospectus, from its shareholders. Interval funds can provide investors with
access to less liquid investment strategies than open-ended funds in an attempt to enhance risk-adjusted returns and can be used
as an alternative source of return and/or income. Interval funds are typically complex, lack transparency, have increased costs
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
associated with the investment and are not considered liquid. Investors are encouraged to read the prospectus for additional
information related to the fund.
Cryptocurrencies may carry a high degree of risk and can be subject to significant volatility, driven by factors such as market
sentiment, technological changes, limited adoption, regulatory uncertainty, and security vulnerabilities. Their value may fluctuate
dramatically in short periods, and markets for these assets may be less liquid and more prone to manipulation than traditional
financial instruments.
Options involve risks and are not suitable for all investors. Strategies such as covered calls, cash-covered puts, collars, and put-writes
may limit potential gains and involve the risk of loss, including the potential to purchase securities at above-market prices or sell
them below market value
ITEM 9 – DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
Diversify, the advisory firm, does not have any legal or disciplinary events that are material to a Client’s or prospective Client’s
evaluation of its advisory business or the integrity of its management.
ITEM 10 – OTHER FINANCIAL INDUSTRY ACTIVITIES AND AFFILIATIONS
Co-Branded Investment Adviser Representatives
Our firm offers services through our network of investment adviser representatives (“IARs”). IARs may have their own legal business
entities whose trade names and logos are used for marketing purposes and may appear on marketing materials and/or disclosure
statements and client statements. The Client should understand that the businesses are legal entities of the IAR and not of our firm.
The IARs are under the supervision of our firm and the advisory services of the IAR are provided through our firm. These
arrangements described above with various entities may change from time to time but are listed in Schedule D of Diversify’s Form
ADV Part 1, which can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/.
Broker Dealer Affiliation
Certain Diversify IARs are also registered as securities representatives (broker-dealer agents) through a separate, affiliated broker-
dealer. These IARs may recommend securities, variable annuities, or other investment products that could potentially generate
commissions and other forms of compensation rather that generating advisory fees. Clients should be aware that the receipt of
broker-dealer commissions and other forms of compensation will create a conflict of interest that will impair the objectivity of the
persons making the recommendations. However, Diversify does not permit its IARs to earn commissions or markups on securities
and insurance purchased or sold when advisory fees are charged for management of the same assets.
Insurance Affiliations
Various IARs of Diversify are also insurance agents/brokers of Diversify Insurance, Inc. (affiliated companies), and/or another
insurance agency. In this capacity, IARs of Diversify may also recommend insurance products and receive normal insurance
transaction income. As a result, a conflict of interest similar to that described above will arise. Diversify Insurance, Inc. and Diversify
Advisory Services, LLC are under common control.
Alternative Investment Program Affiliation
Certain members of the Diversify’s management also have an ownership interest in Wade Read Capital, LLC, an exempt reporting
investment adviser that maintains alternative investment program(s) that may be offered to you by your Diversify investment adviser
representative. Mr. Ryan Smith retains the position as Principal of the firm. While these programs are not owned directly by Diversify,
the fact that the programs are offered as well as managed by members of the Diversify management creates a conflict of interest
when such programs are offered to clients in lieu of other similar programs which are not directly owned or managed by Diversify.
Diversify believes it is both prudent and necessary that our clients are aware of such a conflicts of interest and have taken certain
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
steps to mitigate the conflict by (1) ensuring that these members of the Diversify ownership group do not vote as part of the
investment committee when deciding if these programs are offered to the public via Diversify’s investment strategy; (2) ensuring
that a detailed disclosure document explaining the conflicts is delivered to each client prior to making an investment in these
programs; and (3) monitoring all recommendations being made by its IARs as it pertains to these programs in an effort to mitigate
any related conflicts.
Affiliated and Unaffiliated Registered Investment Adviser Dual Registration
Several of Diversify’s IARs are also dually registered with other registered investment advisers, some with affiliated advisers and
some with an unaffiliated adviser. Diversify permits this for a short time period to facilitate the transition of clients from one adviser
to the other. Once the transition is complete, the dual registration is terminated. Nevertheless, this presents a conflict of interest
as there are multiple advisers involved and each carries some conflicts. These conflicts include, but are not limited to, advisory fees,
custodial platforms, availability of products and services, and other compensation related conflicts. Please refer to the Form ADV
Part 2A of the other investment adviser to understand the other adviser’s conflicts, as well as each investment adviser
representative’s Part 2B, supplemental disclosure document for additional details.
Solicitor Relationships with Other Third-Party Investment Advisers
In select situations, Diversify will serve as a promoter/solicitor for other investment advisers managing private funds and receive
compensation in the form of a percentage of the carry, promote, or performance-based fee. In these situations, the firm and/or
select firm personnel will often purchase the same securities recommended to advisory clients. This represents a conflict of interest
because the firm and its personnel are incentivized to recommend the purchase or sale of securities to advisory clients for which
the firm itself also has a sales interest and receives compensation. Clients are made aware that they are under no obligation to any
of these private fund security products.
ITEM 11 – CODE OF ETHICS
Diversify has adopted a Code of Ethics (“COE”) for all supervised persons of the Firm describing its high standard of business conduct
and fiduciary duty to its Clients. Diversify IARs are required to follow Diversify’s COE. The COE includes the following:
A duty to place the Client’s needs above their own, as fits their fiduciary responsibility;
The confidentiality of Client information;
A prohibition on insider trading;
Restrictions on the acceptance of significant gifts; and
Personal securities trading procedures.
•
•
•
•
•
All supervised persons at Diversify must acknowledge the terms of the COE annually, or as amended.
IARs of Diversify hold investment positions in their personal accounts that Diversify also recommends Clients or prospective
Client’s purchase. Subject to satisfying this policy and applicable
laws, officers, directors, and employees of Diversify and its
affiliates m a y personally invest their own funds using the same or similar strategies recommended to Clients. Diversify believes
that this practice helps to align its interests more closely with that of its Clients.
The COE is designed to assure that the personal securities transactions, activities, and interests of the employees of Diversify will
not interfere with (i) making decisions in the best interest of advisory Clients and (ii) implementing such decisions while, at the same
time, allowing employees to invest for their own accounts. Under the COE, certain classes of securities have been designated as
exempt transactions based on a determination that these would not materially interfere with the best interest of Diversify’s Clients.
In addition, the COE restricts trading in close proximity to Client trading activity. Nonetheless, because the COE in some
circumstances would permit employees to invest in the same securities as Clients, there is a possibility that employees might benefit
from market activity by a Client in a security held by an employee.
In addition, a conflict could exist in extreme circumstances wherein an IAR purchases or sells a security and recommends the
purchase or sale of that security to his or her Clients, thereby artificially creating interest and driving the price of the subject security
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
up or down. While this practice known as “front-running” is difficult to accomplish practically unless a significantly high volume of
securities transactions is undertaken, front-running is in direct violation of the rules, regulations, and guidelines of the SEC.
Furthermore, it is unethical and is prohibited by Diversify. Diversify monitors and reviews the outside brokerage accounts and
securities transactions of its advisers in an effort to ensure that no client is disadvantaged by the associated person’s personal
trading.
Diversify requires that its associated persons provide annual securities holdings reports and quarterly transaction reports to
Diversify’s Compliance Department for review and comparison against similar client transactions.
Diversify does not sell securities held in its own accounts to Clients.
Diversify’ Clients or prospective Clients may request a copy of the firms’ COE by contacting the firm’s Compliance Department at
801.890.7577.
ITEM 12 – BROKERAGE PRACTICES
Diversify typically recommends that Clients establish an account with Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Charles Schwab”), RBC, or Fidelity
Brokerage Services (“Fidelity”) to maintain custody of Clients’ assets and provide other brokerage services. Diversify’s goal is to
streamline procedures and achieve operational efficiencies for the Client’s benefit utilizing Charles Schwab, Fidelity, and RBC’s
services. However, it is possible that the practice of recommending Charles Schwab, Fidelity, and RBC as custodians results in higher
execution costs for Client transactions than could potentially be charged by another firm. While Diversify strives to achieve best
execution for Client transactions and act in the Client’s best interest at all times, a conflict will nonetheless exist.
Soft Dollar Benefits
Charles Schwab, Fidelity. and RBC make available to Diversify other products and services (“soft dollar benefits”) that benefit Diversify
but may not benefit its Clients’ accounts. Some of these other products and services assist Diversify in managing and administering
Clients’ accounts. These include software and other technology, allocation of aggregated trade orders for multiple Client accounts,
research, pricing information and other market data, facilitation of payment of Diversify’s fees from its Clients’ accounts, and
assistance with back-office functions, record keeping, and Client reporting. Many of these services are used to service all or a
substantial number of Diversify’s Clients’ accounts.
Charles Schwab, Fidelity, and RBC also make available to Diversify other services intended to help Diversify manage and further
develop its business enterprise. These services include consulting, publications and conferences on practice management,
information technology, business succession, regulatory compliance, and marketing. Fidelity, Charles Schwab, and RBC also make
available, arrange, and/or pay for these types of services rendered to Diversify by independent third parties.
Charles Schwab, Fidelity, and RBC may discount or waive fees it would otherwise charge for some of these services or pay all or a
part of the fees of a third party providing these services to Diversify. Based on the availability of the aforementioned benefits and
services, Diversify has an incentive to require that Clients use Charles Schwab, Fidelity, or RBC, which is a conflict of interest. While a
conflict of interest exists, Diversify IARs always strive to act in the Client’s best interest.
It is likely that Diversify from time to time will affect securities transactions and pay a commission
that exceeds the commission
another broker-dealer would have charged. Price is not the sole factor considered in evaluating best execution. Diversify also
considers the quality of the brokerage services provided, the firm's reputation, execution capabilities, commission rates, and
responsiveness to its Clients and the Firm. In exchange for the level of quality this company provides, Clients may pay higher or
lower commissions and/or trading costs than those that may be available elsewhere.
IARs, in their capacity as registered representatives of a broker-dealer, may suggest that Clients implement recommendations through
Diversify’s affiliated broker-dealer. IARs would not charge a brokerage commission in addition to their customary advisory fee. Clients
are under no obligation to purchase or sell securities through Diversify’s affiliated broker-dealer, and Clients have the right to take
their business elsewhere.
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
Client Referrals
Diversify from time to time receives referrals from its affiliated broker-dealer. Diversify benefits economically from such referrals
and are conducted pursuant to an agreement and in compliance with Rule 206(4)-1 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (“The
Act”). Both the investment adviser and the affiliated broker-dealer have the common incentive to keep the various types of securities
business within the same organization of affiliated companies. A conflict of interest is created in that the Client may pay higher fees
and/or commissions than it would if they utilized another firm. The Client is, of course, under no obligation to utilize any of the
services of Diversify and its affiliated persons, and Clients have the right to take their business elsewhere.
Directed Brokerage
Diversify recommends, that the Client execute transactions through Charles Schwab, Fidelity, or RBC, due to the benefits these entities
provide, such as their access to products, markets for securities being traded, and execution capabilities. A conflict of interest is
created in that it may be possible for a Client to pay less fees and/or commissions at another firm. While Diversify IARs always strive
to act in the Client’s best interest, a conflict will nonetheless exist.
Where practical and in the interest of best execution, orders to buy or sell a particular security that are placed through Diversify may
be aggregated with other orders and executed as a “batch” order. With respect to the allocation of trades, Diversify shall not favor any
account over any other and purchase or sale orders executed contemporaneously shall be allocated in a manner it deems equitable
among the accounts involved. In some cases, prevailing trading activity may cause Diversify to receive various execution prices on the
entire volume of any security sold for the accounts of its clients. In such cases, Diversify may, but shall not be obligated to, average
the various prices, and charge or credit the Client’s account with the average price, even though the effect of this aggregation of price
may sometimes work to the disadvantage of the account. When a “batch” order is only partially filled, the securities purchased will be
allocated to the underlying accounts on a prorated basis or in a manner deemed equitable by Diversify. The IAR shall not receive any
additional compensation or remuneration as a result of the aggregation of orders.
In no event is Diversify obligated to effect or place an order for any transaction for the Client that Diversify believes would violate any
applicable state or federal law, rule, or regulation, or of the regulations of any regulatory or self-regulatory body to which Diversify or
any of its affiliates is subject to at the time of the proposed transaction.
Trade Errors
We have implemented procedures designed to prevent trade errors; however, trade errors in client accounts cannot always be
avoided. Consistent with our fiduciary duty, it is our policy to correct trade errors in a manner that is in the best interest of the client.
In cases where the client causes a trade error, the client will be responsible for any loss resulting from the correction. Depending
on the specific circumstances of the trade error, the client may not be able to receive any gains generated as a result of the error
correction.
In all situations where the trade error is caused by Diversify, the client will be made whole, and we will absorb any loss resulting
from the trade error. If the error is caused by the Custodian, the Custodian will be responsible for covering all trade error costs.
Trade errors that result in a gain will be processed in the Firm’s trade error account at the custodian. Trade errors are aggregated
for a net gain or loss at the end of each month. Therefore, it is prudent to understand that gains created due to trade errors will be
used to offset trade error losses. At the end of the period, any gains remaining in the trade error account will be donated to charity.
ITEM 13 – REVIEW OF ACCOUNTS
Client accounts are reviewed at regular intervals. Reviews of investment accounts typically look at portfolio consistency with regards
to your risk tolerance, investment time horizon, performance objectives, and asset allocation instructions. Reviews also consist of
covering account holdings, transactions, charges, and performance as provided on such statements and other account reports. For
Financial Planning and consulting clients, reviews are periodic and generally at the client’s request.
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Accounts are periodically reviewed by the IAR to ensure consistency with the Client’s stated. investment objective, risk tolerance,
time horizon, and asset allocation. The IAR will inquire into changes in financial situations that may prompt changes to any of the
above items. These reviews may take place in person, virtually, by phone and on rare occasions, through the mail. Generally,
performance reports and metrics are provided in written illustrative or as a narrative displaying progress and potential changes to
align with the Client’s goals.
Charles Schwab, Fidelity, RBC, or the IAR may provide you with additional account review reports. Comparisons to market indices
and account performance may be used to evaluate account performance in connection with these review reports. Information in
these account review reports may be provided by Clients or third parties. Diversify does not independently verify information
provided by a custodian, Client, or other third party, nor does Diversify guarantee the accuracy or validity of such information.
Diversify is not liable in connection with its use of any information provided by a Client, a custodian, or other third party in the
account review reports. Diversify encourages the Client to review the statements from the custodian(s) for accuracy and inform
Diversify if there are inconsistencies.
The foregoing information contained within Item 13 notwithstanding, it should be noted that Diversify does not hold client funds or
securities. Client accounts are held and maintained exclusively with a qualified custodian.
ITEM 14 – CLIENT REFERRALS AND OTHER COMPENSATION
Client Referrals
Diversify has entered into referral arrangements pursuant to Rule 206(4)-1 under the Advisers Act, which compensates third-party
intermediaries for client referrals that result in the provision of investment advisory services by Diversify. Diversify discloses these
referral arrangements to affected clients, and any compensation agreements in order to comply with Rule 206(4)-1. Promoters
introducing clients to Diversify will receive compensation from Diversify in any of the following forms: a retainer, a flat fee per
referral, a percentage of introduced assets as well as non-cash compensation such as reciprocal referrals or gifts and entertainment.
Such compensation is paid pursuant to a written agreement with the promoter and can be terminated by either party pursuant to
the terms of the agreement.
Diversify has entered into agreements where it refers clients or investors to third-party investment advisers. Some of these
arrangements are considered part of the “OMS” advisory platform described above. In that situation, the Client signs an Investment
Management Agreement (“IMA”) with Diversify and the third-party manager and remains a client of Diversify. Per the IMA, Diversify
maintains the authority to hire and fire the third-party manager and will monitor the manger’s performance. The third-party
manager bills the account, and a portion of the fee is paid to Diversify, as outlined and agreed to by the client in the Diversify IMA.
In other arrangements, Diversify has entered into agreements with investment advisers managing private funds and receives
compensation in the form of a percentage of the carry, promote, or performance-based fee. In these situations, the firm and/or
select firm personnel will often purchase the same securities recommended to advisory clients. This represents a conflict of interest
because the firm and its personnel are incentivized to recommend the purchase or sale of securities to advisory clients for which
the firm itself also has a sales interest and receives compensation. Clients are made aware that they are under no obligation to any
of these private fund security products.
Diversify has entered into agreements where it refers clients to third parties for additional services not provided by the firm, such
as business acquisition and divestiture consulting and business organizational structure consulting. Diversify acts as the solicitor to
the third party and receives compensation as outlined in the agreement with the third party. The client will sign an agreement
directly with the third party and a fee for the referral is paid to Diversify from the fees paid to the third party.
Third Party Compensation
In some instances, Diversify receives economic benefit from someone who is not a Client for providing investment advice or other
advisory services. This would include but is not limited to technology providers and other such service providers that our IARs may
contract with to operate their separate business entity. In addition, IARs may receive benefits from third parties in the form of
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
reasonable and limited business entertainment for which Diversify believes the benefit realized is negligible as does not present a
significant conflict of interest.
Due Diligence and Sponsor Compensation
Diversify receives a due diligence fee from sponsors of certain products. This fee is to compensate Diversify for due diligence work
conducted by Diversify on these products. These fees are paid directly to Diversify and are not shared with the IAR. This creates a
conflict of interest in Diversify that the investor should be aware of.
Diversify receives direct and indirect compensation from sponsors who offer investment products recommended to advisory clients.
These include payments directly to Diversify to sponsor the firm’s annual conferences as well as direct and/or indirect payments to
cover expenses associated with client seminars, business promotional events, or other educational events. These payments
represent a conflict of interest as Diversify may be incentivized to recommend one sponsors’ product over other sponsors who may
not participate in such conferences or events. In an effort to mitigate these conflicts, Diversify does not require issuers to participate
in conferences, seminars or any other business or client events. Furthermore, the availability of their product to Diversify IARs and
clients is in no way contingent upon such participation. Diversify also strives to ensure products and services recommended are in
the client’s best interest.
Diversify also receives economic benefit for referring our high-net-worth clients to other advisers to consult on various matters
related to the clients’ financial well-being, other than investment management. This type of consulting includes but is not limited to
employee benefits, executive compensation, and business growth strategy. These referral arrangements are conducted pursuant
to a written agreement that outlines the compensation to be paid, services to be rendered and required disclosure.
Other Compensation
As previously described in Item 10, Diversify’s IARs are also registered representatives of an affiliated broker dealer as well as
insurance agents, whereby they receive separate and customary compensation in those capacities. Diversify offers a range of
investments and services to its clients. As you work with your investment adviser representative to determine the right investments
and services to achieve your investment goals, it is also important for you to understand how Diversify and your investment adviser
representative are compensated. Certain forms of compensation can create conflicts of interest, and it is important for you to assess
these conflicts of interest when making investment decisions.
Diversify maintains policies and procedures to ensure recommendations are suitable and require that investment adviser
representatives always act in your best interest. We also maintain a supervisory structure to monitor the advisory activities of your
investment adviser representatives to reduce potential conflicts of interest. You are encouraged to ask us about any conflict
presented.
Recruiting and Transition Assistance
To assist in the costs of transitioning from another registered investment adviser, we provide various benefits and/or payments to
certain investment adviser representatives that are newly associated with Diversify. The proceeds of the transition assistance
payments are intended to be used for a variety of purposes, including but not limited to, providing working capital to assist in funding
the investment adviser representative’s business, satisfying outstanding debt owed to the investment adviser representative’s
previous firm, technology set-up fees, marketing and mailing costs, stationery, and licensure transfer fees, moving expenses, office
space expenses, and staffing support. The amount of transition assistance is generally based on the size of the representative’s
business established at his or her prior firm. This assistance is generally in the form of loans to the investment adviser representative
and are forgiven by us based on the years of service with Diversify. The receipt of the recruiting and transition assistance creates a
conflict in that the representative has a financial incentive to recommend a client open and maintain an account with Diversify.
Forgivable Loans
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
Diversify provides loans to certain investment adviser representatives as an incentive to establish, maintain, or expand their
brokerage and advisory relationships. The repayments of such loans are typically dependent on the financial professional retaining
affiliation with us through the end of the loan period. These loans create a conflict of interest for the financial professional to retain
affiliation with the firm in order to avoid repayment of the loan.
ITEM 15 – CUSTODY
Advisory Fee Debit
Diversify does not maintain direct custody of Client assets, meaning that Diversify does not physically hold Client funds or securities,
nor maintain the authority to possess or access them. However, certain regulatory agencies or securities divisions have deemed that
Diversify does maintain limited custody by virtue of the discretionary authority that Diversify maintains over some Client accounts,
such as its ability to make withdrawals from Client accounts to pay its Advisory Fee.
Pursuant to the aforementioned limited custody, Diversify (1) maintains written authorization from the Client to deduct advisory
fees from the account held with the qualified custodian, and (2) and sends the qualified custodian an invoice or statement of the
amount to be deducted each time a fee is directly deducted from a Client account, depending on the Platform selected.
Clients should be aware that they should receive account statements directly from a broker-dealer, bank, or qualified custodian, at
least quarterly, other than Diversify, and that Clients should review those statements very carefully.
Standing Letters of Authorization (“SLOA”)
Diversify is deemed to have custody of clients’ funds or securities when you have standing authorizations with their custodian to
move money from your account to a third-party (“SLOA”) and, under that SLOA, it authorizes us to designate the amount or timing
of transfers with the custodian. The SEC has set forth a set of standards intended to protect your assets in such situations, which we
follow. We do not have a beneficial interest on any of the accounts we are deemed to have Custody where SLOAs are on file. In
addition, account statements reflecting all activity on the account(s), are delivered directly from the qualified custodian to each client
or the client’s independent representative, at least quarterly. You should carefully review those statements and are urged to
compare the statements against reports received from us. When you have questions about your account statements, you should
contact Diversify or the qualified custodian preparing the statement.
Affiliated Broker/Dealer Custody
Diversify is deemed to have custody for a limited number of client accounts due to arrangements with the firm’s affiliated
broker/dealer and their contractual arrangements in place with clearing firm RBC Correspondent Services. These assets are unique
assets and not generally able to be held with a traditional custodian, such as Schwab or Fidelity. The firm is required to undergo a
surprise examination on any assets that the firm is deemed to have custody that do not qualify for an exemption under the Custody
Rule.
ITEM 16 – INVESTMENT DISCRETION
IARs of Diversify provide advisory services on a discretionary or non-discretionary basis. Clients grant this discretion in their
Investment Management Agreement with Diversify. In cases where Diversify has discretionary authority, Diversify has the authority
to determine the type, amount, and the broker-dealer to be used for the purchase or sale of securities for a Client’s account. This
discretion is limited to trading within an account and does not include the ability, access, or authorization to move assets out of an
account; transfers between like registrations and account owners are permissible upon client approval. Diversify will also have the
authority to retain third parties or sub-advisors to perform any of the duties or obligations of Diversify under the Investment
Management Agreement.
In all cases, such discretion is to be exercised in a manner consistent with the stated investment objectives for the Client account.
Any other limitations on the discretion will also be set forth in the Investment Management Agreement.
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Diversify Advisory Services, LLC – Form ADV Part 2A
Clients may impose limitations or restrictions on investing in certain securities or types of securities. However, Diversify reserves the
right not to enter into a contract with a prospective Client, or to terminate an agreement with an existing Client, if the proposed
limitation or restriction is likely, in Diversify’s opinion, to impair its ability to effectively provide services to the Client. Clients wishing
to impose limitations or restrictions on investing in certain securities or types of securities may do so by providing specific written
instructions as to the limitation or restriction to their IAR. This is generally accomplished using Diversify’s Investment Management
Agreement, in the Guidelines and Restrictions section.
Clients selecting non-discretionary portfolio/investment management dictate that Diversify’s recommendations and investment
decisions must be preceded by approval from the Client.
ITEM 17– VOTING CLIENT SECURITIES
As a matter of Firm policy and practice, Diversify does not have any authority to and does not vote proxies on behalf of advisory
Clients. Clients retain the responsibility for receiving and voting proxies for all securities maintained in Client portfolios. Clients will
receive proxies directly from their custodian or transfer agent. Should Diversify inadvertently receive proxy information for a security
held in Client’s account, then Diversify will immediately forward such information on to Client but will not take any further action
with respect to the voting of such proxy. Under certain circumstances, when the Client specifically requests such advice, Diversify
will provide general advice to Clients regarding the Clients’ voting of proxies.
ITEM 18 – FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Diversify has not attached a balance sheet for its most recent fiscal year because Diversify has determined it does not maintain
custody of Client funds or securities, nor does Diversify require prepayment of more than $1,200 in fees per Client, six months or
more in advance.
Diversify does not foresee any financial condition that is reasonably likely to impair its ability to meet contractual commitments to
its Clients. In addition, neither Diversify nor any of its officers or management persons has been the subject of a bankruptcy petition
at any time during the past ten years.
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