Overview
- Headquarters
- San Ramon, CA
- Total Firm Assets
- $138 million
- Average High-Net-Worth Client Portfolio Size
- $1.8 million
- Minimum Account Size
- $500,000
Fee Structure
Primary Fee Schedule (ADV2A SEC)
| Min | Max | Marginal Fee Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $3,000,000 | 1.00% |
| $3,000,001 | $5,000,000 | 0.75% |
| $5,000,001 | $10,000,000 | 0.50% |
| $10,000,001 | and above | 0.25% |
Illustrative Fee Rates
| Total Assets | Annual Fees | Average Fee Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $1 million | $10,000 | 1.00% |
| $5 million | $45,000 | 0.90% |
| $10 million | $70,000 | 0.70% |
| $50 million | $170,000 | 0.34% |
| $100 million | $295,000 | 0.30% |
Clients
- High-Net-Worth Share of Firm Assets
- 61.79%
- Number of High-Net-Worth Clients
- 47
- Total Client Accounts
- 225
- Discretionary Accounts
- 225
Services Offered
Services: Financial Planning, Portfolio Management for Individuals, Portfolio Management for Institutional Clients, Pension Consulting, Investment Advisor Selection
Regulatory Filings
- SEC CRD Number
- 312361
Primary Brochure: ADV2A SEC (2026-08-26)
View Document Text
F O R M A D V P A R T 2 A
D I S C L O S U R E B R O C H U R E
Office Address:
2603 Camino Ramon #200
San Ramon, CA 94583
Tel: 844-434-6435
Email: nick@givingtreewealth.com
Website: www.GivingTreeWealth.com
August 26, 2026
This brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Giving
Tree Wealth Advisors. Being registered as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level
of skill or training. If you have any questions about the contents of this brochure, please contact
us at 844-434-6435. The information in this brochure has not been approved or verified by the
United States Securities and Exchange Commission, or by any state securities authority.
A D D I T I O N A L I N F O R M A T I O N A B O U T G I V I N G T R E E W E A L T H A D V I S O R S
( C R D # 3 1 2 3 6 1 ) I S A V A I L A B L E O N T H E S E C ’ S W E B S I T E A T
W W W . A D V I S E R I N F O . S E C . G O V
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Item 2: Material Changes
Annual Update
The Material Changes section of this brochure will be updated annually or when material
changes occur since the previous release of the Firm Brochure.
Material Changes since the Last Update
Since the last filing of this brochure on July 2, 2026, the following has been updated:
•
Item 4 has been amended to reflect an updated asset under management
calculation.
• Various updates have been made to our Form ADV to meet SEC registration
requirements.
Full Brochure Available
This Firm Brochure being delivered is the complete brochure for the Firm.
ii
Item 3: Table of Contents
Form ADV – Part 2A – Firm Brochure
Item 1: Cover Page
Annual Update ................................................................................................................................................................... ii
Material Changes since the Last Update.................................................................................................................. ii
Full Brochure Available .................................................................................................................................................. ii
Item 3: Table of Contents ................................................................................................................... iii
Item 4: Advisory Business .................................................................................................................. 1
Firm Description ............................................................................................................................................................... 1
Types of Advisory Services ........................................................................................................................................... 1
Client Tailored Services and Client Imposed Restrictions ............................................................................... 4
Wrap Fee Programs ......................................................................................................................................................... 4
Client Assets under Management .............................................................................................................................. 5
Item 5: Fees and Compensation ....................................................................................................... 5
Method of Compensation and Fee Schedule .......................................................................................................... 5
Client Payment of Fees ................................................................................................................................................... 9
Additional Client Fees Charged ................................................................................................................................... 9
Prepayment of Client Fees ......................................................................................................................................... 10
External Compensation for the Sale of Securities to Clients ........................................................................ 10
Item 6: Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management ...................................... 10
Sharing of Capital Gains .............................................................................................................................................. 10
Item 7: Types of Clients ..................................................................................................................... 10
Description ....................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Account Minimums ....................................................................................................................................................... 10
Item 8: Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss .............................. 10
Methods of Analysis ...................................................................................................................................................... 10
Investment Strategy ..................................................................................................................................................... 11
Security Specific Material Risks ............................................................................................................................... 11
Item 9: Disciplinary Information ................................................................................................... 15
Criminal or Civil Actions ............................................................................................................................................. 15
Administrative Enforcement Proceedings .......................................................................................................... 15
Self- Regulatory Organization Enforcement Proceedings ............................................................................ 15
iii
Item 10: Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations ............................................. 16
Broker-Dealer or Representative Registration ................................................................................................. 16
Futures or Commodity Registration ...................................................................................................................... 16
Material Relationships Maintained by this Advisory Business and Conflicts of Interest ................ 16
Recommendations or Selections of Other Investment Advisors and Conflicts of Interest ............. 16
Item 11: Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal
Trading ................................................................................................................................................... 16
Code of Ethics Description ......................................................................................................................................... 16
Investment Recommendations Involving a Material Financial Interest and Conflict of Interest. 17
Advisory Firm Purchase of Same Securities Recommended to Clients and Conflicts of Interest 17
Client Securities Recommendations or Trades and Concurrent Advisory Firm Securities
Transactions and Conflicts of Interest .................................................................................................................. 17
Item 12: Brokerage Practices ......................................................................................................... 18
Factors Used to Select Broker-Dealers for Client Transactions ................................................................. 18
Aggregating Securities Transactions for Client Accounts ............................................................................. 18
Item 13: Review of Accounts ........................................................................................................... 18
Schedule for Periodic Review of Client Accounts or Financial Plans and Advisory Persons
Involved ............................................................................................................................................................................. 18
Review of Client Accounts on Non-Periodic Basis ........................................................................................... 19
Content of Client Provided Reports and Frequency ........................................................................................ 19
Item 14: Client Referrals and Other Compensation ................................................................ 19
Economic Benefits Provided to the Advisory Firm from External Sources and Conflicts of
Interest ............................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Advisory Firm Payments for Client Referrals .................................................................................................... 19
Item 15: Custody .................................................................................................................................. 19
Account Statements ...................................................................................................................................................... 19
Item 16: Investment Discretion ..................................................................................................... 20
Discretionary Authority for Trading...................................................................................................................... 20
Item 17: Voting Client Securities ................................................................................................... 20
Proxy Votes ...................................................................................................................................................................... 20
Item 18: Financial Information ...................................................................................................... 20
Balance Sheet .................................................................................................................................................................. 20
Financial Conditions Reasonably Likely to Impair Advisory Firm’s Ability to Meet Commitments
to Clients ............................................................................................................................................................................ 20
Bankruptcy Petitions during the Past Ten Years .............................................................................................. 20
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Brochure Supplement (Part 2B of Form ADV) ............................................................................ 2
Principal Executive Officer – Nicholas Ventimiglio ............................................................................................ 2
Item 2 - Educational Background and Business Experience .......................................................................... 2
Item 3 - Disciplinary Information .............................................................................................................................. 2
Item 4 - Other Business Activities .............................................................................................................................. 3
Item 5 - Additional Compensation ............................................................................................................................. 3
Item 6 - Supervision ........................................................................................................................................................ 3
Brochure Supplement (Part 2B of Form ADV) ............................................................................ 6
Principal Executive Officer – John Juhan Kim ....................................................................................................... 6
Item 2 - Educational Background and Business Experience .......................................................................... 6
Item 3 - Disciplinary Information .............................................................................................................................. 6
Item 4 - Other Business Activities .............................................................................................................................. 7
Item 5 - Additional Compensation ............................................................................................................................. 7
Item 6 - Supervision ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
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Item 4: Advisory Business
Firm Description
Giving Tree Wealth Advisors is wholly owned by two California corporations; Nicholas
Ventimiglio, CDFA, Inc. (aka NVCDFA, Inc.) holding a 50% ownership stake and Kim
Financial Advisors, Inc. (aka KFA, Inc.) also holding a 50% stake. Since Nicholas
Ventimiglio holds 100% ownership of NVCDFA, Inc., he indirectly holds 50% of Giving Tree
Wealth Advisors. Concurrently, since John J. Kim holds a 100% ownership of KFA, Inc., he
indirectly holds 50% of Giving Tree Wealth Advisor.
Types of Advisory Services
ERISA PLAN SERVICES
GTWA provides service to qualified retirement plans including 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans,
pension and profit-sharing plans, cash balance plans, and deferred compensation plans as a
3(21):
Limited Scope ERISA 3(21) Fiduciary. GTWA may serve as a limited scope ERISA 3(21)
fiduciary that can advise, help and assist plan sponsors with their investment decisions. As
an investment advisor GTWA has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of the Client.
The plan sponsor is still ultimately responsible for the decisions made in their plan, though
using GTWA can help the plan sponsor delegate liability by following a diligent process.
1. Fiduciary Services are:
• Provide investment advice to the Client about asset classes and investment options
available for the Plan in accordance with the Plan’s investment policies and
objectives. Client will make the final decision regarding the initial selection,
retention, removal and addition of investment options. GTWA acknowledges that it
is a fiduciary as defined in ERISA section 3 (21) (A) (ii).
• Assist the Client in the development of an investment policy statement (“IPS”). The
IPS establishes the investment policies and objectives for the Plan. Client shall have
the ultimate responsibility and authority to establish such policies and objectives
and to adopt and amend the IPS.
• Provide investment advice to the Plan Sponsor with respect to the selection of a
qualified default investment option for participants who are automatically enrolled
in the Plan or who have otherwise failed to make investment elections. The Client
retains the sole responsibility to provide all notices to the Plan participants required
under ERISA Section 404(c) (5) and 404(a)-5.
• Assist in monitoring investment options by preparing periodic investment reports
that document investment performance, consistency of fund management and
conformance to the guidelines set forth in the IPS and make recommendations to
maintain, remove or replace investment options.
• Meet with Client on a periodic basis to discuss the reports and the investment
recommendations.
2. Non-fiduciary Services are:
• Assist in the education of Plan participants about general investment information
and the investment options available to them under the Plan. Client understands
GTWA’s assistance in education of the Plan participants shall be consistent with and
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within the scope of the Department of Labor’s definition of investment education
(Department of Labor Interpretive Bulletin 96-1). As such, GTWA is not providing
fiduciary advice as defined by ERISA 3(21)(A)(ii) to the Plan participants. GTWA
will not provide investment advice concerning the prudence of any investment
option or combination of investment options for a particular participant or
beneficiary under the Plan.
• Assist in the group enrollment meetings designed to increase retirement plan
participation among the employees and investment and financial understanding by
the employees.
GTWA may provide these services or, alternatively, may arrange for the Plan’s other
providers to offer these services, as agreed upon between GTWA and Client.
3. GTWA has no responsibility to provide services related to the following types of assets
(“Excluded Assets”):
• Employer securities;
• Real estate (except for real estate funds or publicly traded REITs);
• Stock brokerage accounts or mutual fund windows;
• Participant loans;
• Non-publicly traded partnership interests;
• Other non-publicly traded securities or property (other than collective trusts and
similar vehicles); or
• Other hard-to-value or illiquid securities or property.
Excluded Assets will not be included in calculation of Fees paid to GTWA on the ERISA
Agreement. Specific services will be outlined in detail to each plan in the 408(b)2
disclosure.
FINANCIAL PLANNING:
Initial Comprehensive Financial Plan
GTWA provides a fee-based financial planning service to all clients. Clients purchasing this
service will receive a written report, providing the client with a detailed financial audit and
plan designed to achieve his or her stated goals and objectives. In general, the financial plan
will address the following areas of concern:
1) Detailed review of Client’s current financial position.
2) Detailed review of Client’s financial goals and objectives.
3) Cash flow projections based on current and/or future circumstances.
4) Independent asset valuations & assessments.
5) Written evaluation and analysis of information provided by Client and
recommendations for a personalized financial program.
6) Consultation regarding implementation of recommendations.
GTWA gathers required information through in-depth personal interviews. Information
gathered includes a client's current financial status, future goals, and attitudes towards
risk. Related documents supplied by the client are carefully reviewed, including a
questionnaire completed by the client, and a written report is prepared. Should a client
choose to implement the recommendations contained in the plan, GTWA suggests that the
client work closely with her/her attorney, accountant,
insurance, agent, and/or
stockbroker. Implementation of financial plan recommendations is entirely at the client's
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discretion. These recommendations are not limited to any specific product or service
offered by a broker/dealer or insurance company.
Annual Plan Updates
Following the completion of the financial plan, GTWA may provide continued analysis and
consultation in the future as changes in the client's financial situation arise. The
continuance of the initial engagement will be covered if GTWA manages client assets, or
may be covered under a new fee arrangement.
Hourly General Consultation
General Consultation is typically requested directly by the client for a specific financial
issue that they are seeking to get professional guidance on. These issues may include but
are not limited to:
• The short term and long term financial impact of buying or selling real property
• The short term and long term financial impact of buying or selling a private asset
Insurance needs analysis
such as a business or private placement
• Cashflow and budget reviews and planning
•
• Stock award planning
• Retirement plan reviews and allocation recommendations
Potential Planning Conflicts Disclosure:
It should be noted that a potential conflict exists between the interests of the investment
adviser and the interests of the client. The client is under no obligation to act upon the
investment adviser's recommendation, and if the client elects to act on any of the
recommendations, the client is under no obligation to affect the transaction through the
investment adviser.
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT SERVICES:
GTWA offers discretionary asset management services to advisory Clients. GTWA will offer
Clients ongoing asset management services through determining individual investment
goals, time horizons, objectives, and risk tolerance. Investment strategies, investment
selection, asset allocation, portfolio monitoring and the overall investment program will be
based on the above factors. The Client will authorize GTWA discretionary authority to
execute selected investment program transactions as stated within the Investment
Advisory Agreement.
GTWA may utilize Axos Advisory Services, a platform for advisors to connect with third
party money managers (MMX). The MMX program is an open architecture service that
enables a firm to mix and match third-party money managers and strategies to meet the
clients’ investment needs and objectives. The platform allows GTWA to have multiple
models managed by different money managers within a single account. These services may
be provided at no or reduced costs to the Advisor as part of the business relationship with
Axos Advisory Services. Although these services could create a conflict of interest by
influencing which custodian the advisor recommends, as part of its fiduciary duties to
clients, the advisors endeavor at all times to put the interests of its clients first.
There is no direct link between Advisor’s participation in Third Party Custodians/Third
Party Money Managers institutional customer programs (such as MMX) and the investment
advice which the Advisor gives to its clients
The GTWA Investment Program at Axos Advisory Services is designed as follows:
3
Based on client's long-term investment strategy, GTWA will recommend the initial model
asset allocation to be used. GTWA will, if appropriate, suggest modifications to the
allocation to more adequately address the client's individual needs as well as place
reasonable restrictions on the allocation among various asset classes.
Once the client's model asset allocation has been established and approved by the client,
GTWA will implement the model using institutional, no-load mutual funds, low-cost
exchange traded funds, and/or separately managed accounts through the MMX platform.
Individual stocks may be purchased in addition to the primary investment vehicles listed
above. Portfolios are monitored by GTWA on a continuous basis but will be reviewed no
less than quarterly to ensure that their investment styles, organizational structures, and
performance remain consistent with the objectives of the client. The client may place
reasonable restrictions on the nature of the funds and/or exchange traded funds and/or
managers held and/or used in model. GTWA will assist the client in understanding and
evaluating the potential impact of these restrictions on the Portfolio.
GTWA will have limited discretion regarding management of the portfolio. The scope of
this authority shall include MMX manager selection (contracted to manage the active
components of a client’s allocation) and selection of securities (including stocks, ETFs &
mutual funds) applied to the strategic asset allocations. The Adviser will conduct weekly
analysis which will include but is not limited to fundamental valuations, sector rotation
analysis, technical analysis, and economic research to determine if adjustments (within the
boundaries as outlined above) are appropriate. These boundaries will represent the
maximum and minimum levels for portfolio risk the client is willing to accept in an effort to
meet their investment objectives over their designated time horizon. Unless instructed
otherwise, GTWA will automatically reallocate portfolios as needed and when appropriate
based on these definitions and boundaries. Should the client's individual goals and
objectives change, the client should notify GTWA and the Advisor will assist the client in
revising their current long-term investment strategy; and concurrently make changes to
their model asset allocation and the ISA when appropriate.
ALTERNATIVE PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS:
IARs may also recommend the use of third-party independent investment advisers or asset
management program sponsors that provide specialized or institutional investment
advisory services. While Giving Tree Wealth Advisors does not offer wrap fee programs,
these independent investment advisers may. The client should refer to the brochure of
these independent advisers if such solutions are recommended. Currently, the asset
management program sponsor utilized by GTWA is SEI Investments. If this solution is
recommended to the client a separate and independent disclosure brochure will be
provided at the time of the recommendation to the client. IARs may utilize third party
Investment Policy Statements provided by this program that will detail the client’s
investment objectives and will include agreed upon investment strategies, limitations, and
fees. Details of the SEI Investments program have been provided below in Item 5.
Client Tailored Services and Client Imposed Restrictions
The goals and objectives for each Client are documented in our Client files. Investment
strategies are created that reflect the stated goals and objectives. Clients may impose
restrictions on investing in certain securities or types of securities. Agreements may not be
assigned without written Client consent.
Wrap Fee Programs
GTWA does not sponsor any wrap fee programs.
4
Client Assets under Management
GTWA has the following assets under management:
Discretionary Amounts: Non-discretionary Amounts: Date Calculated:
$137,997,072
$0
June 3, 2026
Item 5: Fees and Compensation
Method of Compensation and Fee Schedule
ERISA PLAN SERVICES
The annual fees are based on the market value of the Included Assets as follows:
Account Value
$0-$10,000,000
$10,000,001-$20,000,000
$20,000,000+
Max Annual Fee
0.75%
0.50%
0.25%
The annual fee is negotiable and will be charged as a percentage of the Included Assets.
Fees may be charged quarterly or monthly in arrears or in advance based on the assets as
calculated by the custodian or record keeper of the Included Assets (without adjustments
for anticipated withdrawals by Plan participants or other anticipated or scheduled
transfers or distribution of assets). If the services to be provided start any time other than
the first day of a quarter or month, the fee will be prorated based on the number of days
remaining in the quarter or month. If this Agreement is terminated prior to the end of the
billing cycle, GTWA shall be entitled to a prorated fee based on the number of days during
the fee period services were provided or Client will be due a prorated refund of fees for
days services were not provided in the billing cycle.
The fee schedule, which includes compensation of GTWA for the services is described in
detail in Schedule A of the ERISA Plan Agreement. The Plan is obligated to pay the fees,
however the Plan Sponsor may elect to pay the fees. Client may elect to be billed directly or
have fees deducted from Plan Assets. GTWA does not reasonably expect to receive any
additional compensation, directly or indirectly, for its services under this Agreement. If
additional compensation is received, GTWA will disclose this compensation, the services
rendered, and the payer of compensation. GTWA will offset the compensation against the
fees agreed upon under the Agreement.
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT WITH ASSETS CUSTODIED AT AXOS ADVISOR SERVICES:
The Advisory fee for the program will be charged as a percentage of assets under
management, according the schedule below:
Account Value
First $3,000,000 ($1-$3,000,000)
Next $2,000,000 ($3,000,000.01-$5,000,000)
Next $5,000,000 ($5,000,000.01-$10,000,000)
Subsequent amounts ($10,000,000.01+)
Max Annual Fee
1.00%
0.75%
0.50%
0.25%
Fees are billed in arrears at the end of each calendar quarter based on an average daily
balance of the account for the previous quarter. This is a tiered fee schedule; the asset
management fee is calculated by applying different rates to different portions of the
portfolio. GTWA may group certain related Client accounts for the purposes of achieving
the minimum account size and determining the annualized fee.
5
The calculation for the average daily balance is based on the formula (A/D) x F.
A = the sum of the daily balances in the billing period
D = number of days in the billing period
F = quarterly management fee
For example (based on quarterly billing period): the first step taken using the average-
daily-balance calculation method would be to take the average of the values of the Client’s
account over the course of the entire quarter. For instance, 85 days at $3 million plus six
days at $3,500,000 averages out to approximately $3,032,967.03. This account would be
charged $7,561.81 for the quarter.
AUM
Total
Quarterly
Fee
x .2500% =
x .1875% =
First $3,000,000
Next $32,967.03
Grand total for the quarter
$7,500
$61.81
$7,561.81
The fees will be calculated by the custodian and the custodian will deduct the fees from
the client account. This invoice will appear on their account statement for that quarter.
Clients are responsible for verifying fee computations, since custodians are not typically
asked to perform this task. The specific manner in which fees are charged by GTWA is
established in a client’s written agreement with GTWA. Accounts initiated or terminated
during a calendar quarter will be charged a prorated fee.
When managers on the MMX program are utilized, an additional annual fee ranging from
0% to .75% will be charged on that portion of the assets. This will be agreed to and
acknowledged by the Client on the Investment Advisory Agreement.
will
use
the
following
sub-advisors
in
their
managed
GTWA
models:
*Sub-advisor fees are charged only on the portion of the account that the sub-advisor manages. Models may
be subject to a 5%-10% drift between rebalance cycles.
*Sub-advisor fees are charged only on the portion of the account that the sub-advisor manages. Models may
be subject to a 5%-10% drift between rebalance cycles.
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Focus Style BenchmarkStrategy Conservative FeesBalanced FeesAggressive FeesMacroActive MSCI ALL WorldCrescat Capital 10.00%0.50%15.0%0.50%20%0.50%Technical Active SP500Atlas Elevation15.00%0.60%15.0%0.60%20%0.60%Technical Active Gold/Silver IndexAtlas Gold 7.50%0.60%10.0%0.60%10%0.60%Fundamental Passive SP500Morningstar Tortoise 12.50%0.40%15.0%0.40%20%0.40%Fundamental Passive Russell 3000Zack's All Cap 12.50%0.28%15.0%0.28%20%0.28%Fundamental Passive Aggregrate Bond Index GTWA Core Fixed Income 42.50%0.00%30.0%0.00%10%0.00%TOTAL: 100.00%0.27%100.0%0.33%100%0.42%NON-QUALIFIED INVESTMENT MODELS
If the client's account balance falls below $250,000, we will transition their assets out of the
SMA sleeves and retain them exclusively within the Giving Tree sleeve of the model. The
SMA program is designed to provide an enhanced level of customization and requires a
minimum funding threshold to be effectively executed. This adjustment ensures optimal
execution of all trading activity and helps maintain proper diversification when the account
balance falls below the required level.
When the account balance increases back above $250,000, the SMA sleeves will be
reinstated, allowing the account to once again benefit from the full customization and
strategy of the SMA program.
SEI Investments Management Corporation (SIMC)
For the SEI Managed Account Solutions program GTWA charges an annual investment
advisory fee based on the total assets under management as follows:
Account Value
First $3,000,000 ($1-$3,000,000)
Next $2,000,000 ($3,000,000.01-$5,000,000)
Next $5,000,000 ($5,000,000.01-$10,000,000)
Subsequent amounts ($10,000,000.01+)
Max Annual Fee
1.00%
0.75%
0.50%
0.25%
This is a tiered fee schedule, the asset management fee is calculated by applying different
rates to different portions of the portfolio. GTWA may group certain related Client accounts
for the purposes of achieving the minimum account size and determining the annualized
fee.
For example (based on quarterly billing period):
Client with $3,500,000 under management would pay $8,437.50 on a quarterly basis.
AUM
Quarterly fee
Total
First $3,000,000
x 0.2500% =
$7,500.00
Next $500,000
x 0.1875% =
$937.50
Grand total for the quarter
$8,437.50
The annual fee may be negotiable.
GTWA receives compensation as a result of a Client’s participation in SIMC’s programs. For
assisting Clients in selecting appropriate Mutual Fund Models, Managed Account Portfolios
or Custom Portfolios in accordance with the terms of GTWA’s advisory agreement and, if
applicable Triparty Agreement, with such Clients and providing on-going account services,
GTWA will receive a fee payable from the Client’s Account assets. GTWA’s fee will be
calculated quarterly on the Client’s Account balance and payable quarterly in arrears net of
any income, withholding or other taxes. GTWA’s fee is separate from and in addition to
SIMC’s Investment Management Fee described below. GTWA’s fee and SIMC’s Investment
Management fee will be deducted by SEI directly from the Client’s account. GTWA does not
have the ability to directly deduct their advisory fee from the client account.
In addition to the fees charged by GTWA above, SEI charges the following annual fees:
SEI Sponsored Programs - SIMC Sub-Advised Program
No Platform Fee
SEI Mutual Funds, SEI Managed Account
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Solutions, SEI Sub-Advised Program
Custom High Net Worth Solutions
SEI Fees ranging from 0.55 – 1.15%
Third Party Assets - Mutual Fund Models Program
Non-Transaction Fee (NTF) Mutual Funds No Platform Fee
20 basis points
The platform fee is subject to a $1,000 per year,
per account, maximum
Transaction Fee (TF) Mutual Funds and
all other securities, including equities,
fixed income and ETFs
GTWA Managed - Custody-only Program
Custom portfolio
No Platform Fee
American Funds Service Company (AFS)
Accounts are invested in portfolios constructed solely of mutual funds managed by
American Funds.
Fees for accounts held at AFS shall be charged an asset management fee as follows:
Account Value
$0-$2,999,999.99
$3,000,000-$4,999,999.99
$5,000,000-$9,999,999.99
$10,000,000+
Annual Fee
1.00%
0.75%
0.50%
0.25%
The fees will be billed quarterly in arrears. The fees will be calculated by AFS for each
quarter period ending the last business day of February, May, August and November and
shall be the product of (i) the average daily net asset value of Client assets invested in
shares of the Funds through the Program during the quarter; (ii) the number of days in the
quarter; and (iii) the rate agreed to by the parties divided by the number of days in the
year. The fee shall be paid within thirty (30) days following the end of the quarter for
which such fees are payable.
AFS shall deduct fees from Client accounts to pay GTWA.
ADDITIONAL ASSET MANAGEMENT FEE DISCLOSURES:
Fees exceeding 3% per annum is excessive per industry standard. Total fees collected by
GTWA and third-party advisers will not exceed 3% of assets under management per
annum. This disclosure applies to any and all investment programs utilized by the firm
Axos Advisory Services. Our current schedule is significantly below this threshold. Any
changes to our fee schedule will be properly disclosed to existing clients at the time of such
change and will be updated in our annual ADV amendments.
FINANCIAL PLANNING FEES:
Initial Comprehensive Financial Plan
Planning fees are charged as a fee based on an estimate of the number of hours needed to
complete the plan and to meet with the client. The hourly fee used to compute the fee will
be $400 per hour. GTWA requires a minimum of $2000 (5 hours) for any financial plan,
topical or comprehensive. The length of time it will take to provide a financial plan will
depend on each client's personal situation. All fees are agreed upon prior to entering into a
8
contract. A 50% retainer will be requested upon completion of GTWA’s fact-finding session
with the client. The remainder of the fee is due and payable upon completion of the plan.
Annual Plan Updates
If the Client, with the consent of GTWA wishes to renew their financial planning agreement,
the fee for ongoing consultation shall be $400 per hour, due at the time of renewal of the
agreement.
It should be noted, the client is under no obligation to act upon this registrant's or
associated person's recommendation;
if the client elects to act on any of the
recommendations, the client is under no obligation to effect transaction through the
registrant, or associated person when person is an agent with a licensed broker/dealer or
through any associate or affiliate of such person.
Hourly General Consultation
Hourly general consultations are offered at $400 per hour. Fees will be due at the within 30
days of the completion of the time spent together.
TERMINATION AGREEMENT & REFUND POLICY
After signing the planning agreement and submitting the first half of the fee, the client has 5
business days to sever the relationship and request a full refund. Following this 5-day
period, any severance of the relationship will result in a prorated fee to the client based
upon the amount of hours the advisor has already contributed to the planning. The initial
50% retainer deposit will not be refunded to the client after the 5-day refund period.
All fees are subject to negotiation.
For California Residents: Subsection (j) of Rule 260.238, California Code of Regulations
requires that all investment advisers disclose to their advisory clients that lower fees for
comparable services may be available from other sources.
Client Payment of Fees
Fees for asset management services are deducted from a designated Client account to
facilitate billing.
Fees for financial planning are paid directly to GTWA.
Fees for ERISA services will either be deducted from Plan assets or paid directly to GTWA.
The Client must consent in advance to direct debiting of their investment account.
Additional Client Fees Charged
GTWA’s fees are exclusive of brokerage commissions, transaction fees, and other related
costs and expenses which shall be incurred by the client. Clients may incur certain charges
imposed by custodians, brokers, third party investment and other third parties such as fees
charged by managers, custodial fees, deferred sales charges, odd-lot differentials, transfer
taxes, wire transfer and electronic fund fees, and other fees and taxes on brokerage
accounts and securities transactions. Mutual funds and exchange traded funds also charge
internal management fees, which are disclosed in a prospectus.
Such charges, fees and commissions are exclusive of and in addition to GTWA’s fee, and
GTWA shall not receive any portion of these commissions, fees, and costs.
Item 12 further describes the factors that GTWA considers in selecting or recommending
broker-dealers for client transactions and determining the reasonableness of their
compensation (e.g., commissions).
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Prepayment of Client Fees
GTWA does not require any prepayment of fees of more than $1,200 per Client and six
months or more in advance.
External Compensation for the Sale of Securities to Clients
Investment Advisor Representatives of GTWA receive external compensation for the sale of
securities to clients as a registered representative of Fortune Financial Services, Inc., a
broker-dealer and as independent insurance agents. This represents a conflict of interest
because it gives an incentive to recommend products based on the commission received. As
registered representatives, they do not charge advisory fees for the services offered
through Fortune Financial Services, Inc or as an insurance agent. This conflict is mitigated
by disclosures, procedures, and GTWA’s fiduciary obligation to place the best interest of the
Client first and Clients are not required to purchase any products or services. Clients have
the option to purchase these products through another registered representative or
insurance agent of their choosing.
Item 6: Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management
Sharing of Capital Gains
GTWA does not charge any performance-based fees (fees based on a share of capital gains
on or capital appreciation of the assets of a client).
Item 7: Types of Clients
Description
GTWA provides portfolio management services to individuals, high net worth individuals,
corporate pension and profit-sharing plans, Taft-Hartley plans, charitable institutions,
foundations, and endowments.
Account Minimums
A combined account minimum of $500,000 is required for the client to engage with the
firm for investment management services. GTWA, in its sole discretion may waive this
account minimum.
Item 8: Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
Methods of Analysis
As mentioned above, based on client's long-term investment strategy, GTWA will
recommend the initial model asset allocation to be used. GTWA will, if appropriate, suggest
modifications to the allocation to more adequately address the client's individual needs as
well as place reasonable restrictions on the allocation among various asset classes.
Once the client's model asset allocation has been established and approved by the client,
GTWA will implement the model using institutional, no-load mutual funds, low-cost
exchange traded funds, stocks, bonds, and/or separately managed accounts via the MMX
Platform. Assets monitored by GTWA weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annually to ensure
that their investment styles, organizational structures, and performance remain consistent
with the objectives of the investment plan. The client may place reasonable restrictions on
the nature of the funds and/or exchange traded funds and/or managers held and/or used
in model. GTWA will assist the client in understanding and evaluating the potential impact
of these restrictions on the Portfolio.
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Model portfolios will be rebalanced no less frequent than quarterly and when appropriate.
Unless instructed otherwise by the client, GTWA will automatically reallocate (i.e.,
rebalance) portfolios and managers at the end of each quarter or when appropriate. Unless
instructed otherwise, GTWA will automatically rebalance the client's account if the
allocation among the underlying the positions deviate from the prescribed quarterly
allocation by greater than a 5% variance. Rebalancing occurs with no transaction fees
assessed to the client, GTWA pays for the transactional or trade related costs assessed by
Axos Advisory Services. Should the client's individual goals and objectives change, the
client should notify GTWA who will assist the client in revising their current long-term
investment strategy, hence potentially making changes to their model asset allocation.
Investment Strategy
The investment strategy for a specific Client is based upon the objectives stated by the
Client during consultations. The Client may change these objectives at any time by
providing written notice to GTWA. Each Client executes a Client profile form or similar
form that documents their objectives and their desired investment strategy.
Security Specific Material Risks
All investment programs have certain risks that are borne by the investor. Our investment
approach constantly keeps the risk of loss in mind. Investors face the following investment
risks and should discuss these risks with GTWA:
• Market Risk: The prices of securities in which clients invest may decline in response
to certain events taking place around the world, including those directly involving
the companies whose securities are owned by a fund; conditions affecting the
general economy; overall market changes; local, regional or global political, social or
economic instability; and currency, interest rate and commodity price fluctuations.
Investors should have a long-term perspective and be able to tolerate potentially
sharp declines in market value.
•
Interest-rate Risk: Fluctuations in interest rates may cause investment prices to
fluctuate. For example, when interest rates rise, yields on existing bonds become
less attractive, causing their market values to decline.
•
Inflation Risk: When any type of inflation is present, a dollar today will buy more
than a dollar next year, because purchasing power is eroding at the rate of inflation.
• Currency Risk: Overseas investments are subject to fluctuations in the value of the
dollar against the currency of the investment’s originating country. This is also
referred to as exchange rate risk.
• Reinvestment Risk: This is the risk that future proceeds from investments may have
to be reinvested at a potentially lower rate of return (i.e. interest rate). This
primarily relates to fixed income securities.
• Liquidity Risk: Liquidity is the ability to readily convert an investment into cash.
Generally, assets are more liquid if many traders are interested in a standardized
product. For example, Treasury Bills are highly liquid, while real estate properties
are not.
• Management Risk: The advisor’s investment approach may fail to produce the
intended results. If the advisor’s assumptions regarding the performance of a
specific asset class or fund are not realized in the expected time frame, the overall
performance of the client’s portfolio may suffer.
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• Equity Risk: Equity securities tend to be more volatile than other investment choices.
The value of an individual mutual fund or ETF can be more volatile than the market
as a whole. This volatility affects the value of the client’s overall portfolio. Small- and
mid-cap companies are subject to additional risks. Smaller companies may
experience greater volatility, higher failure rates, more limited markets, product
lines, financial resources, and less management experience than larger companies.
Smaller companies may also have a
lower trading volume, which may
disproportionately affect their market price, tending to make them fall more in
response to selling pressure than is the case with larger companies.
• Fixed Income Risk: The issuer of a fixed income security may not be able to make
interest and principal payments when due. Generally, the lower the credit rating of a
security, the greater the risk that the issuer will default on its obligation. If a rating
agency gives a debt security a lower rating, the value of the debt security will
decline because investors will demand a higher rate of return. As nominal interest
rates rise, the value of fixed income securities held by a fund is likely to decrease. A
nominal interest rate is the sum of a real interest rate and an expected inflation rate.
•
Investment Companies Risk: When a client invests in open end mutual funds or ETFs,
the client indirectly bears their proportionate share of any fees and expenses
payable directly by those funds. Therefore, the client will incur higher expenses,
which may be duplicative. In addition, the client’s overall portfolio may be affected
by losses of an underlying fund and the level of risk arising from the investment
practices of an underlying fund (such as the use of derivatives). ETFs are also
subject to the following risks: (i) an ETF’s shares may trade at a market price that is
above or below their net asset value or (ii) trading of an ETF’s shares may be halted
if the listing exchange’s officials deem such action appropriate, the shares are de-
listed from the exchange, or the activation of market-wide “circuit breakers” (which
are tied to large decreases in stock prices) halts stock trading generally. Adviser has
no control over the risks taken by the underlying funds in which client invests.
• REIT Risk: To the extent that a client invests in REITs, it is subject to risks generally
associated with investing in real estate, such as (i) possible declines in the value of
real estate, (ii) adverse general and local economic conditions, (iii) possible lack of
availability of mortgage funds, (iv) changes in interest rates, and (v) environmental
problems. In addition, REITs are subject to certain other risks related specifically to
their structure and focus such as: dependency upon management skills; limited
diversification; the risks of locating and managing financing for projects; heavy cash
flow dependency; possible default by borrowers; the costs and potential losses of
self-liquidation of one or more holdings; the possibility of failing to maintain
exemptions from securities registration; and, in many cases, relatively small market
capitalization, which may result in less market liquidity and greater price volatility.
• Derivatives Risk: Funds in a client’s portfolio may use derivative instruments. The
value of these derivative instruments derives from the value of an underlying asset,
currency or index. Investments by a fund in such underlying funds may involve the
risk that the value of the underlying fund’s derivatives may rise or fall more rapidly
than other investments, and the risk that an underlying fund may lose more than the
amount that it invested in the derivative instrument in the first place. Derivative
instruments also involve the risk that other parties to the derivative contract may
fail to meet their obligations, which could cause losses.
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• Foreign Securities Risk: Funds in which clients invest may invest in foreign
securities. Foreign securities are subject to additional risks not typically associated
with investments in domestic securities. These risks may include, among others,
currency risk, country risks (political, diplomatic, regional conflicts, terrorism, war,
social and economic instability, currency devaluations and policies that have the
effect of limiting or restricting foreign investment or the movement of assets),
different trading practices, less government supervision, less publicly available
information, limited trading markets and greater volatility. To the extent that
underlying funds invest in issuers located in emerging markets, the risk may be
heightened by political changes, changes in taxation, or currency controls that could
adversely affect the values of these investments. Emerging markets have been more
volatile than the markets of developed countries with more mature economies.
• Long-term purchases: Long-term investments are those vehicles purchased with the
intension of being held for more than one year. Typically, the expectation of the
investment is to increase in value so that it can eventually be sold for a profit. In
addition, there may be an expectation for the investment to provide income. One of
the biggest risks associated with long-term investments is volatility, the fluctuations
in the financial markets that can cause investments to lose value.
• Short-term purchases: Short-term investments are typically held for one year or less.
Generally, there is not a high expectation for a return or an increase in value.
Typically, short-term investments are purchased for the relatively greater degree of
principal protection they are designed to provide. Short-term investment vehicles
may be subject to purchasing power risk — the risk that your investment’s return
will not keep up with inflation.
• Trading risk: Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. There is no
assurance that the investment objective of any fund or investment will be achieved.
• Options Trading: The risks involved with trading options are that they are very time
sensitive investments. An options contract is generally a few months. The buyer of
an option could lose his or her entire investment even with a correct prediction
about the direction and magnitude of a particular price change if the price change
does not occur in the relevant time period (i.e., before the option expires).
Additionally, options are less tangible than some other investments. An option is a
“book-entry” only investment without a paper certificate of ownership.
• Trading on Margin: In a cash account, the risk is limited to the amount of money that
has been invested. In a margin account, risk includes the amount of money invested
plus the amount that has been loaned. As market conditions fluctuate, the value of
marginable securities will also fluctuate, causing a change in the overall account
balance and debt ratio. As a result, if the value of the securities held in a margin
account depreciates, the client will be required to deposit additional cash or make
full payment of the margin loan to bring account back up to maintenance levels.
Clients who cannot comply with such a margin call may be sold out or bought in by
the brokerage firm.
• Leveraged Risk: The risks involved with using leverage may include compounding of
returns (this works both ways – positive and negative), possible reset periods,
volatility, use of derivatives, active trading and high expenses.
• Equity Linked CD Risk: Penalties may apply to early withdrawals. Fair market value
of CD’s when sold in the secondary market may be worth more or less than face
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value. May or may not be FDIC insured. Returns are not based solely on market
returns, as there may be a maximum rate of interest the CD will earn. May be taxed
on income earned, but interest isn’t accrued (received) until the CD matures. Many
CDs may have “call” features, allowing the bank to close the contract early with no
penalty, paying back principle and any accrued interest.
• Structured Notes Risk: The risks involved with using structured notes are credit risk
of the issuing investment bank, illiquidity, and there is a risk to the pricing accuracy
as most structured notes do not trade after issuance.
• Hedge Funds Risk: The risks involved with hedge funds are that they may invest in
unregistered investments that are not subject to the SEC's registration and
disclosure requirements. They may have risky investment strategies, which may
include speculative investment and trading strategies. Both unregistered and
registered hedge funds are illiquid investments and are subject to restrictions on
transferability and resale. The tax structure of investments in hedge funds may be
complex.
• Private Equity/Placement Risk: Because offerings are exempt from registration
requirements, no regulator has reviewed the offerings to make sure the risks
associated with the investment and all material facts about the entity raising money
are adequately disclosed. Securities offered through private placements are
generally illiquid, meaning there are limited opportunities to resell the security. Risk
of the underlying investment may be significantly higher than publicly traded
investments.
• Alternative Investments: Alternative investments involve a high degree of risk and
can be illiquid due to restrictions on transfer and lack of a secondary trading
market. They can be highly leveraged, speculative and volatile, and an investor could
lose all or a substantial amount of an investment.
• Counterparty Risk: The risk that the other party to an agreement will default or fail
to perform its contractual obligations. In an options contract, counterparty risk is
the risk to the option buyer that the option writer will not buy or sell the underlying
as agreed.
inequitable
treatment
of minority
and/or
• Foreign Investment Risk: Investments in foreign securities may be riskier than U.S.
investments because of factors such as, unstable international, political and
economic conditions, currency fluctuations, foreign controls on investment and
currency exchange, foreign governmental control of some issuers, potential
confiscatory taxation or nationalization of companies by foreign governments,
withholding taxes, a lack of adequate company information, less liquid and more
ineffective or detrimental government
volatile exchanges and/or markets,
regulation, varying accounting standards, political or economic factors that may
severely limit business activities, and legal systems or market practices that may
permit
non-domestic
investors. Investments in emerging markets may involve these and other significant
risks such as less mature economic structures and less developed and more thinly-
traded securities markets.
• Senior Secured Debt: Because senior loans can be made to non-investment grade
borrowers, the risk of default may be greater. Should a borrower fail to make a
payment or default, this may affect the overall return to the lender. Interest rate is
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another risk as interest rate changes will affect the amount of interest paid by a
borrower in a floating rate senior loan.
• Land: Investments in land have unique risks with several restrictions and
challenges. Factors to consider when in investing in land are zoning restrictions
with the way the land can be used, environmental issues and access to utilities.
Investing in land is a speculative investment and for small investors can be a high
risk gamble of earning a fair rate of return while continuing to have expenses while
holding the land.
• Energy Infrastructure: Investments
in energy
infrastructure are subject to
regulatory risk political risk, social risk, technological risk, climate and
environmental risk and economic risk.
• Hedged Equity Strategies: Hedging is a risk management strategy to offset losses by
taking an opposite position in a related asset. The reduction in risk provided by
hedging also typically results in a reduction in protentional profits.
• Managed Futures: The risks associated with managed futures strategies include
returns that may be biased upwards due to the voluntary nature of self-reporting of
performance. Lack of natural measuring stick or benchmark for performance rating
and the potential for higher fees.
• Preferred stock: One risk of preferred stocks is that shares are often sensitive to
changes in interest rates. Investors in these vehicles don't enjoy the same voting
rights as common shareholders.
• Bonds: The risks associated with bonds include the inverse relationship between
interest rates and bond prices. As interest rates fall, bond prices rise. Conversely,
when interest rates rise, bond prices tend to fall. Investors must also be aware of
credit/default risk, corporate bonds aren’t guaranteed by the full faith and credit of
the U.S. government, but instead depend on the issue’s ability to repay the debt.
investment products designed for experienced
• Leveraged/Inverse fund: The use of leveraged and inverse funds are highly
speculative
investors. These
products employ complex strategies, like the use of derivatives and debt to multiply
the returns of an underlying security or index and must be monitored on a daily
basis and are generally short term. Potential risks include amplified volatility,
liquidity risk, use of derivatives, complex product investment, potential loss of
principal.
Item 9: Disciplinary Information
Criminal or Civil Actions
Neither GTWA nor its management have been involved in any criminal or civil action.
Administrative Enforcement Proceedings
Neither GTWA nor its management have been involved in administrative enforcement
proceedings.
Self- Regulatory Organization Enforcement Proceedings
GTWA and its management have not been involved in any self-regulatory organizational
enforcement proceedings that are material to a Client’s or prospective Client’s evaluation of
GTWA or the integrity of its management.
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Item 10: Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
Broker-Dealer or Representative Registration
GTWA is not registered as a broker- dealer, however, Member Nicholas Ventimiglio is a
registered representative of Fortune Financial Services, Inc., a FINRA/SIPC broker-dealer.
Futures or Commodity Registration
Neither GTWA nor its affiliated representatives are registered or have an application
pending to register as a futures commission merchant, commodity pool operator, or a
commodity trading advisor.
Material Relationships Maintained by this Advisory Business and Conflicts of Interest
Nicholas Ventimiglio is separately licensed as a registered representative of Fortune
Financial Services, Inc. ("Fortune"), a FINRA registered broker/dealer. In addition, Nicholas
Ventimiglio is an investment advisory representative with Nicholas Ventimiglio, CDFA.
Partners of GTWA, and other associated persons may also be independent insurance agents
for various insurance companies. In these separate capacities, GTWA partners and other
associated person will be able to effect securities transactions and broker insurance
products for advisory and non-advisory clients in the course of assisting GTWA clients
implement their financial plan. The choice for these clients to use Nicholas Ventimiglio,
John J. Kim, and other associated persons in this capacity is at the sole discretion of the
clients. Clients are in no way obligated to use GTWA partners or other associated persons
to execute these transactions. As stated above, the partners and other associated persons
may receive separate, yet customary compensation for effecting any transactions.
All material conflicts of interest under CCR Section 260.238(k) have been disclosed
regarding the investment adviser, it's representatives or any of its employees, which could
be reasonably expected to impair the rendering of unbiased and objective advice.
Mr. John Kim is the landlord for a rental property owned by John Kim, Sole Proprietor. In
addition, Mr. John Kim is the owner of Kim Financial Advisors, Inc. These are not conflicts
of interest as there are no crossover clients.
Recommendations or Selections of Other Investment Advisors and Conflicts of Interest
GTWA has access to third party managers via Axos Advisory Services. See item 4 for more
details.
Item 11: Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions
and Personal Trading
Code of Ethics Description
include employees and/or
The affiliated persons (affiliated persons
independent
contractors) of GTWA have committed to a Code of Ethics (“Code”). The purpose of our
Code is to set forth standards of conduct expected of GTWA affiliated persons and
addresses conflicts that may arise. The Code defines acceptable behavior for affiliated
persons of GTWA. The Code reflects GTWA and its supervised persons’ responsibility to act
in the best interest of their Client.
One area which the Code addresses is when affiliated persons buy or sell securities for
their personal accounts and how to mitigate any conflict of interest with our Clients. We do
not allow any affiliated persons to use non-public material information for their personal
profit or to use internal research for their personal benefit in conflict with the benefit to
our Clients.
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GTWA’s policy prohibits any person from acting upon or otherwise misusing non-public or
inside information. No advisory representative or other employee, officer or director of
GTWA may recommend any transaction in a security or its derivative to advisory Clients or
engage in personal securities transactions for a security or its derivatives if the advisory
representative possesses material, non-public information regarding the security.
GTWA’s Code is based on the guiding principle that the interests of the Client are our top
priority. GTWA’s officers, directors, advisors, and other affiliated persons have a fiduciary
duty to our Clients and must diligently perform that duty to maintain the complete trust
and confidence of our Clients. When a conflict arises, it is our obligation to put the Client’s
interests over the interests of either affiliated persons or the company.
The Code applies to “access” persons. “Access” persons are affiliated persons who have
access to non-public information regarding any Clients' purchase or sale of securities, or
non-public information regarding the portfolio holdings of any reportable fund, who are
involved in making securities recommendations to Clients, or who have access to such
recommendations that are non-public.
GTWA will provide a copy of the Code of Ethics to any Client or prospective Client upon
request.
Investment Recommendations Involving a Material Financial Interest and Conflict of
Interest
GTWA and its affiliated persons do not recommend to Clients securities in which we have a
material financial interest.
Advisory Firm Purchase of Same Securities Recommended to Clients and Conflicts of
Interest
GTWA and its affiliated persons may buy or sell securities that are also held by Clients. In
order to mitigate conflicts of interest such as trading ahead of Client transactions, affiliated
persons are required to disclose all reportable securities transactions as well as provide
GTWA with copies of their brokerage statements.
The Chief Compliance Officer of GTWA is Nicholas Ventimiglio. He reviews all trades of the
affiliated persons each quarter. The personal trading reviews ensure that the personal
trading of affiliated persons does not affect the markets and that Clients of the firm receive
preferential treatment over associated persons’ transactions.
Client Securities Recommendations or Trades and Concurrent Advisory Firm
Securities Transactions and Conflicts of Interest
Certain affiliated accounts may trade in the same securities with client accounts on an
aggregated basis when consistent with GTWA's obligation of best execution. In such
circumstances, the affiliated and client accounts will share commission costs equally and
receive securities at a total average price. GTWA will retain records of the trade order
(specifying each participating account) and its allocation, which will be completed prior to
the entry of the aggregated order. Completed orders will be allocated as specified in the
initial trade order. Partially filled orders will be allocated on a pro rata basis. Any
exceptions will be explained on the Order.
It is GTWA’s policy that the firm will not affect any principal or agency cross securities
transactions for client accounts. GTWA will also not cross trades between client accounts.
Principal transactions are generally defined as transactions where an adviser, acting as
principal for its own account or the account of an affiliated broker-dealer, buys from or
sells any security to any advisory client. A principal transaction may also be deemed to
17
have occurred if a security is crossed between an affiliated hedge fund and another client
account. An agency cross transaction is defined as a transaction where a person acts as an
investment adviser in relation to a transaction in which the investment adviser, or any
person controlled by or under common control with the investment adviser, acts as broker
for both the advisory client and for another person on the other side of the transaction.
Agency cross transactions may arise where an adviser is dually registered as a broker-
dealer or has an affiliated broker-dealer.
Item 12: Brokerage Practices
Factors Used to Select Broker-Dealers for Client Transactions
GTWA will recommend the use of a particular broker-dealer based on their duty to seek
best execution for the client, meaning they have an obligation to obtain the most favorable
terms for a client under the circumstances. The determination of what may constitute best
execution and price in the execution of a securities transaction by a broker involves a
number of considerations and is subjective. Factors affecting brokerage selection include
the overall direct net economic result to the portfolios, the efficiency with which the
transaction is affected, the ability to effect the transaction where a large block is involved,
the operational facilities of the broker-dealer, the value of an ongoing relationship with
such broker and the financial strength and stability of the broker. GTWA will select
appropriate brokers based on a number of factors including but not limited to their
relatively low transaction fees and reporting ability. GTWA relies on its broker to provide
its execution services at the best prices available. Lower fees for comparable services may
be available from other sources. Clients pay for any and all custodial fees in addition to the
advisory fee charged by GTWA. GTWA does not receive any portion of the trading fees.
GTWA will require the use of Axos Advisory Services or SEI.
• Research and Other Soft Dollar Benefits
The Securities and Exchange Commission defines soft dollar practices as
arrangement under which products or services other than execution services are
obtained by GTWA from or through a broker-dealer in exchange for directing Client
transactions to the broker-dealer. GTWA does not receive any soft dollars.
• Brokerage for Client Referrals
GTWA does not receive client referrals from any custodian or third party in
exchange for using that broker-dealer or third party.
• Directed Brokerage
GTWA does not allow directed brokerage accounts.
Aggregating Securities Transactions for Client Accounts
Trading transactions (i.e. purchases and sales of securities) related to client accounts are
aggregated automatically by the custodians utilized by GTWA in an effort to ensure that all
clients receive best execution.
Item 13: Review of Accounts
Schedule for Periodic Review of Client Accounts or Financial Plans and Advisory
Persons Involved
While the underlying securities within GTWA's investment supervisory services are
continuously monitored directly or indirectly, the client accounts are formally reviewed at
least quarterly or as needed by the associated person of GTWA assigned to the client. At
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present the associated person would be either Nicholas Ventimiglio or John J. Kim. More
frequent reviews may be triggered by material changes in variables such as a client's
individual circumstances, or the market, political, and/or economic environment. Financial
plans will be reviewed on a client's request or at least annually.
Review of Client Accounts on Non-Periodic Basis
Other conditions that may trigger a review of Clients’ accounts are changes in the tax laws,
new investment information, and changes in a Client's own situation.
Content of Client Provided Reports and Frequency
Investment supervisory service clients will receive quarterly account statements from their
custodian outlining their portfolio. GTWA will provide quarterly performance reports as
well as tax summary reports associated with their accounts. GTWA may also provide
consolidated account statements outlining all accounts held with the custodian. Clients may
request to have account statements sent to them monthly.
Item 14: Client Referrals and Other Compensation
Economic Benefits Provided to the Advisory Firm from External Sources and Conflicts
of Interest
Mr. Ventimiglio receives external compensation for the sale of securities to Clients as a
registered representative of Fortune Financial Services, Inc., a broker-dealer.
Advisory Firm Payments for Client Referrals
GTWA does not compensate for Client referrals.
Item 15: Custody
Account Statements
Clients will receive, at least quarterly, statements from the qualified custodian that holds
and maintains client’s investment assets. GTWA urges you to carefully review such
statements and compare such official custodial records to the account statements that we
may provide to you. Our statements may vary from custodial statements based on
accounting procedures, reporting dates, or valuation methodologies of certain securities.
The investment adviser has custody of the funds and securities solely as a consequence of
its authority to make withdrawals from client accounts to pay its advisory fee. The
investment adviser has written authorization from the client to deduct advisory fees from
the account held with the qualified custodian. Each time a fee is directly deducted from a
client account, the investment adviser concurrently:
• Sends the qualified custodian an invoice or statement of the amount of the fee to be
deducted from the client’s account; and
• Sends the client an invoice or statement itemizing the fee. Itemization includes the
formula used to calculate the fee, the value of the assets under management on
which the fee is based, and the time period covered by the fee.
The investment adviser notifies the Commissioner in writing that the investment adviser
intends to use the safeguards provided in this paragraph (b)(3). Such notification is
required to be given on Form ADV.
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Item 16: Investment Discretion
Discretionary Authority for Trading
GTWA requires discretionary authority from the client at the outset of an advisory
relationship to select the identity and number of securities to be bought or sold. GTWA has
the authority to determine, without obtaining specific Client consent, the securities to be
bought or sold, and the amount of the securities to be bought or sold. The client will
authorize GTWA discretionary authority to execute selected
investment program
transactions as stated within the Investment Advisory Agreement.
When selecting securities and determining amounts, GTWA observes the investment
policies, limitations and restrictions of the clients for which it advises. For registered
investment companies, GTWA’s authority to trade securities may also be limited by certain
federal securities and tax laws that require diversification of investments and favor the
holding of investments once made. Investment guidelines and restrictions must be
provided to GTWA in writing.
Item 17: Voting Client Securities
Proxy Votes
As a matter of firm policy and practice, GTWA does not vote proxies on behalf of advisory
clients. Clients retain the responsibility for receiving and voting proxies for any and all
securities maintained in client portfolios. Clients will receive their proxies or other
solicitations directly from the custodian or a transfer agent.
When assistance on voting proxies is requested, GTWA will provide recommendations to
the Client. If a conflict of interest exists, it will be disclosed to the Client. If the Client
requires assistance or has questions, they can reach out to the investment advisor
representatives of the firm at the contact information on the cover page of this document.
Item 18: Financial Information
Balance Sheet
Since GTWA does not you require or solicit prepayment of more than $1,200 in fees per
client, six months or more in advance, no balance sheet disclosures have been made.
Financial Conditions Reasonably Likely to Impair Advisory Firm’s Ability to Meet
Commitments to Clients
GTWA has no condition that is reasonably likely to impair our ability to meet contractual
commitments to our Clients.
Bankruptcy Petitions during the Past Ten Years
GTWA has not had any bankruptcy petitions in the last ten years.
20
Item 1 Cover Page
S U P E R V I S E D P E R S O N B R O C H U R E
F O R M A D V P A R T 2 B
Nicholas Ventimiglio
Office Address:
2603 Camino Ramon #200
San Ramon, CA 94583
Tel: 844-434-6435
Email: nick@givingtreewealth.com
Website: www.GivingTreeWealth.com
August 26, 2026
This brochure supplement provides information about Nicholas Ventimiglio and supplements the
Giving Tree Wealth Advisors brochure. You should have received a copy of that brochure. Please
contact Nicholas Ventimiglio if you did not receive the brochure or if you have any questions about
the contents of this supplement.
A D D I T I O N A L I N F O R M A T I O N A B O U T N I C H O L A S V E N T I M I G L I O ( C R D
# 4 5 9 5 7 0 8 ) I S A V A I L A B L E O N T H E S E C ’ S W E B S I T E A T
W W W . A D V I S E R I N F O . S E C . G O V .
1
Brochure Supplement (Part 2B of Form ADV)
Supervised Person Brochure
Principal Executive Officer – Nicholas Ventimiglio
• Year of birth: 1979
Item 2 - Educational Background and Business Experience
Education: Graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo in 2002
with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in
Finance.
Business Experience:
• Giving Tree Wealth Advisors.; Managing Partner /Investment Advisor
Representative/Chief Compliance Officer; 01/2021-Present
• Fortune Financial Services, Inc.; Registered Representative; 02/2016-Present
• Nicholas Ventimiglio, CDFA.; Owner/Investment Advisor Representative; 04/2010-
Present
• First Allied Advisory Services, Inc.; Investment Advisor Representative; 07/2012-
02/2016
• First Allied Securities, Inc.; Registered Representative; 07/2007-02/2016
• Financial Telesis; Registered Representative; 02/2005-07/2007
• Kim Financial Advisors; Investment Advisor; 06/2004-07/2007
• Mass Mutual Life Insurance; Agent; 10/2002-06/2004
• Mass Mutual Life Investors Services Inc.; Registered Representative; 10/2002-
06/2004
• Applebee’s; Server; 06/2002-06/2004
• California Poly University; Student; 01/2000-06/2002
Item 3 - Disciplinary Information
A. Mr. Ventimiglio has never been involved in a criminal or civil action in a domestic,
foreign or military court of competent jurisdiction for which he:
1. Was convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contender (“no contest”) to (a) any felony;
(b) misdemeanor that involved investments or an investment-related business,
fraud, false statement or omissions, wrongful taking of property, bribery, perjury,
counterfeiting, or extortion; or (c) a conspiracy to commit any of these offenses;
2. Is the named subject of a pending criminal proceeding that involves an investment-
related business, fraud, false statements or omissions, wrongful taking of property,
bribery, perjury, forgery, counterfeiting, extortion, or a conspiracy to commit any of
these offenses;
3. Was found to have been involved in a violation of an investment-related statute or
regulation; or
4. Was the subject of any order, judgement or decree permanently or temporarily
enjoining, or otherwise limiting, him from engaging in any investment related
activity, or from violating any investment-related statute, rule, or order.
2
B. Mr. Ventimiglio never had an administrative proceeding before the SEC, any other
federal regulatory agency, any state regulatory agency, or any foreign financial
regulatory authority in which he:
1. Was found to have caused an investment-related business to lose its authorization
to do business; or the subject of an order by the agency or authority;
2. Was found to have been involved in a violation of an investment-related statute or
regulation or was the subject of an order by the agency or authority
(a)denying, suspending or revoking the authorization of the supervised person to
act in an investment-related business; (b) barring or suspending his association
with an investment-related business; (c) otherwise significantly limiting his
investment-related activities; or (d) imposing a civil money penalty of more than
$2,500 on him.
C. Mr. Ventimiglio has never been the subject of a self-regulatory organization (SRO)
proceeding in which he:
1. Was found to have caused an investment-related business to lose its authorization
to do business; or
limited
2. Was found to have been involved in a violation of the SRO’s rules and was: (a)
barred or suspended from membership or from association with other members, or
was expelled
from
from membership; (b) otherwise significantly
investment-related activities; or (c) fined more than $2,500.
D. Mr. Ventimiglio has not been involved in any other hearing or formal adjudication in
which a professional attainment, designation, or license of the supervised person was
revoked or suspended because of a violation of rules relating to professional conduct.
Item 4 - Other Business Activities
Mr. Ventimiglio has a financial affiliated business as an insurance agent and a registered
representative with a broker dealer. Approximately 25% of his time is spent on these
activities. Mr. Ventimiglio is also an investment advisor representative with Nicholas
Ventimiglio, CDFA. Approximately 10% of his time is spent on this activity. He will offer
Clients services from those activities. As an insurance agent, registered representative and
investment advisor representative, he will receive separate yet typical compensation.
These practices represent conflicts of interest because it gives an incentive to recommend
products and services based on the commission or fee amount received. This conflict is
mitigated by disclosures, procedures and the firm’s fiduciary obligation to place the best
interest of the Client first and the Clients are not required to purchase any products or
services. Clients have the option to purchase these products through another insurance
agent, registered representative or investment advisor representative of their choosing.
Item 5 - Additional Compensation
Mr. Ventimiglio receives commissions on the securities and insurance products he sells. He
does not receive any performance-based fees and does not receive any additional
compensation for performing advisory services other than what is disclosed in Item 5 of
Part 2A.
Item 6 - Supervision
Since Mr. Ventimiglio is the Chief Compliance Officer of GTWA, he is solely responsible for
all supervision and monitoring of investment advice offered to Clients. He will adhere to
3
the policies and procedures as described in the firm’s Compliance Manual. He can be
reached at Nick@GivingTreeWealth.com or 844-434-6435.
4
Item 1 Cover Page
S U P E R V I S E D P E R S O N B R O C H U R E
F O R M A D V P A R T 2 B
John Juhan Kim
Office Address:
2603 Camino Ramon #200
San Ramon, CA 94583
Tel: 844-434-6435
Email: john@givingtreewealth.com
Website: www.GivingTreeWealth.com
August 26, 2026
This brochure supplement provides information about John Juhan Kim and supplements the Giving
Tree Wealth Advisors brochure. You should have received a copy of that brochure. Please contact
John Juhan Kim if you did not receive the brochure or if you have any questions about the contents of
this supplement.
A D D I T I O N A L I N F O R M A T I O N A B O U T J O H N J U H A N K I M ( C R D # 2 3 9 9 2 5 7 )
I S A V A I L A B L E O N T H E S E C ’ S W E B S I T E A T W W W . A D V I S E R I N F O . S E C . G O V .
5
Brochure Supplement (Part 2B of Form ADV)
Supervised Person Brochure
Principal Executive Officer – John Juhan Kim
• Year of birth: 1970
Item 2 - Educational Background and Business Experience
Education: Graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of
Arts degree in Biology Pre-Med / Biology
Business Experience:
• Giving Tree Wealth Advisors; Managing Partner/Investment Advisor Representative;
03/2021-Present
• Kim Financial Advisors, Inc.; Owner; 01/2001-Present
•
John J. Kim, Sole Proprietor; Landlord; 01/2000-Present
• Kim Financial Advisors, Inc.; Investment Advisor Representative; 04/2001-04/2023
• LPL Financial LLC; Registered Representative; 09/2014-09/2020
• Financial Telesis Inc.; Registered Representative; 03/2004-09/2014
• North coast Securities Corp.; Registered Representative; 02/2000-03/2004
• The Advisors Group, Inc.; Registered Representative; 07/1995-02/2000
• The Acacia Group; Account Manager; 07/1995-02/2000
• The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company; Not provided; 08/1993-07/1995
• Lincoln Financial Advisors Corporation; Not provided; 08/1993-07/1995
• Lincoln Financial & Insurance Services; Registered Representative; 07/1993-
06/1995
Item 3 - Disciplinary Information
A. Mr. Kim has never been involved in a criminal or civil action in a domestic, foreign or
military court of competent jurisdiction for which he:
1. Was convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contender (“no contest”) to (a) any
felony; (b) misdemeanor that involved investments or an investment-related
business, fraud, false statement or omissions, wrongful taking of property,
bribery, perjury, counterfeiting, or extortion; or (c) a conspiracy to commit any
of these offenses;
2. Is the named subject of a pending criminal proceeding that involves an
investment-related business, fraud, false statements or omissions, wrongful
taking of property, bribery, perjury, forgery, counterfeiting, extortion, or a
conspiracy to commit any of these offenses;
3. Was found to have been involved in a violation of an investment-related statute
or regulation; or
4. Was the subject of any order, judgement or decree permanently or temporarily
enjoining, or otherwise limiting, him from engaging in any investment related
activity, or from violating any investment-related statute, rule, or order.
6
B. Mr. Kim never had an administrative proceeding before the SEC, any other federal
regulatory agency, any state regulatory agency, or any foreign financial regulatory
authority in which he:
1. Was found to have caused an investment-related business to lose its authorization
to do business; or the subject of an order by the agency or authority;
2. Was found to have been involved in a violation of an investment-related statute or
regulation or was the subject of an order by the agency or authority
(a)denying, suspending or revoking the authorization of the supervised person to
act in an investment-related business; (b) barring or suspending his association
with an investment-related business; (c) otherwise significantly limiting his
investment-related activities; or (d) imposing a civil money penalty of more than
$2,500 on him.
C. Mr. Kim has never been the subject of a self-regulatory organization (SRO) proceeding
in which he:
1. Was found to have caused an investment-related business to lose its authorization
to do business; or
limited
2. Was found to have been involved in a violation of the SRO’s rules and was: (a)
barred or suspended from membership or from association with other members, or
was expelled
from
from membership; (b) otherwise significantly
investment-related activities; or (c) fined more than $2,500.
D. Mr. Kim has not been involved in any other hearing or formal adjudication in which a
professional attainment, designation, or license of the supervised person was revoked
or suspended because of a violation of rules relating to professional conduct.
Item 4 - Other Business Activities
Mr. John Kim is the landlord for a rental property owned by John Kim, Sole Proprietor. In
addition, Mr. John Kim is the owner of Kim Financial Advisors, Inc. These are not conflicts
of interest as there are no crossover clients.
Item 5 - Additional Compensation
Mr. Kim receives no additional compensation for advisory services.
Item 6 - Supervision
Mr. Kim is supervised by Mr. Ventimiglio, the Chief Compliance Officer of GTWA, he is solely
responsible for all supervision and monitoring of investment advice offered to Clients. He
will adhere to the policies and procedures as described in the firm’s Compliance Manual.
He can be reached at Nick@GivingTreeWealth.com or 844-434-6435.
7