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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:
175 N. Patrick Blvd.
Suite 170
Brookfield, WI 53045
Tel: 262-792-1111
Fax: 262-792-1110
Email:
Website:
tom@granitefgllc.com
www.GraniteFGLLC.com
M A R C H 1 9 , 2 0 2 5
This brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Granite
Financial Group, LLC. Being registered as a registered 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 262-792-1111. 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.
Additional information about Granite Financial Group, LLC (CRD #168675) is available on the
SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
Item 2: Material Changes
Annual Update
Material Changes since the Last 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.
•
This update is in accordance with the required annual update for Registered Investment
Advisors. Since the last filing of this brochure on February 12, 2024, the following material
changes have been made:
•
Item 4 has been updated to reflect a current assets under management calculation.
Full Brochure Available
Item 5 has had an update to the fee schedule.
This Firm Brochure being delivered is the complete brochure for the Firm.
Item 3: Table of Contents
Form ADV – Part 2A – Firm Brochure
Item 1: Cover Page
Item 2: Material Changes .................................................................................................................... ii
Annual Update ................................................................................................................................................................... ii
Material Changes since the Last Update.................................................................................................................. ii
Item 3: Table of Contents ................................................................................................................... iii
Full Brochure Available .................................................................................................................................................. ii
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
Item 5: Fees and Compensation ....................................................................................................... 4
Client Assets under Management .............................................................................................................................. 4
Method of Compensation and Fee Schedule .......................................................................................................... 4
Client Payment of Fees ................................................................................................................................................... 6
Additional Client Fees Charged ................................................................................................................................... 6
Prepayment of Client Fees ............................................................................................................................................ 6
Item 6: Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management ........................................ 7
External Compensation for the Sale of Securities to Clients ........................................................................... 7
Item 7: Types of Clients ....................................................................................................................... 7
Sharing of Capital Gains ................................................................................................................................................. 7
Description .......................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Item 8: Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss ................................ 7
Account Minimums .......................................................................................................................................................... 7
Methods of Analysis ......................................................................................................................................................... 7
Investment Strategy ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
Item 9: Disciplinary Information ................................................................................................... 10
Security Specific Material Risks .................................................................................................................................. 8
Criminal or Civil Actions ............................................................................................................................................. 10
Administrative Enforcement Proceedings .......................................................................................................... 10
Self- Regulatory Organization Enforcement Proceedings ............................................................................ 10
Item 10: Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations ............................................. 11
Broker-Dealer or Representative Registration ................................................................................................. 11
Futures or Commodity Registration ...................................................................................................................... 11
Material Relationships Maintained by this Advisory Business and Conflicts of Interest ................ 11
Item 11: Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal
Recommendations or Selections of Other Investment Advisors and Conflicts of Interest ............. 11
Trading ................................................................................................................................................... 11
Code of Ethics Description ......................................................................................................................................... 11
Investment Recommendations Involving a Material Financial Interest and Conflict of Interest. 12
Advisory Firm Purchase of Same Securities Recommended to Clients and Conflicts of Interest 12
Client Securities Recommendations or Trades and Concurrent Advisory Firm Securities
Item 12: Brokerage Practices ......................................................................................................... 13
Transactions and Conflicts of Interest .................................................................................................................. 12
Factors Used to Select Broker-Dealers for Client Transactions ................................................................. 13
Item 13: Review of Accounts ........................................................................................................... 13
Aggregating Securities Transactions for Client Accounts ............................................................................. 13
Schedule for Periodic Review of Client Accounts or Financial Plans and Advisory Persons
Involved ............................................................................................................................................................................. 13
Review of Client Accounts on Non-Periodic Basis ........................................................................................... 14
Item 14: Client Referrals and Other Compensation ................................................................ 14
Content of Client Provided Reports and Frequency ........................................................................................ 14
Economic Benefits Provided to the Advisory Firm from External Sources and Conflicts of
Interest ............................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Item 15: Custody .................................................................................................................................. 14
Advisory Firm Payments for Client Referrals .................................................................................................... 14
Item 16: Investment Discretion ..................................................................................................... 15
Account Statements ...................................................................................................................................................... 14
Item 17: Voting Client Securities ................................................................................................... 15
Discretionary Authority for Trading...................................................................................................................... 15
Item 18: Financial Information ...................................................................................................... 17
Proxy Votes ...................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Balance Sheet .................................................................................................................................................................. 17
Financial Conditions Reasonably Likely to Impair Advisory Firm’s Ability to Meet Commitments
to Clients ............................................................................................................................................................................ 17
Bankruptcy Petitions during the Past Ten Years .............................................................................................. 17
Item 4: Advisory Business
Firm Description
Types of Advisory Services
Granite Financial Group, LLC dba Granite Financial Group (“GFG”) was founded in 2013.
The firm is owned by Thomas J. Dornoff – 100%.
ASSET MANAGEMENT
GFG offers discretionary asset management services to advisory Clients on the following
platforms as described below and in Item 5. GFG will offer Clients ongoing asset
management services after 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 GFG discretionary authority to execute selected
investment program transactions as stated within the Investment Advisory Agreement.
GFG also offers discretionary asset management services through the Granite Financial
Group Wrap Program. For more information on this program please see Appendix 1 of this
brochure.
LPL Platform
GFG offers advisory services through certain programs sponsored by LPL Financial (LPL), a
registered investment advisor and broker-dealer. Below is a brief description of each LPL
advisory program available to GFG. For more information regarding the LPL programs,
including more information on the advisory services and fees that apply, the types of
investments available in the programs and the potential conflicts of interest presented by
the programs please see the LPL program documents.
GFG receives compensation as a result of a client’s participation in an LPL program.
Depending on, among other things, the size of the account, changes in its value over time,
the ability to negotiate fees or commissions, and the number of transactions, the amount of
this compensation may be more or less than what GFG would receive if the client
participated in other programs, whether through LPL or another sponsor, or paid
Optimum Market Portfolios Program (OMP)
separately for investment advice, brokerage and other services.
OMP offers clients the ability to participate in a professionally managed asset allocation
program using Optimum Funds Class I shares. Under OMP, the client will authorize LPL on
a discretionary basis to purchase and sell Optimum Funds pursuant to investment
objectives chosen by the client. GFG will assist the client in determining the suitability of
OMP for the client and assist the client in setting an appropriate investment objective. GFG
will have discretion to select a mutual fund asset allocation portfolio designed by LPL
consistent with the client’s investment objective. LPL will have discretion to purchase and
sell Optimum Funds pursuant to the portfolio selected for the client. LPL will also have
authority to rebalance the account.
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Personal Wealth Portfolios Program (PWP)
PWP offers clients an asset management account using asset allocation model portfolios
designed by LPL. GFG will have discretion for selecting the asset allocation model portfolio
based on client’s investment objective. GFG will also have discretion for selecting third
party money managers (PWP Advisors) or mutual funds within each asset class of the
model portfolio. LPL will act as the overlay portfolio manager on all PWP accounts and will
be authorized to purchase and sell on a discretionary basis mutual funds and equity and
Model Wealth Portfolios Program (MWP)
fixed income securities.
MWP offers clients a professionally managed mutual fund asset allocation program. GFG
will obtain the necessary financial data from the client, assist the client in determining the
suitability of the MWP program and assist the client in setting an appropriate investment
objective. GFG will initiate the steps necessary to open an MWP account and have
discretion to select a model portfolio designed by LPL’s Research Department consistent
with the client’s stated investment objective. LPL’s Research Department is responsible for
selecting the mutual funds within a model portfolio and for making changes to the mutual
funds selected. The client will authorize LPL to act on a discretionary basis to purchase and
sell mutual funds (including in certain circumstances exchange traded funds) and to
liquidate previously purchased securities. The client will also authorize LPL to effect
rebalancing for MWP accounts. MWP makes available model portfolios designed by
strategists other than LPL’s Research Department. As a result, GFG will have discretion to
Manager Access Select Program (MAS)
choose among the available models designed by LPL and outside strategists.
MAS provides clients access to the investment advisory services of professional portfolio
management firms for the individual management of client accounts. We will assist client in
identifying a third-party portfolio manager (Portfolio Manager) from a list of Portfolio
Managers made available by LPL Financial. The Portfolio Manager manages client’s assets
on a discretionary basis. We will provide initial and ongoing assistance regarding the
Portfolio Manager selection process. A minimum account value of $100,000 is required for
Manager Access Select, however, in certain instances, the minimum account size may be
lower or higher.
ERISA PLAN SERVICES
GFG provides service to qualified retirement plans including 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans,
Limited Scope ERISA 3(21) Fiduciary.
pension and profit-sharing plans, cash balance plans, and deferred compensation plans.
GFG may serve as a limited scope ERISA 3(21)
fiduciary that can advise, help and assist plan sponsors with their investment decisions on
a non-discretionary basis. As an investment advisor GFG 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 GFG can help the plan sponsor delegate liability by
following a diligent process.
1.
•
Fiduciary Services are:
Provide non-discretionary investment advice to the Client about asset classes and
investment alternatives available for the Plan in accordance with the Plan’s investment
policies and objectives. Client will make the final decision regarding the initial selection,
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•
retention, removal and addition of investment options. GFG 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 non-discretionary investment advice to the Plan Sponsor with respect to the
selection of a qualified default investment alternative 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 alternatives available to them under the Plan. Client understands GFG’s
assistance in education of the Plan participants shall be consistent with and within the
scope of the Department of Labor’s definition of investment education (Department of
Labor Interpretive Bulletin 96-1). As such, GFG is not providing fiduciary advice as
defined by ERISA 3(21)(A)(ii) to the Plan participants. Advisor 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.
GFG may provide these services or, alternatively, may arrange for the Plan’s other
providers to offer these services, as agreed upon between Advisor and Client.
3.
GFG 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.
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not
Excluded Assets will
be included in calculation of Fees paid to GFG on the ERISA
Agreement. Specific services will be outlined in detail to each plan in the 408(b)2
disclosure.
Client Tailored Services and Client Imposed Restrictions
FINANCIAL PLANNING AND CONSULTING
If financial planning services are applicable, a thorough review of all applicable topics
including but not limited to, Wills, Estate Plans and Trusts, Investments, Taxes, Qualified
Plans, Insurance, Retirement Income, Social Security, Legacy Planning and College Planning
will be reviewed. If a conflict of interest exists between the interests of GFG and the
interests of the Client, the Client is under no obligation to act upon GFG’s recommendation.
If the Client elects to act on any of the recommendations, the Client is under no obligation
to effect the transaction through GFG. Financial plans will be completed and delivered
inside of sixty (60) days contingent upon timely delivery of all required documentation.
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.
Wrap Fee Programs
Agreements may not be assigned without written Client consent.
Client Assets under Management
GFG sponsors the Granite Financial Group Wrap Fee Program. For more information on this
program please see Appendix 1 of this brochure.
GFG has the following assets under management:
Discretionary Amounts: Non-discretionary Amounts:
$170,600,000
$0
Date Calculated:
December 31, 2024
Item 5: Fees and Compensation
Method of Compensation and Fee Schedule
ASSET MANAGEMENT
GFG offers discretionary direct asset management services to advisory Clients on the
following platforms as described below. GFG also offers discretionary asset management
services through the Granite Financial Group Wrap Program. For more information on this
program please see Appendix 1 of this brochure.
Optimum Market Portfolios Program, Personal Wealth Portfolios Program, Model Wealth
LPL Platform
Portfolios Program (MWP), and Manager Asset Select Program (MAS).
Assets Under Management
$0 - $500,000
The next $500,001 - $1, 000,000
The next $1,000,001 - $2,500,000
The next $2,500,001 - $5,000,000
Amounts over $5,000,000
Annual Fee
1.00%
0.85%
0.55%
0.45%
0.35%
Quarterly Fee
0.25%
0.2125%
0.1375%
0.1125%
0.0875%
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These are blended fee schedules; the asset management fee is calculated by applying
different rates to different portions of the portfolio. GFG may group certain related Client
accounts for the purposes of achieving the minimum account size and determining the
annualized fee.
For example, a Client with $1,000,000 under management in Manager Asset Select Program
would pay $9,250 on an annual basis.
First $500,000 x .010= $5,000
Next $500,000 x .0085= $4,250
The annual fee may be negotiable based upon certain criteria (e.g., historical relationship,
type of assets, anticipated future earning capacity, anticipated future additional assets,
dollar amounts of assets to be managed, related accounts, account composition,
negotiations with Clients, etc.).
Our firm’s fees are billed on a pro-rata annualized basis quarterly in advance based on the
value of your account on the last day of the previous quarter. Management fees will be
deducted from the client’s managed account, upon a signed Account Application Form. The
ultimate management fee is indicated on the Account Application Form.
LPL serves as program sponsor, investment adviser and broker-dealer for the LPL advisory
programs. Our firm and LPL may share in the account fee and other fees associated with
program accounts. Our firm does not have the authority to instruct LPL Financial to change
or deduct fees without written client consent. As a part of your regular monthly statement
from LPL Financial the Activity Summary section shows all fees deducted from the clients’
accounts.
ERISA PLAN SERVICES
The annual fees are based on the market value of the Included Assets and will not exceed
.75%. The annual fee is negotiable and is 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, GFG 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 to GFG 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 will have fees deducted from
Plan Assets. GFG does not reasonably expect to receive any additional compensation,
directly or indirectly, for its services under this Agreement. If additional compensation is
received, GFG will disclose this compensation, the services rendered, and the payer of
compensation. GFG will offset the compensation against the fees agreed upon under the
Agreement.
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FINANCIAL PLANNING AND CONSULTING
GFG charges either an hourly fee or fixed fee for financial planning. Prior to the planning
process the Client will be provided an estimated plan fee. Services are completed and
delivered inside of sixty (60) days contingent upon timely delivery of all required
documentation. Client may cancel within five (5) business days of signing Agreement with
no obligation and without penalty. If the Client cancels after five (5) business days, any
unearned fees will be refunded to the Client, or any unpaid earned fees will be due to GFG.
GFG reserves the right to waive the fee should the Client implement the plan through GFG.
HOURLY FEES
Financial Planning Services are offered based on an hourly fee of $350 per hour.
FIXED FEES
Financial Planning Services are offered based on a flat fee between $1,500 and
$10,000.
Fees for financial plans are:
Client Payment of Fees
Due upon delivery of the completed plan.
Investment management fees are billed quarterly in advance, depending on the platform
used, meaning that fees are charged to your account either before or after the billing
period. Fees are usually deducted from a designated Client account to facilitate billing. The
Client must consent in advance to direct debiting of their investment account.
Fees for financial plans are:
Due upon delivery of the completed plan.
Additional Client Fees Charged
GFG, in its sole discretion, charge a lesser investment advisory fee based upon certain
criteria (e.g., historical relationship, type of assets, anticipated future earning capacity,
anticipated future additional assets, dollar amounts of assets to be managed, related
accounts, account composition, negotiations with Clients, etc.).
Custodians may charge transaction fees on purchases or sales of certain mutual funds,
equities, and exchange-traded funds. These charges may include mutual fund transaction
fees, postage and handling and miscellaneous fees.
Prepayment of Client Fees
For more details on the brokerage practices, see Item 12 of this brochure.
GFG does not require any prepayment of fees of more than $1,200 per Client and six
months or more in advance.
Investment management fees are billed quarterly in advance.
Fees for ERISA 3(21) services may be billed in advance.
If the Client cancels after five (5) business days, any unearned fees will be refunded to the
Client, or any unpaid earned fees will be due to GFG.
- 6 -
External Compensation for the Sale of Securities to Clients
Mr. Dornoff receives external compensation for the sale of securities to clients as registered
representatives of LPL Financial, a broker-dealer. Approximately 15% of his time is spent
in this practice and less than 20% of his total revenue is generated as registered
representatives. He will offer clients products from this activity.
This represents a conflict of interest because it gives an incentive to recommend products
based on the commission received. As registered representatives, Mr. Dornoff does not
charge advisory fees for the services offered through LPL Financial. This conflict is
mitigated by disclosures, procedures, and the firm’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 of their choosing.
Item 6: Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management
Sharing of Capital Gains
Fees are not based on a share of the capital gains or capital appreciation of managed
securities.
GFG does not use a performance-based fee structure because of the conflict of interest.
Performance based compensation may create an incentive for GFG to recommend an
investment that may carry a higher degree of risk to the Client.
Item 7: Types of Clients
Description
GFG generally provides investment advice to individuals, high net worth individuals, trusts,
estates, or charitable organizations, corporations or business entities.
Account Minimums
Client relationships vary in scope and length of service.
GFG may require a minimum to open an account in their wrap fee program for certain
investment portfolios. In addition, some platforms used by GFG may require minimums to
open accounts with them. In certain instances, the minimum account size may be lowered
or waived.
Item 8: Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
Methods of Analysis
Security analysis methods may include fundamental analysis, technical analysis, charting,
and cyclical analysis. Investing in securities involves risk of loss that Clients should be
prepared to bear. Past performance is not a guarantee of future returns.
Fundamental analysis concentrates on factors that determine a company’s value and
expected future earnings. This strategy would normally encourage equity purchases in
stocks that are undervalued or priced below their perceived value. The risk assumed is that
the market will fail to reach expectations of perceived value.
- 7 -
Technical analysis attempts to predict a future stock price or direction based on market
trends. The assumption is that the market follows discernible patterns and if these patterns
can be identified then a prediction can be made. The risk is that markets do not always
follow patterns and relying solely on this method may not take into account new patterns
that emerge over time.
Charting analysis strategy involves using and comparing various charts to predict long and
short-term performance or market trends. The risk involved in using this method is that
only past performance data is considered, without using other methods to crosscheck data.
Using charting analysis without other methods of analysis would be making the
assumption that past performance will be indicative of future performance. This may not
be the case.
Cyclical analysis assumes that the markets react in cyclical patterns which, once identified,
can be leveraged to provide performance. The risks with this strategy are twofold: 1) the
markets do not always repeat cyclical patterns; and 2) if too many investors begin to
implement this strategy, then it changes the very cycles these investors are trying to
exploit.
In developing a financial plan for a Client, GFG’s analysis may include cash flow analysis,
investment planning, risk management, tax planning and estate planning. Based on the
information gathered, a detailed strategy is tailored to the Client’s specific situation.
Investment Strategy
The main sources of information include financial newspapers and magazines, annual
reports, prospectuses, and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
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 GFG. Each Client executes a Client profile form or similar form
that documents their objectives and their desired investment strategy.
Security Specific Material Risks
Other strategies may include long-term purchases and short-term purchases.
• Market Risk
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 GFG:
•
: The prices of securities held by mutual funds, ETFs, individual
securities, or bonds 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
Interest-rate Risk
sharp declines in market value.
: 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.
- 8 -
Inflation Risk
•
• Currency 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.
• Reinvestment 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.
• Liquidity 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.
• Management 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.
• Equity 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.
• Fixed Income Risk:
Equity securities tend to be more volatile than other investment choices.
The value of an individual mutual fund, security 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.
•
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
Investment Companies Risk:
nominal interest rate is the sum of a real interest rate and an expected inflation rate.
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. Because the mutual fund or ETF manager is being
compensated from the internal expenses to conduct research and monitor
performance, the fee or a portion of the fee the clients pay may be redundant. 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
- 9 -
• Foreign Securities Risk:
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.
• Long-term purchases
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.
• Short-term purchases
: Long-term investments are those vehicles purchased with the
intention 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.
• Trading risk
: 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.
: Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. There is no
assurance that the investment objective of any fund or investment will be achieved.
Item 9: Disciplinary Information
Criminal or Civil Actions
Administrative Enforcement Proceedings
GFG and its management have not been involved in any criminal or civil action.
Self- Regulatory Organization Enforcement Proceedings
GFG and its management have not been involved in administrative enforcement
proceedings.
GFG and its management have not been involved in legal or disciplinary events that are
material to a Client’s or prospective Client’s evaluation of GFG or the integrity of its
management.
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Item 10: Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
Broker-Dealer or Representative Registration
Futures or Commodity Registration
GFG is not registered as a broker- dealer, however Mr. Dornoff is a registered
representative of LPL Financial, a FINRA/SIPC broker-dealer.
Material Relationships Maintained by this Advisory Business and Conflicts of Interest
Neither GFG 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.
Mr. Dornoff has financial affiliated business as both a registered representative and
insurance agent with LPL Financial. Approximately 15% of his time is spent on these
activities. He will offer Clients services from those activities. As a registered representative
and/or insurance agent, he may receive separate yet typical compensation.
These practices represent conflicts of interest because it gives an incentive to recommend
products based on the commission 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. Clients have the
option to purchase these products through another registered representative or insurance
Recommendations or Selections of Other Investment Advisors and Conflicts of Interest
agent of their choosing.
GFG does not select or recommend other investment advisors.
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 GFG have committed to a Code of Ethics (“Code”). The purpose of our Code
is to set forth standards of conduct expected of GFG affiliated persons and addresses
conflicts that may arise. The Code defines acceptable behavior for affiliated persons of GFG.
The Code reflects GFG 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.
GFG’s policy prohibits any person from acting upon or otherwise misusing non-public or
inside information. No advisory representative or other affiliated person, officer or director
of GFG 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.
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GFG’s Code is based on the guiding principle that the interests of the Client are our top
priority. GFG’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.
GFG will provide a copy of the Code of Ethics to any Client or prospective Client upon
Investment Recommendations Involving a Material Financial Interest and Conflict of
request.
Interest
GFG 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
GFG 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
GFG with copies of their brokerage statements.
The Chief Compliance Officer of GFG is Thomas J. Dornoff. 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
GFG does not maintain a firm proprietary trading account and does not have a material
financial interest in any securities being recommended and therefore no conflicts of
interest exist. However, affiliated persons may buy or sell securities at the same time they
buy or sell securities for Clients. In order to mitigate conflicts of interest such as front
running, affiliated persons are required to disclose all reportable securities transactions as
well as provide GFG with copies of their brokerage statements.
The Chief Compliance Officer of GFG is Thomas J. Dornoff. He reviews all employee trades
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.
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Item 12: Brokerage Practices
Factors Used to Select Broker-Dealers for Client Transactions
• Directed Brokerage
GFG does not have discretionary authority to determine the broker/dealer to be used or set
commission rates for transactions. GFG may recommend the use of a particular broker-
dealer . GFG will select appropriate brokers based on a number of factors including but not
limited to their relatively low transaction fees and reporting ability. GFG 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 GFG.
• Best Execution
GFG does not allow directed brokerage accounts.
• Soft Dollar Arrangements
Investment advisors who manage or supervise Client portfolios have a fiduciary
obligation of best execution. 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 effected, the ability to affect 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. The firm does not receive any portion of the trading fees.
Aggregating Securities Transactions for Client Accounts
GFG does not receive soft dollar benefits.
GFG is authorized in its discretion to aggregate purchases and sales and other transactions
made for the account with purchases and sales and transactions in the same securities for
other Clients of GFG. All Clients participating in the aggregated order shall receive an
average share price with all other transaction costs shared on a pro-rated basis.
Item 13: Review of Accounts
Schedule for Periodic Review of Client Accounts or Financial Plans and Advisory
Persons Involved
Account reviews are performed quarterly by the Chief Compliance Officer of GFG. Account
reviews are performed more frequently when market conditions dictate. Reviews of Client
accounts include, but are not limited to, a review of Client documented risk tolerance,
adherence to account objectives, investment time horizon, and suitability criteria,
reviewing target bans of each asset class to identify if there is an opportunity for
rebalancing, and reviewing accounts for tax loss harvesting opportunities.
Financial plans generated are updated as requested by the Client and pursuant to a new or
amended agreement, GFG suggests updating at least annually.
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Review of Client Accounts on Non-Periodic Basis
Content of Client Provided Reports and Frequency
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.
Clients receive written account statements no less than quarterly for managed accounts.
Account statements are issued by GFG’s custodian. Client receives confirmations of each
transaction in account from Custodian and an additional statement during any month in
which a transaction occurs.
Item 14: Client Referrals and Other Compensation
Economic Benefits Provided to the Advisory Firm from External Sources and Conflicts
of Interest
Advisory Firm Payments for Client Referrals
Mr. Dornoff receives external compensation for the sale of securities to Clients as a
registered representatives of LPL Financial, a broker-dealer.
GFG does not compensate for Client referrals.
Item 15: Custody
Account Statements
All assets are held at a qualified custodian, which means the custodian provides account
statements directly to Clients at their address of record or via electronic delivery with
Client consent at least quarterly. Clients are urged to compare the account statements
received directly from the custodian to the performance report prepared by GFG. Clients
are urged to report any discrepancies to GFG.
GFG is deemed to have constructive custody because advisory fees are directly deducted
from Client’s account by the custodian on behalf of GFG and due to its third-party money
movement authority. GFG and its qualified custodian meet the following seven (7)
conditions in order to avoid maintaining full custody:
1.
The Client provides an instruction to the qualified custodian, in writing, that includes
the Client’s signature, the third party’s name, and either the third party’s address or
the third party’s account number at a custodian to which the transfer should be
directed.
2.
The Client authorizes GFG, in writing, either on the qualified custodian’s form or
separately, to direct transfers to the third party either on a specified schedule or
from time to time.
3.
The Client’s qualified custodian performs appropriate verification of the instruction,
such as a signature review or other method to verify the Client’s authorization, and
provides a transfer of funds notice to the Client promptly after each transfer.
4.
The Client has the ability to terminate or change the instruction to the Client’s
qualified custodian.
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5.
GFG has no authority or ability to designate or change the identity of the third party,
the address, or any other information about the third party contained in the Client’s
instruction.
6.
GFG maintains records showing that the third party is not a related party of GFG or
located at the same address as GFG.
7.
The Client’s qualified custodian sends the Client, in writing, an initial notice
confirming the instruction and an annual notice reconfirming the instruction.
All assets are held at qualified custodians, which means the custodians provide account
statements directly to Clients at their address of record at least quarterly. Clients are urged
to compare the account statements received directly from their custodians to any
documentation or reports prepared by GFG.
GFG is deemed to have constructive custody solely because advisory fees are directly
deducted from Client’s accounts by the custodian on behalf of GFG.
Item 16: Investment Discretion
Discretionary Authority for Trading
GFG requires discretionary authority to manage securities accounts on behalf of Clients.
GFG 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.
GFG allows Client’s to place certain restrictions, as outlined in the Client’s Investment
Policy Statement or similar document. Such restrictions could include only allowing
purchases of socially conscious investments. These restrictions must be provided to GFG in
writing.
The Client approves the custodian to be used and the commission rates paid to the
custodian. GFG does not receive any portion of the transaction fees or commissions paid by
the Client to the custodian.
Item 17: Voting Client Securities
Proxy Votes
Granite Financial Group, LLC dba Granite Financial Group (“GFG”) will vote proxies on
behalf of a client if, in its investment advisory agreement (“IAA”) with GFG, the client has
delegated to GFG the authority to vote proxies on its behalf. GFG has adopted and
implemented these policies and procedures (“Proxy Voting Procedures”) to ensure that,
where it has voting authority, proxy matters are handled in the best interest of clients, in
accordance with GFG’s fiduciary duties and SEC rule 206(4)-6 under the Investment
Advisers Act of 1940. In addition to SEC requirements governing advisers, its Proxy Voting
Procedures reflect the long-standing fiduciary standards and responsibilities for ERISA
accounts set out in Department of Labor Bulletin 94-2, 29 C.F.R. 2509.94-2 (July 29, 1994).
GFG utilizes the services of a third party Proxy Voting Service to administer the vote on
proxies for those accounts for which GFG has voting authority. The Proxy Voting Service
has a copy of GFG’s Proxy Voting Guidelines and votes on each proxy based on GFG’s Proxy
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Voting Guidelines. GFG generally follows its Proxy Voting Guidelines unless GFG determines
that the client’s best interests are served by voting otherwise.
The following policies will apply when voting proxies on behalf of accounts for which GFG
has voting authority.
Client’s Best Interest. GFG’s Proxy Voting Procedures are designed and implemented in a
way that is reasonably expected to ensure that proxy matters are conducted in the best
interest of clients. When considering the best interest of clients, GFG has determined that
this means the best investment interest of its clients as shareholders of the issuer. GFG has
established its Procedures to assist it in making its proxy voting decisions with a view to
enhancing the value of its clients’ interests in an issuer over the period during which it
expects its clients to hold their investments. GFG will vote against proposals that it believes
could adversely impact the current or potential market value of the issuer’s securities
during the expected holding period.
Client Proxy Voting Policies. Rather than delegating proxy voting authority to GFG, a client
may (1) retain the authority to vote proxies on securities in its account, (2) delegate voting
authority to another party or (3) instruct GFG to vote proxies according to a policy that
differs from that of GFG. GFG will honor any of these instructions if the client includes the
instruction in writing in its IAA or in a written instruction from a person authorized under
the IAA to give such instructions. If GFG incurs additional costs or expenses in following
any such instruction, GFG may request payment of such additional costs or expenses from
the client.
Stated Policies. These policies identify issues where GFG will (1) generally vote in favor of a
proposal – FOR; (2) generally vote against a proposal – AGAINST; (3) specifically consider
its vote for or against a proposal – Case By Case (CBC). However, these policies are
guidelines and each vote may be cast differently than the stated policy, taking into
consideration all relevant facts and circumstances at the time of the vote.
Abstain from Voting. Our policy is to vote on issues and not to abstain from voting on issues
presented unless the client’s best interest requires abstention. This may occur from time to
time, for example, where the impact of the expected costs involved in voting exceeds the
expected benefits of the vote such as where foreign corporations follow share blocking
practices or where proxy material is not available in English.
Oversight. All issues presented for shareholder vote will be considered under the oversight
of GFG’s Proxy Voting Designee. All non-routine issues will be directly considered by the
Proxy Voting Designee and, when necessary, the equity analyst following the company
and/or the portfolio manager of an account holding the security, and will be voted in the
best investment interests of the client. All routine for and against issues will be voted
according to GFG’s policy approved by GFG’s Proxy Voting Designee unless special factors
require that they be considered by GFG’s CCO and, when necessary, the equity analyst
following the company and/or the portfolio manager of an account holding the security.
GFG’s Proxy Voting Designee has established these routine policies in what it believes are
the client’s best interests.
Availability of Procedures. Upon request, GFG provides clients with a copy of its Proxy
Voting Guidelines, as updated from time to time.
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Disclosure of Vote. Upon request, a client can obtain information from GFG on how its
proxies were voted. Any client interested in obtaining this information can request a copy
from their GFG representative.
GFG has established several policies to ensure that proxy votes are voted in its clients’ best
interest and are not affected by any conflicts of interest. All conflicts are mitigated by the
fact that GFG has a fiduciary responsibility to act in the best interest of its clients. Clients
are not required to authorize GFG to vote proxies on their behalf.
Item 18: Financial Information
Balance Sheet
A balance sheet is not required to be provided because GFG does not serve as a custodian
for Client funds or securities and GFG does not require prepayment of fees of more than
$1,200 per Client and six months or more in advance.
Financial Conditions Reasonably Likely to Impair Advisory Firm’s Ability to Meet
Commitments to Clients
Bankruptcy Petitions during the Past Ten Years
GFG has no condition that is reasonably likely to impair our ability to meet contractual
commitments to our Clients.
GFG has not had any bankruptcy petitions in the last ten years.
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