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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:
1200 Corporate Center Way,
Suite 204
Wellington, FL 33414
Tel: 561-650-8061
Fax: 561-828-2335
Website:
www.mariacawealth.com
M A Y 7 , 2 0 2 5
This brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Mariaca
Wealth Management, 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 561-650-8061. 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 Mariaca Wealth Management, LLC. (CRD #164001) is available
on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
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Mariaca Wealth Management, LLC.
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.
•
Since the last filing on February 6, 2025, the following changes have been made:
•
Item 4 assets under management have been updated.
Full Brochure Available
ERISA fees have been updated in Item 5.
This Firm Brochure being delivered is the complete brochure for the Firm.
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Mariaca Wealth Management, LLC.
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 ............................................................................... 3
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 ................................................................................................................................................... 5
Additional Client Fees Charged ................................................................................................................................... 6
Prepayment of Client Fees ............................................................................................................................................ 6
Item 6: Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management ........................................ 6
External Compensation for the Sale of Securities to Clients ........................................................................... 6
Item 7: Types of Clients ....................................................................................................................... 6
Sharing of Capital Gains ................................................................................................................................................. 6
Description .......................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Item 8: Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss ................................ 6
Account Minimums .......................................................................................................................................................... 6
Methods of Analysis ......................................................................................................................................................... 6
Investment Strategy ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
Item 9: Disciplinary Information ................................................................................................... 11
Security Specific Material Risks .................................................................................................................................. 9
Criminal or Civil Actions ............................................................................................................................................. 11
Administrative Enforcement Proceedings .......................................................................................................... 11
iii
Item 10: Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations ............................................. 11
Self- Regulatory Organization Enforcement Proceedings ............................................................................ 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 ................................................................................................................................................... 12
Code of Ethics Description ......................................................................................................................................... 12
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 .................................................................................................................. 13
Factors Used to Select Broker-Dealers for Client Transactions ................................................................. 13
Item 13: Review of Accounts ........................................................................................................... 14
Aggregating Securities Transactions for Client Accounts ............................................................................. 14
Schedule for Periodic Review of Client Accounts or Financial Plans and Advisory Persons
Involved ............................................................................................................................................................................. 14
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 .................................................................................................................................. 15
Advisory Firm Payments for Client Referrals .................................................................................................... 15
Item 16: Investment Discretion ..................................................................................................... 15
Account Statements ...................................................................................................................................................... 15
Item 17: Voting Client Securities ................................................................................................... 15
Discretionary Authority for Trading...................................................................................................................... 15
Item 18: Financial Information ...................................................................................................... 15
Proxy Votes ...................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Balance Sheet .................................................................................................................................................................. 15
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Item 4: Advisory Business
Firm Description
Mariaca Wealth Management, LLC. (“MWM”) was founded in 2010.
MWM is a fee-based investment management firm. An evaluation of each Client's initial
situation is provided to the Client, often in the form of a net worth statement, risk analysis
or similar document. Periodic reviews are also communicated to provide reminders of the
specific courses of action that need to be taken. More frequent reviews occur but are not
necessarily communicated to the Client unless immediate changes are recommended.
Types of Advisory Services
Other professionals (e.g., lawyers, accountants, tax preparers, insurance agents, etc.) are
engaged directly by the Client on an as-needed basis and may charge fees of their own.
Conflicts of interest will be disclosed to the Client in the event they should occur.
ASSET MANAGEMENT
MWM is in the business of managing investment portfolios for our Clients. MWM provides
investment management services to Clients using model asset allocation portfolios. Each
model portfolio is designed to meet a particular investment goal. After reviewing a Client's
financial situation and investment goals, we identify one of several proprietary model
portfolios appropriate for the Client. We then modify this model portfolio, as needed, to
address specific needs or restrictions of the Client.
In this regard, we seek to build well-balanced and globally diversified portfolios based on
academic research with the goal of providing Clients with excellent risk-adjusted returns.
During our data-gathering process, we determine the Client's individual objectives, time
horizons, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs. We may also review and discuss a Client's
prior investment history, as well as family composition and background. Through these
personal discussions in which goals and objectives based on a Client's particular
circumstances are established, we develop a Client's personal investment policy or
investment plan and create and manage a portfolio based on that policy or plan. MWM
provides continuous advice to a Client regarding the investment of Client funds, holdings
and the overall allocation strategy based on the individual needs of the Client. Please see
Item 8 for complete descriptions of our model portfolios.
We manage Client investments on a discretionary basis only. For these accounts, we will
implement transactions without seeking prior Client consent. Clients may impose
reasonable restrictions on investing in certain securities, types of securities, or industry
sectors.
Our investment recommendations are not limited to any specific product or service offered
by a broker dealer or insurance company and Client portfolios will generally include "no-
load" or "load-waived" mutual funds and exchange traded funds (ETFs). We frequently
invest Clients in mutual funds offered by Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA). DFA-
sponsored mutual funds follow a passive asset class investment philosophy with low
holdings turnover. Consequently, the DFA fund fees are generally lower than fees and
expenses charged by other types of funds. Although not part of our overall investment
strategy, Client portfolios may also include some individual equity and fixed income
securities.
When deemed appropriate for the Client, MWM may hire Sub-Advisors to manage all or a
portion of the assets in the Client account. MWM has full discretion to hire and fire Sub-
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Advisors as we deem suitable. Sub-Advisors will maintain the models or investment
strategies agreed upon between Sub-Advisor and MWM. Sub-Advisors execute trades on
behalf of MWM in Client accounts. MWM will be responsible for the overall direct
relationship with the Client. MWM retains the authority to terminate the Sub-Advisor
relationship at MWM’s discretion.
• Retirement and income planning:
In addition to managing your assets, we may also provide specific financial consulting
advice to Clients, at no additional charge, in the following areas:
• Education funding for children and grandchildren:
We analyze current strategies and investment
plans to help the Client achieve his or her retirement goals. We analyze the Client's
income tax and spending and planning for past, current and future years; then
illustrate the impact of various investments on the Client's current income tax and
future tax liability.
We analyze the Client's
• Current investment review and analysis:
income and develop a strategy of saving and investing to plan for college expenses
and loan repayments.
We analyze investment alternatives and
• Insurance coverage review and needs analysis:
their effect on the Client's portfolio.
We review existing policies to
ensure proper coverage for life, health, disability, long-term care, liability, umbrella,
• Charitable gift planning:
home and automobile.
We will discuss with the Client their charitable needs and
• Legacy planning review and development:
wishes to determine which organizations and causes matter to the Client while
analyzing income streams and valuable tax benefits. We will work collaboratively
with the Client's legal and tax professionals to implement the Client's charitable gift
plan.
We assist the Client in assessing and
developing long-term strategies, including as appropriate, living trusts, wills, review
estate tax, powers of attorney, and asset protection plans.
RETIREMENT PLAN SERVICES
MWM 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.
Limited Scope ERISA 3(21) Fiduciary.
MWM may act as a 3(21) advisor:
MWM 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 MWM 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 MWM 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,
retention, removal and addition of investment options. MWM 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
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•
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
MWM’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, MWM 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.
MWM 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.
MWM has no responsibility to provide services related to the following types of assets
•
(“Excluded Assets”):
•
•
•
•
•
•
not
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.
be included in calculation of Fees paid to MWM on the Retirement
Excluded Assets will
Plan Agreement.
Client Tailored Services and Client Imposed Restrictions
Specific services will be outlined in detail to each plan in the 408(b)2 disclosure.
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
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Wrap Fee Programs
restrictions on investing in certain securities or types of securities. Agreements may not be
assigned without written Client consent.
Client Assets under Management
MWM does not sponsor any wrap fee programs.
MWM has the following assets under management:
Discretionary Amounts: Non-discretionary Amounts:
$205,171,804
$0
Date Calculated:
April 17, 2025
Item 5: Fees and Compensation
Method of Compensation and Fee Schedule
ASSET MANAGEMENT
MWM offers discretionary direct asset management services to advisory Clients. MWM
charges an annual investment advisory fee based on the total assets under management as
follows:
Assets Under Management
First $1,000,000
Next $1,000,000 to $2,500,000
Next $2,500,000 to $5,000,000
Next 5,000,000 to $10,000,000
$10,000,000 to $25,000,000
Over $25,000,000
Annual Fee
1.25%
1.00%
0.80%
0.70%
0.60%
0.50%
This is a blended fee schedule, meaning the asset management fee is calculated by applying
different rates to different portions of the portfolio as stated above. MWM may group
certain related Client accounts for the purposes of achieving the minimum account size and
determining the annualized fee. However, once the account reaches $25,000,000 in value,
the entire portfolio will be charged the same fee.
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.). Fees are billed quarterly in advance based on the amount of
assets managed as of the close of business on the last business day of the previous quarter.
Lower fees for comparable services may be available from other sources. Clients may
terminate their account within five (5) business days of signing the Investment Advisory
Agreement with no obligation and without penalty. Clients may terminate advisory
services with thirty (30) days written notice. For accounts opened or closed mid-billing
period, unearned fees will be refunded to the Client. Client shall be given thirty (30) days
prior written notice of any increase in fees. Any increase in fees will be acknowledged in
writing by both parties before any increase in said fees occurs.
MWM may also utilize the services of a Sub-Advisor to manage Clients’ investment
portfolios by executing a Sub-Advisor agreement with other registered investment advisor
firms. When using Sub-Advisors, the Client will pay additional fees that range from 0-.23%
depending on the account value, investment style and types of securities used. The Sub-
Advisor fees will be disclosed to and acknowledged by the Client in MWM’s Investment
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Advisory Agreement. The Sub-Advisor’s fees and the custodian’s fees are not included in
the fees charged by MWM.
For accounts utilizing Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA) as the Sub-Advisor, the Sub-
Advisor fees will be billed based on an average daily balance quarterly in arrears. DFA will
directly deduct their portion of the fee separately from MWM.
RETIREMENT PLAN SERVICES
The annual fees are based on the market value of the Included Assets and will be as follows:
Assets Under Management
$0to $7,500,000
$7,500,000 to $10,000,000
$10,000,000 to $15,000,000
$15,000,000 to $20,000,000
$20,000,000 to $25,000,000
$25,000,000 to $30,000,000
$30,000,000 to $40,000,000
$40,000,000 to $50,000,000
$50,000,000 to $60,000,000
$60,000,000 to $70,000,000
$70,000,000 to $80,000,000
$80,000,000 to $90,000,000
$90,000,000 and Over
Annual Fee
0.50%
0.40%
0.30%
0.25%
0.20%
0.18%
0.15%
0.12%
0.11%
0.10%
0.09%
0.08%
0.072%
The annual fee is negotiable and may 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, MWM 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.
Client Payment of Fees
The fee schedule, which includes compensation of MWM for the services is described in
detail in Schedule A of the Retirement 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. MWM does not reasonably expect to
receive any additional compensation, directly or indirectly, for its services under this
Agreement. If additional compensation is received, MWM will disclose this compensation,
the services rendered, and the payer of compensation. MWM will offset the compensation
against the fees agreed upon under this Agreement.
Investment management fees are billed quarterly in advance, meaning that we invoice you
before 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.
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Additional Client Fees Charged
MWM, in its sole discretion, may waive its minimum fee and/or 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.).
Prepayment of Client Fees
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. For more details on the brokerage
practices, see Item 12 of this brochure.
MWM 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 management fees are billed quarterly in advance. If the Client cancels after five
(5) business days, any unearned fees will be refunded to the Client.
MWM does not receive any external compensation for the sale of securities to Clients, nor
do any of the investment advisor representatives of MWM.
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.
MWM does not use a performance-based fee structure or side-by-side management
because of the conflict of interest. Side-by-side management refers to the practice of
managing accounts that are charged performance-based fees while at the same time
managing accounts that are not charged performance-based fees. Performance based
compensation may create an incentive for MWM to recommend an investment that may
carry a higher degree of risk to the Client.
Item 7: Types of Clients
Description
Account Minimums
MWM generally provides investment advice to individuals, high net worth individuals,
trusts, estates, or charitable organizations, corporations or business entities. Client
relationships vary in scope and length of service.
MWM does not have an account minimum.
Item 8: Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
Methods of Analysis
Security analysis methods may include fundamental analysis and technical analysis.
Investing in securities involves risk of loss that Clients should be prepared to bear. Past
performance is not a guarantee of future returns.
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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.
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.
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 MWM. Each Client executes a Client profile form or similar form
that documents their objectives and their desired investment strategy.
After reviewing a Client's financial situation and investment goals, we identify one of
several proprietary model portfolios appropriate for the Client. We then modify this model
portfolio, as needed, to address specific needs or restrictions of the Client. The model
Fixed
portfolios are:
: This portfolio is designed to seek income and protection of principal by investing in
governmental and corporate fixed income securities. The asset allocation target and
security selection for this model will depend on market conditions. Fixed income holdings
will generally be between 95-100% of the portfolio
(with a beginning target allocation of
approximately 100%). This portfolio is geared toward an individual that is unwilling or
unable to accept risk/volatility and is more concerned about current income than
outpacing inflation. It is also appropriate for an individual that has five or fewer years
Fixed Plus - Conservative:
before the money is needed.
This portfolio is designed to seek income and protection of
principal by investing in governmental and corporate fixed income securities, but it also
focuses a portion of the overall portfolio on equity holdings. The asset allocation target and
security selection for this model will depend on market conditions. Fixed income holdings
will generally be between 80-90% (with a beginning target allocation of approximately
90%). Equity holdings including US, international, emerging markets, and real estate, will
generally be between 10-20% (with a beginning target allocation of approximately 10%).
This portfolio is geared toward a cautious investor that is willing and able to accept a
conservative level of risk/volatility but is still concerned about current income and
intermediate-term capital preservation. It is also appropriate for an individual that has five
Conservative – Conservative Plus
or fewer years before the money from investments is needed.
: This portfolio is designed to seek income and
protection of principal by investing in governmental and corporate fixed income securities,
but it also focuses a portion of the overall portfolio on equity holdings. The asset allocation
target and security selection for this model will depend on market conditions. Fixed income
holdings will generally be between 70-80% (with a beginning target allocation of
approximately 80%). Equity holdings, including US, international, emerging markets, and
real estate, will generally be between 20-30% (with a beginning target allocation of
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approximately 20%). This portfolio is geared toward a cautious investor that is willing and
able to accept a conservative level of risk/volatility, but is still concerned about current
Moderate – Moderate Plus
income and intermediate term capital preservation.
: This portfolio is designed to seek income and protection of
principal by investing in governmental and corporate fixed income securities, but also
focuses a portion of the overall portfolio on equity holdings. The asset allocation target and
security selection for this model will depend on market conditions. Fixed income holdings
will generally be between 50-60% (with a beginning target allocation of approximately
60%). Equity holdings, including US, international, emerging markets, and real estate will
generally be between 40-50% (with a beginning target allocation of approximately 40%).
This portfolio is geared toward an investor that is willing and able to accept a moderate
Moderate Plus – Balanced 60/40:
level of risk/volatility and is concerned about keeping up with inflation.
This portfolio is designed to seek total return
consisting of capital appreciation and current income. The asset allocation target and
security selection for this model will depend on market conditions. Fixed income holdings
will generally be between 40-50% (with a beginning target allocation of approximately
50%). Equity holdings, including US, international, emerging markets, and real estate, will
generally be between 50-60% (with a beginning target allocation of approximately 50%).
This portfolio is geared toward an investor that is willing and able to accept a moderate
level of risk/volatility and is concerned about keeping up with inflation and intermediate-
Balanced 60/40 – Balanced Plus
term capital appreciation.
: This portfolio is designed to seek total return consisting
of capital appreciation and current income. The asset allocation target and security
selection for this model will depend on market conditions. Fixed income holdings will
generally be between 30-40% (with a beginning target allocation of approximately 40%).
Equity holdings, including US, international, emerging markets, and real estate generally be
between 60-70% (with a beginning target allocation of approximately 60%). This portfolio
is geared toward an investor that is willing and able to accept a standard level of
risk/volatility and is concerned about keeping up with inflation and intermediate-term
Balanced Plus - Aggressive
appreciation.
: This portfolio is designed to seek capital appreciation by an
investor that is willing and able to accept a higher level of risk/volatility by investing in
equity holdings while also offering a portion of income-oriented investments. This model’s
asset allocation target and security selection will depend on market conditions. Fixed
income holdings will generally be between 20-30% (with a beginning target allocation of
approximately 30%). Equity holdings, including US, international, emerging markets, and
real estate will generally be between 70-80% (with a beginning target allocation of
approximately 70%). This portfolio is geared toward an experienced equity investor that is
willing and able to accept a higher level of risk/volatility in order to potentially achieve a
high level of return. It is also appropriate for an individual that anticipates ten years or
Aggressive – Aggressive Plus
more before the money is needed.
: This portfolio is designed to seek capital appreciation by
investing in equity holdings while also offering a small portion of income-oriented
investments. The asset allocation target and security selection for this model will depend
on market conditions. Fixed income holdings will generally be between 10-20% (with a
beginning target allocation of approximately 20%). Equity holdings, including US,
international, emerging markets, and real estate, will generally be between 80-90% (with a
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beginning target allocation of approximately80%). This portfolio is geared toward an
experienced equity investor that is willing and able to accept a high level of risk/volatility
in order to potentially achieve a high level of return. It is also appropriate for an individual
Equity
that anticipates ten years or more before the money from investments is needed.
Security Specific Material Risks
: This portfolio is designed to seek high returns and capital appreciation by investing
in all equity holdings. The asset allocation target and security selection for this model will
depend on market conditions. Equity holdings, including US, international, emerging
markets, and real estate, will generally be between 95-100% (with a beginning target
allocation of approximately 100%). This portfolio is geared toward an experienced equity
investor that is willing and able to accept a high level of risk/volatility in order to
potentially achieve a high level of return.
• 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 MWM:
•
: The prices of securities held by mutual funds 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
Interest-rate Risk
able to tolerate potentially 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
Inflation Risk
less attractive, causing their market values to decline.
• 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.
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
- 9 -
• Fixed Income Risk:
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.
• Long-term purchases
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.
• Short-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.
• 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.
•
The risks associated with utilizing Sub-Advisors include:
o
Manager Risk
•
Sub-Advisor fails to execute the stated investment strategy
o
Business Risk
Sub-Advisor has financial or regulatory problems
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•
The specific risks associated with the portfolios of the Sub-Advisor’s which is
disclosed in the Sub-Advisor’s Form ADV Part 2.
Item 9: Disciplinary Information
Criminal or Civil Actions
Administrative Enforcement Proceedings
MWM and its management have not been involved in any criminal or civil action.
Self- Regulatory Organization Enforcement Proceedings
MWM and its management have not been involved in administrative enforcement
proceedings.
MWM 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 MWM or the integrity of its
management.
Massachusetts law requires disclosure that information on disciplinary history and the
registration of MWM and its associated persons may be obtained by contacting the SEC's
Office of Investor Education and Advocacy at (202) 942-8090, Option 6. Disciplinary
history may also be obtained from the Massachusetts Securities Division at (617) 727-
3548, and if asked, MWM and its associated persons must also disclose the history.
Item 10: Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
Broker-Dealer or Representative Registration
Futures or Commodity Registration
MWM is not registered as a broker- dealer and no affiliated representatives of MWM are
registered representatives of a broker-dealer.
Material Relationships Maintained by this Advisory Business and Conflicts of Interest
Neither MWM 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. Mariaca does not have any conflicts of interest or outside business activities at this
Recommendations or Selections of Other Investment Advisors and Conflicts of Interest
time.
MWM may also utilize the services of a Sub-Advisor to manage Clients’ investment
portfolios. Sub-Advisors will maintain the models or investment strategies agreed upon
between Sub-Advisor and MWM. Sub-Advisors execute all trades on behalf of MWM in
Client accounts. MWM will be responsible for the overall direct relationship with the Client.
MWM retains the authority to terminate the Sub-Advisor relationship at MWM’s discretion.
In addition to the authority granted to MWM, Clients will grant MWM full discretionary
authority and authorizes MWM to select and appoint one or more independent investment
advisors (“Advisors”) to provide investment advisory services to Client without prior
consultation with or the prior consent of Client. Such Advisors shall have all of the same
authority relating to the management of Client’s investment accounts as is granted to MWM
in the Agreement. MWM ensures that before selecting other advisors for Client that the
other advisors are properly licensed or registered as an investment advisor.
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Item 11: Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions
and Personal Trading
Code of Ethics Description
include employees and/or
independent
The affiliated persons (affiliated persons
contractors) of MWM have committed to a Code of Ethics (“Code”). The purpose of our
Code is to set forth standards of conduct expected of MWM affiliated persons and addresses
conflicts that may arise. The Code defines acceptable behavior for affiliated persons of
MWM. The Code reflects MWM 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.
MWM’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 MWM 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.
MWM’s Code is based on the guiding principle that the interests of the Client are our top
priority. MWM’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.
MWM 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
MWM 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
MWM 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
MWM with copies of their brokerage statements.
The Chief Compliance Officer of MWM is Sergio Mariaca. 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 MWM receive
preferential treatment over associated persons’ transactions.
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Client Securities Recommendations or Trades and Concurrent Advisory Firm
Securities Transactions and Conflicts of Interest
MWM 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 MWM with copies of their brokerage statements.
The Chief Compliance Officer of MWM is Sergio Mariaca. 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 MWM receive preferential
treatment over associated persons’ transactions.
Item 12: Brokerage Practices
Factors Used to Select Broker-Dealers for Client Transactions
MWM 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. MWM will select
appropriate brokers based on a number of factors including but not limited to their
relatively low transaction fees and reporting ability. MWM 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 MWM. MWM does not receive any portion of the trading fees.
• Directed Brokerage
MWM will recommend the use of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.
• Best Execution
In circumstances where a Client directs MWM to use a certain broker-dealer, MWM
still has a fiduciary duty to its Clients. The following may apply with Directed
Brokerage: MWM's inability to negotiate commissions, to obtain volume discounts,
there may be a disparity in commission charges among Clients and conflicts of
interest arising from brokerage firm referrals.
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 affected, 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. MWM does not receive any portion of the trading fees.
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• Soft Dollar Arrangements
The Securities and Exchange Commission defines soft dollar practices as
arrangement under which products or services other than execution services are
obtained by MWM from or through a broker-dealer in exchange for directing Client
transactions to the broker-dealer. As permitted by Section 28(e) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, MWM receives economic benefits as a result of commissions
generated from securities transactions by the broker-dealer from the accounts of
MWM. These benefits include both proprietary research from the broker and other
research written by third parties.
A conflict of interest exists when MWM receives soft dollars. This conflict is
mitigated by the fact that MWM has a fiduciary responsibility to act in the best
interest of its Clients and the services received are beneficial to all Clients.
MWM utilizes the services of custodial broker dealers. Economic benefits are
received by MWM which would not be received if MWM did not give investment
advice to Clients. These benefits include: A dedicated trading desk, a dedicated
service group and an account services manager dedicated to MWM's accounts,
ability to conduct "block" Client trades, electronic download of trades, balances and
positions, duplicate and batched Client statements, and the ability to have advisory
Aggregating Securities Transactions for Client Accounts
fees directly deducted from Client accounts.
MWM 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 MWM. 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
Review of Client Accounts on Non-Periodic Basis
Account reviews are performed quarterly by the Chief Compliance Officer of MWM.
Account reviews are performed more frequently when market conditions dictate. Financial
plans generated are updated as requested by the Client and pursuant to a new or amended
agreement, MWM suggests updating at least annually.
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 MWM’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
MWM receives additional economic benefits from external sources as described above in
Item 12.
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Advisory Firm Payments for Client Referrals
MWM does not compensate for Client referrals.
Item 15: Custody
Account Statements
All assets are held at qualified custodians, which means the custodians provide account
statements directly to Clients either electronically or 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 MWM.
MWM is deemed to have constructive custody solely because advisory fees are directly
deducted from Client’s accounts by the custodian on behalf of MWM.
Item 16: Investment Discretion
Discretionary Authority for Trading
MWM requires discretionary authority to manage securities accounts on behalf of Clients.
MWM 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.
MWM 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 MWM
in writing.
The Client approves the custodian to be used and the commission rates paid to the
custodian. MWM 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
MWM does not vote proxies on securities. Clients are expected to vote their own proxies.
The Client will receive their proxies directly from the custodian of their account or from a
transfer agent.
When assistance on voting proxies is requested, MWM will provide recommendations to
the Client. If a conflict of interest exists, it will be disclosed to the Client.
Item 18: Financial Information
Balance Sheet
A balance sheet is not required to be provided because MWM does not serve as a custodian
for Client funds or securities and MWM does not require prepayment of fees of more than
$1,200 per Client and six months or more in advance.
MWM has no condition that is reasonably likely to impair our ability to meet contractual
commitments to our Clients.
Neither MWM nor its management has had any bankruptcy petitions in the last ten years.
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