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Pathworks Financial, Inc.
43155 Main Street, Ste. 212
Novi, MI 48375
(248) 946-4515
www.pathworksfinancial.com
Scott@pwfin.com
January 20, 2026
FORM ADV PART 2A
DISCLOSURE BROCHURE
This disclosure brochure provides clients with information about the qualifications and
business practices of Pathworks Financial, Inc., a registered investment adviser. It also
describes the services Pathworks Financial, Inc. provides as well as background information
on those individuals who provide investment advisory services on behalf of Pathworks
Financial, Inc. Please contact Pathworks Financial, Inc. at (248) 946-4515 if you have any
questions about the contents of this disclosure brochure.
The information in this disclosure brochure has not been approved or verified by the U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority. Registration does not
imply that Pathworks Financial, Inc. or any individual providing investment advisory
services on behalf of Pathworks Financial, Inc. possess a certain level of skill or training.
Information on the disciplinary history and the registration of Pathworks Financial, Inc. and
its associated persons is available on the Internet at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov/IAPD/. You can
search this site by a unique identifying number, known as a CRD number. The CRD number
for Pathworks Financial, Inc. is 138393.
Item 2 – Material Changes
This item discusses specific material changes to the Pathworks Financial, Inc. disclosure
brochure. Pursuant to current regulations, Pathworks Financial, Inc. will ensure that clients
receive a summary of any material changes to this and subsequent disclosure brochures
within 120 days of the close of its fiscal year which occurs at the end of the calendar year.
Pathworks Financial, Inc. may further provide other ongoing disclosure information about
material changes as necessary.
Pathworks Financial, Inc. will also provide clients with a new disclosure brochure as
necessary based on changes or new information, at any time, without charge.
Pathworks Financial, Inc. has made the following material change to this disclosure
brochure since the date of its last annual amendment filing (January 23, 2025):
Item 4 – Advisory Services / Item 5 – Fees and Compensation
Pathworks Financial, Inc. amended Items 4 and 5 to include a description of, and fees
associated with, its new family office services.
Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
Pathworks Financial, Inc. amended Item 8 to include a new investment strategy and
concomitant risk factors to reflect that we may recommend clients invest in alternative
investments, including digital assets.
Item 12 – Brokerage Practices
Pathworks Financial, Inc. has disclosed that it uses Fidelity Digital Asset Services, LLC as
custodian for digital assets.
Item 3 – Table of Contents
Item 4 - Advisory Business ......................................................................................................... 1
Item 5 - Fees And Compensation .............................................................................................. 5
Item 6 - Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management .................................. 12
Item 7 - Types of Clients .......................................................................................................... 12
Item 8 - Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss ........................... 13
Item 9 - Disciplinary History ................................................................................................... 21
Item 10 - Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations ........................................... 21
Item 11 - Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal
Trading ....................................................................................................................................... 22
Item 12 - Brokerage Practices ................................................................................................ 23
Item 13 - Review Of Accounts ................................................................................................ 25
Item 14 - Client Referrals And Other Compensation .......................................................... 26
Item 15 - Custody ..................................................................................................................... 26
Item 16 - Investment Discretion ............................................................................................ 27
Item 17 - Voting Client Securities .......................................................................................... 27
Item 18 - Financial Information ............................................................................................. 27
Item 19 – Additional Information .......................................................................................... 28
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Item 4 - Advisory Business
A. The Company
Pathworks Financial, Inc. (“Pathworks” or the “firm”), a Michigan corporation founded in
2005, has been registered with U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) since
March 2021. Pathworks was registered with the State of Michigan from January 2006 to
March 2021. Prior to January 2023, the firm was known as Scott Smith Financial, Inc.
The principal owner of Pathworks is D. Scott Smith.
B. Advisory Services
Pathworks offers the following services to individuals, including high net worth individuals,
pension and profit-sharing plans, trusts, small businesses and estates:
Asset Management Program
The Pathworks Asset Management Program is a wrap fee asset allocation program
sponsored by Pathworks (the “SAM Wrap Program”). The client retains Pathworks and a
Pathworks investment adviser representative (“Adviser Representative”) for the purpose of
opening an investment advisory account and participating in the SAM Wrap Program.
Pathworks will invest participating client assets in one or more diversified asset allocation
models primarily consisting of open-end investment companies (commonly referred to as
mutual funds) and closed-end investment companies (commonly referred to as exchange-
traded funds or ETFs in a broad range of asset classes and market sectors, including
domestic stocks, international stocks, global bonds, and alternative investments in exchange
for an all-inclusive asset-based wrap fee (“Wrap Fee”). When market circumstances warrant,
Pathworks may also invest in other types of securities.
Neither Pathworks nor any of its affiliates serve as investment adviser to any of the
investment company products included in portfolio assets. SAM Wrap Program portfolios
range from conservative to aggressive. The client’s Adviser Representative assists the client
in selecting the asset allocation model that best meets the client’s needs. Clients’ grant
Pathworks limited discretionary authority in the management of their SAM Wrap Program
portfolios and individual portfolios may or may not represent the overall objectives of the
client’s total investment assets.
The Adviser Representative will consider the client’s financial situation, goals and
investment objectives, risk tolerance, time horizon, liquidity needs, and other relevant
factors, as described by the client in selecting the client’s asset allocation model. Pathworks
does not provide tax or legal advice. The client is instructed to seek advice from a tax or legal
adviser before making an investment decision. The client should inform his or her Adviser
Representative if changes occur in investment objectives or financial situation.
All clients participating in SAM Wrap Program are provided with and urged to review the
Pathworks Wrap Fee Program Brochure.
Investment Management Services
Pathworks, through its Adviser Representatives, offers investment management services
based on the individual objectives of each specific client portfolio. Pathworks offers clients
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ongoing investment management services determined through individual investment goals,
time horizons, objectives and risk tolerance. Investment strategies, investment selection,
assets allocation, portfolio monitoring and the overall investment program will be based on
the above factors. Investment management services include, among other things, basic
financial planning consisting of giving advice regarding asset allocation and the selection of
investments. Pathworks provides investment management on both a discretionary and non-
discretionary basis. Clients will be required to give Pathworks authority to manage the
client's assets in accordance with what Pathworks deems to be in the client's best interest
based on the client’s investment objectives and guidelines. Clients will retain individual
ownership of all securities in their account.
As part of this service, each client portfolio is tailored to their particular investment needs
and circumstances. This includes allocating assets based on the client’s investment needs
and a risk strategy (from conservative to aggressive), which is selected in conjunction with
the client and incorporated into the account agreement. The available risk strategies
correlate to asset allocation models developed by Pathworks based on target allocations for
various asset classes and sub-classes. Pathworks selects investments for the client’s account
that are consistent with the selected risk strategy and that pass a series of quantitative and
qualitative filters. Depending on the specific engagement, the types of securities that the a
client’s particular Adviser Representative may purchase and sell including, but are not
limited to, mutual funds, ETFs, equities, and fixed income securities.
Financial Planning Services
If a client desires to obtain financial planning apart from the basic planning services
provided as part of portfolio management services, Pathworks also provides financial
planning services as a stand-alone service. Clients will receive a written financial plan,
providing the client with a detailed outline designed to achieve their stated financial goals
and objectives.
In general, the plan will address any or all of the following:
• Personal: Family records, budgeting, personal liability, estate information and
financial goals.
• Tax and Cash Flow: Income tax spending analysis and planning for past and future
years.
• Death and Disability: Cash needs at death, income needs of surviving dependents,
and estate planning.
• Retirement: Strategies and investment plans to help client achieve their retirement
goals.
•
Investments: Analysis of investment alternatives and their effect on a client’s
portfolio.
Information on clients will be gathered by in-depth personal interviews and a review of
personal financial information. Gathering data concerning current financial status, future
requirements, risk appetite and goals is essential. Based upon this thorough review, a
written plan is prepared for the client and it is recommended that the client review this plan
with tax accountants, attorneys and other professional service providers.
Should a client choose to implement the financial planning recommendations made by
Pathworks, Pathworks may recommend its own services or that of other professionals (i.e.,
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attorney, accountant, insurance agent, and/or stockbroker). Clients are advised that a
conflict of interest exists if Pathworks recommends its own services. The client is under no
obligation to act upon any of the recommendations made by Pathworks under a financial
planning engagement and/or engage the services of any such recommended professional,
including Pathworks or its Adviser Representatives. The client retains absolute discretion
over all such implementation decisions and is free to accept or reject any recommendation
made by Pathworks or its Adviser Representatives. Pathworks shall cooperate with any
attorney, accountant, broker or other adviser chosen by the client with regard to
implementation of any such recommendations.
Retirement Plan Services
Pathworks-RP provides both fiduciary and non-fiduciary services as a consultant to plan
sponsors, named fiduciaries, plan trustees, and plan committees relative to employee benefit
plans, including, but not limited to, 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, defined benefit plans, profit-
sharing plans, money purchase pension plans and similar plans offered by sponsoring
entities to their employees (the “Plan”). In providing services to a plan and/or its
participants, Pathworks acts as a non-discretionary fiduciary of the Plan as defined in
Section 3(21) under ERISA.
As part of these services, Pathworks will typically advise the plan fiduciaries on matters
related to the Plan. These consulting services, some of which are discussed below, may be
provided separately or in combination with one another, and may involve the coordination of
multiple vendors and/or third-party advisors to the Plan, depending on the needs of the
sponsor. The specific details of any engagement to provide consulting services are agreed
upon in writing prior to commencement of the engagement and are subject to the terms of
the written investment consulting and advisory agreement. Pathworks may consult on a
variety of Plan matters, including, but not limited to:
• Plan governance issues, policies and procedures, board resolutions and the
development or review of an Investment Policy Statement.
• Plan service provider reviews, evaluations and searches.
Investment options: searches, recommendations, monitoring and review
•
• Employee education by providing general information on the funds available under
the plan and other general investment information aimed at helping participants
make better choices for themselves from among the alternatives available under the
plan.
• Fee benchmarking;
• Fiduciary file development and record keeping.
Pathworks may also provide other information aimed at assisting Plan sponsors or trustees
in fulfilling their obligations to the plan. For example: information on pending or recent
legislative changes that may impact the Plan, Plan participants and beneficiaries.
Strategic Cash Management
The Strategic Cash Management service is designed to provide businesses and individuals
with a greater return on their cash reserves through an actively managed strategy that uses,
either independently or in combination, treasuries, corporate bonds, corporate notes,
certificates of deposit and money market funds.
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Estate Planning Services
Pathworks offers support for estate planning through Estate Guru, LLC, an online third-
party estate planning preparation service (“Estate Guru”), to help clients prepare estate
planning documents. Through Estate Guru, clients can have trusts, wills, and other estate
planning documents prepared by licensed, local attorneys. Pathworks does not provide estate
planning advice and only assists clients with the Estate Guru, discovery process and
notarizes the client’s completed documents. Clients cannot directly engage Estate Guru for
estate planning services without using the services of our firm.
After client requests that Pathworks provide estate planning services, Pathworks will
conduct a client interview to gather data that will be forwarded to Estate Guru. Estate Guru
will then prepare the estate planning documents strictly using the data gathered by
Pathworks. Pathworks is not a licensed attorney and will be giving no legal advice as part of
the engagement. Because Estate Guru will be producing an estate plan based on the
information provided to Estate Guru by Pathworks, it is essential that the client provide
Pathworks with accurate and complete information.
Family Office Services
Pathworks offers clients a broad range of Family Office Services -- as further described below
– to families, individuals, and institutions. These Family Office Services include advice
pertaining to asset allocation, portfolio construction, financial planning, family governance
and succession planning, investment manager selection, estate planning, insurance (life,
health, disability) consulting, cash flow forecasting, and charitable gifting strategies.
Additionally, Pathworks provides its clients with consolidated asset and investment portfolio
reporting. Pathworks provides strategic input to clients in tax and estate planning decisions
– primarily related to our clients achieving their investment planning objectives in the most
tax-efficient manner possible. However, in doing so, Pathworks does not act as a CPA or
attorney in the implementation or oversight of a tax or estate plan or strategy.
Each of our clients is served by the entire Pathworks team and is supported by our in-house
financial analysts and operations team. If a Family Office client retains Pathworks to
manage their investment portfolio on a discretionary or non-discretionary basis, such client
will need to separately elect to receive Investment Management Services in their advisory
agreement. While each of these services is available on a stand-alone basis, certain Family
Office Services may also be rendered in conjunction with investment portfolio management
as part of a comprehensive wealth management engagement.
In performing these services, Pathworks is not required to verify any information received
from the client or from the client’s other professionals (e.g., attorneys, accountants, etc.) and
is expressly authorized to rely on such information. Clients are advised that it remains their
responsibility to promptly notify Pathworks of any change in their financial situation or
investment objectives for the purpose of reviewing, evaluating or revising Pathworks’
recommendations and/or services.
Family Office Services are generally offered to clients with at least $25 million in assets
under management or advisement, although Pathworks reserves the right, in its sole
discretion, to accept clients that do not meet this threshold based on the complexity and
scope of services required.
C. Client Tailored Services and Client Imposed Restrictions
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Pathworks’ investment management services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each
client. In order to provide appropriately individualized services, Pathworks’ Adviser
Representatives will work with the client to obtain information regarding the client’s
financial circumstances, investment objectives, overall financial condition, income and tax
status, personal and business assets, risk profile and other information regarding the client’s
financial and investment needs.
At least annually, an Adviser Representative will review with clients their financial
circumstances, investment objectives and risk profile. In order for Pathworks to provide
effective investment advisory services, it is critical that clients provide accurate and complete
information to Pathworks and inform Pathworks anytime such information needs to be
updated or anytime there is a change in their financial circumstances, investment objectives
and/or risk profile.
Generally, clients are permitted to impose reasonable restrictions on investing in certain
securities or types of securities in their advisory accounts, provided, however, that some
restrictions may not be accommodated when utilizing Exchange Traded Funds, mutual funds
or with respect to certain third-party investment managers. In addition, a restriction request
may not be honored if it is fundamentally inconsistent with Pathworks’ investment
philosophy, runs counter to the client’s stated investment objectives, or would prevent
Pathworks from properly servicing client accounts.
D. Wrap Fee Programs
As detailed in the section above and in Pathworks’ Wrap Fee Program Brochure, Pathworks
offers the SAM Wrap Program. Clients in the SAM Wrap Program pay a single annualized
fee, based upon a percentage of the market value of all of their SAM Wrap Program assets,
for participation in the SAM Wrap Program. The SAM Wrap Program may cost clients more
or less than purchasing such services separately. The wrap fee includes the Pathworks
management fee, trading costs, and annual custodial fees if any. Transaction fees relating to
the execution of securities transactions within the client’s account are paid by Pathworks.
Clients that participate in the SAM Wrap Program will be given the Pathworks Wrap Fee
Brochure as part of their initial meeting with Pathworks if the Adviser Representative
determines that the SAM Wrap Program is the best fit for their needs.
E. Assets Under Management
As of December 31, 2025, Pathworks has the following assets under management:
Total Assets Under Management
Discretionary Assets
Non-Discretionary Assets
$279,258,481.00
$187,629,653.00
$91,628,828.00
Item 5 - Fees And Compensation
A. Advisory Fees
Asset Management Program Fees
For its services provided pursuant to the SAM Wrap Program, Pathworks receives a wrap fee
based on the value of assets under management (the “Wrap Fee”). The amount of the fee will
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be set out in the specific client agreement executed by the client at the time the relationship
is established.
The Wrap Fee is set according to the following tiered fee schedule:
For the Portion of the Account that is: Annual Fee
Up to $250,000
1.5%
$250,001 to $500,000
1.25%
$500,001 to $1,000,000
1.00%
$1,000,001 to $3,000,000
0.75%
Above $3,000,000
Negotiable
The Wrap Fee is based on the average quarterly account balance managed during the
calendar quarter. Quarterly Wrap Fees deducted from the clients' account by the custodian
will be outlined in Pathworks’ fee invoice as fees are withdrawn. The first payment is
calculated based on the number of days assets are placed in the account during a calendar
quarter. Generally, Wrap Fees are deducted from the client’s account no later than the
fifteenth (15th) day after the end of each quarter, in arrears. If an account is terminated
prior to the end of a calendar quarter, the terminating client will pay the Wrap Fees up to
the termination date. Clients who cancel services within five business days of the contract
date will not be charged the Wrap Fee.
Investment Management Fees
For its investment management services, Pathworks receives a management fee typically
based on the value of assets under management (the “Management Fee”). The amount of the
Management Fee will be set out in the specific client agreement executed by the client at the
time the relationship is established. The Management Fee is set according to the following
tiered fee schedule:
For the Portion of the Account that is: Annual Fee
$0 to $250,000
1.6%
$251,000 to $500,000
1.5%
$500,001 to $1,000,000
1.00%
$1,000,001 to $3,000,000
0.75%
Above $3,000,000
Negotiable
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Management Fees are based on the average quarterly account balance managed during the
calendar quarter. Quarterly Management Fees deducted from the clients' account by the
custodian will be outlined in Pathworks’ fee invoice as fees are withdrawn. The first
payment is calculated based on the number of days assets are placed in the account during a
calendar quarter. Generally, Management Fees are deducted from the client’s account no
later than the fifteenth (15th) day after the end of each quarter, in arrears. If an account is
terminated prior to the end of a calendar quarter the terminating client will pay
Management Fees up to the termination date. Clients who cancel services within five
business days of the contract date will not be charged the Management Fee.
Pathworks Financial Planning Services Fees
Depending upon the scope of the engagement and specific requests by the client, Pathworks
will charge a flat fee ranging from $795 to $2,500 (the “Financial Planning Fee”). The
Financial Planning Fee will be negotiated prior to contracting with the client. The total cost
of Financial Planning services will depend on the nature and complexity of each client's
circumstances and the size of the financial plan. An estimate for total hours will be
determined at the start of the advisory relationship.
Fifty percent (50%) of the Financial Planning Fee is due upon inception of the advisory
relationship, with the balance payable upon completion of the financial planning service.
Typically, the financial plan will be presented to the client within 90 days of the contract
date, provided that all information needed to prepare the financial plan has been promptly
provided by the client.
The client may terminate its financial planning arrangement at any time, in writing, and
will only be charged a portion of the Financial Planning Fee based upon a pro-rated
calculation related to the time and expense expended by Pathworks. Pathworks typically
waives any financial planning fees for investment management and advisory clients. Clients
who cancel services within five business days of the contract date will not be charged the
Financial Planning Fee. The Financial Planning Fee is payable by check only.
Pathworks Retirement Plan Services Fees
For its Retirement Plan Services, Pathworks is paid a fee based on a percentage of assets in
the plan the “Retirement Plan Fee”), in accordance with the following tiered fee schedule:
For the Portion of the Account that is: Annual Fee
$0 to $250,000
1.25%
$251,000 to $500,000
0.95%
$500,001 to $1,000,000
0.75%
$1,000,001 to $3,000,000
0.55%
Above $3,000,000
0.50%
The annual Retirement Plan Fee is set each year based on the market value of the Plan
assets on December 1st of the preceding year. Notification of the current year’s annual
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Retirement Plan Fee will be communicated to the trustee in writing by December 31st of the
previous year. The Retirement Plan Fee is payable in arrears based on the average quarterly
account balance managed during the calendar quarter. The Retirement Plan Fee is billed
quarterly and deducted from the client's account by the custodian and are outlined in
Pathworks’ fee invoice. The first payment is calculated based on the number of days assets
are placed in the account during a calendar quarter. Generally, the Retirement Plan Fee is
deducted from the client’s accounts no later than the fifteenth (15th) day after the end of
each quarter, in arrears. If an account is terminated prior to the end of a calendar quarter
the terminating client will pay the Retirement Plan Fee up to the termination date. Clients
who cancel services within five business days of the contract date will not be charged the
Retirement Plan Fee.
Strategic Cash Management
The fee for Strategic Cash Management service is 0.65% of the cash under management. The
Strategic Cash Management fee is payable in arrears based on the average quarterly account
balance managed during the calendar quarter.
Estate Planning Services
For clients who solely engage Pathworks for estate planning support, Pathworks will charge
a fee of $350 to $1,500, based on the type of estate planning service needed. Basic planning
will start at $350 per person ($700 for a married couple) for a basic will, power of attorney
and health care directive. More complex planning, involving the creation of trusts (in
addition to what is provided in the basic planning package) will start at $1,500.
Family Office Services
Pathworks charges fixed, hourly or asset-based fees for providing Family Office Services.
Fees may be applied on a standalone basis, or in conjunction with Investment Management
Fees. Fees are negotiable, and each client’s specific Family Office Fee schedule is included as
part of the advisory agreement signed by Pathworks and the client.
Annual asset-based Family Office Fees are generally 0.65% Fixed fees generally range from
$150,000 to $300,000, depending upon the scope and complexity of the services and the
professional rendering of the family office services.
The annual asset-based Family Office Fee is prorated and charged quarterly, in arrears,
based upon the average quarterly account balance managed during the calendar quarter.
Margin or other portfolio loan debit balances, if applicable, do not reduce the billable value of
the account. If assets are deposited into or withdrawn from an account after the inception of
a billing period, the fee payable with respect to such assets is not adjusted to reflect the
interim change in portfolio value. If an account is terminated during a calendar quarter, fees
will be adjusted pro rata based upon the number of calendar days in the calendar quarter
that the investment management agreement was effective. Because fees are charged in
arrears, the client will not be due a refund.
The terms and conditions of the family office engagement are set forth in the advisory
agreement signed by the client.
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B. Payment Method
Direct Debiting
Each quarter, Pathworks will notify the client’s qualified custodian of the amount of the fee
due and payable to Pathworks pursuant to the applicable Pathworks’ fee schedule and
advisory agreement. The qualified custodian will not validate or check Pathworks’ fees, its
corresponding calculation or the assets on which the fee is based unless the client has
retained their services to do so. With the client’s pre-approval, the qualified custodian will
“deduct” the fee from the client’s account or, if the client has more than one account, from the
account(s) the client has designated to pay Pathworks’ advisory fees.
Each month, the client will receive a statement directly from the qualified custodian showing
all transactions, positions and credits/debits into or from the client’s account. Statements
sent after quarter end will also reflect the advisory fee paid by the client to Pathworks.
Billing
Clients will be billed for the financial planning services fee upon conclusion of the service. All
fees are due and payable upon receipt of the invoice or as negotiated and documented in the
client’s advisory agreement.
C. Additional Information
Fee Only
Pathworks is compensated solely by fees paid by its clients and does not accept commissions
or compensation from any other source (i.e., mutual funds, insurance products or any other
investment product).
Fees Negotiable
Pathworks does not normally consider its fee to be negotiable for accounts of $5 million or
less, provided, however, that Pathworks reserves the right in its sole discretion and based on
factors Pathworks deems relevant, to agree to a fee for any particular client that varies from
the fee set forth in the tables above and which may be lower or higher than fees charged to
another client with a similar sized account. In certain situations, minimum account fees may
apply that may exceed the fees in the schedule above. Relevant factors that may lead to a
variation in fees include, for example, the size and scope of the client’s overall relationship
with Pathworks and the fees that the client’s account was charged at another firm prior to
transferring to Pathworks.
Mutual Fund Fees and Exchange Traded Funds
All fees paid to Pathworks for investment advisory services are separate and distinct from
the expenses charged by mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) to their
shareholders, if applicable. These fees and expenses are described in each fund’s or ETF’s
prospectus. These fees and expenses will generally be used to pay management fees for the
funds, other fund expenses, account administration (e.g., custody, brokerage and account
reporting), and a possible distribution fee. A client could invest in these products directly,
without the services of Pathworks, but would not receive the services provided by Pathworks
which are designed, among other things, to (i) assist the client in determining which
products or services are most appropriate to each client’s financial situation and objectives
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and (ii) determining when such buying or selling is appropriate. Accordingly, the client
should review both the fees charged by the fund[s] and/or ETFs and the fees charged by
Pathworks to fully understand the total amount of fees to be paid by the client.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Pathworks’ fees with respect to each client account does not include certain other charges
and expenses, including (a) brokerage charges, which are paid on a transactional basis, (b)
dealer mark-ups or mark-downs on securities purchased or sold for an account through third-
party dealers and (c) taxes. Please see Item 12 of this brochure for detailed information about
Pathworks’ brokerage practices.
Professional Fees
Pathworks’ fees do not include the services of any professional engaged by a client, which will
be billed directly by such professional(s).
D. Termination and Refunds
A client has the right to terminate their investment advisory relationship with Pathworks
without penalty within five (5) business days after entering into an agreement with
Pathworks. In addition, a client has the right to cancel their advisory agreement at any time
and for any reason upon written notice to Pathworks. If an account is terminated during a
calendar quarter, fees will be adjusted pro rata based upon the number of calendar days in
the calendar quarter that the investment management agreement was effective. Because
fees are charged in arrears, the client will not be due a refund.
E. Additional Compensation
Pathworks and its associates are engaged for fee-only services and an effort is made to
recommend “no-load”
investments whenever possible. Pathworks does not accept
commissions or compensation from any other source (e.g., mutual funds or any other
investment product) and does not charge a mark-up on clients’ securities transactions.
Neither Pathworks nor its associated persons receive “trailer” or 12b-1 fees from an
investment company that the firm recommends. Fees charged by issuers are detailed in
prospectuses or product descriptions and clients are encouraged to read these documents
before investing.
Certain persons providing investment advice on behalf of Pathworks are also licensed as
insurance agents with non-affiliated insurance brokers. These related persons will earn
commission-based compensation for selling insurance products, including insurance products
they sell to clients. Insurance commissions earned by these related persons are separate and
in addition to Pathworks’ advisory fees. While these individuals endeavor at all times to put
the interest of the clients first as part of their and Pathworks’ fiduciary duty, clients should
be aware that this practice presents a conflict of interest because individuals providing
investment advice on behalf of Pathworks who are also insurance agents have an incentive to
recommend insurance products to clients for the purpose of generating commissions, rather
than solely based on client needs. Clients always have the option to purchase recommended
or similar investments through a service provider of their own choosing.
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F. IRA Rollover Considerations
As part of our investment advisory services to you, we may recommend that you withdraw
the assets from your employer's retirement plan and roll the assets over to an individual
retirement account ("IRA") that we will manage on your behalf. If you elect to roll the assets
to an IRA that is subject to our management, we will charge you an asset based fee as set
forth in the agreement you executed with our firm. This practice presents a conflict of
interest because persons providing investment advice on our behalf have an incentive to
recommend a rollover to you for the purpose of generating fee based compensation rather
than solely based on your needs. You are under no obligation, contractually or otherwise, to
complete the rollover. Moreover, if you do complete the rollover, you are under no obligation
to have the assets in an IRA managed by our firm.
Many employers permit former employees to keep their retirement assets in their company
plan. Also, current employees can sometimes move assets out of their company plan before
they retire or change jobs. In determining whether to complete the rollover to an IRA, and to
the extent the following options are available, you should consider the costs and benefits of
each.
An employee will typically have four options:
1. Leaving the funds in your employer's (former employer's) plan.
2. Moving the funds to a new employer's retirement plan.
3. Cashing out and taking a taxable distribution from the plan.
4. Rolling the funds into an IRA rollover account.
Each of these options has advantages and disadvantages and before making a change we
encourage you to speak with your CPA and/or tax attorney. When recommending a rollover,
we consider alternatives such as leaving assets in the employer plan and will document the
basis for our recommendation.
If you are considering rolling over your retirement funds to an IRA for us to manage here are
a few points to consider before you do so:
1. Determine whether the investment options in your employer's retirement plan
address your needs or whether you might want to consider other types of
investments.
a) Employer retirement plans generally have a more limited investment menu
than IRAs.
b) Employer retirement plans may have unique investment options not available
to the public such as employer securities, or previously closed funds.
2. Your current plan may have lower fees than our fees.
a) If you are interested in investing only in mutual funds, you should understand
the cost structure of the share classes available in your employer's retirement
plan and how the costs of those share classes compare with those available in
an IRA.
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b) You should understand the various products and services you might take
advantage of at an IRA provider and the potential costs of those products and
services.
3. Our strategy may have higher risk than the option(s) provided to you in your plan.
4. Your current plan may also offer financial advice.
5. If you keep your assets titled in a 401k or retirement account, you could potentially
delay your required minimum distribution beyond age 73.
6. Your 401k may offer more liability protection than a rollover IRA; each state may
vary. Generally, federal law protects assets in qualified plans from creditors. Since
2005, IRA assets have been generally protected from creditors in bankruptcies.
However, there can be some exceptions to the general rules so you should consult
with an attorney if you are concerned about protecting your retirement plan assets
from creditors.
7. You may be able to take out a loan on your 401k, but not from an IRA.
8. IRA assets can be accessed any time; however, distributions are subject to ordinary
income tax and may also be subject to a 10% early distribution penalty unless they
qualify for an exception such as disability, higher education expenses or the purchase
of a home.
9. If you own company stock in your plan, you may be able to liquidate those shares at a
lower capital gains tax rate.
10. Your plan may allow you to hire us as the manager and keep the assets titled in the
plan name.
It is important that you understand the differences between these types of accounts and to
decide whether a rollover is best for you.
Item 6 - Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management
Pathworks does not accept performance-based fees or engage in side-by-side management.
Pathworks’ fees are calculated as described above in Item 5 - Fees and Compensation - and
are not charged on the basis of a share of the capital gains upon, or capital appreciation of,
the funds in a client’s account.
Item 7 - Types of Clients
A. Clients
Pathworks provides investment advisory services to individuals, including high net worth
individuals, pension and profit-sharing plans, trusts, small businesses and estates.
B. Engaging the Services of Pathworks
All clients wishing to engage Pathworks for advisory services must enter into the applicable
advisory agreement with Pathworks as well as any other document or questionnaire
provided by the firm. The advisory agreement describes the services and responsibilities of
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Pathworks to the client. It also outlines Pathworks’ fees in detail. In addition, clients must
complete certain broker-dealer/custodial documentation. Upon completion of these
documents, Pathworks will be considered engaged by the client.
Clients are responsible for ensuring that Pathworks is informed in a timely manner of
changes in investment objectives and risk tolerance.
C. Conditions for Managing Accounts
Pathworks requires new clients have a minimum account size of $25,000 for portfolio
management services. Pathworks may, in its sole discretion, accept clients with smaller
portfolios based upon certain criteria including anticipated future earning capacity,
anticipated future additional assets, dollar amount of assets to be managed, related
accounts, account composition, pre-existing client, account retention, and pro bono activities.
Pathworks will only accept clients with less than the minimum portfolio size if, in the sole
opinion of the firm, the smaller portfolio size will not cause a substantial increase of
investment risk beyond the client’s identified risk tolerance. Pathworks may aggregate the
portfolios of family members to meet the minimum portfolio size.
Item 8 - Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
A. Methods of Analysis and Investment Strategies
Methods of Analysis
Pathworks relies on an investment philosophy that is based on the latest academic research
such as Modern Portfolio Theory and the Fama-French Three-Factor Model, and the latest
discoveries in behavioral finance. Pathworks believes that solid science, backed by decades of
academic research, offers one of the smartest approaches to investing.
Modern Portfolio Theory
Modern Portfolio Theory says that it is not enough to look at the expected risk and return of
one particular asset class. By investing in more than one asset class, an investor can reap the
benefits of diversification, chief among them a reduction in the riskiness of the portfolio.
Modern Portfolio Theory quantifies the benefits of diversification, also known as “not putting
all of your eggs in one basket.”
Fama-French Three-Factor Model
The Fama-French Three-Factor Model is based on research showing that over long periods of
time, value stocks outperform growth stocks, and similarly, small cap stocks tend to
outperform large cap stocks. Therefore, with analysis of these factors, it becomes easier to
evaluate the potential portfolio performance.
The Pathworks investment philosophy is based on the following basic principles:
• Develop highly diversified portfolios that feature a broad range of asset classes and
market sectors;
• Use market-based investments, not manager-based investments;
• Hold the investments for long periods of time;
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• Periodically reallocate investments as conditions warrant;
• Strategically rebalance as needed.
The SAM Wrap Program is highly diversified, invests primarily in mutual funds and ETFs,
and features as many as nineteen (19) asset classes and market sectors. This approach is
very effective but cannot ensure investment success or prevent loss in a declining market.
Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Investment Strategies
Pathworks will use all or some of the following strategies in managing client accounts,
provided that such strategies are appropriate to the needs of the client and consistent with
the client’s investment objectives, risk tolerance and time horizons, among other
considerations:
Long-Term Purchases
Securities are purchased with the expectation that the value of those securities will grow
over a relatively long period of time, generally greater than one year.
Alternative Investments
As part of its investment advisory services, Pathworks may recommend alternative
investments for certain clients, including but not limited to private funds, private equity,
private credit, real assets, hedge strategies, digital assets, and other non-traditional
investment vehicles. Such investments are generally available only to investors who meet
the definition of an" accredited investor" or higher under applicable federal securities laws
and regulations.
Alternative investments may involve a high degree of risk and are typically subject to limited
liquidity. These investments may include lock-up periods, redemption restrictions, gates, or
extended holding periods, which may limit a client's ability to access capital when desired or
required. In certain market conditions, redemption requests may be delayed, restricted, or
suspended, and investors may be required to hold their investment for longer periods than
anticipated.
Valuations of alternative investments are often based on information provided by the
investment sponsor, issuer, or other third-party sources and may be estimates rather than
market-based prices. As a result, reported values may not reflect the price at which an
investment could be sold at a given time. Valuation information may be subject to delay,
adjustment, or restatement, and advisory fees may be calculated based on such reported or
estimated valuations.
Prior to recommending alternative investments, Pathworks considers a client's overall
financial condition, investment objectives, risk tolerance, liquidity needs, time horizon, and
ability to bear the risks associated with illiquid, complex, or speculative investments.
Alternative investments are generally recommended only for clients for whom such
investments are consistent with their financial circumstances, long-term investment
strategy, and sophistication level.
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Alternative investments may involve additional risks not typically associated with
traditional investments, including but not limited to leverage, limited transparency,
concentration risk, manager risk, regulatory risk, operational risk, and tax complexity.
Clients should be prepared to bear the risk of loss, including the possible loss of their entire
investment.
Digital Assets (including certain digital assets that may be deemed
securities under applicable law)
Certain alternative investments recommended by Pathworks may include digital
assets, including securities that are issued, recorded, transferred, or settled using
blockchain or distributed ledger technology. Such investments are generally available
only to investors who meet the definition of an “accredited investor” or higher under
applicable federal securities laws and regulations.
Price Volatility and Market Risk
A principal risk associated with digital assets is significant price volatility. Digital
asset markets may experience rapid and substantial price fluctuations, which can
adversely affect the value of client portfolios. The value of digital assets held in a
client’s portfolio may be influenced by numerous complex and difficult-to-predict
factors, including but not limited to supply and demand dynamics, transaction fees,
network participation, perceived or actual security vulnerabilities, inflation levels,
fiscal and monetary policy, interest rates, and political, natural, or economic events.
There is no assurance that clients will be able to transact digital assets at favorable
prices or avoid periods of extreme volatility.
Digital Asset Service Providers
Digital asset markets rely on various third-party service providers, including
exchanges,
custodians, wallet providers, payment processors, and other
infrastructure participants. There is no assurance that such service providers will
continue to operate, support specific digital assets, or maintain adequate operational,
financial, or cybersecurity controls. Government regulation, market conditions, or
technological developments may limit the availability of or access to digital asset
service providers, which could adversely affect the liquidity, valuation, or viability of
certain digital assets.
Custody and Safekeeping Risks
Certain digital assets may present custody-related risks. Under the Investment
Advisers Act of 1940, SEC-registered investment advisers are required to maintain
client securities with qualified custodians. While some digital assets may be held
with qualified custodians, many custodial service providers in the digital asset
ecosystem may not meet the SEC’s definition of a qualified custodian or may offer
limited custody solutions. As a result, clients may be required to hold some digital
assets with third-party custodians or technology providers that present additional
operational, cybersecurity, or insolvency risks. There can be no assurance that
custodial safeguards will prevent loss, theft, hacking, or system failures.
Regulatory and Legal Uncertainty
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international
levels. Future
The regulatory framework governing digital assets continues to evolve at both the
domestic and
laws, regulations, or regulatory
interpretations may materially impact the value, liquidity, transferability, taxation,
or legality of certain digital assets. Government authorities may also take
investigative, enforcement, or prosecutorial actions related to the issuance,
ownership, transfer, or use of digital assets, which could adversely affect market
conditions or investment outcomes.
Valuation and Reporting Risk
Valuations of digital assets are often based on information provided by sponsors,
exchanges, custodians, or other third-party sources and may be estimates rather
than observable market prices. As a result, reported values may not reflect the price
at which an investment could be sold at a given time and may be subject to delay,
adjustment, or restatement. Advisory fees may be calculated based on such reported
or estimated valuations.
Suitability and Risk of Loss
Digital assets involve unique and significant risks, including regulatory uncertainty,
valuation challenges, cybersecurity risks, protocol or network changes, limited
liquidity, and the potential for complete loss of value. These investments may not be
suitable for all clients and are recommended only after Pathworks evaluates a
client’s financial condition, investment objectives, risk tolerance, liquidity needs,
time horizon, and ability to bear the risks associated with complex and illiquid
investments. Clients should be prepared to bear the risk of partial or total loss of
their investment.
Types of Investments
Investment advice may be offered on any investments held by a client at the start of the
advisory relationship. Recommendations for new investments will typically include domestic
equity securities, exchange traded funds, corporate debt securities and mutual funds.
Sources of Information
In conducting its security analysis, Pathworks may obtain and utilize information and data
from a wide variety of public sources. Neither Pathworks nor its Advisers Representatives
will independently verify or guarantee such information and data. In categorizing the asset
classes of investments, Pathworks will rely on prospectuses and information obtained from
the issuer, its agents or through publicly available sources. Neither Pathworks nor its
Advisers Representatives shall be liable for any misstatement or omission contained in the
information from these sources, or any loss, liability, claim, damage or expense, incurred,
arising out of, or attributable to such misstatement or omission.
Investing Involves Risk
Investing in securities involves risk of loss that each client should be prepared to bear. The
value of a client’s investment may be affected by one or more of the following risks, any of
which could cause a client’s portfolio return, the price of the portfolio’s shares or the
portfolio’s yield to fluctuate:
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• Market Risk. The value of portfolio assets will fluctuate as the stock or bond market
fluctuates. The value of
investments may decline, sometimes rapidly and
unpredictably, simply because of economic changes or other events that affect large
portions of the market.
•
Interest Rate Risk. Changes in interest rates will affect the value of a portfolio’s
investments in fixed-income securities. When interest rates rise, the value of
investments in fixed-income securities tend to fall and this decrease in value may not
be offset by higher income from new investments. Interest rate risk is generally
greater for fixed-income securities with longer maturities or durations.
• Credit Risk. An issuer or guarantor of a fixed-income security, or the counterparty to
a derivatives or other contract, may be unable or unwilling to make timely payments
of interest or principal, or to otherwise honor its obligations. The issuer or guarantor
may default causing a loss of the full principal amount of a security. The degree of
risk for a particular security may be reflected in its credit rating. There is the
possibility that the credit rating of a fixed-income security may be downgraded after
purchase, which may adversely affect the value of the security. Investments in fixed-
income securities with lower ratings tend to have a higher probability that an issuer
will default or fail to meet its payment obligations.
• Allocation Risk. The allocation of investments among different asset classes may
have a significant effect on portfolio value when one of these asset classes is
performing more poorly than the others. As investments will be periodically
reallocated, there will be transaction costs which may be, over time, significant. In
addition, there is a risk that certain asset allocation decisions may not achieve the
desired results and, as a result, a client’s portfolio may incur significant losses.
• Foreign (Non-U.S.) Risk. A portfolio’s investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers
may involve more risk than those of U.S. issuers. These securities may fluctuate
more widely in price and may be less liquid due to adverse market, economic,
political, regulatory or other factors.
• Emerging Markets Risk. Securities of companies in emerging markets may be more
volatile than those of companies in developed markets. By definition, markets,
economies and government institutions are generally less developed in emerging
market countries. Investment in securities of companies in emerging markets may
entail special risks relating to the potential for social instability and the risks of
expropriation, nationalization or confiscation. Investors may also face the imposition
of restrictions on foreign investment or the repatriation of capital and a lack of
hedging instruments.
• Currency Risk. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates may negatively affect the
value of a portfolio’s investments or reduce its returns.
• Derivatives Risk. Certain strategies involve the use of derivatives to create market
exposure. Derivatives may be illiquid, difficult to price and leveraged so that small
changes may produce disproportionate losses for a client’s portfolio and may be
subject to counterparty risk to a greater degree than more traditional investments.
Because of their complex nature, some derivatives may not perform as intended. As a
result, a portfolio may not realize the anticipated benefits from a derivative it holds
or it may realize losses. Derivative transactions may create investment leverage,
which may increase a portfolio’s volatility and may require the portfolio to liquidate
portfolio securities when it may not be advantageous to do so.
• Capitalization Risk. Investments in small- and mid-capitalization companies may be
more volatile than investments in large-capitalization companies. Investments in
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small-capitalization companies may have additional risks because these companies
have limited product lines, markets or financial resources.
• Liquidity Risk. Liquidity risk exists when particular investments are difficult to
purchase or sell, possibly preventing an investment manager from selling out of such
illiquid securities at an advantageous price. Derivatives and securities involving
substantial market and credit risk also tend to involve greater liquidity risk.
•
Issuer Specific Risk. The value of an equity security or debt obligation may decline in
response to developments affecting the specific issuer of the security or obligation,
even if the overall industry or economy is unaffected. These developments may
comprise a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, management issues or
other corporate disruption, political factors adversely affecting governmental issuers,
a decline in revenues or profitability, an increase in costs, or an adverse effect on the
issuer’s competitive position.
• Concentrated Portfolios Risk. Certain investment strategies focus on particular asset
classes, countries, regions, industries, sectors or types of investments. Concentrated
portfolios are an aggressive and highly volatile approach to trading and investing.
Concentrated portfolios hold fewer different stocks than a diversified portfolio and
are much more likely to experience sudden dramatic prices swings. In addition, the
rise or drop in price of any given holding is likely to have a larger impact on portfolio
performance than a more broadly diversified portfolio.
• Legal or Legislative Risk. Legislative changes or court rulings may impact the value
of investments or the securities’ claim on the issuer’s assets and finances.
B. Risks Associated with Investment Strategies and Methods of Analysis
Risks Associated with Investment Strategies
Long-Term Purchases
Using a long-term purchase strategy generally assumes the financial markets will go up in
the long-term which may not be the case. There is also the risk that the segment of the
market that you are invested in or your particular investments will decrease in value even if
the overall financial markets advance. Purchasing investments long-term may create an
opportunity cost (e.g., “locking-up” assets that may be better utilized in the short-term in
other investments).
Risk Associated with Methods of Analysis
The analysis of securities requires subjective assessments and decision-making by
experienced investment professionals, however, there is always the risk of an error in
judgment.
Pathworks’ securities analysis methods rely on the assumption that the companies whose
securities the firm purchases and sells, the rating agencies that review these securities, and
other publicly available sources of information about these securities, are providing accurate
and unbiased data. While Pathworks is alert to indications that data may be incorrect, there
is always the risk that Pathworks’ analysis may be compromised by inaccurate or misleading
information.
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Modern Portfolio Theory
The primary inherent risk in using the Modern Portfolio Theory is the fact that theory is
built on the assumption that over time, historic relationships between investments remain
relatively consistent. If a fundamental shift in relationships among the various asset
classes/sectors should occur, historical data will no longer accurately represent what can be
expected going forward. More volatility can occur if these relationships prove to be incorrect
or (for a time) are inconsistent. If asset class relationships do shift, short-term greater than
anticipated declines in the value of portfolios can be seen - which can at times be dramatic.
As a result, the Modern Portfolio Theory investment philosophy is best suited for investors
who desire a buy and hold strategy for a substantial portion of their funds with a long-term
investment time horizon.
C. Risks Associated with Specific Securities Utilized
Common Stocks
The major risks associated with investing in common stocks relate to the issuer’s
capitalization, quality of the issuer’s management, quality and cost of the issuer’s services,
the issuer’s ability to manage costs, efficiencies in the manufacturing or service delivery
process, management of litigation risk and the issuer’s ability to create shareholder value
(i.e., increase the value of the company’s stock price).
Fixed-Income Securities
Different forms of fixed-income instruments, such as bonds, money market funds, and
certificates of deposit may be affected by various forms of risk, including:
•
Interest Rate Risk. The risk that the value of the fixed-income holding will decrease
because of an increase in interest rates.
• Liquidity Risk. The inability to readily buy or sell an investment for a price close to
the true underlying value of the asset due to a lack of buyers or sellers. While certain
types of fixed-income securities are generally liquid (e.g., corporate bonds), there are
risks which may occur such as when an issue trading in any given period does not
readily support buys and sells at an efficient price. Conversely, when trading volume
is high, there is also the risk of not being able to purchase a particular issue at the
desired price.
• Credit Risk. The potential risk that an issuer would be unable to pay scheduled
interest or repay principal at maturity, sometimes referred to as “default risk.”
Credit risk may also occur when an issuer’s ability to make payments of principal
and interest when due is interrupted. This may result in a negative impact on all
forms of debt instruments.
• Reinvestment Risk. With declining interest rates, investors may have to reinvest
income or principal at a lower rate.
• Duration Risk. Duration is a measure of a bond’s volatility, expressed in years to be
repaid by its internal cash flow (interest payments). Bonds with longer durations
carry more risk and have higher price volatility than bonds with shorter durations.
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Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)
An ETF holds a portfolio of securities designed to track a particular market segment or
index. Shares of ETFs are listed on securities exchanges and transacted at negotiated prices
in the secondary market. Generally, ETF shares trade at or near their most recent NAV,
which is generally calculated at least once daily for indexed-based ETFs and more frequently
for actively managed ETFs. However, certain inefficiencies may cause the shares to trade at
a premium or discount to their pro rata NAV.
ETFs are subject to risks similar to those of stocks. Investment returns will fluctuate and are
subject to market volatility, so that when shares are sold they may be worth more or less
than their original cost. ETF shares are bought and sold at market price (not Net Asset
Value) and are not individually redeemed from the fund. There is also the risk that a
manager may deviate from the stated investment mandate or strategy of the ETF which
could make the holdings less suitable for a client’s portfolio. ETFs may also carry additional
expenses based on their share of operating expenses and certain brokerage fees, which may
result in the potential duplication of certain fees. In addition, while many ETFs are known
for their potential tax efficiency and higher “qualified dividend income” (QDI) percentages,
there are assets classes within these ETFs or holding periods that may not benefit. Shorter
holding periods, as well as commodities and currencies that may be part of an ETF’s
portfolio, may be considered “non-qualified” under certain tax code provisions.
There is also no guarantee that an active secondary market for such shares will develop or
continue to exist. Generally, an ETF only redeems shares when aggregated as creation units
(usually 50,000 shares or more). Therefore, if a liquid secondary market ceases to exist for
shares of a particular ETF, a shareholder may have no way to dispose of such shares.
Mutual Funds - Equity Funds
The major risks associated with investing in equity mutual funds is similar to the risks
associated with investing directly in equity securities, including market risk, which is the
risk that investment returns will fluctuate and are subject to market volatility, so that an
investor’s shares, when redeemed or sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost.
Other risks include the quality and experience of the portfolio management team and its
ability to create fund value by investing in securities that have positive growth, the amount
of individual company diversification, the type and amount of industry diversification and
the type and amount of sector diversification within specific industries.
In addition, there is the risk that a manager may deviate from the stated investment
mandate or strategy of the mutual fund which could make the holdings less suitable for a
client’s portfolio. Also, mutual funds tend to be tax inefficient and therefore investors may
pay capital gains taxes on fund investments while not having yet sold their shares in the
fund. Mutual funds may also carry additional expenses based on their share of operating
expenses and certain brokerage fees, which may result in the potential duplication of certain
fees.
Mutual Funds - Fixed-Income Funds
In addition to the risks associated with investing in equity mutual funds, fixed-income
mutual funds also have the same risks as set forth under “Fixed-Income Securities” listed
above.
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Mutual Funds - Index Funds
Index Funds have the potential to be affected by “tracking error risk” which means a
deviation from a stated benchmark index. Since the core of a portfolio may attempt to closely
replicate a benchmark, the source of the tracking error (deviation) may come from a “sample
index” that may not closely align the benchmark. In addition, while many index mutual
funds are known for their potential tax efficiency and higher “qualified dividend income”
(QDI) percentages, there are assets classes within these funds or holding periods that may
not benefit. Shorter holding periods, as well as commodities and currencies that may be part
of a fund’s portfolio, may be considered “non-qualified” under certain tax code provisions.
Commercial Paper and Certificates of Deposit
Commercial Paper and Certificates of Deposit are generally considered safe instruments,
although they are subject to the level of general interest rates, the credit quality of the
issuing bank and the length of maturity. With respect to certificates of deposit, depending on
the length of maturity, there can be prepayment penalties if the client needs to convert the
certificate of deposit to cash prior to maturity.
Alternative Investments
Please see above for the risks associated with Alternative Investments, including Digital
Assets.
Note that there may be other circumstances not described here that could
adversely affect a client’s investment and prevent their portfolio from reaching its
objective.
Item 9 - Disciplinary History
Neither Pathworks nor its management personnel have any reportable disciplinary history.
Item 10 - Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
A. Broker-Dealer Registration and Registered Representatives
Pathworks is not registered, nor does it have an application pending to register, as a broker-
dealer. No management person is registered, nor does any management person have an
application pending to register, as a registered representative of a broker-dealer.
B. Futures and Commodity Registration
Pathworks is not registered, nor does it have an application pending to register, as a futures
commission merchant, commodity pool operator or a commodity trading advisor. No
management person is registered, nor does any management person have an application
pending to register, as an associated person of a futures commission merchant, commodity
pool operator or a commodity trading advisor.
C. Financial Industry Affiliations
Adviser Representatives of Pathworks are also licensed to sell insurance products. From time
to time they will offer clients advice or insurance products as part of his financial review.
This practice represents a potential conflict of interest because it gives such Adviser
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Representatives an incentive to recommend products based on the commission amount
received. This conflict is mitigated by the fact that clients are not required to purchase any
products. Clients also have the option to purchase these products through another insurance
agent of their choosing.
Item 11 - Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal
Trading
A. Code of Ethics
Pathworks has adopted a Code of Ethics to prevent violations of the securities laws. The
Code of Ethics is predicated on the principle that Pathworks owes a fiduciary duty to its
clients. Accordingly, Pathworks expects all firm personnel to act with honesty, integrity and
professionalism and to adhere to federal securities laws. All firm personnel are required to
adhere to the Code of Ethics. At all times, Pathworks and its personnel must (i) place client
interests ahead of the firm’s; (ii) engage in personal investing that is in full compliance with
the firm’s Code of Ethics; and (iii) avoid taking advantage of their position.
Clients and prospective clients may request a copy of the firm’s Code of Ethics by contacting
Pathworks at (248) 946-4515.
B. Recommendations Involving Material Financial Interests
Pathworks does not recommend to clients securities in which the firm or any related person
has a material financial interest.
C. Investing in Same Securities as Clients
From time to time, representatives of Pathworks may buy or sell securities for themselves
that they also recommend to clients. This may provide an opportunity for representatives of
Pathworks to buy or sell the same securities before or after recommending the same
securities to clients resulting in representatives profiting off the recommendations they
provide to clients. Such transactions may create a conflict of interest. However, the size of
personal trades and the types of investments (ETFs or Open-End Mutual Funds) that are
likely to be transacted in would not have a practical impact on prices in those securities.
Pathworks will always document any transactions that could be construed as conflicts of
interest and will always transact client business before their own when similar securities are
being bought or sold.
D. Participation or Interest in Client Transactions
From time to time, representatives of Pathworks may buy or sell securities for themselves at
or around the same time as clients. This may provide an opportunity for representatives of
Pathworks to buy or sell securities before or after recommending securities to clients
resulting in representatives profiting off the recommendations they provide to clients. Such
transactions may create a conflict of interest. However, the size of personal trades and the
types of investments (ETFs or Open-End Mutual Funds) that are likely to be transacted in
would not have a practical impact on prices in those securities. Pathworks will always
document any transactions that could be construed as conflicts of interest and will always
transact client’s transactions before its own when similar securities are being bought or sold.
No person associated with Pathworks shall prefer his or her own interest to that of any
client.
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Item 12 - Brokerage Practices
A. Brokerage Selection
Clients who establish an account with Pathworks must consent to a clearing/custodial
relationship with Fidelity Institutional Wealth Services (“Fidelity”), (as cleared through
National Financial Services LLC); Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.’s (“Schwab”) or Altruist
Financial LLC (“Altruist”) to execute and clear transactions and provide custody services.
All firms are unaffiliated SEC-registered broker-dealers and FINRA/SIPC members. Fidelity,
Schwab, and Altruist are referred to as the Custodians.
Best Execution
Best execution has been defined as the “execution of securities transactions for clients in
such a manner that the client’s total cost or proceeds in each transaction is the most
favorable under the circumstances.” The best execution responsibility applies to the
circumstances of each particular transaction, and an investment adviser must consider the
full range and quality of a broker-dealer’s services, including, among other things, execution
capability, commission rates, the value of any research, financial responsibility and
responsiveness.
In seeking best execution, the determinative factor is not the lowest possible cost, but
whether the transaction represents the best qualitative execution, taking into consideration
the full range of a broker-dealer’s services, including among others, the value of research
provided, execution capability, commission rates, and responsiveness. Consistent with the
foregoing, while Pathworks will seek competitive rates, it may not necessarily obtain the
lowest possible commission rates for client transactions.
Broker Analysis
Pathworks evaluates a wide range of criteria in seeking the most favorable price and market
for the execution of transactions. These include the broker-dealer’s trading costs, efficiency of
execution and error resolution, financial strength and stability, capability, positioning and
distribution capabilities, information in regard to the availability of securities, trading
patterns, statistical or factual information, opinion pertaining to trading and prior
performance in serving Pathworks.
In selecting the Custodians, Pathworks evaluated all of the services offered, the quality of
those services and the cost indirectly borne by clients to determine if the clearing firm
provides overall quality of services for the price. While Pathworks believes that the
Custodians offer competitive commission rates, Pathworks does not otherwise seek to obtain
the best combination of price and execution with respect to clients’ accounts. Pathworks will
periodically compare clearing firm services and prices against other broker-dealers qualified
to provide comparable services. While another broker-dealer may offer these services at a
lower overall cost, Pathworks is not required to move all accounts to that broker-dealer.
Research/Soft Dollar Benefits
Pathworks has no formal soft dollar arrangements and does not use soft dollars to acquire
any research services. However, as a user of the Custodian’s institutional services,
Pathworks receives other products and services that benefit Pathworks, but may not benefit
its clients’ accounts. Some of these other products and services assist the firm in managing
and administering clients’ accounts, including:
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• Receipt of duplicate client confirmations and bundled duplicate statements;
• Access to a trading desk serving institutional participants exclusively;
• Access to block trading which provides the ability to aggregate securities transactions
and then allocate the appropriate shares to client accounts;
• Ability to have investment advisory fees deducted directly from client account;
• Receipt of compliance publications; and
• Access to mutual funds which generally require significantly higher minimum initial
investments or are generally available only to institutional investors.
The Custodians also make available to Pathworks other services intended to help Pathworks
manage and further develop its business enterprise. These services may include consulting,
publications and conferences on practice management, information technology, business
succession, regulatory compliance and marketing. In addition, the Custodians may make
available, arrange and/or pay for these types of services rendered to Pathworks by
independent third parties.
Additional benefits received because of Pathworks’ use of the Custodian’s institutional
services may depend upon the amount of transactions directed to, or the amount of assets
custodied by, the Custodians. While as a fiduciary, Pathworks endeavors to act in its clients’
best interests, Pathworks’ recommendation that clients maintain their assets in accounts at
the Custodians may be based in part on the benefit to Pathworks of the availability of some
of the foregoing products and services and not solely on the nature, cost or quality of custody
and brokerage provided by the Custodians which may create a conflict of interest.
Directed Brokerage
Company Directed Brokerage
Pathworks does not have the discretionary authority to determine the broker-dealer to be
used. As stated above, clients in need of brokerage will have one or more of the Custodians
recommended to them. While there is no direct linkage between the investment advice given
and usage of the Custodians, economic benefits are received which would not be received if
Pathworks did not give investment advice to clients (please see additional disclosures in the
“Research/Soft Dollars Benefits” section directly above). Pathworks does not participate in
any transaction fees or commissions paid to the broker dealer or custodian and does not
receive any fees or commissions for the opening or maintenance of client accounts at
recommended brokers.
Not all investment advisers require their clients to direct brokerage. Pathworks is required
to disclose that by directing brokerage, Pathworks may not be able to achieve most favorable
execution of client transactions, and this practice may cost clients more money.
Digital Assets
Clients that invest in digital assets will be required to use Fidelity Digital Asset Services,
LLC, an affiliated entity of Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC and National Financial Services
LLC. Fidelity Digital Asset Services, LLC is a qualified custodian. Pathworks does not hold
private keys nor can Pathworks withdraw or transfer digital assets.
Clients are cautioned that digital assets are speculative and highly volatile, can become
illiquid at any time, and are solely for clients with a high-risk tolerance. Clients in digital
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assets could lose the entire value of their investment. Digital assets are not insured by the
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or protected by the Securities Investor Protection
Corporation (“SIPC”).
Client Directed Brokerage
Pathworks does not permit clients to direct brokerage.
B. Trade Aggregation and Allocation
Whenever appropriate and when the price or execution of a security can be impacted
favorably by aggregating orders among accounts, Pathworks aggregates transactions on
behalf of all client accounts, including accounts of Adviser Representatives and employees. It
is Pathworks policy that such transactions will be allocated to all participating client
accounts in a fair and equitable manner. There is no preferential treatment given to any
account. Transactions may be traded together to ensure best execution and to avoid price
differential. There is seldom, if ever, a problem finding sufficient mutual fund shares to
purchase for clients’ accounts. These shares are purchased from the issuer and sold at the
net asset value next determined after an order is received. Shares of mutual funds are sold
back to the issuer. Since Pathworks only buys open-end funds, each issuing mutual fund
must stand ready to buy the shares back at the share’s net asset value as determined after
the redemption order is received. Similarly, Pathworks buys and sells highly liquid ETF
interests or shares and there is seldom any difficulty finding a sufficient supply of ETFs on
the market.
C. Trade Errors
Trade errors are promptly reported to the custodian and will be rectified by the custodian
with no adverse financial effect on the client.
Item 13 - Review Of Accounts
A. Periodic Reviews
Account reviews are performed quarterly by each Adviser Representative for their respective
client accounts. Financial plans are considered complete when recommendations are
delivered to the client. An ongoing review for financial planning clients is done only upon
request of the client.
B. Other Reviews
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. Reviews may also be
triggered by material market, economic or political events, cash inflow or outflow to/from the
portfolio or by changes in client's financial situations (such as retirement, termination of
employment, physical move, or inheritance).
C. Regular Reports
Investment Advisory Services
Each client will receive at least monthly from the custodian, a written report that details the
client’s account including assets held and asset values. Clients will receive, at least
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quarterly, performance reports directly from Pathworks. The report will include performance
and asset allocation information.
Clients are urged to carefully review the account statement sent by Pathworks and to
compare the account statement provided by the broker-dealer/custodian with any statements
provided by Pathworks.
Financial Planning Services
Financial planning services clients will receive a completed financial plan. Additional reports
will not typically be provided unless otherwise contracted for at the inception of the advisory
relationship.
Item 14 - Client Referrals And Other Compensation
A. Economic Benefits
Pathworks does not receive any economic benefits such as sales awards or other prizes from
any non-client for providing investment advisory services to the firm’s clients.
B. Client Referrals
Pathworks may, from to time, retain solicitors to refer clients to the firm. If a client is
introduced to Pathworks by either an unaffiliated or an affiliated solicitor, Pathworks will
pay that solicitor a referral fee in accordance with the all requirements of the Advisers Act,
and any corresponding state securities law requirements. Any such referral fee shall be paid
solely from Pathworks’ investment management fee, and shall not result in any additional
charge to the client. If the client is introduced to Pathworks by an unaffiliated solicitor, the
solicitor, at the time of the solicitation, shall disclose the nature of their solicitor
relationship, and shall provide each prospective client with a copy of this written disclosure
statement, a copy of Pathworks’ Form CRS together with a copy of the written disclosure
statement from the solicitor to the client disclosing the terms of the solicitation arrangement
between Pathworks and the solicitor, including the compensation to be received by the
solicitor from Pathworks. Any affiliated solicitor of Pathworks shall disclose the nature of
their relationship to prospective clients at the time of the solicitation and will provide all
prospective clients with a copy of this written disclosure statement.
Item 15 - Custody
Custody of client assets will be maintained with the independent custodian selected by the
client. Pathworks will not have physical custody of any assets in the client’s account except
as permitted for direct deduction of advisory fees. Clients will be solely responsible for paying
all fees or charges of the custodian. Clients will authorize Pathworks to give the custodian
instructions for the purchase, sale, conversion, redemption, exchange or retention of any
security, cash or cash equivalent or other investment for the client’s account.
Clients will receive directly from the custodian at least quarterly a statement showing all
transactions occurring in the client’s account during the period covered by the account
statement, and the funds, securities and other property in the client’s account at the end of
the period. The account statement will also indicate the amount of advisory fees deducted
from your account(s) for each billing period.
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Clients are urged to carefully review statements received from the custodian to ensure the
accurate reporting of such information.
Item 16 - Investment Discretion
Pathworks requests that it be provided with written authority (e.g., limited power of attorney
contained in Pathworks’ advisory agreement) to determine the types and amounts of
securities that are bought or sold. Pathworks’ authority in making investment related
decisions may be limited by account guidelines, investment objectives and trading
restrictions, as agreed between Pathworks and the client. Any limitations on Pathworks’
discretionary authority shall be included in this written authority statement. Clients may
change or amend these limitations as required. All such amendments are required to be
submitted in writing.
Item 17 - Voting Client Securities
Proxy Voting
Pathworks does not vote proxies on behalf of its clients. Therefore, although Pathworks may
provide discretionary investment advisory services relative to client investment assets, it is
the client that maintains exclusive responsibility for: (i) directing the manner in which
proxies solicited by issuers of securities beneficially owned by the client shall be voted and
(ii) making all elections relative to any mergers, acquisitions, tender offers, bankruptcy
proceeding or other type events pertaining to the client’s investment assets. Pathworks
and/or the client shall correspondingly instruct each custodian of the assets to forward to the
client copies of all proxies and shareholder communications relating to the client’s
investment assets.
Legal Proceedings
Although Pathworks may have discretion over client accounts, Pathworks will not be
responsible for handling client claims in class action lawsuits or similar settlements
involving securities owned by the client. Clients will receive the paperwork for such claims
directly from their account custodians. Each client should verify with their custodian or other
account administrator whether such claims are being made on the client’s behalf by the
custodian or if the client is expected to file such claims directly.
Item 18 - Financial Information
A. Prepayment of Fees
Because Pathworks does not require or accept prepayment of more than $1,200 in fees six
months or more in advance, Pathworks is not required to include a balance sheet with this
disclosure brochure.
B. Financial Condition
Pathworks does not have any adverse financial conditions to disclose.
C. Bankruptcy
Pathworks has never been the subject of a bankruptcy petition.
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Item 19 – Additional Information
A. Privacy Notice
Pathworks views protecting its clients' private information as a top priority and has
instituted policies and procedures to ensure that client information is private and secure.
Pathworks does not disclose any nonpublic personal information about its clients or former
clients to any nonaffiliated third parties, except as permitted or required by law. In the
course of servicing a client's account, Pathworks may share some information with its service
providers, such as transfer agents, custodians, broker-dealers, accountants, and lawyers, etc.
Pathworks restricts internal access to nonpublic personal information about the client to
those persons who need access to that information in order to provide services to the client
and to perform administrative functions for Pathworks. As emphasized above, it has always
been and will always be Pathworks’ policy never to sell information about current or former
clients or their accounts to anyone. It is also Pathworks’ policy not to share information
unless required to process a transaction, at the request of a client, or as required by law. For
the full text of the Pathworks’ Privacy Policy please contact Pathworks at (248) 946-4515.
B. Requests for Additional Information
Clients may contact Pathworks at (248) 946-4515 to request additional information or to
submit a complaint. Written complaints should be sent to Pathworks Financial, Inc., 43155
Main Street, Suite 212, Novi, MI 48375.