Overview
Assets Under Management: $164 million
Headquarters: PLYMOUTH, MI
High-Net-Worth Clients: 73
Average Client Assets: $2 million
Services Offered
Services: Financial Planning, Portfolio Management for Individuals
Fee Structure
Primary Fee Schedule (ADV PART 2A)
| Min | Max | Marginal Fee Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $750,000 | 1.50% |
| $750,001 | $1,000,000 | 1.25% |
| $1,000,001 | $2,000,000 | 1.00% |
| $2,000,001 | $3,000,000 | 0.90% |
| $3,000,001 | $4,000,000 | 0.80% |
| $4,000,001 | $5,000,000 | 0.75% |
| $5,000,001 | and above | Negotiable |
Illustrative Fee Rates
| Total Assets | Annual Fees | Average Fee Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $1 million | $14,375 | 1.44% |
| $5 million | $48,875 | 0.98% |
| $10 million | Negotiable | Negotiable |
| $50 million | Negotiable | Negotiable |
| $100 million | Negotiable | Negotiable |
Clients
Number of High-Net-Worth Clients: 73
Percentage of Firm Assets Belonging to High-Net-Worth Clients: 76.85
Average High-Net-Worth Client Assets: $2 million
Total Client Accounts: 528
Discretionary Accounts: 528
Regulatory Filings
CRD Number: 281935
Last Filing Date: 2024-03-27 00:00:00
Website: https://pwmgi.com
Form ADV Documents
Primary Brochure: ADV PART 2A (2025-03-20)
View Document Text
PINNACLE WEALTH MANAGEMENT GROUP, INC.
FIRM BROCHURE
(ADV PART 2A)
MARCH 20, 2025
849 Penniman, Suite 201
Plymouth, MI 48170
Phone: 734-667-5581
Fax: 734-667-5607
Website: www.pwmgi.com
This brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Pinnacle
Wealth Management Group, Inc. If you have any questions about the contents of this brochure,
please contact Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. at (734) 667-5581. 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.
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. is a registered investment adviser. Registration of an
Investment Adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. The oral and written
communications of an Adviser provide you with information about which you determine to hire
or retain an Adviser.
Additional information about Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. is available on the
SEC’s website www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. You can search this site by a unique identifying number,
known as a CRD number. The CRD number for the Adviser is 2763334 and the CRD number for
the Firm is 281935.
2. MATERIAL CHANGES
Since our last annual amendment filing on March 26, 2024, there has been no material changes
made to the brochure.
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Table of Contents
Form ADV – Part 2A – Firm Brochure
Item 1. Cover Page .........................................................................................................................1
Item 2. Material Changes ..............................................................................................................2
Item 3. Table of Contents ..............................................................................................................3
Item 4. Advisory Business .............................................................................................................4
Item 5. Fees and Compensation ....................................................................................................7
Item 6. Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management ............................................9
Item 7. Types of Clients ...............................................................................................................10
Item 8. Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss....................................10
Item 9. Disciplinary Information ................................................................................................13
Item 10. Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations .................................................13
Item 11. Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal
Trading .........................................................................................................................................14
Item 12. Brokerage Practices ......................................................................................................15
Item 13. Review of Accounts .......................................................................................................16
Item 14. Client Referrals and Other Compensation .................................................................16
Item 15. Custody ..........................................................................................................................17
Item 16. Investment Discretion ...................................................................................................17
Item 17. Voting Client Securities ................................................................................................18
Item 18. Financial Information ...................................................................................................18
Business Continuity Plan .............................................................................................................18
Information Security Program ...................................................................................................18
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4. ADVISORY BUSINESS
OWNERSHIP/ADVISORY HISTORY
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. (“We”) is a Michigan Subchapter S Corporation. It
was subsequently registered as a Michigan investment adviser in 2016. Daniel A. Cesta (“Mr.
Cesta”) and Eddison C. Millington, II (“Mr. Millington”) are the owners of the firm. Additional
information about Mr. Cesta and Mr. Millington can be found under Item 19.
ADVISORY SERVICES OFFERED
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. provides personalized investment management
services, generally on a discretionary basis. Before we enter into an advisor-client relationship,
we may offer a complimentary general consultation to determine a prospective client’s needs and
discuss services available that meet those needs. Only after a prospective client has had time to
review our solutions/services can they determine whether a relationship might benefit them.
Investment advisory services begin only after we and the client formalize the relationship with a
properly executed agreement.
Our advisory role. At the outset of each client relationship, Pinnacle Wealth Management
Group, Inc. evaluates each client’s financial circumstances. We employ a comprehensive
process that involves a thorough understanding of the client’s needs and objectives.
FINANCIAL PLANNING
We offer clients financial planning services to evaluate their financial situations, goals, including
risk tolerance, and time horizon. Through a series of personal interviews and the use of
questionnaires, the firm will collect pertinent data; identify goals, objectives, financial problems,
and potential solutions. We will prepare and present specific recommendations and implement
those recommendations, as agreed upon with the client. As a result of these actions, our advice
may be provided on financial and cash management, risk management, estate planning, tax
issues, retirement planning, educational funding, goal setting, or other needs as identified by the
client and the firm. We may offer comprehensive planning services, or the client may desire
advice on certain planning components; the firm can tailor services as desired by the client. At
the conclusion of the financial planning service, the firm will present the client with a written
financial plan.
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
We offer ongoing portfolio management services in a wrap fee program. The following is a
summary of the program. For additional details please refer to our Appendix 1 – Wrap Fee
Brochure. Our portfolio management services are based on the individual goals, objectives, time
horizon, and risk tolerance of each client. At the outset of each relationship, we evaluate a
client’s current investments with respect to their financial circumstances, risk tolerance levels
and time horizon. With this information we create a customized portfolio. Our investment goal is
to generate a personalized rate of return that moves the client towards their stated objectives. As
you move through life’s stages, your needs, priorities, and economic environment will change
and so too should your investment strategy. We will request discretionary authority from a client
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in order to select securities and execute transactions without permission from the client prior to
each transaction. Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. bases its investment
recommendations on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, performance risk, fees, tax
efficiency of different investment strategies, as well as client input and preferences regarding the
strategies.
During the initial review stage, which is the basis for developing an investment strategy and a
wealth management plan, if desired, we set up several meetings between the relationship
manager and client, and assess the following as part of the review:
Return goals and expectations;
Risk tolerance;
Time horizon;
Market outlook;
Future planning needs.
The client’s needs and objectives are documented in our client relationship management system.
Clients may impose restrictions on investing in certain securities or types of securities.
Based on the results of client discussions and the information provided by the client, we
document the agreed upon investment strategy.
In general, for some client accounts, Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. constructs client
portfolios in accordance with our model strategies: Conservative, Balanced, Growth, or Income.
Client portfolios are managed in accordance with the model strategy most appropriate to the
client’s risk profile. All the model strategies include some combination of equities, bonds,
mutual funds, ETFs, alternative investments, and may potentially include other investment
products. For other clients of Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc., customized portfolios
are utilized based upon the client’s needs and individual circumstances.
PLATINUM PROGRAM
For qualifying clients, we offer a platinum program that consists of family office services, which
are designed to help clients organize their financial situations and plan for the successful transfer
of wealth to the next generation in the most tax-advantageous manner. These services generally
include financial planning in the following areas:
Family Continuity, Estate Planning and Philanthropy – We coordinate estate and transfer
planning, including trust preparation services, with outside attorneys and other professional
advisors. Areas we address may include wealth preservation and distribution strategies,
succession and philanthropic considerations, and entity administration and foundation
management. As the client’s legal needs change, we coordinate ongoing meetings with the
attorneys as needed. We annually review the client’s estate plan with the client. The attorneys’
fees are directly billed to and paid by Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. The client is not
invoiced by the attorney.
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Ongoing Integrated Tax Assistance – Annually, we coordinate income tax planning and
preparation with outside accountants. Additionally, we work with the accountants on a year
around basis, so they understand the client’s financial situation and goals. We assist with the
preparation of any quarterly estimated taxes that may be due by the client. The accountants’ fees
are directly billed to and paid by Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. The client is not
invoiced by the accountant for this service.
Business Consulting Services – We provide family business advisory consulting. This service
may include annually coordinating the business tax returns along with annual reviews of income
statements and balance sheets to look for savings and efficiencies. We also assist in structuring
the transfer of the business from one generation to the next.
Ongoing Financial Planning – Our firm provides broad-based financial planning designed to
assist clients in developing a strategy for the successful management of income, assets and
liabilities in meeting their financial goals and objectives. Areas addressed may include liability
management, retirement planning, transactional planning and structure, tax minimization, and tax
return preparation and representation. We meet with clients up to four times per year to review
and update their financial plans.
Cash Management, Record Keeping and Financial Reporting – Our firm may assist clients with
the management of their financial affairs by providing cash flow planning and projections,
document management, and ongoing bookkeeping services. We may also provide advice on debt
structure and analysis.
ASSET MONITORING SERVICE
We offer an ongoing monitoring service for those assets held away from our management. These
assets may include the client’s employer-sponsored retirement plan and/or the client’s
investments held in personal brokerage accounts. For employer-sponsored retirement plans,
Adviser will review employer-sponsored plan’s available investment options and make an asset
allocation recommendation to the client. Similarly, for personal assets held away, Adviser will
review the assets and propose an asset allocation.
TAILORED SERVICES
We tailor all our services to the client’s stated goals, needs and objectives. For our portfolio
management service clients, we allow them to impose restrictions on investment in certain
securities or types of securities. All restrictions must be presented to us in writing.
WRAP PROGRAM
We offer our portfolio management and platinum program services through a wrap fee program.
Our wrap fee accounts are managed on an individualized basis according to the client’s
investment objectives, financial goals, risk tolerance, etc. We do not manage wrap fee accounts
in a different fashion than non-wrap accounts. Additional information about our model portfolios
as a wrap program can be found in our Appendix 1 to the ADV Part 2A (i.e. Wrap Fee Program
Brochure).
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CLIENT ASSETS MANAGED
As of December 31, 2024, we manage $212,749,421 in client assets on a discretionary basis.
5. FEES AND COMPENSATION
FINANCIAL PLANNING
Typically, our financial planning services are included with our portfolio management services.
However, when a client would like financial planning without our investment management
services we will charge either a fixed or hourly fee basis in accordance with the following fee
schedule:
Fixed Fee: The fixed fees range between $2,000 and $5,000. The fixed fee range varies and
depends upon the nature and complexity of each client’s individual circumstances. Each client’s
Financial Planning Agreement shows what the client will be charged to complete the Scope of
Services as defined in the Agreement. The fixed fee rate is negotiable.
Hourly Fee: We assess an hourly rate that ranges from $150 to $300 an hour for financial
planning services with a minimum of two hours per engagement. The exact fee is dependent on
the staff member working on the financial plan. The number of hours will vary depending upon
the complexity of the financial situation and the estimate of hours involved, including
preparation and research. Staff involved areas are specified and estimated in the written
agreement for services. The hourly fee can be negotiated with the client.
All fees for planning services are agreed upon in advance in writing with one-half the fee due
upon engagement and the remaining half due upon delivery of the service or plan. We reserve
the right to refund or waive our financial planning fees for clients who use our portfolio
management. The fees may be paid by check.
Termination of Financial Planning Services
Either party may cancel the financial planning agreement for any reason during the first five (5)
business days from the date of signing the agreement and will receive a refund of 100% of all
fees paid without cost or penalty. After the first five (5) business days, written termination will
result in a pro-rated refund of any prepaid and unearned fees. For fixed fee financial planning
services, a pro-rated refund will be based upon a percentage of work completed. For example, if
25% of a $2,000 fixed fee plan had been completed, the client will receive a $500 refund.
($1,000 or one-half of the $2,000 collected up front.) For hourly financial planning engagements,
the client will receive a pro-rated refund based on the number of hours completed. For example,
if a negotiate hourly fee plan was to $1,050 (One hour for support staff at $150 and three hours
for an investment adviser representative at $300) and the one hour of the support staff service
was completed with none for the IAR, the client will receive a $375 refund. ($525 or one half of
$1,050 collected upfront minus $150 equals $375.) To cancel the agreement, the client must
notify the firm in writing to Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc., 849 Penniman, Suite 201,
Plymouth, MI 48170 and return any materials received to that date.
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PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT SERVICES/ASSET MONITORING SERVICE
Fees for accounts are calculated and billed quarterly in advance using the annualized rates below.
Management
Custodian Reported
Fee
Value of Account
1.50%
$500,000 to $749,999
1.25%
$750,000 to $999,999
1.00%
$1,000,000 to $1,999,999
$2,000,000 and $2,999,999 0.90%
$3,000,000 and $3,999,999 0.80%
$4,000,000 and $4,999,999 0.75%
Above $5,000,000
Negotiable
The pro-rated first quarter’s management fee will be calculated on the account’s average account
balance for the period as reported by the account’s custodian. Thereafter, the management fee
will be calculated on the account’s previous quarter-end value adjusted for weighted cash flows
(monies added or withdrawn for the account), as reported by the account’s custodian. The fees
are negotiable.
For portfolio management service clients, the fee will be directly deducted from the client’s
account (see Item 15 for additional details). For asset monitoring service clients, the client will
be able to choose to have the fee billed directly to the client (payable by check) or have the fee
withdrawn from an account managed by us.
Our fees include brokerage commissions, transaction fees, and other related costs and expenses
that are normally incurred by the client. Clients may incur certain charges imposed by
custodians, brokers, and other third parties such as fees charged by managers, custodial fees,
deferred sales charges, odd-lot differentials, transfer taxes, wire transfer and electronic fund fees,
and other fees and taxes on brokerage accounts and securities transactions. Mutual funds and
exchange traded funds also charge internal management fees and, in some cases, distribution or
service fees, known as a “12b-1” fee, which are disclosed in a fund’s prospectus. Such charges,
fees and commissions are exclusive of and, in addition to, our fee and we do not receive any
portion of these commissions, fees, and costs. For more information about our brokerage
practice please see Item 12.
Termination of Portfolio Management Services
Either party may terminate the Investment Management Agreement for any reason at any time
and, within the first five (5) business days after signing the contract and will receive a 100%
refund of any fees paid without any cost or penalty. Thereafter, written termination will result in
a prorated refund of unearned fees during the termination quarter. For example, if a client
terminates an account 36 days into a 90-day quarter, the client will receive a refund of 60% of
the fees charged at the beginning of the month. (36/90 = 40%: 100% - 40% = 60% refund.) If
permitted by the client’s custodian, the refund will be deposited into the client’s account;
otherwise the refund will be paid to the client by company check directly to the client within 30
days of termination notice receipt.
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PLATINUM PROGRAM
Fees for the family office service range from 0.25% to 1.00%. This fee is in addition to the
portfolio management fee listed in Item 5. The fee is negotiable based on the number of assets
we manage for the client, as well as the complexity and level of services required. The fee is
collected at the beginning of each calendar quarter. The fee is based upon the previous quarter’s
end value adjusted for weighted cash flows, as reported by the account’s custodian. The initial
quarter’s fee will be prorated for the number of days in the quarter, based on the account’s
adjusted weighted cash flows. (For example, if client engages us 45 days into a 90-day quarter,
the client will be charged for only 45 days.) With both billing arrangements, the client will be
asked to authorize us with the ability to withdraw the fee directly from the client’s account.
Either party may terminate the Platinum Program for any reason at any time and, within the first
five (5) business days after signing the contract and will receive a 100% refund of any fees paid
without any cost or penalty. Thereafter, written termination will result in a prorated refund of
unearned fees during the termination quarter. For example, if a client terminates an account 36
days into a 90-day quarter, the client will receive a refund of 60% of the fees charged at the
beginning of the month. (36/90 = 40%: 100% - 40% = 60% refund.) If permitted by the client’s
custodian, the refund will be deposited into the client’s account; otherwise the refund will be
paid to the client by company check directly to the client within 30 days of termination notice
receipt.
OTHER SECURITIES COMPENSATION
Our associates are registered representatives of Private Client Services, member FINRA/SIPC.
Through Private Client Services they may sell securities to our clients for a commission. This
causes a conflict of interest because the commission from Private Client Services is separate
from the fees outlined above. We attempt to mitigate this conflict of interest to the best of our
ability by placing the client’s interest ahead of our own through our fiduciary duty. Additionally,
it is our policy that recommended securities purchases do not have to be purchased through our
associates.
6. PERFORMANCE-BASED FEES AND SIDE-BY-SIDE MANAGEMENT
We do not charge any performance-based fees (fees based on a share of capital gains on or
capital appreciation of the assets of a client) or perform side-by-side management.
7. TYPES OF CLIENTS
We offer our services to individuals, high net worth individuals, and corporations or other
business entities. We generally require a minimum account size of $500,000, but we may waive
this at our discretion. We require a minimum of $1,000,000 in assets under management for our
family office services (Platinum Program). This requirement is generally non-negotiable.
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8. METHODS OF ANALYSIS, INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISK OF LOSS
METHODS OF ANALYSIS AND INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
When we create a client’s portfolio, we begin with asset allocation. Once the portfolio is created,
we manage it using tactical asset allocation. Investment strategies used by Pinnacle Wealth
Management Group, Inc. are implemented to satisfy the intermediate and long-term goals of the
individual client. Investment recommendations are made with intermediate and long-term
investment horizons.
Asset allocation is an investment strategy that aims to balance risk and reward by apportioning a
portfolio's assets according to an individual's goals, risk tolerance and investment horizon among
various asset classes. The asset classes typically include equities, fixed-income, alternative
investments, and cash and equivalents. Each class has different levels of risk and return, so each
will behave differently over time. Any asset allocation advice provided by Pinnacle Wealth
Management Group, Inc. is based on a number of factors, including the client’s investment
objectives, risk tolerances, asset class preferences, time horizons, liquidity needs, expected
returns and an assessment of current economic and market views expressed by economists,
analysts, banks and securities firms.
Tactical asset allocation is an active management portfolio strategy that rebalances the
percentage of assets held in various categories in order to take advantage of market pricing
anomalies or strong market sectors. This strategy is designed to allow portfolio managers to
create extra value by taking advantage of certain situations in the marketplace. It is a moderately
active strategy because portfolio managers return to the portfolio's original strategic asset mix
when desired short-term profits are achieved.
Our analysis of securities and advice relating thereto may be based upon information obtained
from financial newspapers and magazines, research materials prepared by others, corporate
ratings services, and annual reports, prospectuses and filings made with the Securities and
Exchange Commission. We may also utilize computer models for performance analysis, asset
allocation and risk management.
RECOMMENDED SECURITIES AND INVESTMENT RISKS
We use several types of securities in our clients’ accounts. These securities may include, but are
not limited to, the following: bonds and other corporate debt instruments; exchange traded funds
(ETFs); mutual funds; government debt instruments, including treasury bills and municipal
securities; stocks; preferred stocks; high-yield debt; domestic fixed income; options; traded and
non-traded real estate investment trusts; limited partnerships; managed futures; digital assets;
money market funds and cash.
All investments bear different types and degrees of risk and investing in securities involves risk
of loss that clients should be prepared to bear. Our investment approach continually keeps the
risk of loss in mind. While we use investment strategies that are designed to provide appropriate
investment diversification, some investments have significantly greater risks than others.
Obtaining higher rates-of-return on investments entails accepting higher levels of risk.
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Recommended investment strategies seek to balance risks and rewards to achieve investment
objectives. If a client has questions about risks he/she does not understand, we would be pleased
to discuss them.
We strive to render our best judgment on behalf of our clients. Still, we cannot assure or
guarantee clients that investments will be profitable or assure that no losses will occur in an
investment portfolio. Past performance is an important consideration with respect to any
investment or investment adviser but is not a reliable predictor of future performance. We
continuously strive to provide outstanding long-term investment performance, but many
economic and market variables beyond our control can affect the performance of an investment
portfolio.
An investment could lose money over short or even long periods. A client should expect his/her
account value and returns to fluctuate within a wide range, like the fluctuations of the overall
stock and bond markets. A client’s account performance could be hurt by:
Credit risk: This is the risk that an issuer of a bond could suffer an adverse change in
financial condition that results in a payment default, security downgrade, or inability to
meet a financial obligation.
Inflation risk: This is the risk that inflation will undermine the performance of an
investment and/or the future purchasing power of a client's assets.
Interest rate risk: The chance that bond prices overall will decline because of rising
interest rates.
International investing risk: Investing in the securities of non-U.S. companies involves
special risks not typically associated with investing in U.S. companies. Foreign securities
tend to be more volatile and less liquid than investments in U.S. securities, and may lose
value because of adverse political, social or economic developments overseas or due to
changes in the exchange rates between foreign currencies and the U.S. dollar. In addition,
foreign investments are subject to settlement practices, as well as regulatory and financial
reporting standards, that differ from those of the U.S.
Leverage risk: Using derivatives to increase the fund's combined long and short
exposure creates leverage, which can magnify the fund's potential for gain or loss and,
therefore, amplify the effects of market volatility on the fund's share price.
Liquidity risk: One common risk associated with private placements and REITs is a
relative lack of liquidity due to the highly customized nature of the investment.
Moreover, the full extent of returns is often not realized until maturity. Because of this,
these products tend to be more of a buy-and-hold investment decision rather than a means
of getting in and out of a position with speed and efficiency.
Manager risk: The chance that the proportions allocated to the various securities will
cause the client’s account to underperform relevant to benchmarks or other accounts with
a similar investment objective.
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Options risk: Like other securities - including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds - options
carry no guarantees, and a person must be aware that it is possible to lose all of the
principal he or she invests, and sometimes more. As an option holder, a person risks the
entire amount of the premium he or she paid. But as an options writer, a person takes on a
much higher level of risk. For example, if a person writes an uncovered call, he or she
faces unlimited potential loss, since there is no cap on how high a stock price can rise.
However, since initial option investments usually require less capital than equivalent
stock positions, potential cash losses as an options investor are usually smaller than if
someone bought the underlying stock or sold the stock short. The exception to this
general rule occurs when an option is used to provide leverage; percentage returns are
often high, but it is important to remember that percentage losses can be high as well.
Portfolio concentration: Accounts that are not diversified among a wide range of
types of securities, countries or industry sectors may have more volatility and are
considered to have more risk than accounts that are invested in a greater number of
securities because changes in the value of a single security may have more of
a significant effect, either negative or positive. Accordingly, portfolios are subject to
more rapid changes in value than would be the case if the client maintained a
more diversified portfolio.
REIT market risk: REITs have no control over market and business conditions and are
vulnerable to market risk and economic slowdowns. External conditions beyond its
control may reduce the value of properties that it acquires, the ability of tenants to pay
rent on a timely basis, the amount of rent that can be charged and the ability of borrowers
to make loan payments on a timely basis or at all. Cash available for distribution to
stockholders can be affected by the tenant’s inability to make rents or pay loans.
REIT tenant strength risk: REITs' revenues are highly dependent on lease payments
from its properties and interest payments on the loans it makes. Defaults by tenants or
borrowers reduce the cash available for repayment of outstanding debt and distribution to
investors. If tenants have multiple properties or borrowers have multiple loans, it
increases the risk of more than one property or loan going bad if that tenant or borrower
defaults. More than one property could become vacant, or loans are in default because of
the financial failure of one tenant or borrower. Multiple vacancies or defaults can reduce
a REIT's cash receipts and funds available for distribution and could decrease the value
of the affected properties.
REIT qualifying risk: REITs must be organized and operated and, intend to continue to
be organized and to operate, in a manner that will enable them to qualify as a REIT for
federal income tax purposes. No assurance can be given that a REIT qualifies or will
continue to qualify as a REIT. If a REIT fails to qualify as a REIT, it will be subject to
federal income tax at regular corporate rates. If a REIT fails to qualify the funds
available for distribution to investors, the distributions would be greatly reduced for each
of the years involved.
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Risks associated with leveraged ETFs: A leveraged ETF seeks to generate a return that
is a multiple (usually 2X or 3X or -2X or -3X) of its benchmark index's performance over
a specific, pre-set time period indicated in the fund’s prospectus. That time period is also
referred to as the "rebalancing period" and is generally only one day, although it could be
for a longer time period such as a month. As a result, the returns for these types of ETFs
can differ significantly from that of their benchmark index, over periods lasting longer
than the rebalancing period because of the compounding of returns. Generally, the longer
the security is held, the more likely the returns of the leveraged product will differ from
the long-term return of the index. Although potential returns are increased by leveraging,
so are the potential losses. Therefore, these securities carry significant risk. As a result,
leveraged ETFs are intended only for sophisticated investors with an aggressive tolerance
for risk.
Risks associated with inverse ETFs: An inverse ETF attempts to mimic the inverse, or
opposite, of its stated benchmark. For example, an inverse S&P 500 ETF would attempt
to deliver the opposite of the S&P 500's daily performance, net of fees. These funds, also
called "Short ETFs or Bear ETFs" are often an attempt to profit from a downturn in a
given market, sector, or index, or to hedge against a potential loss in their portfolio.
Although an inverse ETF does not explicitly use leverage to magnify the intended return,
they can suffer from the same compounding effects as the leveraged long and leveraged
short ETFs. Therefore, these securities carry significant risk. As a result, inverse ETFs
are intended only for sophisticated investors with an aggressive tolerance for risk.
Stock market risk: The chance that stock prices overall will decline. Stock markets tend
to move in cycles, with periods of rising stock prices and periods of falling stock prices.
Blockchain Investments Risk. An investment in companies actively engaged in
blockchain technology may be subject to the following risks:
The technology is new, and many of its uses may be untested. The mechanics of
using distributed ledger technology to transact in other types of assets, such as
securities or derivatives, is less clear. There is no assurance that widespread
adoption will occur. A lack of expansion in the usage of blockchain technology
could adversely affect an investment in an investment vehicle.
Theft, loss, or destruction. Transacting on a blockchain depends in part
specifically on the use of cryptographic keys that are required to access a user’s
account (or ‘‘wallet’’). The theft, loss, or destruction of these keys impairs the
value of ownership claims users have over the relevant assets being represented
by the ledger (whether ‘‘smart contracts,’’ securities, currency, or other digital
assets). The theft, loss, or destruction of private or public keys needed to transact
on a blockchain could also adversely affect a company’s business or operations if
it were dependent on the ledger.
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ADV Part 2A –3/20/25
Competing platforms and technologies. The development and acceptance of
competing platforms or technologies may cause consumers or investors to use an
alternative to blockchains.
Developmental risk. Blockchain technology may never develop optimized
transactional processes that lead to realized economic returns for any company in
which an investment vehicle invests. Companies that are developing applications
of blockchain technology applications may not, in fact, do so or may not be able
to capitalize on those blockchain technologies. The development of new or
competing platforms may cause consumers and investors to use alternatives to
blockchains.
Intellectual property claims. A proliferation of recent startups attempting to apply
blockchain technology in different contexts means the possibility of conflicting
intellectual property claims could be a risk to an issuer, its operations, or its
business. This could also pose a risk to blockchain platforms that permit
transactions in digital securities. Regardless of the merit of any intellectual
property or other legal action, any threatened action that reduces confidence in the
viability of blockchain may adversely affect an investment in an investment
vehicle.
Lack of liquid markets and possible manipulation of blockchain-based assets.
Digital assets that are represented and trade on a blockchain may not necessarily
benefit from viable trading markets. Stock exchanges have listing requirements
and vet issuers, and perhaps users. These conditions may not necessarily be
replicated on a blockchain, depending on the platform’s controls and other
policies. The more lenient a blockchain is about vetting issuers of digital assets or
users that transact on the platform, the higher the potential risk for fraud or the
manipulation of digital assets. These factors may decrease liquidity or volume or
increase the volatility of digital securities or other assets trading on a blockchain.
Lack of regulation. Digital commodities and their associated platforms are largely
unregulated, and the regulatory environment is rapidly evolving. Because
blockchain works by having every transaction build on every other transaction,
participants can self-police any corruption, which can mitigate the need to depend
on the current level of legal or government safeguards to monitor and control the
flow of business transactions. As a result, companies engaged in such blockchain
activities may be exposed to adverse regulatory action, fraudulent activity, or
even failure.
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Third party product defects or vulnerabilities. Blockchain systems are built using
third party products, those products may contain technical defects or
vulnerabilities beyond a company’s control. Open-source technologies that are
used to build a blockchain application may also introduce defects and
vulnerabilities.
Reliance on the Internet. Blockchain functionality relies on the Internet. A
significant disruption of Internet connectivity affecting large numbers of users or
geographic areas could impede the functionality of blockchain technologies and
adversely affect investment vehicles. In addition, certain features of blockchain
technology, such as decentralization, open-source protocol, and reliance on peer-
to-peer connectivity, may increase the risk of fraud or cyber-attack by potentially
reducing the likelihood of a coordinated response.
Line of business risk. Some of the companies in which investment vehicles may
invest are engaged in other lines of business unrelated to blockchain, and these
lines of business could adversely affect their operating results. The operating
results of these companies may fluctuate as a result of these additional risks and
events in the other lines of business. In addition, a company’s ability to engage in
new activities may expose it to business risks with which it has less experience
than it has with the business risks associated with its traditional businesses.
Despite a company’s possible success in activities linked to its use of blockchain,
there can be no assurance that the other lines of business in which these
companies are engaged will not have an adverse effect on a company’s business
or financial condition.
Cryptocurrency Risk. Cryptocurrency (notably, bitcoin), often referred to as “virtual
currency,” “digital currency,” or “digital assets,” operates as a decentralized, peer-to-peer
financial exchange and value storage that is used like money. Clients may also be
exposed to cryptocurrencies other than bitcoin. Cryptocurrency operates without central
authority or banks and is not backed by any government. Even indirectly,
cryptocurrencies (i.e., bitcoin) may experience very high volatility, and related
investments may be affected by such volatility. As a result of holding cryptocurrency,
certain of [Firm Name]’s Clients may also trade at a significant premium to NAV.
Cryptocurrency is also not legal tender. Federal, state, or foreign governments may
restrict the use and exchange of cryptocurrency, and regulation in the U.S. is still
developing. The SEC has issued a public report stating U.S. federal securities laws
require treating some digital assets as securities. Cryptocurrency exchanges may stop
operating or permanently shut down due to fraud, technical glitches, hackers, or malware.
Due to its relatively recent launch, bitcoin has a limited trading history, making it
difficult for investors to evaluate investments in this cryptocurrency. It is also possible
that a cryptocurrency other than bitcoin, including cryptocurrencies to which the investor
has limited or no exposure to, could become materially popular and have a negative
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ADV Part 2A –3/20/25
impact on the demand for and price of bitcoin. It is possible that another entity could
manipulate the blockchain in a manner that is detrimental to the bitcoin network. Bitcoin
transactions are irreversible such that an improper transfer can only be undone by the
receiver of the bitcoin agreeing to return the bitcoin to the original sender. Digital assets
are highly dependent on their developers, and there is no guarantee that development will
continue or that developers will not abandon a project with little or no notice. Third
parties may assert intellectual property claims relating to the holding and transfer of
digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and their source code. Any threatened action
that reduces confidence in a network’s long-term ability to hold and transfer
cryptocurrency may affect investments in cryptocurrencies.
Cryptocurrency Tax Risk. Many significant aspects of the U.S. federal income tax
treatment of investments in bitcoin are uncertain, and an investment in bitcoin may
produce income that is not treated as qualifying income for purposes of the income test
applicable to regulated investment companies. The taxation will depend on a number of
factors, including the nature of any investments made, the jurisdiction in which the
income from such investments may be subject to tax, the jurisdiction in which the
investor is subject to tax, and the applicable laws in any relevant jurisdiction.
9. DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
As of the date of this brochure, we have not been subject to any disciplinary, legal, or regulatory
events related to past or present investment clients. There has been no disciplinary, legal, or
regulatory events related to us or any of our management persons.
10. OTHER FINANCIAL INDUSTRY ACTIVITIES AND AFFILIATIONS
BROKER-DEALER AFFILIATIONS
Our associates are registered representatives of Private Client Services. Please see Item 5 for
additional details.
FUTURES/COMMODITIES FIRM AFFILIATION
We are not affiliated with a futures or commodities broker.
OTHER INDUSTRY AFFILIATIONS
Our associates may be independent insurance agents (annuities, life, long-term care and health)
and they may recommend these services to clients. This other business activity pays our
associates' commissions that are separate from the fees described above. This is a conflict of
interest because the commissions give our associates a financial incentive to recommend and sell
clients the insurance products. However, our associates attempt to mitigate any conflicts of
interest to the best of their ability by placing the clients’ interests ahead of their own, through
their fiduciary duty and by informing clients that they are never obligated to purchase
recommended insurance through them. Associates may only sell insurance in states where they
are properly registered.
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In addition to a Certified Financial Planner, our owner, Daniel Cesta, is a Certified Public
Accountant. However, he is not a practicing accountant and does not provide accounting or tax
preparation services other than through the firm’s Platinum Program, which services are
provided by outside CPAs and attorneys. Please see Item 4.
SELECTION AND MONITORING OF THIRD PARTY INVESTMENT ADVISERS
We do not recommend the services of third party investment advisers.
11. CODE OF ETHICS, PARTICIPATION OR INTEREST IN CLIENT TRANSACTIONS AND
PERSONAL TRADING
DESCRIPTION
Our Code of Ethics establishes ideals for ethical conduct upon fundamental principles of
openness, integrity, honesty, and trust. We will provide a copy of our Code of Ethics to any
client or prospective client upon request.
Our Code of Ethics covers all supervised persons, and it describes our high standard of business
conduct, and fiduciary duty to our clients. The Code of Ethics includes provisions relating to the
confidentiality of client information, a prohibition on insider trading, a prohibition of rumor
mongering, restrictions on the acceptance of significant gifts and the reporting of certain gifts
and business entertainment items, and personal securities trading procedures, among other
things. All supervised persons must acknowledge the terms of the Code of Ethics annually, or as
amended.
MATERIAL INTEREST IN SECURITIES
We do not have a material interest in any securities.
INVESTING IN OR RECOMMENDING THE SAME SECURITIES
Our associates may buy or sell for their own accounts the same securities at or about the same
time they recommend to or purchase for client accounts. This causes a conflict of interest
because they can trade ahead of client trades. We mitigate the conflict of interest in two ways.
First, our Code of Ethics requires employees to: (1) report personal securities transactions on at
least a quarterly basis and (2) provide us with a detailed summary of certain holdings (both
initially upon commencement of employment and quarterly thereafter) in which such employees
have a direct or indirect beneficial interest. The reports are reviewed to ensure our associates do
not trade ahead of client accounts. Additionally, we require client transactions be placed ahead of
our associates’ personal trades or our associates can place personal trades as part of a block trade
(Please see Item 12 for details on our block trading practices). The records of all associates’
personal and client trading activities are reviewed and made available to regulators to review on
the premises.
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12. BROKERAGE PRACTICES
RECOMMENDED BROKERAGE
In our wrap fee program, we participate in the Charles Schwab & Co. (“Schwab”) program.
Schwab, member FINRA/SIPC. Schwab is an independent and unaffiliated SEC-registered
broker-dealer. Schwab offers to independent investment advisors services which include custody
of securities, trade execution, clearance and settlement of transactions.
RESEARCH AND SOFT DOLLAR BENEFITS
We receive some benefits from Schwab through participation in the Additional Services
program. Please see Item 14 for a description of these benefits. Because these soft dollar benefits
could be considered to provide a benefit to us that might cause the client to pay more than the
lowest available commission without receiving the most benefit, they are considered a conflict of
interest in recommending or directing custodial services. This conflict is mitigated because
Schwab provides a fair mix of services to all clients. Additionally, we will always act in the best
interest of our clients, including in connection with recommending custodians.
BROKERAGE FOR CLIENT REFERRALS
We do not receive client referrals or any other incentive from any custodian or broker.
DIRECTED BROKERAGE
Some clients may direct us to a specific broker-dealer to execute securities transactions for their
accounts. When so directed, we may not be able to effectively negotiate lower brokerage
commissions or achieve best execution on clients’ transactions. This can result in substantially
higher fees, charges or dealer concessions in one or more transactions for the clients’ account
because the Adviser cannot negotiate favorable prices.
TRADE AGGREGATION
We may aggregate transactions in equity and fixed income securities for a client with other
clients to improve the quality of execution. When transactions are aggregated, the actual prices
applicable to the aggregated transactions will be averaged, and the client account will be deemed
to have purchased or sold its proportionate share of the securities involved at the average price
obtained. We may determine not to aggregate transactions, for example, based on the size of the
trades, the number of client accounts, the timing of the trades, the liquidity of the securities and
the discretionary nature of the trades. If we do not aggregate orders, some clients purchasing
securities around the same time may receive a less favorable price than other clients. This means
that this practice of not aggregating may cost clients more money.
13. REVIEW OF ACCOUNTS
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ADV Part 2A –3/20/25
PERIODIC REVIEWS
Our owners review the general holdings of client accounts at least monthly and more frequently
as needed. In addition to these reviews, our owners, or an Associate, meets with clients, either in
person or by telephone, at least annually, to discuss and review their accounts.
OTHER REVIEWS
Additional reviews are conducted periodically depending on market conditions, economic or
political events, or by changes in a client’s financial situation (such as retirement, termination of
employment, physical move or inheritance).
REPORTS
Clients will receive at least monthly statements from the account custodian or clearing firm, if
the account has activity during the month. If the account does not have any monthly activity, an
account statement is provided by the account custodian or clearing firm at least quarterly. Such
statements will show any activity in the account, as well as period ending position balances.
14. CLIENT REFERRALS AND OTHER COMPENSATION
OTHER COMPENSATION
We do not pay nor receive compensation for referrals from any custodian or broker. However,
we participate in Schwab’s customer program, and we may recommend Schwab to clients for
custody and brokerage services. There is no direct link between our participation in the program
and the investment advice it gives to its clients, although we receive economic benefits through
its participation in the program that are typically not available to Schwab retail investors. These
benefits include the following products and services (provided without cost or at a discount):
receipt of duplicate client statements and confirmations; research related products and tools;
consulting services; access to a trading desk serving our participants; access to block trading
(which provides the ability to aggregate securities transactions for executions and then allocate
the appropriate shares to client accounts); the ability to have advisory fees deducted directly from
client accounts; access to an electronic communications network for client order entry and
account information; access to mutual funds with no transaction fees and to certain institutional
money managers; and discounts on compliance, marketing, research, technology, and practice
management products or services provided to us by third party vendors. Schwab may also have
paid for business consulting and professional services received by our related persons. Some of
the products and services made available by Schwab through the program may benefit us but
may not benefit its client accounts. These products or services may assist us in managing and
administering client accounts, including accounts not maintained at Schwab. Other services
made available by Schwab are intended to help us manage and further develop its business
enterprise. The benefits received by us or its personnel through participation in the program do
not depend on the amount of brokerage transactions direct to Schwab. As part of our fiduciary
duties to clients, our endeavors at all times are to put the interests of our clients first. Clients
should be aware, however, that the receipt of economic benefits by us or its related persons in
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ADV Part 2A –3/20/25
and of itself creates a potential conflict of interest and may indirectly influence our choice of
Schwab for custody and brokerage services.
CLIENT REFERRALS
We may enter into an agreement with other financial services firms or individuals pursuant to
which we will pay a portion of our management fee (Item 5) to the financial services firms or
individual’s promotion and referral services. In turn, the financial services firms would share a
portion of the fees with its investment adviser representatives. Clients obtained through the use
of a promoter or referral service will not pay a different fee (higher or lower) than the fee the
client would have been charged if the client had been obtained without their services.
15. CUSTODY
All client funds, securities and accounts are held at third-party custodians. We do not have
custody other than to directly deduct our management fee. The client will be asked to authorize
us with the ability to deduct fees directly from the client’s account. The client may cancel this
authorization to deduct our management fee from the Account at any time by notifying us or the
client’s custodian. Clients should receive at least quarterly statements from the broker/dealer,
bank or other qualified custodian that holds and maintains client’s investment assets. We urge
clients to carefully review such statements.
16. INVESTMENT DISCRETION
All portfolio management clients sign an investment management agreement that contains a
limited power of attorney granting us discretionary power over the account. In discretionary
accounts, we will be allowed to place trades, buy or sell securities of any type and in amounts we
deem appropriate for the account, without first obtaining the client’s consent to each trade.
Directions will be given to the account custodian to complete the transaction.
17. VOTING CLIENT SECURITIES
We will not be responsible for responding to proxies of securities held in clients' accounts.
Proxy solicitation materials will be forwarded to clients for response and voting. In the event a
client has a question about a proxy solicitation, the client should contact us.
18. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
BALANCE SHEET
We do not require or solicit prepayment of more than $500 in fees per client, six months or more
in advance. Therefore, we do not have to provide a balance sheet.
FINANCIAL CONDITION
Registered investment advisers are required in this Item to provide clients with certain financial
information or disclosures about our financial condition. We have no financial commitment that
impairs our ability to service our clients.
BANKRUPTCY
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We have not been the subject of a bankruptcy proceeding.
BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLAN
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. has a Business Continuity Plan in place that provides
detailed steps to mitigate and recover from the loss of office space, communications, and/or
services.
The Business Continuity Plan covers natural disasters such as snow storms, hurricanes, tornados,
and flooding. The Plan also covers man-made disasters such as loss of electrical power, loss of
water pressure, fire, bomb threat, nuclear emergency, chemical event, biological event, T-1
communications line outage, internet outage, railway accident and aircraft accident. The Plan
also covers pandemics such as Covid-19. Electronic files are backed up offsite daily by the
firm’s outside technology consulting firm.
Alternate offices are identified to support ongoing operations in the event the main office is
unavailable. Private Client Services and Schwab may also assist, depending on the type of
disaster, with back office and trading assistance for accounts held in custody by them. Private
Client Services and Schwab have their own disaster recovery plans with backup facilities in
different parts of the U.S. It is our intention to contact all clients within five days of a disaster
that dictates moving our office to an alternate location for a period of time.
INFORMATION SECURITY PROGRAM
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. maintains an information security program to reduce
the risk that clients' personal and confidential information may be breached. Pinnacle Wealth
Management Group, Inc. is committed to maintaining the confidentiality, integrity and security
of the personal information that is entrusted to us.
The categories of nonpublic information that we collect from a client may include information
about the client's personal finances, information about the client's health to the extent that it is
needed for the financial planning process, information about transactions between the client and
third parties, and information from consumer reporting agencies, such as credit reports. We use
this information to help clients meet their personal financial goals.
We maintain a secure office environment to ensure that client information is not placed at
unreasonable risk. All hard copy client records are maintained in a secure area with limited
access. Client records are also stored electronically. We employ a firewall barrier and
authentication procedures in our computer environment.
We do not provide clients' personal information to mailing list vendors or solicitors. We require
strict confidentiality in our agreements with unaffiliated third parties that require access to a
client's personal information, including financial service companies’ consultants, and auditors.
Federal and state securities regulators may review our Company records and a client's personal
records as permitted by law.
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ADV Part 2A –3/20/25
Personally identifiable information about a client will be maintained while he or she is a client,
and for the required period thereafter that records are required to be maintained by federal and
state securities laws. After that time, information may be destroyed.
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ADV Part 2A –3/20/25
Additional Brochure: ADV PART 2B - SUPPLEMENTAL BROCHURES (2025-03-20)
View Document Text
DANIEL A. CESTA, CPA, CFP®, MST
March 20, 2025
ADV Part 2B – Supplemental Brochure
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
849 Penniman, Suite 201
Plymouth, MI 48170
Phone: (734) 667-5581
Fax: (734) 667-5607
Website: www.pwmgi.com
Email: daniel.cesta@pwmgi.com
This brochure supplement provides information about Daniel A. Cesta, CPA, CFP®, MST that
supplements the Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Mr. Cesta at (734) 667-5581 if you did not
receive Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.’s brochure or if you have any questions about
the contents of this supplement.
Additional information about Daniel A. Cesta, CPA, CFP®, MST is available on the SEC’s
website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. You can search this site by a unique identifying number,
known as a CRD number. Mr. Cesta’s CRD number is 2763334.
ITEM 2 – EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND BUSINESS EXPERIENCE
Daniel A. Cesta, CPA, CFP®, MST
Born: 1968
Education: State University of New York (SUNY) - Albany – Master of Science in Taxation
(MST) – 1993
Siena College – Bachelor in Business Administration – 1990
Certified Public Accountant – CPA – 1992
CPAs are licensed and regulated by their state boards of accountancy. While
state laws and regulations vary, the education, experience and testing
requirements for licensure as a CPA generally include minimum college
education (typically 150 credit hours with at least a baccalaureate degree and a
concentration in accounting), minimum experience levels (most states require at
least one year of experience providing services that involve the use of
accounting, attest, compilation, management advisory, financial advisory, tax or
consulting skills, all of which must be achieved under the supervision of or
verification by a CPA), and successful passage of the Uniform CPA
Examination. In order to maintain a CPA license, states generally require the
completion of 40 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) each year
(or 80 hours over a two year period or 120 hours over a three year period).
Additionally, all American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
members are required to follow a rigorous Code of Professional Conduct which
requires that they act with integrity, objectivity, due care, competence, fully
disclose any conflicts of interest (and obtain client consent if a conflict exists),
maintain client confidentiality, disclose to the client any commission or referral
fees, and serve the public interest when providing financial services. The vast
majorities of state boards of accountancy have adopted the AICPA’s Code of
Professional Conduct within their state accountancy laws or have created their
own.
Certified Financial Planner™ - CFP® - 1996
Issued by: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.
Prerequisites/Experience Required: Candidate must meet the following
requirements:
• A bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university, and •
3 years of full-time personal financial planning experience
Educational Requirements: Candidate must complete a CFP®-board registered
program, or hold one of the following: CPA, ChFC, Chartered Life Underwriter
(CLU), CFA, Ph.D. in business or economics, Doctor of Business
Administration, Attorney's License.
Examination Type: CFP® Certification Examination
Daniel C. Cesta, CPA, CFP®, MST
2
ADV Part 2B – 3/20/25
Continuing Education/Experience Requirements: 30 hours every 2 years
Business Background:
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
– Owner – April 2005 to present
– Investment Adviser Representative – February 2016 to Present
Private Client Services – March 2016 to Present
– Registered Representative
LPL Financial, LLC – April 2005 to March 2016
– Registered Representative
– Investment Adviser Representative
Paine Webber/UBS Financial Services Inc. – June 1996 to March 2005
– Registered Representative
– Investment Adviser Representative
ITEM 3 – DISCIPLINARY HISTORY
Mr. Cesta has not been and/or is presently not involved in any disciplinary, legal, or regulatory
events that would be material to a client’s evaluation of him or the Firm.
ITEM 4 – OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Investment Related Other Business Activities: Mr. Cesta is a registered representative of Private
Client Services, member FINRA/SIPC. He spends less than 5% of his time on this activity. In
his separate capacity as a registered representative he may sell securities through Private Client
Services to our clients for a commission. This causes a conflict of interest because the
commission from Private Client Services is separate from the investment management fees
outlined in our ADV Part 2A and Appendix 1. Mr. Cesta attempts to mitigate this conflict of
interest to the best of his ability by placing the client’s interest ahead of his own through his
fiduciary duty. Additionally, it is our policy that recommended securities purchases do not have
to be purchased through Mr. Cesta or any affiliate.
Mr. Cesta is licensed to sell (for sales commissions) insurance products (annuities, life, longterm
care and health) for various insurance companies that are duly licensed in the State of Michigan.
He spends less than 5% of his time on this activity. This causes a conflict of interest because he
receives a commission for these services, which is separate from the investment management
and financial planning fees outlined in Item 5 of the firm’s ADV Part 2A and Appendix 1. Mr.
Cesta attempts to mitigate the conflict of interest to the best of his ability by placing the client’s
interests ahead of his own, through his fiduciary duty and by following the Advisor’s Code of
Ethics. Additionally, Mr. Cesta is not a “captive” or “field” agent of any insurance companies
and is therefore able to offer those insurance products which he feels are most suitable for his
clients. Clients are never obligated to purchase recommended insurance products through Mr.
Cesta.
Mr. Cesta, is a Certified Public Accountant. However, he is not a practicing accountant and does
not provide accounting or tax preparation services other than through the firm’s Platinum
Daniel C. Cesta, CPA, CFP®, MST
3
ADV Part 2B – 3/20/25
Program, which services are provided by outside CPAs and attorneys. Please see item 4 of ADV
Part 2A.
Non-Investment Related Other Business Activities: Mr. Cesta owns DAC Investments, LLC,
which purchases real estate for personal use. He spends less than 1% of his time on this activity.
ITEM 5 – ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION
Mr. Cesta does not receive any additional compensation other than what is disclosed above and
in the firm’s ADV Part 2A and Appendix 1.
ITEM 6 – SUPERVISION
Mr. Cesta is co-owner and Chief Compliance Officer of the Firm. As a result, he has no internal
supervision placed over him. He is, however, bound by the Firm’s Code of Ethics.
ITEM 7 – REQUIREMENTS FOR STATE-REGISTERED ADVISERS
A. Arbitration or Civil, Self-Regulatory Organization or Administrative Proceedings
Mr. Cesta has not been the subject of any arbitration claim. Also, Mr. Cesta has not been the
subject of any civil, self-regulatory organization or administrative proceeding.
B. Bankruptcy History
Mr. Cesta has not been the subject of a bankruptcy petition.
Daniel C. Cesta, CPA, CFP®, MST
4
ADV Part 2B – 3/20/25
EDDISON CHARLES MILLINGTON, II
March 20, 2025
ADV Part 2B – Supplemental Brochure
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
849 Penniman, Suite 201
Plymouth, MI 48170
Phone: (734) 667-5581
Fax: (734) 667-5607
Website: www.pwmgi.com
Email: eddison.millington@pwmgi.com
This brochure supplement provides information about Eddison Charles Millington, II that
supplements the Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Mr. Millington at (734) 667-5581 if you did not
receive Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.’s brochure or if you have any questions about
the contents of this supplement.
Additional information about Eddison Charles Millington, II is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. You can search this site by a unique identifying number, known as a
CRD number. Mr. Millington CRD number is 2892939.
ITEM 2 – EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND BUSINESS EXPERIENCE
Eddison Charles Millington, II
Born: 1974
Education: Olivet College – Bachelor of Business Administration - 1996
Business Background:
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. – June 2017 to Present
– Senior Vice President
Private Client Services – March 2016 to Present
– Registered Representative
SEI Investments Management/Distribution Co.
– Advisor Network Sales – January 2015 to June 2017
Sunamerica Capital Services, Inc. – September 2013 to August 2014
– Regional Vice President
Sunamerica – September 2013 to August 2014
– Regional Vice President
General American Distributors, Inc. – December 2004 to September 2013
– Regional Vice President
ITEM 3 – DISCIPLINARY HISTORY
Mr. Millington has not been and/or is presently not involved in any disciplinary, legal, or
regulatory events that would be material to a client’s evaluation of him or the Firm.
ITEM 4 – OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Investment Related Other Business Activities: Mr. Millington is a registered representative of
Private Client Services, member FINRA/SIPC. He spends less than 5% of his time on this
activity. In his separate capacity as a registered representative he may sell securities through
Private Client Services to our clients for a commission. This causes a conflict of interest because
the commission from Private Client Services is separate from the investment management fees
outlined in our ADV Part 2A and Appendix 1. Mr. Millington attempts to mitigate this conflict
of interest to the best of his ability by placing the client’s interest ahead of his own through his
fiduciary duty. Additionally, it is our policy that recommended securities purchases do not have
to be purchased through Mr. Millington or any affiliate.
Mr. Millington is licensed to sell insurance products for various insurance companies that are
duly licensed in the State of Michigan. He spends less than 5% of his time on this activity. This
causes a conflict of interest because he may receive a commission for this service, which is
separate from the investment management and financial planning fees outlined Item 5 of the
firm’s ADV Part 2A and Appendix 1. Mr. Millington attempts to mitigate the conflict of interest
to the best of his ability by placing the client’s interests ahead of his own, through his fiduciary
Eddison Charles Millington, II
2
ADV Part 2B – 3/20/25
duty and by following the Advisor’s Code of Ethics. Additionally, Mr. Millington is not a
“captive” or “field” agent of any insurance companies and is therefore able to offer those
insurance products which he feels are most suitable to his clients. Clients are never obligated to
purchase recommend insurance products through Mr. Millington.
Non-Investment Related Other Business Activities: Mr. Millington does not have any
noninvestment related other business activities to report.
ITEM 5 – ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION
Mr. Millington does not receive any additional compensation other than what is disclosed above
and in the firm’s ADV Part 2A and Appendix 1.
ITEM 6 – SUPERVISION
Mr. Millington is co-owner of the Firm. As a result, he has no internal supervision placed over
him. He is, however, bound by the Firm’s Code of Ethics.
ITEM 7 – REQUIREMENTS FOR STATE-REGISTERED ADVISERS
A. Arbitration or Civil, Self-Regulatory Organization or Administrative Proceedings
Mr. Millington has not been the subject of any arbitration claim. Also, Mr. Millington has not
been the subject of any civil, self-regulatory organization or administrative proceeding.
B. Bankruptcy History
Mr. Millington has not been the subject of a bankruptcy petition.
Eddison Charles Millington, II
3
ADV Part 2B – 3/20/25
Kendra Anne McKinney
March 20, 2025
ADV Part 2B – Supplemental Brochure
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
849 Penniman, Suite 201
Plymouth, MI 48170
Phone: (734) 667-5581
Fax: (734) 667-5607
Website: www.pwmgi.com
Email: kendra.mckinney@pwmgi.com
This brochure supplement provides information about Kendra Anne McKinney, that supplements
the Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.’s brochure. You should have received a copy of
that brochure. Please contact Daniel Cesta at (734) 667-5581 if you did not receive Pinnacle
Wealth Management Group, Inc.’s brochure or if you have any questions about the contents of
this supplement.
Additional information about Kendra Anne McKinney is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. You can search this site by a unique identifying number, known as
a CRD number. Kendra McKinney’s CRD number is 6857204.
ITEM 2 – EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND BUSINESS EXPERIENCE
Kendra Anne McKinney
Born: 1985
Education: University of Michigan Dearborn – Bachelor of Business Administration in
Accounting – 2009
Business Background:
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
– Vice President, Wealth Management – March 2025 to Present
– Client Service Associate – July 2017 to March 2025
Jaggaer
– Office Manager/Support Team Lead, Americas – November 2009 to July 2017
ITEM 3 – DISCIPLINARY HISTORY
Kendra McKinney has not been and/or is presently not involved in any disciplinary, legal, or
regulatory events that would be material to a client’s evaluation of her or the Firm.
ITEM 4 – OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Kendra McKinney is licensed to sell (for sales commissions) insurance products (life and health)
for various insurance companies that are duly licensed in the State of Michigan. She spends less
than 5% of her time on this activity. This causes a conflict of interest because she receives a
commission for these services, which is separate from the investment management and financial
planning fees outlined in Item 5 of the firm’s ADV Part 2A and Appendix 1. Kendra McKinney
attempts to mitigate the conflict of interest to the best of her ability by placing the client’s
interests ahead of her own, through her fiduciary duty and by following the Advisor’s Code of
Ethics. Additionally, Kendra McKinney is not a “captive” or “field” agent of any insurance
companies and is therefore able to offer those insurance products which she feels are most
suitable for her clients. Clients are never obligated to purchase recommended insurance products
through Kendra McKinney.
ITEM 5 – ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION
Kendra McKinney does not receive any additional compensation other than what is disclosed
above and in the firm’s ADV Part 2A and Appendix 1.
ITEM 6 – SUPERVISION
Daniel A. Cesta, Managing Member and Chief Compliance Officer of Pinnacle Wealth
Management Group, Inc. is responsible for supervising the investment advisory activities of
2
Kendra Anne McKinney
ADV Part 2B – 3/20/25
Kendra McKinney. Daniel Cesta monitors and reviews all forms of written communications that
Kendra McKinney provides to clients. Daniel Cesta can be contacted via telephone at (734)
6675581 and via email at daniel.cesta@pwmgi.com.
ITEM 7 – REQUIREMENTS FOR STATE-REGISTERED ADVISERS
A. Arbitration or Civil, Self-Regulatory Organization or Administrative Proceedings
Kendra McKinney has not been the subject of any arbitration claim. Also, Kendra McKinney
has not been the subject of any civil, self-regulatory organization or administrative proceeding.
B. Bankruptcy History
Kendra McKinney has not been the subject of a bankruptcy petition.
3
Kendra Anne McKinney
ADV Part 2B – 3/20/25
Robert Charles Murphy
March 20, 2025
ADV Part 2B – Supplemental Brochure
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
849 Penniman, Suite 201
Plymouth, MI 48170
Phone: (734) 667-5581
Fax: (734) 667-5607
Website: www.pwmgi.com
Email: robert.murphy@pwmgi.com
This brochure supplement provides information about Robert Charles Murphy, that supplements
the Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.’s brochure. You should have received a copy of
that brochure. Please contact Daniel Cesta at (734) 667-5581 if you did not receive Pinnacle
Wealth Management Group, Inc.’s brochure or if you have any questions about the contents of
this supplement.
Additional information about Robert Charles Murphy is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. You can search this site by a unique identifying number, known as
a CRD number. Robert Murphy’s CRD number is 5530860.
ITEM 2 – EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND BUSINESS EXPERIENCE
Robert Charles Murphy
Born: 1988
Education: Central Michigan University – Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
– 2010
Business Background:
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
– Director of Client Services – March 2025 to Present
– Investment Adviser Representative – July 2020 to Present
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
– Senior Client Service Specialist – June 2017 to July 2020
Beacon Capital Management, Inc.
– Director of Marketing &
Assistant Operations Director – September 2013 to October 2015
ITEM 3 – DISCIPLINARY HISTORY
Robert Murphy has not been and/or is presently not involved in any disciplinary, legal, or
regulatory events that would be material to a client’s evaluation of him or the Firm.
ITEM 4 – OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Robert Murphy does not participate in other business activities.
ITEM 5 – ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION
Robert Murphy does not receive any additional compensation other than what is disclosed above
and in the firm’s ADV Part 2A and Appendix 1.
ITEM 6 – SUPERVISION
Daniel A. Cesta, Managing Member and Chief Compliance Officer of Pinnacle Wealth
Management Group, Inc. is responsible for supervising the investment advisory activities of
Robert Murphy. Daniel Cesta monitors and reviews all forms of written communications that
Robert Murphy provides to clients. Daniel Cesta can be contacted via telephone at (734)
6675581 and via email at daniel.cesta@pwmgi.com.
Robert Charles Murphy
2
ADV Part 2B – 3/20/25
ITEM 7 – REQUIREMENTS FOR STATE-REGISTERED ADVISERS
A. Arbitration or Civil, Self-Regulatory Organization or Administrative Proceedings
Robert Murphy has not been the subject of any arbitration claim. Also, Robert Murphy has not
been the subject of any civil, self-regulatory organization or administrative proceeding.
B. Bankruptcy History
Robert Murphy has not been the subject of a bankruptcy petition.
Robert Charles Murphy
3
ADV Part 2B – 3/20/25
Additional Brochure: APPENDIX 1 (2025-03-20)
View Document Text
PINNACLE WEALTH MANAGEMENT GROUP, INC.
WRAP PROGRAM BROCHURE
(APPENDIX 1 TO FIRM BROCHURE)
March 20, 2025
849 Penniman, Suite 201
Plymouth, MI 48170
Phone: 734-667-5581
Fax: 734-667-5607
Website: www.pwmgi.com
This wrap fee program brochure provides information about the qualifications and business
practices of Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. If you have any questions about the
contents of this brochure, please contact Daniel A. Cesta at (734) 667-5581. 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 Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. is available on the
SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. You can search this site by a unique identifying
number, known as a CRD number. The CRD number for the Firm is 281935.
ITEM 2 - MATERIAL CHANGES
Since our last annual amendment filing on March 26, 2024, there has been no material changes
made to the brochure.
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
Page 2
Appendix 1 –3/20/25
ITEM 3 - TABLE OF CONTENTS
Item 2. Material Changes .............................................................................................................2
Item 3. Table of Contents .............................................................................................................3
Item 4. Services, Fees and Compensation ...................................................................................4
Item 5. Account Requirements and Types of Clients ................................................................8
Item 6. Portfolio Manager Selection and Evaluation .................................................................8
Item 7. Client Information Provided to Portfolio Managers ..................................................12
Item 8. Client Contact with Portfolio Managers ......................................................................12
Item 9. Additional Information .................................................................................................12
Business Continuity Plan .............................................................................................................17
Information Security Program ...................................................................................................17
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
Page 3
Appendix 1 –3/20/25
ITEM 4 - SERVICES, FEES AND COMPENSATION
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. (“We”) is a Michigan Subchapter S Corporation. It
was subsequently registered as a Michigan investment adviser in 2016. Daniel A. Cesta (“Mr.
Cesta”) and Eddison C. Millington, II (“Mr. Millington”) are the firm’s owners. As of December
31, 2024, we manage $212,749,421 in discretionary assets.
SERVICES
PWMG INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
We offer ongoing portfolio management services in a wrap fee program. The following is a
summary of the program. Our portfolio management services are based on the individual goals,
objectives, time horizon, and risk tolerance of each client. At the outset of each relationship, we
evaluate a client’s current investments with respect to their financial circumstances, risk
tolerance levels and time horizon. With this information we create a customized portfolio. Our
investment goal is to generate a personalized rate of return that moves the client towards their
stated objectives. As you move through life’s stages, your needs, priorities, and economic
environment will change and so too should your investment strategy. We will request
discretionary authority from a client in order to select securities and execute transactions without
permission from the client prior to each transaction. Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
bases its investment recommendations on a variety of factors including, but not limited to,
performance risk, fees, tax efficiency of different investment strategies, as well as client input
and preferences regarding the strategies.
During the initial review stage, which is the basis for developing an investment strategy and a
wealth management plan, if desired, we set up several meetings between the relationship
manager and client, and assess the following as part of the review:
Return goals and expectations;
Risk tolerance;
Time horizon;
Market outlook;
Future planning needs.
The client’s needs and objectives are documented in our client relationship management system.
Clients may impose restrictions on investing in certain securities or types of securities.
Based on the results of client discussions and the information provided by the client, we
document the agreed upon investment strategy.
In general, for some client accounts, Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. constructs client
portfolios in accordance with our model strategies: Conservative, Balanced, Growth, or Income.
Client portfolios are managed in accordance with the model strategy most appropriate to the
client’s risk profile. All the model strategies include some combination of equities, bonds,
mutual funds, ETFs, alternative investments, and may potentially include other investment
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
Page 4
Appendix 1 –3/20/25
products. For other clients of Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc., customized portfolios
are utilized based upon the client’s needs and individual circumstances.
PWMG PLATINUM PROGRAM
For qualifying clients, we offer a platinum program that consists of family office services, which
are designed to help clients organize their financial situations and plan for the successful transfer
of wealth to the next generation in the most tax-advantageous manner. These services generally
include financial planning in the following areas:
Family Continuity, Estate Planning and Philanthropy – We coordinate estate and transfer
planning, including trust preparation services, with outside attorneys and other
professional advisors. Areas we address may include wealth preservation and distribution
strategies, succession and philanthropic considerations, and entity administration and
foundation management. As the client’s legal needs change, we coordinate ongoing
meetings with the attorneys as needed. We annually review the client’s estate plan with
the client. The attorneys’ fees are directly billed to and paid by Pinnacle Wealth
Management Group, Inc. The client is not invoiced by the attorney.
Ongoing Integrated Tax Assistance – Annually, we coordinate income tax planning and
preparation with outside accountants. Additionally, we work with the accountants on a
year around basis, so they understand the client’s financial situation and goals. We assist
with the preparation of any quarterly estimated taxes that may be due by the client. The
accountants’ fees are directly billed to and paid by Pinnacle Wealth Management Group,
Inc. The client is not invoiced by the accountant for this service.
Business Consulting Services – We provide family business advisory consulting. This
service may include annually coordinating the business tax returns along with annual
reviews of income statements and balance sheets to look for savings and efficiencies. We
also assist in structuring the transfer of the business from one generation to the next.
Ongoing Financial Planning – Our firm provides broad-based financial planning designed
to assist clients in developing a strategy for the successful management of income, assets
and liabilities in meeting their financial goals and objectives. Areas addressed may
include liability management, retirement planning, transactional planning and structure,
tax minimization, and tax return preparation and representation. We meet with clients up
to four times per year to review and update their financial plans.
Cash Management, Record Keeping and Financial Reporting – Our firm may assist
clients with the management of their financial affairs by providing cash flow planning
and projections, document management, and ongoing bookkeeping services. We may
also provide advice on debt structure and analysis.
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
Page 5
Appendix 1 –3/20/25
FEES
Fees for accounts are calculated and billed quarterly in advance using the annualized rates below.
Management
Custodian Reported
Fee
Value of Account
1.50%
$500,000 to $749,999
1.25%
$750,000 to $999,999
1.00%
$1,000,000 to $1,999,999
$2,000,000 and $2,999,999 0.90%
$3,000,000 and $3,999,999 0.80%
$4,000,000 and $4,999,999 0.75%
Above $5,000,000
Negotiable
The pro-rated first quarter’s management fee will be calculated on the account’s average account
balance for the period as reported by the account’s custodian. Thereafter, the management fee
will be calculated on the account’s previous quarter-end value adjusted for weighted cash flows
(monies added or withdrawn for the account), as reported by the account’s custodian. The fees
are negotiable.
In a wrap account, clients pay a single annual advisory fee for advisory services and execution of
transactions. Clients do not pay brokerage commissions, markups or transaction charges for
execution of transactions in addition to the advisory fee.
Although clients do not pay a transaction charge for transactions in a program account, clients
should be aware that we pay Charles Schwab & Co. (“Schwab”) transaction charges for the
transactions. The transaction charges paid by us vary based on the type of transaction (e.g.,
mutual fund, equity or fixed income security) and range from $0 to $50. Because we pay the
transaction charges in program accounts, there is a conflict of interest. Clients should understand
that the cost to us of transaction charges may be a factor that we consider when deciding which
securities to select and how frequently to place transactions in a program account.
PLATINUM PROGRAM
Fees for the family office service range from 0.25% to 1.00%. This fee is in addition to the
portfolio management fee listed in Item 5. The fee is negotiable based on the number of assets
we manage for the client, as well as the complexity and level of services required. The fee is
collected at the beginning of each calendar quarter. The fee is based upon the previous quarter’s
end value adjusted for weighted cash flows, as reported by the account’s custodian. The initial
quarter’s fee will be prorated for the number of days in the quarter, based on the account’s
adjusted weighted cash flows. (For example, if client engages us 45 days into a 90-day quarter,
the client will be charged for only 45 days.) With both billing arrangements, the client will be
asked to authorize us with the ability to withdraw the fee directly from the client’s account.
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
Page 6
Appendix 1 –3/20/25
TERMINATION OF PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT SERVICES
Either party may terminate the Investment Management Agreement for any reason at any time
and, within the first five (5) business days after signing the contract and will receive a 100%
refund of any fees paid without any cost or penalty. Thereafter, written termination will result in
a prorated refund of unearned fees during the termination quarter. For example, if a client
terminates an account 36 days into a 90-day quarter, the client will receive a refund of 60% of
the fees charged at the beginning of the month. (36/90 = 40%: 100% - 40% = 60% refund.) If
permitted by the client’s custodian, the refund will be deposited into the client’s account;
otherwise the refund will be paid to the client by company check directly to the client within 30
days of termination notice receipt.
OTHER TYPES OF FEES AND CHARGES
Program accounts will incur additional fees and charges from parties other than us as noted
below. These fees and charges are in addition to the advisory fee paid to us. We do not share in
any portion of these third party fees.
Schwab, as the custodian and broker-dealer providing brokerage and execution services on
program accounts, will impose certain fees and charges. Schwab notifies clients of these charges
at account opening. Schwab will deduct these fees and charges directly from the client’s program
account. There are other fees and charges that are imposed by other third parties that apply to
investments in program accounts. Some of these fees and charges are described below.
If a client’s assets are invested in mutual funds or other pooled investment products, clients
should be aware that there will be two layers of advisory fees and expenses for those assets.
Client will pay an advisory fee to the fund manager and other expenses as a shareholder of
the fund. Client will also pay us the advisory fee with respect to those assets. Most of the
mutual funds available in the program may be purchased directly. Therefore, clients could
generally avoid the second layer of fees by not using our management services and by
making their own investment decisions.
Certain mutual funds impose fees and charges such as contingent deferred sales charges,
early redemption fees and charges for frequent trading. These charges may apply if a client
transfers into or purchases such a fund with the applicable charges in a program account.
Although only no-load and load-waived mutual funds can be purchased in a program
account, clients should understand that some mutual funds pay asset-based sales charges or
service fees (e.g., 12b-1 fees) to the custodian with respect to account holdings.
If a client holds a variable annuity as part of an account, there are mortality, expense and
administrative charges, fees for additional riders on the contract and charges for excessive
transfers within a calendar year imposed by the variable annuity sponsor.
Further information regarding fees assessed by a mutual fund or variable annuity is available in
the appropriate prospectus, which is available upon request from us or from the product sponsor
directly.
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
Page 7
Appendix 1 –3/20/25
OTHER IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
The advisory fee is an ongoing wrap fee for investment advisory services, the execution of
transactions, and other administrative and custodial services. The advisory fee may cost the
client more than purchasing the program services separately. Factors that bear upon the cost
of the account in relation to the cost of the same services purchased separately include the
type and size of the account, historical and expected size or number of trades for the account,
and number and range of supplementary advisory and client-related services provided to the
client.
The advisory fee also may cost the client more than if assets were held in a traditional
brokerage account. In a brokerage account, a client is charged a commission for each
transaction, and the representative has no duty to provide ongoing advice with respect to the
account. If the client plans to follow a buy and hold strategy for the account or does not wish
to purchase ongoing investment advice or management services, the client should consider
opening a brokerage account rather than a program account.
The investment products available to be purchased in the program can be purchased by
clients outside of a program account, through broker-dealers or other investment firms not
affiliated with us.
ITEM 5 - ACCOUNT REQUIREMENTS AND TYPES OF CLIENTS
We offer our services to individuals, high net worth individuals, and corporations or other
business entities. We generally require a minimum account size of $500,000, but we may waive
this at our discretion. We require $1,000,000 in assets under management for our family office
services (Platinum Program). This requirement is generally non-negotiable.
ITEM 6 - PORTFOLIO MANAGER SELECTION AND EVALUATION
In our wrap program, we do not select, review or recommend other investment advisors or
portfolio managers. We, through our investment adviser representatives (“IAR”), are responsible
for the investment advice and management offered to clients. For more information about the
IAR managing the account, client should refer to the IAR’s Brochure Supplement (ADV Part
2B), which the client should have received along with this Brochure at the time the client opened
the account. By having our IARs act as the portfolio managers to the program there is a conflict
of interest because our evaluation of the IARs as the managers may not be objective. We attempt
to mitigate this conflict of interest by holding our IARs to the same standards that we would hold
a non-affiliated portfolio manager. Additionally, we attempt to mitigate this conflict of interest to
the best of our ability by placing the client’s interest ahead of our own through our fiduciary
duty.
We offer two wrap programs, PWMG Investment Management Program and PWMG Platinum
Program. A description of these programs can be found above in Item 4. It is important to note
that our services are tailored to the client’s stated goals, needs and objectives. We allow them to
impose restrictions on investment in certain securities or types of securities. All restrictions must
be presented to us in writing. Additionally, our investment management services are only offered
in a wrap fee program, and our investment adviser representatives are the portfolio managers.
Therefore, we receive a portion of the wrap fee because we provide portfolio management
services. The wrap fee does not include performance-based fees.
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
Page 8
Appendix 1 –3/20/25
METHODS OF ANALYSIS, INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISK OF LOSS
METHODS OF ANALYSIS AND INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
When we create a client’s portfolio we begin with asset allocation. Once the portfolio is created,
we manage it using tactical asset allocation. Investment strategies used by Pinnacle Wealth
Management Group, Inc. are implemented to satisfy the intermediate and long-term goals of the
individual client. Investment recommendations are made with intermediate and long-term
investment horizons.
Asset allocation is an investment strategy that aims to balance risk and reward by apportioning a
portfolio's assets according to an individual's goals, risk tolerance and investment horizon among
various asset classes. The asset classes typically include equities, fixed-income, alternative
investments, and cash and equivalents. Each class has different levels of risk and return, so each
will behave differently over time. Any asset allocation advice provided by Pinnacle Wealth
Management Group, Inc. is based on a number of factors, including the client’s investment
objectives, risk tolerances, asset class preferences, time horizons, liquidity needs, expected
returns and an assessment of current economic and market views expressed by economists,
analysts, banks and securities firms.
Tactical asset allocation is an active management portfolio strategy that rebalances the
percentage of assets held in various categories in order to take advantage of market pricing
anomalies or strong market sectors. This strategy is designed to allow portfolio managers to
create extra value by taking advantage of certain situations in the marketplace. It is a moderately
active strategy because portfolio managers return to the portfolio's original strategic asset mix
when desired short-term profits are achieved.
Our analysis of securities and advice relating thereto may be based upon information obtained
from financial newspapers and magazines, research materials prepared by others, corporate
ratings services, and annual reports, prospectuses and filings made with the Securities and
Exchange Commission. We may also utilize computer models for performance analysis, asset
allocation and risk management.
RECOMMENDED SECURITIES AND INVESTMENT RISKS
We use several types of securities in our clients’ accounts. These securities may include, but are
not limited to, the following: bonds and other corporate debt instruments; exchange traded funds
(ETFs); mutual funds; government debt instruments including treasury bills and municipal
securities; stocks; preferred stocks; high-yield debt; domestic fixed income; options; traded and
non-traded real estate investment trusts; limited partnerships; managed futures; digital assets;
money market funds and cash.
All investments bear different types and degrees of risk and investing in securities involves risk
of loss that clients should be prepared to bear. Our investment approach continually keeps the
risk of loss in mind. While we use investment strategies that are designed to provide appropriate
investment diversification, some investments have significantly greater risks than others.
Obtaining higher rates-of-return on investments entails accepting higher levels of risk.
Recommended investment strategies seek to balance risks and rewards to achieve investment
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
Page 9
Appendix 1 –3/20/25
objectives. If a client has questions about risks he/she does not understand, we would be pleased
to discuss them.
We strive to render our best judgment on behalf of our clients. Still, we cannot assure or
guarantee clients that investments will be profitable or assure that no losses will occur in an
investment portfolio. Past performance is an important consideration with respect to any
investment or investment adviser but is not a reliable predictor of future performance. We
continuously strive to provide outstanding long-term investment performance, but many
economic and market variables beyond our control can affect the performance of an investment
portfolio.
An investment could lose money over short or even long periods. A client should expect his/her
account value and returns to fluctuate within a wide range, like the fluctuations of the overall
stock and bond markets. A client’s account performance could be hurt by:
Credit risk: This is the risk that an issuer of a bond could suffer an adverse change in
financial condition that results in a payment default, security downgrade, or inability to
meet a financial obligation.
Inflation risk: This is the risk that inflation will undermine the performance of an
investment and/or the future purchasing power of a client's assets.
Interest rate risk: The chance that bond prices overall will decline because of rising
interest rates.
International investing risk: Investing in the securities of non-U.S. companies involves
special risks not typically associated with investing in U.S. companies. Foreign securities
tend to be more volatile and less liquid than investments in U.S. securities, and may lose
value because of adverse political, social or economic developments overseas or due to
changes in the exchange rates between foreign currencies and the U.S. dollar. In addition,
foreign investments are subject to settlement practices, as well as regulatory and financial
reporting standards, that differ from those of the U.S.
Leverage risk: Using derivatives to increase the fund's combined long and short
exposure creates leverage, which can magnify the fund's potential for gain or loss and,
therefore, amplify the effects of market volatility on the fund's share price.
Liquidity risk: One common risk associated with private placements and REITs is a
relative lack of liquidity due to the highly customized nature of the investment.
Moreover, the full extent of returns is often not realized until maturity. Because of this,
these products tend to be more of a buy-and-hold investment decision rather than a means
of getting in and out of a position with speed and efficiency.
Manager risk: The chance that the proportions allocated to the various securities will
cause the client’s account to underperform relevant to benchmarks or other accounts with
a similar investment objective.
Options risk: Like other securities - including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds - options
carry no guarantees, and a person must be aware that it is possible to lose all of the
principal he or she invests, and sometimes more. As an option holder, a person risks the
entire amount of the premium he or she paid. But as an options writer, a person takes on a
much higher level of risk. For example, if a person writes an uncovered call, he or she
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc.
Page 10
Appendix 1 –3/20/25
faces unlimited potential loss, since there is no cap on how high a stock price can rise.
However, since initial option investments usually require less capital than equivalent
stock positions, potential cash losses as an options investor are usually smaller than if
someone bought the underlying stock or sold the stock short. The exception to this
general rule occurs when an option is used to provide leverage; percentage returns are
often high, but it is important to remember that percentage losses can be high as well.
Portfolio concentration: Accounts that are not diversified among a wide range of
types of securities, countries or industry sectors may have more volatility and are
considered to have more risk than accounts that are invested in a greater number of
securities because changes in the value of a single security may have more of
a significant effect, either negative or positive. Accordingly, portfolios are subject to
more rapid changes in value than would be the case if the client maintained a
more diversified portfolio.
REIT market risk: REITs have no control over market and business conditions and are
vulnerable to market risk and economic slowdowns. External conditions beyond its
control may reduce the value of properties that it acquires, the ability of tenants to pay
rent on a timely basis, the amount of rent that can be charged and the ability of borrowers
to make loan payments on a timely basis or at all. Cash available for distribution to
stockholders can be affected by the tenant’s inability to make rents or pay loans.
REIT tenant strength risk: REITs' revenues are highly dependent on lease payments
from its properties and interest payments on the loans it makes. Defaults by tenants or
borrowers reduce the cash available for repayment of outstanding debt and distribution to
investors. If tenants have multiple properties or borrowers have multiple loans, it
increases the risk of more than one property or loan going bad if that tenant or borrower
defaults. More than one property could become vacant, or loans are in default because of
the financial failure of one tenant or borrower. Multiple vacancies or defaults can reduce
a REIT's cash receipts and funds available for distribution and could decrease the value
of the affected properties.
REIT qualifying risk: REITs must be organized and operated and, intend to continue to
be organized and to operate, in a manner that will enable them to qualify as a REIT for
federal income tax purposes. No assurance can be given that a REIT qualifies or will
continue to qualify as a REIT. If a REIT fails to qualify as a REIT, it will be subject to
federal income tax at regular corporate rates. If a REIT fails to qualify the funds
available for distribution to investors, the distributions would be greatly reduced for each
of the years involved.
Risks associated with leveraged ETFs: A leveraged ETF seeks to generate a return that
is a multiple (usually 2X or 3X or -2X or -3X) of its benchmark index's performance over
a specific, pre-set time period indicated in the fund’s prospectus. That time period is also
referred to as the "rebalancing period" and is generally only one day, although it could be
for a longer time period such as a month. As a result, the returns for these types of ETFs
can differ significantly from that of their benchmark index, over periods lasting longer
than the rebalancing period because of the compounding of returns. Generally, the longer
the security is held, the more likely the returns of the leveraged product will differ from
the long-term return of the index. Although potential returns are increased by leveraging,
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so are the potential losses. Therefore, these securities carry significant risk. As a result,
leveraged ETFs are intended only for sophisticated investors with an aggressive tolerance
for risk.
Risks associated with inverse ETFs: An inverse ETF attempts to mimic the inverse, or
opposite, of its stated benchmark. For example, an inverse S&P 500 ETF would attempt
to deliver the opposite of the S&P 500's daily performance, net of fees. These funds, also
called "Short ETFs or Bear ETFs" are often an attempt to profit from a downturn in a
given market, sector, or index, or to hedge against a potential loss in their portfolio.
Although an inverse ETF does not explicitly use leverage to magnify the intended return,
they can suffer from the same compounding effects as the leveraged long and leveraged
short ETFs. Therefore, these securities carry significant risk. As a result, inverse ETFs
are intended only for sophisticated investors with an aggressive tolerance for risk.
Stock market risk: The chance that stock prices overall will decline. Stock markets tend
to move in cycles, with periods of rising stock prices and periods of falling stock prices.
Blockchain Investments Risk. An investment in companies actively engaged in
blockchain technology may be subject to the following risks:
The technology is new, and many of its uses may be untested. The mechanics of
using distributed ledger technology to transact in other types of assets, such as
securities or derivatives, is less clear. There is no assurance that widespread
adoption will occur. A lack of expansion in the usage of blockchain technology
could adversely affect an investment in an investment vehicle.
Theft, loss, or destruction. Transacting on a blockchain depends in part
specifically on the use of cryptographic keys that are required to access a user’s
account (or ‘‘wallet’’). The theft, loss, or destruction of these keys impairs the
value of ownership claims users have over the relevant assets being represented
by the ledger (whether ‘‘smart contracts,’’ securities, currency, or other digital
assets). The theft, loss, or destruction of private or public keys needed to transact
on a blockchain could also adversely affect a company’s business or operations if
it were dependent on the ledger.
Competing platforms and technologies. The development and acceptance of
competing platforms or technologies may cause consumers or investors to use an
alternative to blockchains.
Developmental risk. Blockchain technology may never develop optimized
transactional processes that lead to realized economic returns for any company in
which an investment vehicle invests. Companies that are developing applications
of blockchain technology applications may not, in fact, do so or may not be able
to capitalize on those blockchain technologies. The development of new or
competing platforms may cause consumers and investors to use alternatives to
blockchains.
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Intellectual property claims. A proliferation of recent startups attempting to apply
blockchain technology in different contexts means the possibility of conflicting
intellectual property claims could be a risk to an issuer, its operations, or its
business. This could also pose a risk to blockchain platforms that permit
transactions in digital securities. Regardless of the merit of any intellectual
property or other legal action, any threatened action that reduces confidence in the
viability of blockchain may adversely affect an investment in an investment
vehicle.
Lack of liquid markets and possible manipulation of blockchain-based assets.
Digital assets that are represented and trade on a blockchain may not necessarily
benefit from viable trading markets. Stock exchanges have listing requirements
and vet issuers, and perhaps users. These conditions may not necessarily be
replicated on a blockchain, depending on the platform’s controls and other
policies. The more lenient a blockchain is about vetting issuers of digital assets or
users that transact on the platform, the higher the potential risk for fraud or the
manipulation of digital assets. These factors may decrease liquidity or volume or
increase the volatility of digital securities or other assets trading on a blockchain.
Lack of regulation. Digital commodities and their associated platforms are largely
unregulated, and the regulatory environment is rapidly evolving. Because
blockchain works by having every transaction build on every other transaction,
participants can self-police any corruption, which can mitigate the need to depend
on the current level of legal or government safeguards to monitor and control the
flow of business transactions. As a result, companies engaged in such blockchain
activities may be exposed to adverse regulatory action, fraudulent activity, or
even failure.
Third party product defects or vulnerabilities. Blockchain systems are built using
third party products, those products may contain technical defects or
vulnerabilities beyond a company’s control. Open-source technologies that are
used to build a blockchain application may also introduce defects and
vulnerabilities.
Reliance on the Internet. Blockchain functionality relies on the Internet. A
significant disruption of Internet connectivity affecting large numbers of users or
geographic areas could impede the functionality of blockchain technologies and
adversely affect investment vehicles. In addition, certain features of blockchain
technology, such as decentralization, open-source protocol, and reliance on peer-
to-peer connectivity, may increase the risk of fraud or cyber-attack by potentially
reducing the likelihood of a coordinated response.
Line of business risk. Some of the companies in which investment vehicles may
invest are engaged in other lines of business unrelated to blockchain, and these
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lines of business could adversely affect their operating results. The operating
results of these companies may fluctuate as a result of these additional risks and
events in the other lines of business. In addition, a company’s ability to engage in
new activities may expose it to business risks with which it has less experience
than it has with the business risks associated with its traditional businesses.
Despite a company’s possible success in activities linked to its use of blockchain,
there can be no assurance that the other lines of business in which these
companies are engaged will not have an adverse effect on a company’s business
or financial condition.
Cryptocurrency Risk. Cryptocurrency (notably, bitcoin), often referred to as “virtual
currency,” “digital currency,” or “digital assets,” operates as a decentralized, peer-to-peer
financial exchange and value storage that is used like money. Clients may also be
exposed to cryptocurrencies other than bitcoin. Cryptocurrency operates without central
authority or banks and is not backed by any government. Even indirectly,
cryptocurrencies (i.e., bitcoin) may experience very high volatility, and related
investments may be affected by such volatility. As a result of holding cryptocurrency,
certain of [Firm Name]’s Clients may also trade at a significant premium to NAV.
Cryptocurrency is also not legal tender. Federal, state, or foreign governments may
restrict the use and exchange of cryptocurrency, and regulation in the U.S. is still
developing. The SEC has issued a public report stating U.S. federal securities laws
require treating some digital assets as securities. Cryptocurrency exchanges may stop
operating or permanently shut down due to fraud, technical glitches, hackers, or malware.
Due to its relatively recent launch, bitcoin has a limited trading history, making it
difficult for investors to evaluate investments in this cryptocurrency. It is also possible
that a cryptocurrency other than bitcoin, including cryptocurrencies to which the investor
has limited or no exposure to, could become materially popular and have a negative
impact on the demand for and price of bitcoin. It is possible that another entity could
manipulate the blockchain in a manner that is detrimental to the bitcoin network. Bitcoin
transactions are irreversible such that an improper transfer can only be undone by the
receiver of the bitcoin agreeing to return the bitcoin to the original sender. Digital assets
are highly dependent on their developers, and there is no guarantee that development will
continue or that developers will not abandon a project with little or no notice. Third
parties may assert intellectual property claims relating to the holding and transfer of
digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and their source code. Any threatened action
that reduces confidence in a network’s long-term ability to hold and transfer
cryptocurrency may affect investments in cryptocurrencies.
Cryptocurrency Tax Risk. Many significant aspects of the U.S. federal income tax
treatment of investments in bitcoin are uncertain, and an investment in bitcoin may
produce income that is not treated as qualifying income for purposes of the income test
applicable to regulated investment companies. The taxation will depend on a number of
factors, including the nature of any investments made, the jurisdiction in which the
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income from such investments may be subject to tax, the jurisdiction in which the
investor is subject to tax, and the applicable laws in any relevant jurisdiction.
VOTING CLIENT SECURITIES
We will not be responsible for responding to proxies of securities held in clients' accounts.
Proxy solicitation materials will be forwarded to clients for response and voting. Also, we do not
accept authority to take action with respect to legal proceedings relating to securities held in the
account. In the event a client has a question about either, the client should contact us.
ITEM 7 - CLIENT INFORMATION PROVIDED TO PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
In our wrap program, we are responsible for account management; there is no separate portfolio
manager involved. We obtain the necessary financial data from the client and assist the client in
setting an appropriate investment objective for the account. We obtain this information by having
the client complete an advisory agreement and other documentation. Clients are encouraged to
contact us if there have been any changes in their financial situation or investment objectives or
if they wish to impose any reasonable restrictions on the management of the account or
reasonably modify existing restrictions. Client should be aware that the investment objective
selected for the program is an overall objective for the entire account and may be inconsistent
with a particular holding and the account’s performance at any time. Client should further be
aware that achievement of the stated investment objective is a long-term goal for the account.
ITEM 8 - CLIENT CONTACT WITH PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Client should contact us at any time with questions regarding the program account.
ITEM 9 - ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
As of the date of this brochure, we have not been subject to any disciplinary, legal, or regulatory
events related to past or present investment clients. There has been no disciplinary, legal, or
regulatory events related to us or any of our management persons.
OTHER FINANCIAL INDUSTRY ACTIVITIES AND AFFILIATIONS
Our associates are registered representatives of Private Client Services, member FINRA/SIPC.
Through Private Client Services they may sell securities to our clients for a commission. This
causes a conflict of interest because the commission from Private Client Services is separate
from the fees outlined above. We attempt to mitigate this conflict of interest to the best of our
ability by placing the client’s interest ahead of our own through our fiduciary duty. Additionally,
it is our policy that recommended securities purchases do not have to be purchased through our
associates.
Additionally, our associates may be independent insurance agents (life, annuities, long-term care
and health) and they may recommend these services to clients. This other business activity pays
our associates' commissions that are separate from the fees described above. This is a conflict of
interest because the commissions give our associates a financial incentive to recommend and sell
clients the insurance products. However, our associates attempt to mitigate any conflicts of
interest to the best of their ability by placing the clients’ interests ahead of their own, through
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their fiduciary duty and by informing clients that they are never obligated to purchase
recommended insurance through them. Associates may only sell insurance in states where they
are properly registered.
In addition to a Certified Financial Planner, our owner, Daniel Cesta, is a Certified Public
Accountant. However, he is not a practicing accountant and does not provide accounting or tax
preparation services other than through the firm’s Platinum Program, which services are
provided by outside CPAs and attorneys. Please see item 4.
CODE OF ETHICS, PARTICIPATION OR INTEREST IN CLIENT TRANSACTIONS AND PERSONAL
TRADING
Our Approach to Conflicts of Interest
Conflicts of interest that may arise in the course of providing investment management services
are described throughout this brochure, as are some of our policies and procedures designed to
address specific conflicts of interest, such as our Code of Ethics and personal trading practices.
We have a compliance program in place that is intended to identify, mitigate and, in some
instances, prevent actual and potential conflicts of interest, ensure compliance with legal and
regulatory requirements and ensure compliance with client investment guidelines and
restrictions. Our compliance program includes written policies and procedures that we believe
are reasonably designed to prevent violations of applicable law and regulations.
Code of Ethics
Our Code of Ethics establishes ideals for ethical conduct upon fundamental principles of
openness, integrity, honesty, and trust. We will provide a copy of our Code of Ethics to any
client or prospective client upon request.
Our Code of Ethics covers all supervised persons, and it describes our high standard of business
conduct, and fiduciary duty to our clients. The Code of Ethics includes provisions relating to the
confidentiality of client information, a prohibition on insider trading, a prohibition of rumor
mongering, restrictions on the acceptance of significant gifts and the reporting of certain gifts
and business entertainment items, and personal securities trading procedures, among other
things. All supervised persons must acknowledge the terms of the Code of Ethics annually, or as
amended.
Material Interest in Securities
We do not have a material interest in any securities.
Investing in or Recommending the Same Securities
Our associates may buy or sell for their own accounts the same securities at or about the same
time they recommend to or purchase for client accounts. This causes a conflict of interest
because they can trade ahead of client trades. We mitigate the conflict of interest in two ways.
First, our Code of Ethics requires employees to: (1) report personal securities transactions on at
least a quarterly basis and (2) provide us with a detailed summary of certain holdings (both
initially upon commencement of employment and quarterly thereafter) in which such employees
have a direct or indirect beneficial interest. The reports are reviewed to ensure our associates do
not trade ahead of client accounts. Additionally, we require client transactions be placed ahead of
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our associates’ personal trades or our associates can place personal trades as part of a block trade
(Please see Item 12.B. for details on our block trading practices). The records of all associates’
personal and client trading activities are reviewed and made available to regulators to review on
the premises.
Policy Regarding Engaging in Agency Cross Transactions in Advisory Accounts
It is our policy to prohibit representatives from engaging in agency cross transactions where
representatives act as brokers for both the buy and sell of a single security between two different
clients for which the representatives receive compensation in the form of an agency commission
or principal mark-up for the trades. Should we adopt a different policy in this area, we will
observe all rules and regulations in accordance with the disclosure and consent requirements of
Section 206(3) of the Advisers Act. Additionally, we are aware that such transactions can only
occur if we can ensure that we meet our duty of best execution for the client.
Policy Regarding Engaging in Principal Trading Involving Advisory Accounts
We do not permit principal transactions to be effected in advisory accounts.
REVIEW OF ACCOUNTS
Frequency of Account Reviews
Our owners review the general holdings of client accounts on a monthly basis. In addition to
these reviews, they with clients, either in person or by telephone, on a bi-annual basis to discuss
and review their accounts.
Review Triggers
The calendar is the triggering factor. Factors triggering an account review may include material
market, economic or political events, and changes in your financial or personal situation or
performance of the account in general.
Reports and Account Statements
You will receive at least monthly statements from the account custodian or clearing firm, if your
account(s) have activity during the month. If the account does not have any monthly activity, an
account statement is provided by the account custodian or clearing firm at least quarterly. Such
statements will show any activity in the account, as well as period ending position balances.
To the extent you receive performance reports from your representative, we urge you to compare
performance reports received with account statements received from the custodian. Inquiries or
concerns regarding the account, including performance reports, should be directed to the
investment advisor firm at the phone number listed on the account statement. Each representative
then decides whether to provide these reports to his or her clients. Performance information
provided by your representative is believed to be accurate but cannot be guaranteed. Your
representative may or may not include variable annuity account position information within
performance reports. Neither our firm nor your representative can guarantee the accuracy of
fund values, securities’ and other information obtained from third parties.
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CLIENT REFERRALS AND OTHER COMPENSATION
We may enter into an agreement with other financial services firms or individuals pursuant to
which we will pay a portion of our management fee (Item 5.B) to the financial services firms or
individual’s solicitation and referral services. In turn, the financial services firms would share a
portion of the fees with its investment adviser representatives. Clients obtained through the use
of a promoter or referral service will not pay a different fee (higher or lower) than the fee the
client would have been charged if the client had been obtained without their services.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
We do not have any financial impairment that will preclude us from meeting our contractual
commitments to you. We do not serve as a custodian for your funds or securities. At no time will
fees of more than $500 be charged six or more months in advance by our firm or your
representative. We have established policies and procedures designed to prevent the collection
of fees greater than $500 six or more months in advance. As such, a balance sheet is not required
to be provided to you at this time.
CUSTODY
All client funds, securities and accounts are held at third-party custodians. We do not take
possession of a client’s securities. However, the client will be asked to authorize us with the
ability to deduct fees directly from the client’s account. This authorization will be to deduct our
management fee only. A client may cancel this authorize to deduct our fees from the Account at
any time. Clients should receive quarterly statements from the broker/dealer, bank or other
qualified custodian that holds and maintains client’s investment assets. We urge clients to
carefully review such statements.
BROKERAGE PRACTICES
We participate in the Schwab program. Schwab, member FINRA/SIPC. Schwab is an
independent and unaffiliated SEC-registered broker-dealer. Schwab offers to independent
investment Advisors services which include custody of securities, trade execution, clearance and
settlement of transactions. We receive some benefits from Schwab through its participation in
the program. (Please see the disclosure below under Client referrals and Other Compensation.)
“Soft dollars” are defined as a form of payment investment firms can use to pay for goods and
services such as news subscriptions or research. When an investment firm gives its business to a
particular brokerage firm, the brokerage firm in return can agree to use some of its revenue to
pay for these types of services.
We may aggregate transactions in equity and fixed income securities for a client with other
clients to improve the quality of execution. When transactions are so aggregated, the actual
prices applicable to the aggregated transactions will be averaged, and the client account will be
deemed to have purchased or sold its proportionate share of the securities involved at the average
price obtained. We may determine not to aggregate transactions, for example, based on the size
of the trades, the number of client accounts, the timing of the trades, the liquidity of the securities
and the discretionary or non-discretionary nature of the trades. If we do not aggregate orders,
some clients purchasing securities around the same time may receive a less favorable price than
other clients. This means that this practice of not aggregating may cost clients more money.
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OTHER COMPENSATION
We do not pay nor receive compensation for referrals from any custodian or broker. However,
we participate in Schwab’s customer program, and we may recommend Schwab to clients for
custody and brokerage services. There is no direct link between our participation in the program
and the investment advice it gives to its clients, although we receive economic benefits through
its participation in the program that are typically not available to Schwab retail investors. These
benefits include the following products and services (provided without cost or at a discount):
receipt of duplicate client statements and confirmations; research related products and tools;
consulting services; access to a trading desk serving our participants; access to block trading
(which provides the ability to aggregate securities transactions for executions and then allocate
the appropriate shares to client accounts); the ability to have advisory fees deducted directly from
client accounts; access to an electronic communications network for client order entry and
account information; access to mutual funds with no transaction fees and to certain institutional
money manager; and discounts on compliance, marketing, research, technology, and practice
management products or services provided to us by third party vendors. Schwab may also have
paid for business consulting and professional services received by our related persons. Some of
the products and services made available by Schwab through the program may benefit us but
may not benefit its client accounts. These products or services may assist us in managing and
administering client accounts, including accounts not maintained at Schwab. Other services
made available by Schwab are intended to help us manage and further develop its business
enterprise. The benefits received by us or its personnel through participation in the program do
not depend on the amount of brokerage transactions direct to Schwab. As part of its fiduciary
duties to clients, our endeavors at all times are to put the interests of its clients first. Clients
should be aware, however, that the receipt of economic benefits by us or its related persons in
and of itself creates a potential conflict of interest and may indirectly influence our choice of
Schwab for custody and brokerage services.
BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLAN
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. has a Business Continuity Plan in place that provides
detailed steps to mitigate and recover from the loss of office space, communications, and/or
services.
The Business Continuity Plan covers natural disasters such as snow storms, hurricanes, tornados,
and flooding. The Plan also covers man-made disasters such as loss of electrical power, loss of
water pressure, fire, bomb threat, nuclear emergency, chemical event, biological event, T-1
communications line outage, internet outage, railway accident and aircraft accident. The Plan
also covers pandemics such as Covid-19. Electronic files are backed up offsite daily by the
firm’s outside technology consulting firm.
Alternate offices are identified to support ongoing operations in the event the main office is
unavailable. Private Client Services. may also assist, depending on the type of disaster, with
back office and trading assistance for accounts held in custody by them. Private Client Services
has their own disaster recovery plans with backup facilities in different parts of the U.S. It is our
intention to contact all clients within five days of a disaster that dictates moving our office to an
alternate location for a period of time.
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INFORMATION SECURITY PROGRAM
Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Inc. maintains an information security program to reduce
the risk that clients' personal and confidential information may be breached. Pinnacle Wealth
Management Group, Inc. is committed to maintaining the confidentiality, integrity and security
of the personal information that is entrusted to us.
The categories of nonpublic information that we collect from a client may include information
about the client's personal finances, information about the client's health to the extent that it is
needed for the financial planning process, information about transactions between the client and
third parties, and information from consumer reporting agencies, such as credit reports. We use
this information to help clients meet their personal financial goals.
We maintain a secure office environment to ensure that client information is not placed at
unreasonable risk. All hard copy client records are maintained in a secure area with limited
access. Client records are also stored electronically. We employ a firewall barrier and
authentication procedures in our computer environment.
We do not provide clients' personal information to mailing list vendors or solicitors. We require
strict confidentiality in our agreements with unaffiliated third parties that require access to a
client's personal information, including financial service companies’ consultants, and auditors.
Federal and state securities regulators may review our Company records and a client's personal
records as permitted by law.
Personally identifiable information about a client will be maintained while he or she is a client,
and for the required period thereafter that records are required to be maintained by federal and
state securities laws. After that time, information may be destroyed.
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