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Promethium Advisors, LLC
Form ADV
Disclosure Brochure
January 1, 2025
Office Location:
7272 Wisconsin Ave, 10-105
Bethesda, MD 20814
202-978-2519
www.promethiumadvisors.com
This Brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Promethium
Advisors, LLC (“Promethium” or “the Firm”). If there are any questions about the contents of this
brochure, please contact us at the telephone number listed above. For compliance specific
requests, please call 610-871-1593. The information in this Brochure has not been approved or
verified by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) or by any state securities
authority.
Additional information about the Firm is available on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
The Firm has filed to become an SEC registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply any
level of skill or training.
ITEM 2 - MATERIAL CHANGES
In this Item, Promethium Advisors, LLC (hereby known as “Promethium” or the “Firm”) is required to discuss any
material changes that have been made to the Brochure since the last annual amendment.
Material changes since the previous filing of this brochure include:
• The Firm has amended its Form ADV to update assets under management
• The Firm has amended its Form ADV to update Item 14 – Client Referrals and other Compensation
We will ensure that all current clients receive a Summary of Material Changes and updated Brochure within
120 days of the close of our business’ fiscal year. A Summary of Material Changes is also included with our
Brochure on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. The searchable IARD/CRD number for the Firm is
#329565. We may further provide other ongoing disclosure information about material changes as necessary
and will further provide all clients with a new Brochure as necessary based on changes or new information,
at any time, without charge.
Currently, our Brochure may be requested by contacting Christopher Plummer, Chief Compliance Officer at
610-871-1593 or chris@tru-ind.com.
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ITEM 3 - TABLE OF CONTENTS
ITEM 2 - MATERIAL CHANGES ........................................................................................................................... 2
ITEM 3 - TABLE OF CONTENTS .......................................................................................................................... 3
ITEM 4 - ADVISORY BUSINESS ........................................................................................................................... 4
ITEM 5 - FEES AND COMPENSATION ................................................................................................................ 6
ITEM 6 - PERFORMANCE-BASED FEES AND SIDE-BY-SIDE MANAGEMENT ....................................................... 8
ITEM 7 - TYPES OF CLIENTS ............................................................................................................................... 8
ITEM 8 - METHODS OF ANALYSIS, INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISK OF LOSS ........................................... 8
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 .................................................................................................................. 16
ITEM 13 - REVIEW OF ACCOUNTS ................................................................................................................... 18
ITEM 14 - CLIENT REFERRALS AND OTHER COMPENSATION .......................................................................... 19
ITEM 15 - CUSTODY ........................................................................................................................................ 20
ITEM 16 - INVESTMENT DISCRETION .............................................................................................................. 21
ITEM 17 - VOTING CLIENT SECURITIES ............................................................................................................ 22
ITEM 18 - FINANCIAL INFORMATION ............................................................................................................. 22
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ITEM 4 - ADVISORY BUSINESS
Description of Advisory Firm
Promethium Advisors, LLC (“Promethium,” the “Firm,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is a privately owned limited
liability company headquartered in Bethesda, MD.
Promethium is registered as an investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The
Firm was formed in 2023 and is owned by Christopher F. Poch.
As of December 31, 2024, Promethium Advisors, LLC managed approximately $211,957,343 in assets for
approximately 94 clients, all of which are managed on a discretionary basis.
While this brochure generally describes the business of the Firm, certain sections also discuss the activities
of its Supervised Persons, which refer to the Firm’s officers, partners, directors (or other persons occupying
a similar status or performing similar functions), employees, or any other person who provides investment
advice on the Firm’s behalf and is subject to the Firm’s supervision or control.
Advisory Services Offered
The Firm offers discretionary investment management, non-discretionary, and investment advisory services
as well as financial planning and consulting. Prior to the Firm rendering any of the foregoing advisory services,
clients are required to enter into one or more written agreements with the Firm setting forth the relevant
terms and conditions of the advisory relationship (the “Advisory Agreement”).
Investment Management Services
The Firm offers continuous and regular investment supervisory services on a discretionary and non-
discretionary basis as well as financial planning and consulting. While we work with clients, we have the
ongoing responsibility to select and/or make recommendations based upon the objectives of the client, as
to specific securities or other investments that he/she recommends or purchases/sells in clients’
accounts. We utilize a variety of investment types when making investment recommendations/purchases
in client accounts which
include, but are not limited to equity securities, fixed-income securities,
alternatives, mutual funds, and Independent Managers. The investments recommended/purchased are
based on the client’s individual needs, goals, and objectives. The Firm offers investment advice on any
investment held by the client at the start of the advisory relationship. We describe the material investment
risks under Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies, and Risk of Loss. Financial Planning may be
provided to clients as a part of the Investment Management Services. When being provided as a separate
service it is described in this section under Financial Consulting Services below.
We discuss our discretionary authority below under Item 16 – Investment Discretion. For more
information about the restrictions clients can put on their accounts, see Tailored Services and Client
Imposed Restrictions in this item below. We describe the fees charged for investment management services
below under Item 5 – Fees and Compensation.
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Financial Planning and Consulting
The Firm provides a variety of advisory services to individuals, families, institutional, and other c lients
regarding their financial resources based upon an analysis of client’s current situation, goals, and objectives.
Consulting encompasses one or more of the following areas: additional Financial Planning, Performance
Reporting, Investment Planning, Retirement Planning, Education Planning, and Business and Personal
Financial Planning.
Services provided under an on-going consultation agreement are conducted on a regular basis. The client
is under no obligation to act upon the advisor’s recommendation.
If the client elects to act on our
recommendations, the client is under no obligation to effect the transaction through us.
We describe fees charged for Consultation Services below under Item 5 - Fees and Compensation.
Investment Advisory Services for Institutions
Promethium also provides customized investment advisory services to institutional clients, including
corporate pension plans, foundations, endowments, nonprofits, and other tax-exempt entities.
Institutional clients may engage the Firm to manage all or a portion of their assets on a discretionary or
nondiscretionary basis. The securities utilized for investment in client accounts mainly consist of registered
mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs), but we may invest directly in equity securities, corporate
bonds, REITs, and certain private fund vehicles, among others, if we determine such investments fit within
a client’s objectives and are in the best interest of our clients.
We also utilize Independent Managers for institutional client accounts. The Firm seeks to allocate clients’
investments in a manner suitable for their goals and objectives.
With respect to our services, we view ourselves as an extension of both the investment committee and the
trustees and work to add value and improve the effectiveness in all aspects of managing the institutional
investment process. We work with our institutional clients to understand how the pool of assets fits within
the broader organization, identify risk tolerance and liquidity needs, and establish strategic asset
allocations. Once the portfolio has been built, we conduct ongoing monitoring and oversight to evaluate
progress toward the established goals.
We act as a single point of contact between our clients’ custodians, investment managers, and attorneys,
and often work directly with an organization’s auditors to simplify and streamline the investment aspects
of the audit process. We also offer comprehensive support to the Finance office / CFO with operational
implementation, including assistance in the review and completion of required subscription documents
and manager agreements.
Please refer to Item 8 for detailed information on our method of analysis and the risks involved with the
types of securities we utilize.
Use of Independent Managers and Sub-Advisors
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The Firm may select certain Independent Managers and/or Sub-Advisors to actively manage a portion of
its clients’ assets. The specific terms and conditions under which a client engages an Independent Manager
and/or Sub-Advisor may be outlined in a separate written agreement with the designated Independent
Managers engaged to manage their assets.
The Firm evaluates a variety of information about Independent Managers and/or Sub-Advisors, which may
include the Independent Managers’ and/or Sub-Advisors’ public disclosure documents, materials supplied
by the Independent Managers themselves, and other third-party analyses it believes are reputable. To the
extent possible, the Firm seeks to assess the Independent Manager’s and/or Sub-Advisor’s investment
strategies, past performance, and risk results in relation to its clients’ portfolio allocations and risk
exposure. The Firm also takes into consideration each Independent Manager’s and/or Sub-Advisor’s
management style, returns, reputation, financial strength, reporting, pricing, and research capabilities,
among other factors.
The Firm continues to provide services relative to the discretionary selection of the Independent Managers
and/or Sub-Advisor. On an ongoing basis, the Firm monitors the performance of those accounts being
managed by Independent Managers. The Firm seeks to ensure the Independent Managers and/or Sub-
Advisor strategies and target allocations remain aligned with its client’s investment objectives and overall
best interests.
Sponsor and Manager of Wrap Program
The Firm provides substantially all investment management services as the sponsor and manager of the
Promethium Advisors, LLC Wrap Program (the “Wrap Program”), a wrap fee program where transactional,
custodial, Independent Manager, and other similar fees are absorbed by the Firm. Accounts managed
through the Wrap Program are done so in substantially the same manner as those that may be managed
under a non-wrap arrangement. Additional information about the Wrap Program is available in the Firm’s
Wrap Brochure, which appears as Part 2A Appendix 1 of the Firm’s Form ADV.
ITEM 5 - FEES AND COMPENSATION
Fee Schedule & Billing Method
Promethium offers services on a fee basis, which may include fixed fees, as well as fees based on assets
under management or advisement.
Investment Management Services
The annual management fee for our Investment Management Services, including Financial Planning, is
based on the total dollar value of the assets maintained in the client account. The fee assessed and/or
charged is based on what is stipulated in the Investment Advisory Agreement signed by each client. This
may include a minimum annual fee.
Our annual fee ranges up to 1% annually and is assessed and/or charged monthly in advance, based on the
value at the end of the billing period. Inflows and outflows of cash are considered on a prorated basis in
this calculation. Fees can be structured as a fixed flat percentage fee on total assets in the account, a fixed
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flat dollar amount, or a tiered fee schedule whereby the fee is calculated by applying different rates to
different levels of assets.
Financial Planning and Consulting Fees
In addition to the advisory fees paid, we may provide financial planning and/or consulting services to clients
regarding the management of their financial resources, which is based upon an analysis of their current
personal and financial situations, goals, and objectives. The fee assessed and/or charged is based on what
is stipulated in the Investment Advisory Agreement signed by each client. This may include a minimum
annual fee. The Firm offers services on a fee basis, which may include fixed fees, as well as fees based on
assets under management or advisement.
Other Fees and Expenses
In addition to the advisory fees paid to the Firm, clients may incur certain charges imposed by other third
parties, such as broker-dealers, custodians, trust companies, platform service providers, banks, and other
financial institutions (collectively “Financial Institutions”). These additional charges may include securities
brokerage commissions, transaction fees, custodial fees, fees attributable to alternative assets, reporting
charges, margin costs, charges imposed directly by a mutual fund or ETF in a client’s account, as disclosed
in the fund’s prospectus (e.g., fund management fees and other fund expenses), 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. In addition, fees charged by the Independent
Managers/Sub-Advisors are charged to the clients separately. In these relationships with third-party and/or
Sub-Advisors, these fees would be in addition to the fees charged by the Firm, paid directly to the third-
party and/or Independent Manager/Sub-Advisor, and the Firm will not receive any portion of those fees or
share in those fees.
Direct Fee Debit
Clients generally provide the Firm and/or the Independent Managers/Sub-Advisors with the authority to
directly debit their accounts for payment of the investment advisory fees. The Financial Institutions that
act as the qualified custodian for client accounts, from which the Firm retains the authority to directly
deduct fees, are required to send statements to clients not less than quarterly detailing account
transactions, including any amounts paid to the Firm.
Account Additions and Withdrawals
As stated above, clients may make additions to and withdrawals from their account at any time, subject to
the Firm’s right to terminate an account. Additions may be in cash or securities provided that the Firm
reserves the right to liquidate any transferred securities or declines to accept particular securities into a
client’s account. Clients may withdraw account assets on notice to the Firm, subject to the usual and
customary securities settlement procedures. However, the Firm generally designs its portfolios as long-
term investments, and the withdrawal of assets may impair the achievement of a client’s investment
objectives. The Firm may consult with its clients about the options and implications of transferring
securities. Clients are advised that when transferred securities are liquidated, they may be subject to
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transaction fees, short-term redemption fees, fees assessed at the mutual fund level (e.g., contingent
deferred sales charges), and/or tax ramifications.
Termination
Either party may terminate the advisory agreement at any time by providing written notice to the other
party. The client may terminate the agreement at any time by writing or phoning the Firm at our office. The
Firm will refund any prepaid, unearned advisory fees.
Terminations will not affect liabilities or obligations from transactions initiated in client accounts prior to
termination. In the event, the client terminates the investment advisory agreement. The Firm will not
liquidate any securities in the account unless instructed by the client to do so. In the event of the client’s
death or disability, the Firm will continue management of the account until we are notified of the client’s
death or disability and given alternative instructions by an authorized party.
ITEM 6 - PERFORMANCE-BASED FEES AND SIDE-BY-SIDE MANAGEMENT
Promethium does not charge performance-based fees or other fees based on a share of capital gains on or
capital appreciation of the assets of a client.
ITEM 7 - TYPES OF CLIENTS
Promethium provides asset management, financial planning, Institutional, ERISA plan advisory & consulting,
investment advisory, consulting, and selection of third-party Independent Managers and/or Sub-Advisor.
Our services are provided on a discretionary or non-discretionary basis to a variety of clients, such as
institutional investors, individuals, high-net-worth individuals, trusts and estates, qualified purchasers, and
individual participants of retirement plans. In addition, we may also provide advisory services to entities
such as pension and profit-sharing plans, businesses, and other investment advisors.
Account Requirements
The Firm may impose a stated minimum fee or minimum portfolio value for starting and maintaining an
investment management relationship. Certain Independent Managers may, however, impose more restrictive
account requirements and billing practices from the Firm.
ITEM 8 - METHODS OF ANALYSIS, INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISK OF
LOSS
Methods of Analysis and Investment Strategies
Promethium selects categories of investments based on the client's attitudes about risk and their need for
capital appreciation or income. Different instruments involve different levels of risk exposure. We seek to
select individual securities with characteristics that are most consistent with the client’s objectives. Since
the Firm treats each client account uniquely, client portfolios with similar investment objectives and asset
allocation goals may own different securities.
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General Investment Strategies
The Firm generally uses diversification in an effort to minimize risk and optimize the potential return of a
portfolio. More specifically, we utilize multiple asset classes, investment styles, market capitalizations,
sectors, and regions to provide diversification. Each portfolio composition is determined in accordance with
the client’s investment objectives, risk tolerance, and time horizon. We may utilize both passive and active
investment management strategies in an effort to optimize portfolios.
Our general investment strategy is to seek real capital growth proportionate to the level of risk the client
is willing to take. We develop a Client Profile to help identify the client’s investment objectives, time
horizon, risk tolerance, tax considerations, target asset allocation, and any special considerations and/or
restrictions the client chooses to place on the management of the account. The Firm will then recommend
investments that we feel are consistent with the Client Profile.
After defining client needs, the Firm develops and implements plans for the client’s account. Then, we
monitor the results and make adjustments as needed. As the initial assumptions change, the plans
themselves may need to be adapted. Continuous portfolio management is important to keep the client’s
portfolio consistent with the client’s objectives.
Methods of Analysis for Selecting Securities
The Firm’s advisors may use, among others, technical, fundamental, and/or charting analysis in the selection
of individual equity securities. Additionally, we may use specific strategies or resources in the method of
analysis and selection of mutual funds.
Fundamental Analysis
Fundamental analysis assesses the financial health and management effectiveness of a business by
analyzing a company’s financial reports, key financial ratios, industry developments, economic data,
competitive landscape, and management. The objective of fundamental analysis is to use historical and
current financial data to assess the stock valuation of a company, evaluate company profitability, credit
risk, and forecast future performance of the company and its share price. Fundamental analysis
assumptions and calculations are based on historical data and forecasts; therefore, the quality of
information and assumptions used are critical. Differences can exist between market fundamentals and how
they are analyzed.
Mutual Funds and ETFs
In analyzing mutual funds and ETFs, we use various sources of information. We review key characteristics
such as historical performance, consistency of returns, risk level, and size of fund. Expense ratio and other
costs are also significant factors in fund selection. We also subscribe to/access additional information from
other sources that inform our general macroeconomic view.
Options
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We may use options as an investment strategy. An option is a contract that gives the buyer the right, but
not the obligation, to buy or sell an asset (such as a share of stock) at a specific price on or before a certain
date. An option, just like a stock or bond, is a security. An option is also a derivative because it derives its
value from an underlying asset. The two types of options are calls and puts. A call gives the holder the right
to buy an asset at a certain price within a specific period. A call may be purchased if the expectation is
that the stock will increase substantially in value before the option expires. It may also be sold as a hedge
to protect gains or principal of an existing holding (covered calls). A put gives the holder the right to sell
an asset at a certain price within a specific period. A put may be purchased if the expectation is that the
stock will decrease substantially in value before the option expires. They are typically purchased as a hedge
to protect gains or principal of a portfolio. There are various options strategies that we may deploy in a
strategy, as appropriate for a client’s needs. These include but may not be limited to covered options
(selling a call or put for a premium payment while retaining the cash or securities required to facilitate
the underlying purchase or sale of securities if an option is exercised) or spreads/straddles (buying or
selling call or put options on the same or opposite side of the market to benefit from the bid/ask “spread”
or to straddle the market based on value or time variances).
Alternative Investments
We may use Alternative Investments as a way to diversify a portfolio. Alternative Investments are
considered to be “non-correlated” assets, meaning that they do not tend to run up or down (track) with
the market like standard securities typically do. The main goal of alternatives is to provide access to other
return sources, with the potential benefit of reducing the risk of a client’s portfolio, improving returns, or
both.
Specific Investment Strategies for Managing Portfolios
We may use tactical asset allocation, cash as a strategic asset, long-term
holding, trend, dollar-cost-
averaging, defensive portfolio strategies in the construction and management of client portfolios. There is
no guarantee that any of the following strategies will be successful , and we make no promises or
warranties as to the accuracy of our market analysis.
Cash as a Strategic Asset
We may use cash as a strategic asset and at times move or keep the client’s assets in cash or cash
equivalents. While high cash levels can help protect a client’s assets during periods of market decline, there
is a risk that our timing in moving to cash is less than optimal upon either exit or reentry into the market,
potentially resulting in missed opportunities during positive market moves.
Long-term Holding
We do not generally purchase securities for clients with the intent to sell the securities within 30 days of
purchase, as we do not generally use short-term trading as an investment strategy. However, there may be
times when we will sell a security for a client when the client has held the position for less than 30 days.
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We do not attempt to time short-term market swings. Short-term buying and selling of securities are
typically limited to those cases where a purchase has resulted in an unanticipated gain or loss in which we
believe that a subsequent sale is in the best interest of the client.
Defensive Strategies
for
If we anticipate poor near-term prospects for equity markets, we may adopt a defensive strategy
clients’ accounts by investing substantially in fixed-income securities and/or money market instruments.
We may also utilize low, non, or negative correlated investments through ETFs and mutual funds. There can
be no guarantee that the use of defensive techniques would be successful in avoiding losses.
Margin
Some clients of the Firm maintain margin accounts to facilitate short-term borrowing needs, which are
unrelated to our investment strategy (ies). For clients who are seeking a more aggressive strategy for their
portfolio, we may work with those clients on an individual basis to develop a leveraged strategy utilizing
margin to increase market participation portfolio as part of a customized investment strategy. Clients are
responsible for any brokerage or margin charges in addition to advisory fees. Risks of using margin include
“margin calls” (also called
"fed calls" or "maintenance calls.") Margin calls occur when account values
decrease below minimum maintenance margin levels established by the broker-dealer that holds the
securities in the client’s account, requiring the investor to deposit additional money or securities into their
margin account.
While the use of margin borrowing can increase returns, it can also magnify losses. Clients must specifically
request to establish a margin account.
Additional Strategies
Clients interested in learning more about any of the above strategies should contact us for more information
and/or refer to the prospectus of any mutual fund. We may also consider additional strategies by specific
client request.
Investing Involves Risk
General Risks of Owning Securities
Investing in securities involves the risk of loss that clients should be prepared to bear. While the stock
market may increase and account(s) could enjoy a gain, it is also possible that the stock market may
decrease, and account(s) could suffer a loss. It is important that clients understand the risks associated
with investing in the stock market, are appropriately diversified in investments, and ask us any questions
they may have.
Risk of Loss
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Diversification does not guarantee a profit or guarantee to protect against loss, and there is no guarantee
that investment objectives will be achieved. The Firm strategies and recommendations may lose value. All
investments have certain risks involved including, but not limited to the following:
• Stock Market Risk: The value of securities in the portfolio will fluctuate and, as a result, the value
may decline suddenly or over a sustained period.
• Managed Portfolio Risk: The manager’s investment strategies or choice of specific securities may
•
be unsuccessful and may cause the portfolio to incur losses.
Industry Risk: The portfolio’s investments could be concentrated within one industry or group of
industries. Any factors detrimental to the performance of such industries will disproportionately
impact a portfolio. Investments focused on a particular industry are subject to greater risk and
are more greatly impacted by market volatility than less concentrated investments.
• Non-U.S. Securities Risk: Non-U.S. securities are subject to the risks of foreign currency
fluctuations, generally higher volatility, lower liquidity than U.S. securities, less developed
securities markets and economic systems, and political-economic instability.
• Emerging Markets Risk: To the extent that a portfolio invests in issuers located in emerging
markets, the risk may be heightened by political changes and changes in taxation or currency
controls that could adversely affect the values of these investments. Emerging markets have been
more volatile than the markets of developed countries with more mature economies.
• Currency Risk: The value of a portfolio’s investments may fall as a result of changes in exchange
rates.
•
• Credit Risk: Most fixed-income instruments are dependent on the underlying credit of the issuer.
If we are wrong about the underlying financial strength of an issuer, we may purchase securities
where the issuer is unable to meet its obligations. If this happens, a portfolio could sustain an
unrealized or realized loss.
Inflation Risk: Most fixed-income instruments will sustain losses if inflation increases, or the
market anticipates increases in inflation. If we enter a period of moderate or heavy inflation,
the value of fixed-income securities could go down.
Interest Rate Risk: Fluctuations in interest rates may cause investment prices to fluctuate.
•
• Margin Risk: The use of margin is not suitable for all investors since it increases leverage in an
Account and therefore risk.
•
• ETF and Mutual Fund Risk: When we invest in an ETF or mutual fund for a client, the client will
bear additional expenses based on its pro rata share of the ETF or mutual fund’s operation
expenses, including the potential duplication of management fees. The risk of owning an ETF or
mutual fund greatly reflects the risks of owning the underlying securities the ETF or mutual fund
holds. Clients may also incur brokerage costs when purchasing ETFs.
Independent Manager Risk: As stated above, the Firm may select certain Independent Managers
to manage a portion of its clients’ assets. In these situations, the Firm continues to conduct
ongoing due diligence of such managers, but such recommendations rely to a great extent on the
Independent Managers’ ability to successfully implement their investment strategies. In addition,
the Firm generally may not have the ability to supervise the Independent Managers on a day-to-
day basis.
• Derivative Risk: Derivatives are securities, such as futures contracts or options, whose value is
derived from that of other securities or indices. Derivatives can be used for hedging (attempting
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to reduce risk by offsetting one investment position with another) or non-hedging purposes.
Hedging with derivatives may increase expenses, and there is no guarantee that a hedging strategy
will achieve the desired results. Utilizing derivatives can cause greater than ordinary investment
risk, which could result in losses.
• Alternative Investment Risk: Alternative Investments involve a high degree of risk, often engage
in leveraging and other speculative investment practices that may increase the risk of investment
loss, can be highly illiquid, are not always required to provide periodic pricing or valuation
investors, may involve complex tax structures and delays in distributing important
information to
tax information, are not subject to the same regulatory requirements as mutual funds, often
charge high fees which may offset any trading profits, and in many cases the underlying
investments are not transparent and are known only to the investment manager. Alternative
investment performance can be volatile. An investor could lose all or a substantial amount of his
or her investment.
• Management Risk: Investments vary with the success and failure of our investment strategies,
research, analysis, and determination of portfolio securities. If our investment strategies do not
produce the expected returns, the value of the investment may decrease.
ITEM 9 - DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
Promethium and our personnel seek to maintain the highest level of business professionalism, integrity,
and ethics. We are required to disclose the facts of any legal or disciplinary events that are material to a
client’s evaluation of our business or the integrity of our management. We do not have any required
disclosures to this Item.
ITEM 10 - OTHER FINANCIAL INDUSTRY ACTIVITIES AND AFFILIATIONS
Promethium is required to disclose any relationship or arrangement that is material to its advisory business
or its clients with certain related persons.
Relationship with tru Independence, LLC
for
investment professionals and an SEC-registered
The Firm maintains a business relationship with tru Independence, LLC (“tru Independence”), a service
platform
investment adviser. Through its
relationship with tru Independence, the Firm gains access to services related to reporting, custody,
investments, compliance, trading, technology, transition support, and other related services.
In fulfilling its duties to its clients, the Firm endeavors at all times to put the interests of its clients first.
The Firm reviews all of its service provider relationships on an ongoing basis to ensure decisions are made
in the best interests of clients. Clients should be aware, however, that this relationship may pose
certain conflicts of interest. Specifically, tru Independence charges the Firm a platform fee that decreases
as assets increase. tru Independence also provided transition support aimed at helping the Firm launch its
new advisory firm. The receipt of economic and other benefits as described above from tru Independence
creates an incentive for the Firm to choose tru Independence over other service providers that do not
furnish similar benefits.
Licensed Insurance Agents
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Certain of the Firm’s Supervised Persons are licensed insurance agents and may offer certain insurance
products on a fully disclosed commissionable basis. A conflict of interest exists to the extent that the Firm
recommends the purchase of insurance products where its Supervised Persons may be entitled to
insurance commissions or other additional compensation. The Firm has procedures in place whereby it
seeks to ensure that all recommendations are made in its clients’ best interest regardless of any such
affiliations.
Retirement Plan Accounts
The Firm may from time to time recommend the rollover to an IRA from an employer-sponsored retirement
plan. This product will be recommended when it is deemed by the Firm to be in the best interest of the
client. It is understood that the Advisor will receive a management fee paid by the client as indicated by
the client agreement that will be signed when the account is opened.
When the Firm provides investment advice to clients regarding their retirement plan account or individual
retirement account, the Firm is a fiduciary within the meaning of Title I of the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act and/or the Internal Revenue Code, as applicable, which are laws governing retirement
accounts. The way the Firm makes money creates some conflicts with client interests, so the Firm operates
under a special rule that requires us to act in the client’s best interest and not put our interest ahead of
theirs.
Under this special rule’s provisions, the Firm must:
• Meet a professional standard of care when making investment recommendations (give prudent
advice);
• Never put our financial interests ahead of the client when making recommendations (give loyal
advice);
• Avoid misleading statements about conflicts of interest, fees, and investments;
• Follow policies and procedures designed to ensure that the Firm gives advice that is in the client’s
best interest;
• Charge no more than is reasonable for services; and
• Give the client basic information about conflicts of interest.
When recommending the rollover to an IRA from an employer-sponsored retirement plan, the client will
be provided with disclosure on the reasons why the transaction is in their best interest, it will be required
to be signed by both the client and the advisor and will be maintained in the Client’s file.
ITEM 11 - CODE OF ETHICS, PARTICIPATION OR INTEREST IN CLIENT
TRANSACTIONS AND PERSONAL TRADING
Code of Ethics
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Promethium believes that we owe clients the highest level of trust and fair dealing. As part of our fiduciary
duty, we place the interests of our clients ahead of the interests of the firm and our personnel. We have
adopted a Code of Ethics that emphasizes the high standards of conduct that the Firm seeks to observe. Our
personnel are required to conduct themselves with integrity at all times and follow the principles and
policies detailed in our Code of Ethics.
The Firm’s Code of Ethics attempts to address specific conflicts of interest that either we have identified
or that could likely arise. The Firm’s personnel are required to follow clear guidelines from the Code of
Ethics in areas such as gifts and entertainment, other business activities, prohibitions of insider trading,
and adherence to applicable federal securities laws. Additionally, individuals who formulate investment
advice for clients, or who have access to nonpublic information regarding any clients’ purchase or sale of
securities, are subject to personal trading policies governed by the Code of Ethics (see below).
The Firm will provide a complete copy of the Code of Ethics to any client or prospective client upon
request.
Personal Trading Practices
The Firm and our personnel may purchase or sell securities for themselves, regardless of whether the
transaction would be appropriate for a client’s account. The Firm and our personnel may purchase or sell
securities for themselves that we also recommend/utilize for clients. This includes related securities (e.g.,
warrants, options, or other derivatives). This presents a potential conflict of interest, as we have an
incentive to take investment opportunities from clients for our own benefit, favor our personal trades
over client transactions when allocating trades, or use the information about the transactions we intend
to make for clients to our personal benefit by trading ahead of clients.
Our policies to address these conflicts include the following:
1. The client receives the opportunity to act on investment decisions/recommendations prior to and
in preference to accounts of the Advisor or their employees.
2. The Firm prohibits trading in a manner that takes personal advantage of price movements caused
3.
by client transactions.
If an advisor wishes to purchase or sell the same security as he/she recommends or takes action
to purchase or sell for a client, he/she will not do so until the custodian fills the client’s order if
the order cannot be aggregated with the client order. As a result of this policy, it is possible that
clients may receive a better or worse price than the employee for transactions in the same
security on the same day as a client.
4. The Firm requires our advisors to report personal securities transactions on at least a quarterly
basis.
5. Conflicts of interest also may arise when we become aware of limited offerings or IPOs, including
private placements or offerings of interests in limited partnerships or any thinly traded securities,
whether public or private. Given the inherent potential for conflict, limited offerings and IPOs
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demand extreme care. Employees are required to obtain pre-approval from the Chief Compliance
Officer before trading in limited offerings and are prohibited from transacting in IPOs for personal
accounts.
6. Under certain limited circumstances, we make exceptions to the policies stated above. The Firm
will maintain records of these trades, including the reasons for any exceptions.
ITEM 12 - BROKERAGE PRACTICES
Promethium generally requests accounts that are not managed by third-party Independent Managers
and/or Sub-Advisor to be established with Fidelity Investments, member FINRA/SIPC or Charles Schwab
Corporation, member FINRA/SIPC. The Firm engages custodians to clear transactions and custody assets.
The custodians provide the Firm with services that assist us in managing and administering clients' accounts
which include software and other technology that (i) provide access to client account data (such as trade
confirmations and account statements); (ii) facilitate trade execution and allocate aggregated trade orders
for multiple client accounts; (iii) provide research, pricing, and other market data; (iv) facilitate payment
of fees from its clients' accounts; and (v) assist with certain back-office functions, recordkeeping, and client
reporting.
As part of the arrangement described above, the custodians also make certain research and brokerage
services available at no additional cost to our firm. These services include certain research and brokerage
services, including research services obtained by the custodians directly from independent research
companies, as selected by our Firm (within specific parameters). Research products and services provided
by the custodians to our firm may include research reports on recommendations or other information
about, particular companies or industries; economic surveys, data and analyses; financial publications;
portfolio evaluation services; financial database software services; computerized news and pricing services;
quotation equipment for use in running software used in investment decision-making; and other products
or services that provide lawful and appropriate assistance by the custodians to our firm in the
performance of our
investment decision-making responsibilities. The aforementioned research and
brokerage services are used by our firm to manage accounts. Without this arrangement, our firm might
be compelled to purchase the same or similar services at our own expense.
As a result of receiving the services discussed above, we have an incentive to continue to use or expand
the use of the custodians’ services. Our firm examined this conflict of interest when we chose to enter into
the relationship with the custodians and we have determined that the relationship is in the best interest of
our firm’s clients and satisfies our client obligations, including our duty to seek best execution.
The custodians charge brokerage commissions and transaction fees for effecting certain securities
transactions (i.e., transaction fees are charged for certain no-load mutual funds, and commissions are
charged for individual equity and debt securities transactions).
The custodians generally do not charge clients separately for custody services but are compensated by
account holders through commissions and other transaction-related or asset-based fees for securities
trades that are executed through the custodians or that settle into accounts at the custodians. The
custodians charge brokerage commissions and transaction fees for effecting certain securities
transactions (i.e., transaction fees are charged for certain no-load mutual funds, and commissions are
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charged for individual equity and debt securities transactions). The custodians enable us to obtain many
no-load mutual funds without transaction charges and other no-load funds at nominal transaction charges.
The custodians’ commission rates are generally discounted from customary retail commission rates.
However, the commission and transaction fees charged by the custodians may be higher or lower than
those charged by other custodians and broker-dealers.
We may aggregate (combine) trades for ourselves or our associated persons with client trades, providing
that the following conditions are met:
1. Our policy for the aggregation of transactions shall be fully disclosed separately to our existing
clients (if any) and the broker-dealer(s) through which such transactions will be placed;
2. We will not aggregate transactions unless we believe that aggregation is consistent with our duty
to seek the best execution (which includes the duty to seek the best price) for the client and is
consistent with the terms of our investment advisory agreement with the client for which trades
are being aggregated.
3. No advisory client will be favored over any other client; each client that participates in an
aggregated order will participate at the average share price for all our transactions in a given
security on a given business day, with transaction costs based on each client’s participation in the
transaction;
4. We will prepare a procedure specifying how to allocate the order among those clients;
5.
If the aggregated order is filled in its entirety, it will be allocated among clients in accordance
with the allocation statement; if the order is partially filled, it will be allocated pro-rata based on
the allocation statement;
6. Our books and records will separately reflect, for each client account, the orders of which
aggregated, and the securities held by, and bought for that account.
7. We will receive no additional compensation or remuneration of any kind as a result of the
8.
proposed aggregation; and,
Individual advice and treatment will be accorded to each advisory client.
As a matter of policy and practice, we do not utilize research, research-related products, and other
services obtained from broker-dealers, or third parties, on a soft dollar commission basis other than
what is described above.
Factors Considered in Recommending Custodians
We consider several factors in recommending custodians to a client. Factors that we consider when
recommending custodians may include financial strength, reputation, execution, pricing, reporting,
research, and service. We will also take into consideration the availability of the products and services
received or offered (detailed above) by the custodians.
Directed Brokerage Transactions
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The Firm does not allow clients to direct brokerage to a specific broker-dealer. For an individual third-party
Independent Manager’s and/or Sub-Advisor’s policy on directed brokerage transactions, please refer to
Item 12 – Brokerage Practices of that manager’s Form ADV 2A brochure.
Special Considerations for ERISA Clients
A retirement or ERISA plan client may direct all or part of portfolio transactions for its account through a
specific broker or dealer to obtain goods or services on behalf of the plan. Such direction is permitted
provided that the goods and services provided are reasonable expenses of the plan incurred in the ordinary
course of its business for which it otherwise would be obligated and empowered to pay. ERISA prohibits
directed brokerage arrangements when the goods or services purchased are not for the exclusive benefit
of the plan. Consequently, we will request that plan sponsors who direct plan brokerage provide us with a
letter documenting that this arrangement will be for the exclusive benefit of the plan.
Trade Errors
We have implemented procedures designed to prevent trade errors; however, trade errors in client
accounts cannot always be avoided. Consistent with our fiduciary duty, it is our policy to correct trade
errors in a manner that is in the best interest of the client. In cases where the client causes the trade error,
the client will be responsible for any loss resulting from the correction. Depending on the specific
circumstances of the trade error, the client may not be able to receive any gains generated as a result of
the error correction. In all situations where the client does not cause the trade error, the client will be made
whole, and we will absorb any loss resulting from the trade error if the error was caused by the Firm. If the
error is caused by the Custodian, the Custodian will be responsible for covering all trade error costs. If an
investment gain results from the correcting trade, the gain will be donated to charity. We will never benefit
or profit from trade errors.
ITEM 13 - REVIEW OF ACCOUNTS
Account Reviews & Reporting
Managed Accounts Reviews
Promethium manages portfolios on a continuous basis and generally reviews all positions in client accounts
on a regular basis, but no less than annually. We generally offer account reviews to clients annually. Clients
may choose to receive reviews in person, by telephone, or via e-mail. Firm employees conduct reviews
based on a variety of factors. These factors include, but are not limited to, stated investment objectives,
economic environment, outlook for the securities markets, and the merits of the securities in the accounts.
In addition, we may conduct a special review of an account based on, but not limited to, the following:
1. A change in the client’s investment objectives, guidelines and/or financial situation;
2. Changes in diversification;
3. Tax considerations; or
4. Material cash deposits or withdrawals.
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Third Party and/or Sub-Advisor Accounts
Advisors periodically review third-party Independent Managers and/or Sub-Advisor’s reports provided to
the client, but no less often than on a semi-annual basis. Our advisors contact clients from time to time, as
agreed to with the client, in order to review their financial situation and objectives; communicate
information to third-party Independent Managers and/or Sub-Advisors as warranted; and assist the client
in understanding and evaluating the services provided by the third-party Independent Manager and/or Sub-
Advisor. The client is expected to notify us of any changes in his/her financial situation, investment
objectives, or account restrictions that could affect their account. The client may also directly contact the
third-party Independent Manager and/or Sub-Advisor managing the account or sponsoring the program.
Clients who utilize third-party Independent Managers and/or Sub-Advisors should review the third-party
Independent Manager’s and/or Sub-Advisor’s Form ADV Part 2 Item 13 – Review of Accounts regarding
account reviews, types of written reports provided, and frequency of such reports.
Consulting Service
Consultation clients do not receive reviews of their written plans unless they take action to schedule a
financial consultation with us separately contract with us for a post-financial plan meeting or update their
initial written financial plan. The type of reporting is agreed upon by the Firm and the client on a case-by-
case basis. We do not provide ongoing services to financial consultation clients but are willing to meet with
such clients upon their request to discuss updates to their plans or changes in their circumstances. The
client’s advisor provides financial consultation services to the client. In cases when we have been
contracted to conduct ongoing financial consultation services, the advisor will conduct reviews as agreed
upon with the client.
ITEM 14 - CLIENT REFERRALS AND OTHER COMPENSATION
Brokerage Support Products and Services
Promethium receives an economic benefit from the brokers used for transactions in client accounts in the
form of the support products and services they make available to us and other independent firms whose
clients maintain their accounts at the broker. These products and services, how they benefit us, and the
related conflicts of interest are described above (see Item 12 – Brokerage Practices). We do not base
particular investment advice, such as buying particular securities for our clients, on the availability of the
brokers’ products and services to us.
Outside Compensation
The Firm does have a relationship with HZ Investments, an independent contractor which is not affiliated
with Promethium, wherein the Firm may pay referral fees (non-commission-based) to HZ Investments for
the referral of their clients to our Firm. The Firm discloses this relationship to potential clients at the
outset of the introduction but at no time is the potentially referred client required to enter into an
advisory relationship. If the client chooses to execute an advisory relationship with the Firm, the Firm will
pay HZ Investments a portion, up to 30%, of the advisory fee collected. HZ Investments will at no point
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provide any investment advice and clients are not charged a separate fee attributed to HZ Investments at
any time.
Firm employees may refer clients to unaffiliated professionals for specific needs, such as mortgage
brokerage, real estate sales, estate planning, legal, and/or tax/accounting. In turn, these professionals
may refer clients to us for investment management needs. We do not have any arrangements with
individuals or companies that we refer clients to, and we do not receive any compensation for these
referrals.
However, it could be concluded that our employees are receiving an indirect economic benefit from this
practice, as the relationships are mutually beneficial. For example, there could be an incentive for us to
recommend services of firms who refer clients to the Firm.
Advisors only refer clients to professionals we believe are competent and qualified in their field, but it
is
ultimately the client’s responsibility to evaluate the provider, and it is solely the client’s decision whether
to engage a recommended firm. Clients are under no obligation to purchase any products or services
through these professionals, and our advisors have no control over the services provided by another firm.
Clients who choose to engage these professionals will sign a separate agreement with the other firm. Fees
charged by the other firm are separate from and in addition to fees charged by the Firm.
If the client desires, our advisors will work with these professionals or the client’s other advisors (such as
an accountant, attorney, or other investment advisor) to help ensure that the provider understands the
client’s investments and coordinates services for the client. We do not share information with an
unaffiliated professional unless first authorized by the client.
Third-Party Independent Manager and/or Sub-Advisor
We may work with third-party Independent Managers or Sub-Advisors to service client accounts. They may
receive ongoing compensation in relation to these arrangements, of which details are fully disclosed to the
clients at the time of account opening. See also Item 5 - Third Party Accounts and/or Sub-Advisor and Item
10 – Third Party Managers and/or Sub-Advisor. Other Financial Institutions
The Firm has established agreements to provide consulting services to other financial institutions regarding
business development or investment advisory services provided to clients. If the consultation being
provided is specific to services provided to the client account, the specifics of this arrangement, including
the compensation paid to the Firm will be fully disclosed to clients in their signed agreements.
ITEM 15 - CUSTODY
Promethium and/or the Independent Managers have limited custody of some of our client’s funds or
securities when the clients authorize us to deduct our management fees directly from the client’s account.
A qualified custodian (generally a broker-dealer, bank, trust company, or other financial institution) holds
clients’ funds and securities. Clients will receive statements directly from their qualified custodian at least
quarterly. The statements will reflect the client’s funds and securities held with the qualified custodian as
well as any transactions that occurred in the account, including the deduction of our fee.
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Clients should carefully review the account statements they receive from the qualified custodian. When
clients receive statements from the Firm as well as from the qualified custodian, they should compare these
two reports carefully. Clients with any questions about their statements should contact us at the address
or phone number on the cover of this brochure. Clients who do not receive a statement from their
qualified custodian at least quarterly should also notify us.
Third-Party Standing Letters of Authorization (“SLOA”)
The Firm is deemed to have custody of a client’s funds or securities when clients have standing
authorizations with their custodian to move money from a client’s account to a third party (“SLOA”) and,
under that SLOA, it authorizes us to designate the amount or timing of transfers with the custodian.
The SEC has set forth a set of standards intended to protect client assets in such situations, which we follow.
By working with the qualified custodian, the Firm has in place seven provisions set forth by the SEC to assist in
mitigating risk. The below must be followed for clients with third-party SLOAs:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
The client provides an instruction to the qualified custodian, in writing, which includes the
client’s signature, the third party’s name, and either the third party’s address or the third
party’s account number at a custodian to which the transfer should be directed.
The client authorizes the Firm, in writing, either on the qualified custodian’s form or separately,
to direct transfers to the third party either on a specified schedule or from time to time.
The client’s qualified custodian performs appropriate verification of the instruction, such as a
signature review or other method to verify the client’s authorization and provides a transfer of
funds notice to the client promptly after each transfer.
The client can terminate or change the instruction to the client’s qualified custodian.
The Firm has no authority or ability to designate or change the identity of the third party, the
address, or any other information about the third party contained in the client’s instruction.
The Firm maintains records showing that the third party is not a related party of the Firm or
located at the same address as the Firm.
The client’s qualified custodian sends the client, in writing, an initial notice confirming the
instruction and an annual notice reconfirming the instruction.
As stated earlier in this section, account statements reflecting all activity on the account(s), are delivered
directly from the qualified custodian to each client or the client’s independent representative, at least
quarterly. A client should carefully review those statements and are urged to compare the statements against
reports received from us. When a client has questions about their account statements, they should contact us,
the Advisor, or the qualified custodian preparing the statement.
ITEM 16 - INVESTMENT DISCRETION
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Promethium accepts discretionary or non-discretionary authority over client accounts. If we are acting in a
discretionary capacity, we may place trades within a client account without pre-approval from the client.
In a non-discretionary capacity, each trade must be approved by the client.
When working with third-party Independent Managers and/or Sub-Advisors, we may recommend certain
third-party Independent Managers and/or Sub-Advisors to clients and then it is up to the client to approve
our recommendations. The third-party investment advisor chosen by the client is responsible for all
investment decisions made in the client’s account(s). Generally, clients who utilize a third-party
Independent Manager and/or Sub-Advisor will sign agreements directly with the third-party manager
and/or Sub-Advisor. It is important to note that we do not offer advice on any specific securities or other
investments in connection with this service. Clients can find more information about the discretionary
authority granted to third-party managers in Item 16 – Investment Discretion of each manager’s Form ADV
disclosure brochure.
ITEM 17 - VOTING CLIENT SECURITIES
Voting of Proxies
In regard to SEC Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisors Act, Promethium does not accept responsibility for the
voting of proxies relating to equity securities in client accounts.
Class Action Lawsuits
As a matter of company policy, the Advisor may file proofs of claim relating to class action lawsuits affecting
individual client accounts. Upon the client’s request, the Advisor will provide all documentation provided
for any such proof of claim.
Mutual Funds
The investment advisor that manages the assets of a registered investment company (i.e., mutual fund)
generally votes proxies issued on securities held by the mutual fund.
ITEM 18 - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Registered investment advisors are required in this item to provide clients with certain financial
information or disclosures about the firm’s financial condition. Promethium does not require the
prepayment of more than $1,200 in fees per client, six months or more in advance, does not have or
foresee any financial condition that is reasonably likely to impair our ability to meet contractual
commitments to clients, and has not been the subject of a bankruptcy proceeding.
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