Overview
- Headquarters
- Edina, MN
- Average Client Assets
- $4.2 million
- SEC CRD Number
- 117023
Fee Structure
Primary Fee Schedule (STILES FINANCIAL SERVICES ADV 2A PORTFOLIO INV MGMT)
| Min | Max | Marginal Fee Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $500,000 | 1.15% |
| $500,001 | $1,000,000 | 0.95% |
| $1,000,001 | $2,000,000 | 0.85% |
| $2,000,001 | $5,000,000 | 0.75% |
| $5,000,001 | $10,000,000 | 0.65% |
| $10,000,001 | and above | 0.55% |
Illustrative Fee Rates
| Total Assets | Annual Fees | Average Fee Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $1 million | $10,500 | 1.05% |
| $5 million | $41,500 | 0.83% |
| $10 million | $74,000 | 0.74% |
| $50 million | $294,000 | 0.59% |
| $100 million | $569,000 | 0.57% |
Clients
- HNW Share of Firm Assets
- 78.90%
- Total Client Accounts
- 793
- Discretionary Accounts
- 782
- Non-Discretionary Accounts
- 11
Services Offered
Services: Financial Planning, Portfolio Management for Individuals, Pension Consulting
Regulatory Filings
Additional Brochure: SFSI ADV 2 CORP RETIREMENT PLANNING 03.2026 (2026-03-23)
View Document Text
Item 1 – Cover Page
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
March 23, 2026
Form ADV 2A and 2Bs for Corporate
Retirement Plan Consulting Services
This Brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated (SFSI). If you have any questions about the
contents of this Brochure, please contact us at info@stilesfinancial.com or 952-988-
0452. 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 SFSI is also available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. To access this information, you can make an inquiry using our
name or our CRD number, which is 117023. Registration of an Investment Adviser
does not imply any level of skill or training.
1
Item 2 – Material Changes
The material changes in this brochure from the last annual updating amendment of March
19, 2025, for Stiles Financial Services (SFSI) are described below. Material changes relate to
Stiles Financial Services’ policies, practices, or conflicts of interests.
ADV 2B – The firm has added Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®.
ADV 2B – The firm has added Rachel K. Engel.
SFSI will provide our clients with a new Brochure as necessary based on changes or new
information, at any time, without charge. Currently, our Brochures may be requested by
contacting us at 952-988-0452 or info@stilesfinancial.com.
2
Item 3 - Table of Contents
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 ........................................................................................................................... 5
Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management .......................................................... 6
Item 7 – Types of Clients ........................................................................................................................................... 6
Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss .................................................. 6
Item 9 – Disciplinary Information ......................................................................................................................... 7
Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations ................................................................... 7
Item 11 – Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal ................ 8
Trading ............................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Item 12 – Brokerage Practices ................................................................................................................................ 8
Item 13 – Review of Accounts ................................................................................................................................. 9
Item 14 – Client Referrals and Other Compensation ..................................................................................... 9
Item 15 – Custody ........................................................................................................................................................ 9
Item 16 – Investment Discretion ........................................................................................................................ 10
Item 17 – Voting Client Securities ...................................................................................................................... 10
Item 18 – Financial Information .......................................................................................................................... 10
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Susan M. Stiles, CFP®, CHFC®, AIF®, CPFA®,
MBA, born 1959 ......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Paul E. Tichy, AIF®, MBA, born 1961................. 16
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Kristine E. Meyer, CPFA®, AIF®, AAMS®, born
1984 ............................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Mark R. Gierach, AIF®, MBA, born 1976 .......... 21
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for John R. Stone, born 1964 ....................................... 23
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®, born 1998................... 25
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Rachel K. Engel, born 1990 ................................... 27
3
Item 4 – Advisory Business
SFSI, established in 2000, is wholly owned and managed by Susan M. Stiles and has
$37,407,603 of ERISA Section 3(38) assets under management through Corporate Retirement
Plan Consulting Services. As of December 31, 2025, SFSI has $864,581,029 of ERISA Section
3(21) contracts as assets under advisement through Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting
Services.
SFSI provides (i) Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting Services for defined contribution and
defined benefit plans, both qualified and non-qualified and (ii) prepares and delivers individual
Financial Plan Consulting Services. As of December 31, 2025, SFSI has $510,464,040 assets
under management in our Portfolio Management advisory service offered through SFSI’s
wrap program. Please reference the Brochures specific to individual financial planning and our
SFSI wrap program for additional information on those services.
Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting Services
SFSI’s Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting Services provide fiduciary consulting, investment
monitoring and Plan oversight through the delivery of a process-driven implementation of
fiduciary and industry best practices for the Plan Sponsor. Typically, this is accomplished
through the investment or benefits committee and or the trustee(s). These services often
include:
Investment screening, reporting and asset class review,
Performance monitoring, analysis and benchmarking,
Extensive fee analysis, disclosure, negotiating and benchmarking,
Plan benchmarking,
Vendor search including conversion services,
Vendor service negotiation,
Guidance and fiduciary education on formalization of the investment committee and
implementation of an investment policy statement,
Participant education services, along with development and monitoring of risk-based
asset class managed strategy portfolios and, in some cases, with age banded glide paths.
Ongoing services will generally include a self-assessment of plan operations review, 404(c)
compliance review, fiduciary audit file annual checklist and implementation and documentation
of industry best practices and procedures. Participant services can include group-based
education seminars and one-on-one personalized meetings in person, over the phone or
through webinars. SFSI will generally accept fiduciary responsibility either under ERISA 3(21)
or 3(38). SFSI will often coordinate with other professionals including attorneys, actuaries,
accountants, and plan vendors.
A wrap fee program is a discretionary investment program wherein the investor pays one stated
fee that includes management fees, transaction costs, and certain other administrative fees. SFSI
4
does not participate in a wrap fee program for its Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting
Services.
SFSI generally offers the same suite of services to all of its Plan Sponsor clients. However,
specific Plan investment menu line-ups and their implementation are driven by the Plan’s
Investment Policy Statement which outlines the parameters of the investment options offered
by the Plan in adherence with Regulation 404(c) guidelines and ERISA permitted investments.
Participants in the Plan select their investments or are defaulted by Plan directive based
on each participant's current situation (income, tax levels, and risk tolerance levels).
Item 5 – Fees and Compensation
Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting Services
There are two distinct ways to engage SFSI for Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting; (i)
through an ongoing regular fiduciary advisory and consulting engagement and/or (ii) for
project-related services. Examples of project-related work might include requests for proposal
(RFP) vendor and advisor searches, Plan conversion quarterbacking to a new platform, fund
menu analysis and redesign, fee benchmarking and restructuring
including vendor
renegotiation, Plan design consultation and new Plan startup planning strategy and guidance,
and employee financial planning workshops and seminars. Generally, the Corporate
Retirement Plan Consulting fee is established by considering the size of the plan in assets and
the number of participants, asset flow, the number of company plans, the complexity and
breadth of the services being rendered and the extent of the engagement and required services.
In addition, fees can vary based on the extent and level of SFSI’s fiduciary status in relation to
the Plan under ERISA 3(21) and 3(38).
As full compensation for its services, SFSI receives a negotiated fee, which may be based on a
percentage of assets under advisory management, a fixed fee, a hybrid fee that includes a
portion based on percentage of assets under management and a portion that is a flat fee, and
under specific circumstances an hourly rate. The maximum fee Stiles Financial will charge is a
flat fee of 1.15% of the plan’s assets under management. Fees can be paid by the Plan Sponsor,
the Plan or a combination. The specific manner in which fees are charged by SFSI is established
in a client’s written agreement with SFSI. Generally, Retirement Plan Consulting fees
are billed on a quarterly basis in advance and in some circumstances in arrears each calendar
quarter, as specified by agreement.
SFSI’s fees are separate and distinct from all other fees that may be charged to operate and
administer a Plan. Examples of other fees that Plans may incur include custodial fees, trustee
fees, recordkeeping and operational fees charged by the vendor and third-party administrative
fees, legal fees, audit fees, and investment management fees. All operational and administrative
fees are completely separate from and in addition to SFSI’s advisory and consulting fee. In some
cases, the Plan Sponsor pays the fees directly to the service provider which may include SFSI. In
other cases, the Plan pays the provider fees from Plan assets which essentially means the
participants bear the cost of maintaining the Plan. In some cases, fees are paid utilizing a
combination of both approaches. Part of SFSI’s consulting services is to educate the Plan Sponsor
5
on the fees incurred, disclose the fees and help determine the reasonableness of the fees by
conducting thoughtful discussion around how the fees should be paid.
For ongoing engagements, fees are typically charged quarterly in advance on an ongoing basis.
For one-time projects, 50% of the fee is charged up-front. This upfront fee is refundable only up
to the unearned services provided by SFSI. If the project is cancelled prior to completion,
the client will be issued a refund of unearned fees within 30 days of cancellation. The remainder
of the fee is due upon completion of the project. The maximum dollar amount charged is a total
of $100,000. Additionally, a fee ranging from $200 to $500 per hour can be charged for special
activities and projects. All fees are determined in advance and prior to signing the agreement.
In no event will SFSI charge fees of $1,200 or more, six months or more, in advance.
The agreement continues until it is terminated by either party by giving written notice to the
other, which can be received in email form. SFSI prepares client-specific bills following the
terms in the signed agreement and mails and/or emails the bill directly to the client for
payment. Advisory fees paid in advance would be pro-rated and refunded to the client for
unearned services within 60 days, as outlined in the advisory agreement.
Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management
SFSI does 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 side-by-side management fees (where
competing fee arrangements may create a conflict in the advisory services offered to clients).
Item 7 – Types of Clients
SFSI offers retirement plan consulting to defined contribution and defined benefit plans, both
qualified and non-qualified. In this arrangement, the client is the Plan Sponsor and the Plan.
Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
SFSI provides retirement plan investment committees and plan fiduciaries guidance and advice
on the selection of the investment fund menu options available to employee plan participants.
SFSI delivers insight into investment principles and practices that strives to be educational and
informative, considering market and performance fluctuations. An appropriate plan menu will
offer investment options that will meet the different time frames, risk profiles, and goals of a
company’s employee base. SFSI’s investment analysis applies fundamental analytics with a
qualitative overlay that encompasses diversification, asset allocation, and risk management.
SFSI utilizes a combination of technology, research, and experience, to search the universe of
available managers, mutual funds, collective trusts, investments and securities considering
areas such as:
Overall returns, return consistency, expected returns and risk-adjusted returns,
Peer group comparisons and manager history, including investment objectives,
philosophy, guidelines and expense ratios, and
6
Index and benchmark performance standards.
A plan menu offering considers sectors relative to benchmarks and industries. Investing in
securities involves risk of loss that Plans must understand and be prepared to bear.
Recommended investment strategies that are offered through the plan menu accommodate
investor’s various time frames, goals, and risk tolerance levels. Securities recommended for
these plans will be made up of pooled investments, also known as Mutual Funds, and collective
Investment Trusts. Within these funds, assets can range from money market funds, bond
funds, equity funds, commodity funds, and stable value funds.
Long-term investing is designed to capture market rates of both return and risk. Due to its
nature, the long-term investment strategy can expose clients to various types of risk that will
typically surface at various intervals during the time the client owns the investments. These
risks include but are not limited to inflation (purchasing power) risk, interest rate risk,
economic risk, market risk, and political/regulatory risk.
Item 9 – Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events that would be material to the client’s evaluation of SFSI or the integrity of the
firm’s management. SFSI has no information applicable to this Item.
Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
Neither SFSI nor its representatives are registered as, or have pending applications to
become, a broker/dealer, Futures Commission Merchant, Commodity Pool Operator, or
Commodity Trading Advisor or an associated person of the foregoing entities.
SFSI employees that hold a current in force insurance license may sell insurance products to
clients to execute an overall financial plan. Some of the products may pay a commission that will
be disclosed and paid to SFSI. If an insurance product carrier offers a fee-based product
alternative, SFSI will generally recommend such a product that will fall under the umbrella of
the wrap fee program. Clients are under no obligation to purchase insurance products through
SFSI. Insurance products do not fall under the asset-based management fee or the program fee.
SFSI does not receive free marketing services from insurance companies in exchange for
marketing the insurance company’s products. SFSI is also aware of the conflicts of interest in
recommending “switches” from one insurance product to another to earn additional
commissions. Insurance products are typically recommended to clients on a limited basis and
a “switch” from one insurance product to another will only be recommended if it is truly in the
client’s best interest. If insurance commissions are paid on the product purchased by our clients,
the insurance product is not included in the advisory or program fee calculations. This means
we are only paid insurance commissions or advisory and program fees on the same product –
not both. Commissionable insurance products are typically term, universal or whole life policies.
Long-term care insurance and disability policies may also be recommended.
7
SFSI may direct clients to third-party investment advisers and will be compensated via a fee
share from the advisers to which it directs those clients and thus any conflict of interest is
mitigated. SFSI will always act in the best interests of the client, including when determining
which third-party investment adviser to recommend to clients.
Item 11 – Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal
Trading
SFSI has adopted a Code of Ethics for all employees describing its high standard of business
conduct, and our fiduciary duty to clients. SFSI acknowledges the fiduciary duty that is our
responsibility according to both the Advisers Act, as well as the more recent DOL Fiduciary Rule.
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 at SFSI
must acknowledge the terms of the Code of Ethics annually, or as amended.
SFSI anticipates that accounts SFSI has advisement authority over, may hold positions
purchased by SFSI or recommended by SFSI in which SFSI clients or employees, directly or
indirectly, have a position of interest. SFSI employees are required to follow SFSI’s Code of
Ethics. Subject to satisfying this policy and applicable laws, employees of SFSI may trade for
their own accounts in securities which are recommended to SFSI clients. The Code of Ethics is
designed to assure that the personal securities transactions, activities, and interests of advisory
employees will not interfere with (i) making decisions in the best interest of advisory
clients and (ii) implementing such decisions while, at the same time, allowing employees to
invest for their own accounts. Under the Code certain classes of securities have been designated
as exempt transactions, based upon a determination that these would materially not interfere
with the best interests of clients. Nonetheless, because the Code of Ethics in some circumstances
would permit employees to invest in the same securities as clients, there is a possibility that
employees might benefit from market activity by a Plan or client in a security held by an
employee. Employee trading is monitored to reasonably prevent conflicts of interest between
SFSI and its clients.
Clients or prospective clients may request a copy of the firm's Code of Ethics by contacting us at
952-988-0452 or info@stilesfinancial.com.
Item 12 – Brokerage Practices
A discussion of Brokerage Practices is not relevant to SFSI’s Corporate Retirement Plan
Consulting Services. A few examples of SFSI’s responsibilities regarding brokerage practices is
as follows:
We would discuss with the plan sponsor client if offering a brokerage account option to
participants is appropriate for the overall strategy of the plan.
o Do the employees understand the risks they take by having those accounts?
8
o Is it a workforce who has the sophistication and understanding of how to navigate
and manage a self-directed brokerage account?
o Is the platform reasonably priced?
Item 13 – Review of Accounts
For Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting Services, SFSI employs a best-practices fiduciary
process in developing and presenting Plan reviews that are delivered quarterly, semi-
annually or annually. SFSI’s fiduciary plan reviews follow a standardized format that is outlined
in the agreement entered with the Plan Sponsor. These review reports include thorough
investment analysis and monitoring, fee disclosure and benchmarking, economic and financial
market commentary, and an overview of plan statistics, data, and information regarding
management of the Plan. These review reports are presented to the Retirement Plan Committee
representing the Plan Sponsor. SFSI follows a fiduciary best practices model in developing and
presenting formal Plan reviews.
Item 14 – Client Referrals and Other Compensation
SFSI may, via written arrangement, retain third parties to act as promoters for SFSI’s investment
management services. All compensation with respect to the foregoing will be fully disclosed to
each client to the extent required by applicable law. SFSI will ensure each promoter is properly
registered in all appropriate jurisdictions, if required. All such referral activities will be
conducted in accordance with Rule 206(4)-1 under the Advisers Act, where applicable.
SFSI receives marketing assistance from some vendors. This creates a conflict because
occasionally vendors will contribute financially to offset certain costs associated with some
marketing activities. This conflict is mitigated because SFSI will always place the interests of
clients ahead of its own or any IAR’s interests.
Item 15 – Custody
Investment advisers are deemed to have custody if they hold, directly or indirectly, client funds
or securities, or have any authority to obtain possession of them. Qualified custodians are banks,
trust companies, and registered broker-dealers which maintain client funds and securities in
separate accounts for each client under that client’s name, or in accounts that contain only client
funds and securities under the name of the investment adviser as agent or trustee for the clients.
SFSI will not have custody nor act as a trustee of client funds or securities.
For Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting, SFSI does not have custody but develops Plan or
client reports and periodic reviews from the information provided by custodians and/or
broker-dealers. SFSI urges all clients to carefully and regularly review official custodial records
and statements.
9
Item 16 – Investment Discretion
SFSI contractually receives discretionary authority. With discretionary authority, SFSI will have
authorization to execute investment decisions without prior approval from the Plan. This is
known as a Section 3(38) investment manager. Alternatively, SFSI may be contracted in a co-
fiduciary status where the Plan Sponsor/Trustee retains ultimate decision-making authority for
the investments in a Plan and may accept or reject the recommendations provided by SFSI.
This is known as a Section 3(21) investment manager. In both cases, an investment policy
statement is generally executed and approved by the Retirement Plan Benefits Committee and
provided to SFSI.
Item 17 – Voting Client Securities
SFSI does not vote proxies. Clients will receive proxies directly from the issuer of the security or
the custodian and should direct all proxy questions to the issuer of the security.
Item 18 – Financial Information
Registered investment advisers are required in this Item to provide the client with certain
financial information or disclosures about their respective Firm’s financial condition. SFSI has
no financial commitment that impairs its ability to meet contractual and fiduciary commitments
to clients and has not been the subject of a bankruptcy proceeding. SFSI has no debt.
10
March 23, 2026
Susan M. Stiles, CFP®, CHFC®, AIF®, CPFA®, MBA
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Susan M. Stiles that supplements
the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have received a copy
of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact information listed above
if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure or if you have
questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Susan M. Stiles is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/2278334.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Susan M. Stiles, CFP®, CHFC®, AIF®,
CPFA®, MBA, born 1959
Education and Professional Designations
Susan M. Stiles graduated from Cornell University, Johnson School of Management with an
MBA in Finance and Accounting in 1991 and from Cornell University, School of Hotel
Administration with a BS in 1981.
Ms. Stiles attained her CFP® (Certified Financial Planner®) designation in 1997. This is a
certification awarded by the Certified Financial Plan Board of Standards. To earn the CFP®
certification, candidates must: (1) have an associate degree (or higher) from an accredited
college or university; (2) have at least three years of full-time personal financial planning
experience, and (3) must complete a CFP® board registered program. To maintain the
designation, 30 hours of continuing education are required every two years including 2 hours
of code of ethics education.
Ms. Stiles attained her Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designation in July 2007. This
designation is awarded by The American College and requires three years of full-time business
experience within the preceding five years and the completion of nine courses (that are the
equivalent of 27 semester credit hours) with a final closed-book exam for each course.
30 hours of continuing education are required every two years.
Ms. Stiles earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 2006. This is a designation
offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must meet a point-
based threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry experience and/or
professional development. Each candidate must complete an educational program and pass a
final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of continuing education are required per
year.
Ms. Stiles earned the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA®) designation in 2017. This is a
designation that is issued by the National Association of Plan Advisors. There are no
prerequisites, but candidates must successfully complete a final proctored certification exam.
There are 10 credits of continuing education required each year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as President since 2000.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Ms. Stiles is licensed insurance agent with SFSI.
Additional Compensation
Susan M. Stiles is a licensed insurance agent. From time to time, she will offer clients advice or
products from those activities. Clients should be aware that these services may pay a
commission and involve a conflict of interest, as commissionable products conflict with the
fiduciary duties of a registered investment adviser. Stiles Financial Services, Inc. will always
act in the best interest of the client, including the sale of commissionable products to advisory
clients. There are circumstances where insurance products do not pay a commission but are
under a fee-based wrap arrangement. Clients always have the right to decide whether or not to
utilize the services of any representative of Stiles Financial Services, Inc. in such individual’s
outside capacities.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions at the mailing
address, email address or contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Paul E. Tichy, AIF®, MBA
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Paul E. Tichy that supplements
the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have received a copy of
that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact information listed above if you
did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure or if you have questions
about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Paul E. Tichy is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/1448730.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Paul E. Tichy, AIF®, MBA, born 1961
Education and Professional Designations
Paul E. Tichy graduated from DePaul University with an MBA in 1992 and from Northwestern
University with a BA in 1984.
Mr. Tichy earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 11/2017. This is a designation
offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must meet a point-based
threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry experience and/or
professional development. Each candidate must complete an educational program and pass a
final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of continuing education are required per
year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as Investment Analyst and Portfolio Manager since
May 2016.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Mr. Tichy is not engaged in any investment-related business or occupation (other than this
advisory firm).
Additional Compensation
Other than salary, annual bonuses, or regular bonuses, Mr. Tichy does not receive any
economic benefit from any person, company, or organization, in exchange for providing clients
advisory services through Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr. Tichy’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Kristine E. Meyer, CPFA®, AIF®, AAMS®
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Kristine E. Meyer that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Kristine E. Meyer is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/7176179.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Kristine E. Meyer, CPFA®, AIF®, AAMS®,
born 1984
Education and Professional Designations
Kristine E. Meyer graduated from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities with a BA in English
in 2006.
Ms. Meyer attained her Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS®) designation in 2011.
This designation is awarded by the College for Financial Planning and requires a series of 10
self-study modules, followed by a closed book proctored exam. There are 16 hours of
continuing education required every two years to maintain the designation.
Ms. Meyer earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 08/2020 This is a
designation offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must meet
a point-based threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry experience
and/or professional development. Each candidate must complete an educational program and
pass a final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of continuing education are required
per year.
Ms. Meyer earned the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA®) designation in 10/2021. This
is a designation that is issued by the National Association of Plan Advisors. There are no
prerequisites, but candidates must successfully complete a final proctored certification
exam. There are 10 credits of continuing education required each year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as a Retirement Plan Specialist since
September2019.
Cornerstone Private Asset Trust Company as a Retirement Plan Specialist from June
2009 to September 2019.
Cornerstone Private Asset Trust Company as a Trust Operations Supervisor from
June 2009 to September 2019.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. Ms. Meyer declared Bankruptcy in 2019.
Other Business Activities
Ms. Meyer has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Ms. Meyer does not receive any additional compensation.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Ms. Meyer’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Mark R. Gierach, AIF®, MBA
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Mark R. Gierach that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Mark R. Gierach is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/3116480.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Mark R. Gierach, AIF®, MBA, born 1976
Education and Professional Designations
Mark R. Gierach graduated from Carroll University, Waukesha, WI with a BS in Business
Management in 1998.
Mr. Gierach graduated from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities with a Masters in Business
Administration (MBA) in Finance in 2006.
Mr. Gierach earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 2024. This is a designation
offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must meet a point-
based threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry experience and/or
professional development. Each candidate must complete an educational program and pass
a final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of continuing education are required per
year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as Investment Analyst and Portfolio Manager
since July 2022.
Bremer Bank as Senior Portfolio Manager from May 2016 to May 2022.
Balanced Capital Management as Principal from August 2012 to May 2016.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal
or disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Mr. Gierach has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Other than salary, annual bonuses, or regular bonuses, Mr. Gierach does not receive any
economic benefit from any person, company, or organization, in exchange for providing clients
advisory services through Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr. Gierach’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
John R. Stone
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about John R. Stone that supplements
the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have received a copy
of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact information listed above if
you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure or if you have
questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about John R. Stone is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/3116480.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for John R. Stone, born 1964
Education and Professional Designations
John R. Stone graduated from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC with a BA in
Management and Society in 1987.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as a Senior Wealth Manager as of March 2024.
US Bank as a Private Wealth Advisor from September 2021 to February 2024.
Bremer Bank as a Private Wealth Advisor from August 2018 to September 2021.
Ameriprise Financial as a Senior Financial Advisor / Manager from December 2012 to
August 2018.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Mr. Stone has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Mr. Stone does not receive any additional compensation.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr. Stone’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Bradford T. Aylin that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Bradford T. Aylin is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/7476230.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®, born 1998
Educational Background and Professional Designations
Bradford Aylin graduated from the University of St. Thomas, Minneapolis, MN with a bachelor’s
degree in Finance with a minor in Data Analytics in 2020.
Mr. Aylin attained his CFP® (Certified Financial Planner®) designation in 2025. This is a
certification awarded by the Certified Financial Plan Board of Standards. To earn the CFP®
certification, candidates must: (1) have an associate degree (or higher) from an accredited
college or university; (2) have at least three years of full-time personal financial planning
experience, and (3) must complete a CFP® board registered program. To maintain the
designation, 30 hours of continuing education are required every two years including 2 hours
of code of ethics education.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as a Private Wealth Manager and Investment
Adviser Representative as of August 2025.
Secured Retirement Advisors, LLC as a Financial Advisor from January 2022 to April
2025.
Secured Retirement Advisors, LLC as an Investment Advisor Representative from
December 2021 to June 2025.
Secured Retirement Advisors, LLC as a Client Service Specialist from September 2020
to December 2021.
Item 3. Disciplinary Information
Mr. Aylin has no information applicable to this Item.
Item 4. Other Business Activities
Mr. Aylin has no other reportable business activity.
Item 5. Additional Compensation
Mr. Aylin does not receive any additional compensation.
Item 6. Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer, is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr. Aylin’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the contact information provided on the
cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Rachel K. Engel
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Rachel K. Engel that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Rachel K. Engel is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/7115308.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Rachel K. Engel, born 1990
Education and Professional Designations
Rachel K. Engel graduated from Carleton College in Northfield, MN with a bachelor’s degree
in Art History in 2012.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as Corporate Business Development and as an
Investment Adviser Representative as of October 2025.
Thrivent Distributors LLC as an Investment Consultant from May 2024 to October 2025.
Thrivent with Various Positions Held from May 2019 to October 2025.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal
or disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Ms. Engel has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Ms. Engel does not receive any additional compensation.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Ms. Engel’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
FACTS
Why?
WHAT DOES STILES FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL
INFORMATION?
Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit
some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal
information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.
What?
The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This
information can include:
●
●
Social Security number, tax identification number, and employee identification number
Account balances, income, and total net worth
How?
All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section
below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons we choose
to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.
Reasons we can share your personal information
Do we share?
Can you limit this sharing?
Yes
No
No
N/A
For our everyday business purposes—
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court
orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus
For our marketing purposes—
to offer our products and services to you
No
N/A
For joint marketing with other financial companies
No
N/A
No
N/A
For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes—
information about your transactions and experiences
For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes—
information about your creditworthiness
No
N/A
For our affiliates to market to you
No
N/A
For non-affiliates to market to you
Questions?
Call 952-988-0452
Who We Are
STILES FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
Who is providing this
notice?
What We Do
How do we protect your
personal information?
How do we collect your
personal information?
Why can’t you limit all
sharing?
Sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes—information about your creditworthiness
Affiliates from using your information to market to you
Sharing for non-affiliates to market to you
To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that
comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.
We collect your personal information, for example, when you
● Open an account or deposit money
●
Enter into an advisory contract
●
Tell us about your investment or retirement portfolio
Federal law gives you the right to limit only
●
●
●
State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.
Your choices will apply to everyone on your account—unless you tell us otherwise.
What happens when you
limit sharing for a jointly
owned account?
Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and non-financial companies.
Definitions
Affiliates
Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and non-financial companies.
Non-affiliates
Joint marketing
A formal agreement between non-affiliated financial companies that together market financial products or
services to you.
Page 1 of 1
Additional Brochure: SFSI ADV 2 FINANCIAL PLANNING 03.2026 (2026-03-23)
View Document Text
Item 1 – Cover Page
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
March 23, 2026
Form ADV 2A and 2Bs for
Individual Financial Plan Consulting
This Brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated (SFSI). If you have any questions about the
contents of this Brochure, please contact us at info@stilesfinancial.com or 952-988-
0452. 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 SFSI is also available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. To access this information, you can make an inquiry using our
name or our CRD number, which is 117023. Registration of an Investment Adviser does
not imply any level of skill or training.
1
Item 2 – Material Changes
The material changes in this brochure from the last annual updating amendment of March
19, 2025, for Stiles Financial Services (SFSI) are described below. Material changes relate to
Stiles Financial Services’ policies, practices, or conflicts of interests.
ADV 2B – The firm has added Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®.
ADV 2B – The firm has added Rachel K. Engel.
SFSI will provide our clients with a new Brochure as necessary based on changes or new
information, at any time, without charge. Currently, our Brochures may be requested by
contacting us at 952-988-0452 or info@stilesfinancial.com.
2
Item 3 -Table of Contents
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 ............................................................................................................................ 5
Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management ........................................................... 6
Item 7 – Types of Clients ............................................................................................................................................ 7
Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss .................................................... 7
Item 9 – Disciplinary Information ........................................................................................................................... 7
Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations .................................................................... 7
Item 11 – Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal ................. 8
Trading .............................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Item 12 – Brokerage Practices ................................................................................................................................. 8
Item 13 – Review of Accounts .................................................................................................................................. 8
Item 14 – Client Referrals and Other Compensation ....................................................................................... 9
Item 15 – Custody .......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Item 16 – Investment Discretion ............................................................................................................................. 9
Item 17 – Voting Client Securities ........................................................................................................................... 9
Item 18 – Financial Information ............................................................................................................................ 10
Item 19 – Marketing and Advertising .................................................................................................................. 10
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Susan M. Stiles, CFP®, CHFC®, AIF®, CPFA®,
MBA, born 1959 ........................................................................................................................................................... 16
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Paul E. Tichy, AIF®, MBA, born 1961 ................... 19
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Kristine E. Meyer, CPFA®, AIF®, AAMS®, born
1984 .................................................................................................................................................................................. 21
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Mark R. Gierach, AIF®, MBA, born 1976 ............. 24
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for John R. Stone, born 1964 .......................................... 26
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®, born 1998 ..................... 27
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Rachel K. Engel, born 1990 ..................................... 30
3
Item 4 – Advisory Business
SFSI, established in 2000, is wholly owned and managed by Susan M. Stiles. As of December
31, 2025, SFSI has $510,464,040 in assets under management in our Portfolio Management
advisory service offered through SFSI’s wrap program. SFSI has $37,407,603of ERISA Section
3(38) assets under management through Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting Services. As of
December 31, 2025, SFSI has$864,581,029of ERISA Section 3(21) contracts in assets under
advisement through Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting Services. SFSI provides (i) Corporate
Retirement Plan Consulting Services for defined contribution and defined benefit plans, both
qualified and non-qualified and (ii) prepares and delivers individual Financial Plan Consulting
Services. Please reference the SFSI Wrap Brochure specific to individual portfolio management
for additional information on that service offering.
Individual Financial Plan Consulting
SFSI provides tailored Financial Plan advisory and consulting services to meet the specific needs
and requests of individual clients. Clients are not required to participate in our Wrap Fee
Program to hire SFSI for individual financial plan services. Plans are developed by acquiring
information concerning the client’s assets, liabilities, present and future foreseeable obligations,
present and future income, the client’s desired financial goals, and the client’s tolerance of risk,
along with any other data related to these areas of a client’s financial profile. Development of a
comprehensive financial plan may include:
Net worth statements,
Budgeting,
Financial goal setting and projections,
Asset protection implementation and risk management,
College planning,
Wealth accumulation,
Retirement planning including gap analysis, accumulation, and income replacement
strategies,
Investment analysis and allocation,
Tax incentive concepts, and
Estate planning concerns and strategies.
Portfolio Management
Clients may elect to implement financial plans through SFSI’s Wrap Program, which provides
continuous investment advice, personalized to the individual needs of each client. Wrap fee
programs are arrangements in which clients receive investment advisory services, including
portfolio management and investment advice) as well as execution of client transactions for an
asset-based fee schedule disclosed in the Wrap Program ADV. Complete information about SFSI’s
Wrap Program is included in a separate Form ADV Wrap Brochure.
4
Item 5 – Fees and Compensation
Individual Financial Plan Consulting
A base fee of $3,000 is generally the minimum fee charged to develop a comprehensive financial
plan (the “Plan”). Generally, an annual maintenance update does not incur an additional
charge unless it results in a complete overhaul of the Financial Plan and the fee arrangement will
be discussed and agreed upon with the client in advance. Financial planning fees are typically a
fixed amount but may be based on an hourly fee. This fee can increase depending on the
complexity of the Plan being developed. The complexity of a Plan is determined by the type of
Plan the client requests.
Portfolio review fees for non-managed and outside investments can also be provided as a part of
our financial planning services. These fees vary according to the number of reviews requested
over a 12-month period and are agreed upon prior to signing an agreement.
Number of Portfolio Reviews Minimum Fee
4 quarterly reviews $4,000/annually
2 semi-annual reviews $2,500/annually
1 annual review $2,000/annually
For Financial Plans, 50% of the fee is charged up-front. This upfront fee is refundable only up to
the unearned services provided by SFSI and will be returned within 60 days. The remainder
of the fee is due upon completion of the Plan. Investment advice or other consultation that is
outside of the scope of a Financial Plan provided by SFSI and that is not part of the wrap fee
program and not on a retainer is charged as a Project Fee; 50% of the fee is charged up front for
the Project and is refundable for unearned work and will be returned within 60 days cancellation.
The remainder of the fee is due upon the completion of the Project. A Project can include how
the client’s assets are currently allocated, how SFSI would allocate their assets, and a summary
of our overall services to the client if they wish to hire us on retainer as part of our wrap fee
program. A Project can also provide consultation and advice to a client on negotiating a
severance package or accepting a job offer with a variety of compensation tiers and alternatives.
A Project can also involve a family estate planning execution or beneficiary asset distribution.
Depending on the complexity of the project, the maximum fee charged can be up to $20,000. If
the Project or Plan is cancelled prior to completion, the client will be issued a refund of unearned
fees within 60 days. Most Plans are completed within 6 months of the engagement, and all fees
are agreed upon prior to signing an agreement. Project completion time is heavily dependent on
the scope of the Project and will be discussed and determined at the time of engagement. When
a client hires SFSI on retainer, they are charged a fee based on the Fee Schedule detailed above.
These fees are charged in advance, quarterly, on an ongoing basis.
5
Additionally, a fee for Project work or additional ad hoc Financial Planning ranging from $200 to
$500 per hour can be charged for special activities and projects. This fee varies based on staff
assignments and levels of expertise.
If the client terminates the agreement prior to completion of the Plan, services provided through
the termination date must be paid upon receipt of the invoice. The agreement continues
until it is terminated by either party by giving written notice to the other, which can be received
via email, in person, or by mail. SFSI prepares client specific bills following the terms in the signed
agreement. These bills are then sent via mail or email directly to the client for payment.
SFSI does not accept cash or credit card payments and cannot deduct the bill from any type of
client account.
Portfolio Management
Please review the Form ADV Wrap Brochure for a complete review of the fees and
appropriate conflict disclosures related to SFSI’s wrap program.
Other Fees and Compensation
Life, disability, and long-term care products recommended in the Financial Plan developed for
clients of SFSI may be purchased through SFSI employees that hold a current in force insurance
license. Some of these products may pay a commission that will be disclosed and paid to SFSI.
This is separate from a fee paid by the client for the development of the Financial Plan. If an
insurance product carrier offers a fee-based product alternative, SFSI will generally recommend
such a product that is under the execution of the Wrap Fee Program.
Clients are under no obligation to purchase insurance products through SFSI. Insurance products
do not fall under the asset-based management fee or the program fee.
SFSI does not receive free marketing services from insurance companies in exchange for
marketing the insurance company’s products. SFSI is also aware of the conflicts of interest in
recommending “switches” from one insurance product to another to earn additional
commissions. Insurance products are typically recommended to clients on a limited basis and a
“switch” from one insurance product to another will only be recommended if it is truly in the
client’s best interest. If insurance commissions are paid on the product purchased by our clients,
the insurance product is not included in the advisory or program fee calculations. This means we
are only paid insurance commissions or advisory and program fees on the same product – not
both. Commissionable insurance products are typically term, universal or whole life policies.
Long-term care insurance and disability policies may also be recommended.
Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management
SFSI does 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 side-by-side management fees (where competing
fee arrangements may create a conflict in the advisory services offered to clients).
6
Item 7 – Types of Clients
SFSI provides individual financial planning, and portfolio management offered through SFSI’s
wrap program, to individuals, families, trusts, estates, charitable organizations, foundations, and
corporations.
Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
SFSI provides individual financial planning clients with insight into investment principles and
practices that are educational and informative, especially in volatile markets when performance
can fluctuate dramatically. SFSI’s investment discipline is an analytical approach with a
qualitative overlay that generally emphasizes diversification, asset allocation and risk
management.
Investing in securities involves risk of loss that clients must understand and be prepared to bear.
Recommended investment strategies tend to center on long-term investing that will generally
follow a buy and hold strategy, updated periodically to reflect changes in the client’s investment
objectives, risk tolerance, and time horizon. However, any investment strategy approach will be
specific to the client time horizon, risk assessment, goals and overall financial profile. SFSI
approaches each client with a customized and personalized strategy and solution.
Item 9 – Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events that would be material to the client’s evaluation of SFSI or the integrity of the
Firm’s management. SFSI has no information applicable to this Item.
Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
In some situations, a brokerage relationship may be preferable or complement an advisory
relationship, depending on specific client needs. Clients who have a Plan prepared by SFSI should
note that they are under no obligation to establish an advisory wrap fee program account
through SFSI. SFSI’s Portfolio Management advisory service is managed completely through
SFSI’s wrap fee program, as described in SFSI’s Form ADV Wrap Brochure.
SFSI employees that hold a current in force insurance licensed may sell insurance products to
clients to execute an overall financial plan. Some of the products may pay a commission that will
be disclosed and paid to SFSI. If an insurance product carrier offers a fee-based product
alternative, SFSI will generally recommend such a product that is under the execution of the wrap
fee program. Clients are under no obligation to purchase insurance products through SFSI.
Insurance products do not fall under the asset-based management fee or the program fee.
7
Item 11 – Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal
Trading
SFSI has adopted a Code of Ethics for all employees describing its high standard of business
conduct, and our fiduciary duty to clients. SFSI acknowledges that fiduciary duty is our
responsibility according to both the Advisers Act, as well as the more recent DOL Fiduciary Rule.
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 at SFSI must
acknowledge the terms of the Code of Ethics annually, or as amended.
SFSI anticipates that, in appropriate circumstances, it will cause accounts over which SFSI has
advisement authority to effect and will recommend to investment advisory clients or prospective
clients, the purchase or sale of securities in which SFSI clients or employees, directly or indirectly,
have a position of interest. SFSI employees are required to follow SFSI’s Code of Ethics. Subject to
satisfying this policy and applicable laws, employees of SFSI may trade for their own accounts
in securities which are recommended to SFSI clients. The Code of Ethics is designed to assure
that the personal securities transactions, activities, and interests of advisory employees will
not interfere with (i) making decisions in the best interest of advisory clients and (ii)
implementing such decisions while, at the same time, allowing employees to invest for their own
accounts. Under the Code certain classes of securities have been designated as exempt
transactions, based upon a determination that these would materially not interfere with the best
interests of clients. Nonetheless, because the Code of Ethics in some circumstances would
permit employees to invest in the same securities as clients, there is a possibility that employees
might benefit from market activity by a Plan or client in a security held by an employee. Employee
trading is monitored to reasonably prevent conflicts of interest between SFSI and its clients. SFSI
will always document any transactions that are conflicts of interest. SFSI and its employees will
not engage in trading that operates to the client's disadvantage when similar securities are being
bought or sold.
Clients or prospective clients may request a copy of the firm's Code of Ethics by contacting us at
952-988-0452 or info@stilesfinancial.com.
Item 12 – Brokerage Practices
A discussion of Brokerage Practices is not relevant to SFSI’s Financial Planning services. SFSI
is an independent RIA and is contracted with Fidelity Institutional to custody client investable
assets that are managed through SFSI wrap program. As such, SFSI does not recommend a
brokerage firm.
Item 13 – Review of Accounts
A discussion related to Review of Accounts is not relevant to SFSI’s Individual Financial
Plan Consulting Services.
8
Specific information related SFSI’s wrap program for Review of Accounts is provided in the
Form ADV Wrap Brochure.
Item 14 – Client Referrals and Other Compensation
SFSI does not participate in any referral arrangements or accept revenue sharing with custodians
or plan platform sponsors.
SFSI receives marketing assistance from some vendors. This creates a conflict because
occasionally vendors will contribute financially to offset certain costs associated with some
marketing activities. This typically will happen when we sponsor educational forums that clients
and prospects are invited to attend. This conflict is mitigated because SFSI will always place the
interests of clients ahead of its own or any IAR’s interests.
Item 15 – Custody
Investment advisers are deemed to have custody if they hold, directly or indirectly, client funds
or securities, or have any authority to obtain possession of them.
Qualified custodians are banks and registered broker-dealers which maintain client funds and
securities in separate accounts for each client under that client’s name, or in accounts that
contain only client funds and securities under the name of the investment adviser as agent or
trustee for the clients. SFSI will not have custody of client funds or securities.
For individual financial planning services, SFSI does not provide custody but develops client
reports and/or periodic reviews from the information provided by custodians and/or
broker-dealers. SFSI urges all clients to carefully and regularly review official custodial records
and statements.
Specific information related Custody and SFSI’s wrap program is provided in the Form ADV Wrap
Brochure.
Item 16 – Investment Discretion
A discussion related to Investment Discretion is not relevant to SFSI’s Individual Financial
Plan Consulting Services.
SFSI’s wrap program provides Portfolio Management on a discretionary basis. This means that
SFSI makes investment decisions on a day-to-day basis without consultation with the client. This
includes deciding to buy or sell and the price per share.
Item 17 – Voting Client Securities
SFSI does not vote proxies.
9
Item 18 – Financial Information
Registered investment advisers are required in this Item to provide the client with certain
financial information or disclosures about their respective Firm’s financial condition. SFSI has no
financial commitment that impairs its ability to meet contractual and fiduciary commitments to
clients and has not been the subject of a bankruptcy proceeding.
Item 19 – Marketing and Advertising
SFSI may, via written arrangement, retain third parties to act as promoters for SFSI’s investment
management services. All compensation with respect to the foregoing will be fully disclosed to
each client to the extent required by applicable law. SFSI will ensure each promoter is properly
registered in all appropriate jurisdictions, if required. All such referral activities will be
conducted in accordance with Rule 206(4)-1 under the Advisers Act, where applicable.
10
March 23, 2026
Susan M. Stiles, CFP®, CHFC®, AIF®, CPFA®, MBA
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Susan M. Stiles that supplements
the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have received a copy
of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact information listed above
if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure or if you have
questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Susan M. Stiles is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/2278334.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Susan M. Stiles, CFP®, CHFC®, AIF®,
CPFA®, MBA, born 1959
Education and Professional Designations
Susan M. Stiles graduated from Cornell University, Johnson School of Management with a MBA
in Finance and Accounting in 1991 and from Cornell University, School of Hotel Administration
with a BS in 1981.
Ms. Stiles attained her CFP® (Certified Financial Planner®) designation in 1997. This is a
certification awarded by the Certified Financial Plan Board of Standards. To earn the CFP®
certification, candidates must: (1) have an associate degree (or higher) from an accredited
college or university; (2) have at least three years of full-time personal financial planning
experience, and (3) must complete a CFP® board registered program. To maintain the
designation, 30 hours of continuing education are required every two years including 2 hours
of code of ethics education.
Ms. Stiles attained her Chartered Financial Consultant ® (ChFC®) designation in July 2007. This
designation is awarded by The American College and requires three years of full-time business
experience within the preceding five years and the completion of nine courses (that are the
equivalent of 27 semester credit hours) with a final closed-book exam for each course.
30 hours of continuing education are required every two years.
Ms. Stiles earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 2006. This is a designation
offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must meet a point-
based threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry experience and/or
professional development. Each candidate must complete an educational program and pass a
final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of continuing education are required per
year.
Ms. Stiles earned the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA®) designation in 2017. This is a
designation that is issued by the National Association of Plan Advisors. There are no
prerequisites, but candidates must successfully complete a final proctored certification exam.
There are 10 credits of continuing education required each year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as President since 2000.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Ms. Stiles is a licensed insurance agent with SFSI.
Additional Compensation
Susan M. Stiles is a licensed insurance agent. From time to time, she will offer clients advice or
products from those activities. Clients should be aware that these services may pay a
commission and involve a conflict of interest, as commissionable products conflict with the
fiduciary duties of a registered investment adviser. Stiles Financial Services, Inc. will always
act in the best interest of the client, including the sale of commissionable products to advisory
clients. There are circumstances where insurance products do not pay a commission but are
under a fee-based wrap arrangement. Clients always have the right to decide whether or not to
utilize the services of any representative of Stiles Financial Services, Inc. in such individual’s
outside capacities.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions at the mailing
address, email address or contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Paul E. Tichy, AIF®, MBA
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Paul E. Tichy that supplements
the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have received a copy of
that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact information listed above if you
did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure or if you have questions
about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Paul E. Tichy is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/1448730.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Paul E. Tichy, AIF®, MBA, born 1961
Education and Professional Designations
Paul E. Tichy graduated from DePaul University with an MBA in 1992 and from Northwestern
University with a BA in 1984.
Mr. Tichy earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 11/2017. This is a designation
offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must meet a point-based
threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry experience and/or
professional development. Each candidate must complete an educational program and pass a
final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of continuing education are required per
year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as Investment Analyst and Portfolio Manager since
May 2016.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Mr. Tichy is not engaged in any investment-related business or occupation (other than this
advisory firm).
Additional Compensation
Other than salary, annual bonuses, or regular bonuses, Mr. Tichy does not receive any
economic benefit from any person, company, or organization, in exchange for providing clients
advisory services through Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr. Tichy’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Kristine E. Meyer, CPFA®, AIF®, AAMS®
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Kristine E. Meyer that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Kristine E. Meyer is available on the SEC’s website at
visiting
or
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/7176179.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Kristine E. Meyer, CPFA®, AIF®, AAMS®,
born 1984
Education and Professional Designations
Kristine E. Meyer graduated from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities with a BA in English
in 2006.
Ms. Meyer attained her Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS®) designation in 2011.
This designation is awarded by the College for Financial Planning and requires a series of 10
self-study modules, followed by a closed book proctored exam. There are 16 hours of
continuing education required every two years to maintain the designation.
Ms. Meyer earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 08/2020 This is a
designation offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must meet
a point-based threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry experience
and/or professional development. Each candidate must complete an educational program and
pass a final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of continuing education are required
per year.
Ms. Meyer earned the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA®) designation in 10/2021. This
is a designation that is issued by the National Association of Plan Advisors. There are no
prerequisites, but candidates must successfully complete a final proctored certification
exam. There are 10 credits of continuing education required each year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated a Retirement Plan Specialist since September
2019.
Cornerstone Private Asset Trust Company as a Retirement Plan Specialist from June
2009 to September 2019.
Cornerstone Private Asset Trust Company as a Trust Operations Supervisor from
June 2009 to September 2019.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. Ms. Meyer declared Bankruptcy in 2019.
Other Business Activities
Ms. Meyer has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Ms. Meyer does not receive any additional compensation.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Ms. Meyer’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Mark R. Gierach, AIF®, MBA
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Mark R. Gierach that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Mark R. Gierach is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/3116480.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Mark R. Gierach, AIF®, MBA, born 1976
Education and Professional Designations
Mark R. Gierach graduated from Carroll University, Waukesha, WI with a BS in Business
Management in 1998.
Mr. Gierach graduated from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities with a Masters in Business
Administration (MBA) in Finance in 2006.
Mr. Gierach earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 2024. This is a designation
offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must meet a point-
based threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry experience and/or
professional development. Each candidate must complete an educational program and pass a
final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of continuing education are required per
year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as Investment Analyst and Portfolio Manager
since July 2022.
Bremer Bank as Senior Portfolio Manager from May2016 to May 2022.
Balanced Capital Management as Principal from August 2012 to May 2016.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Mr. Gierach has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Other than salary, annual bonuses, or regular bonuses, Mr. Gierach does not receive any
economic benefit from any person, company, or organization, in exchange for providing clients
advisory services through Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr. Gierach’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
John R. Stone
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about John R. Stone that supplements
the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have received a copy
of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact information listed above
if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure or if you have
questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about John R. Stone is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/3116480.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for John R. Stone, born 1964
Education and Professional Designations
John R. Stone graduated from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC with a BA in
Management and Society in 1987.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as a Senior Wealth Manager as of March 2024.
US Bank as a Private Wealth Advisor from September 2021 to February 2024.
Bremer Bank as a Private Wealth Advisor from August 2018 to September 2021.
Ameriprise Financial as a Senior Financial Advisor/Manager from December 2012 to
August 2018.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal or
disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Mr. Stone has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Mr. Stone does not receive any additional compensation.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr. Stone’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Bradford T. Aylin that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Bradford T. Aylin is available on the SEC’s website at
visiting
or
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/7476230.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®, born 1998
Educational Background and Professional Designations
Bradford Aylin graduated from the University of St. Thomas, Minneapolis, MN with a bachelor’s
degree in Finance with a minor in Data Analytics in 2020.
Mr. Aylin attained his CFP® (Certified Financial Planner®) designation in 2025. This is a
certification awarded by the Certified Financial Plan Board of Standards. To earn the CFP®
certification, candidates must: (1) have an associate degree (or higher) from an accredited
college or university; (2) have at least three years of full-time personal financial planning
experience, and (3) must complete a CFP® board registered program. To maintain the
designation, 30 hours of continuing education are required every two years including 2 hours
of code of ethics education.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as a Private Wealth Manager and Investment
Adviser Representative as of August 2025.
Secured Retirement Advisors, LLC as a Financial Advisor from January 2022 to April
2025.
Secured Retirement Advisors, LLC as an Investment Advisor Representative from
December 2021 to June 2025.
Secured Retirement Advisors, LLC as a Client Service Specialist from September 2020
to December 2021.
Item 3. Disciplinary Information
Mr. Aylin has no information applicable to this Item.
Item 4. Other Business Activities
Mr. Aylin has no other reportable business activity.
Item 5. Additional Compensation
Mr. Aylin does not receive any additional compensation.
Item 6. Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer, is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr. Aylin’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the contact information provided on the
cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Rachel K. Engel
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Rachel K. Engel that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Rachel K. Engel is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/7115308.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Rachel K. Engel, born 1990
Education and Professional Designations
Rachel K. Engel graduated from Carleton College in Northfield, MN with a bachelor’s degree
in Art History in 2012.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as Corporate Business Development and as an
Investment Adviser Representative as of October 2025.
Thrivent Distributors LLC as an Investment Consultant from May 2024 to October 2025.
Thrivent with Various Positions Held from May 2019 to October 2025.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal
or disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Ms. Engel has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Ms. Engel does not receive any additional compensation.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Ms. Engel’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
FACTS
Why?
WHAT DOES STILES FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL
INFORMATION?
Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit
some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal
information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.
What?
The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This
information can include:
●
●
Social Security number, tax identification number, and employee identification number
Account balances, income, and total net worth
How?
All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section
below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons we choose
to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.
Reasons we can share your personal information
Do we share?
Can you limit this sharing?
Yes
No
No
N/A
For our everyday business purposes—
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court
orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus
For our marketing purposes—
to offer our products and services to you
No
N/A
For joint marketing with other financial companies
No
N/A
No
N/A
For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes—
information about your transactions and experiences
For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes—
information about your creditworthiness
No
N/A
For our affiliates to market to you
No
N/A
For non-affiliates to market to you
Questions?
Call 952-988-0452
Who We Are
STILES FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
Who is providing this
notice?
What We Do
How do we protect your
personal information?
How do we collect your
personal information?
Why can’t you limit all
sharing?
Sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes—information about your creditworthiness
Affiliates from using your information to market to you
Sharing for non-affiliates to market to you
To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that
comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.
We collect your personal information, for example, when you
● Open an account or deposit money
●
Enter into an advisory contract
●
Tell us about your investment or retirement portfolio
Federal law gives you the right to limit only
●
●
●
State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.
Your choices will apply to everyone on your account—unless you tell us otherwise.
What happens when you
limit sharing for a jointly
owned account?
Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and non-financial companies.
Definitions
Affiliates
Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and non-financial companies.
Non-affiliates
Joint marketing
A formal agreement between non-affiliated financial companies that together market financial products or
services to you.
Page 1 of 1
Additional Brochure: SFSI ADV 2 PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT 03.2026 (2026-03-23)
View Document Text
Item 1 – Cover Page
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
March 23, 2026
Form ADV Wrap Brochure 2A and 2B for
Portfolio Investment Management
This Brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated (SFSI). If you have any questions about the
contents of this Brochure, please contact us at info@stilesfinancial.com or 952-988-
0452. 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 SFSI is also available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. To access this information, you can make an inquiry using our
name or our CRD number, which is 117023. Registration of an Investment Adviser does
not imply any level of skill or training.
1
Item 2 – Material Changes
The material changes in this brochure from the last annual updating amendment of March
19, 2025, for Stiles Financial Services (SFSI) are described below. Material changes relate to
Stiles Financial Services’ policies, practices, or conflicts of interests.
Item 4 – Services, Fees and Compensation. The firm has added Concierge Services.
ADV 2B – The firm has added Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®.
ADV 2B – The firm has added Rachel K. Engel.
SFSI will provide our clients with a new Brochure as necessary based on changes or new
information, at any time, without charge. Currently, our Brochures may be requested by
contacting us at 952-988-0452 or info@stilesfinancial.com.
2
Item 3 - Table of Contents
Item 1 – Cover Page .............................................................................................................................................. 1
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 ............................................................................ 9
Item 6 – Portfolio Manager Selection and Evaluation ............................................................................ 9
Item 7 – Client Information Provided to Portfolio Managers ........................................................... 12
Item 8 – Client Contact with Portfolio Managers ................................................................................... 12
Item 9 – Additional Information .................................................................................................................. 12
Item 10 - Marketing and Advertising ......................................................................................................... 12
Item 11 - Other Financial Industry Activities or Affiliations ............................................................. 13
Item 12 - Code of Ethics ................................................................................................................................... 13
Item 13 - Account Reviews ............................................................................................................................. 14
Item 14 - Account Statements and General Reports ............................................................................ 14
Item 15 - Custody ............................................................................................................................................... 14
Item 16 - Trade Errors ..................................................................................................................................... 15
Item 17 - Referrals ............................................................................................................................................. 15
Item 18 - Receipt of Economic Benefit ....................................................................................................... 15
Item 19 - Additional Financial Information ............................................................................................. 15
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Susan M. Stiles, CFP®, CHFC®, AIF®, CPFA®,
MBA, born 1959 .................................................................................................................................................. 17
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Paul E. Tichy, AIF®, MBA, born 1961.......... 20
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Kristine E. Meyer, CPFA®, AIF®, AAMS®,
born 1984 .............................................................................................................................................................. 22
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Mark R. Gierach, AIF®, MBA, born 1976 ... 25
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for John R. Stone, born 1964 ................................ 28
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®, born 1998............ 30
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Rachel K. Engel, born 1990 ............................ 32
3
Item 4 – Services, Fees and Compensation
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s (“SFSI” or “Firm”) wrap program is offered through
SFSI’s federally registered adviser under the Investment Advisors Act of 1940. SFSI,
established in 2000, is wholly owned and managed by Susan M. Stiles. As of December 31,
2025, SFSI has $510,464,040 in assets under management in our Portfolio Management
advisory service offered through SFSI’s wrap program. As of December 31, 2025, SFSI has
$37,407,603 of ERISA Section 3(38) assets under management through Corporate Retirement
Plan Consulting Services provided to defined contribution and defined benefit plans, both
qualified and non-qualified. As of December 31, 2025, SFSI has $864,581,029 of ERISA
Section 3(21) contracts in assets under advisement through Corporate Retirement Plan
Consulting Services provided to defined contribution and defined benefit plans, both
qualified and non-qualified.
Our Portfolio Management wrap program is described in greater detail in the narrative that
follows. Please reference our additional Brochures for specific information on our other
advisory offerings.
Description of Our Wrap Fee Program
Our wrap fee program (“Program”) provides clients with a platform to trade in a multitude
of investment products for a stated fee that is made up with a Portfolio Management Fee and
Program Fee, both with break point schedules and structured as a percentage of assets under
management. The fee is for portfolio management, design, structure and strategy as well as
financial planning consultation. Transaction costs, technology, investment research tools,
platform fees, and certain other administrative fees, which cover compliance-related
expenses, are offset by the Program Fee. There may be other de minimis fees deducted from
your account by the custodian and SEC for certain positions that may be held in your
portfolio. SFSI does not offer any other type of non-wrap non- discretionary agreement
relationship. Wrap fee programs are any arrangements in which the clients receive
investment advisory services (including portfolio management or advice on other
investments) as well as execution of client transactions through a Portfolio Management Fee
and a Program Fee. SFSI may contract with different custodians and will work with the client
to determine the best fit for them. The client is required to open a new securities brokerage
account and complete a new account agreement with the custodian as well as fill out client
suitability and risk profile forms for SFSI.
To receive the services of the wrap program, the client is required to enter into a written
agreement with SFSI which will contain the relevant terms and conditions of the advisory
relationship (the “Agreement”).
Once the SFSI wrap program relationship has been established, SFSI will work with the client
to understand their individual liquidity and cash flow needs, time horizon and risk tolerance,
investment objectives, as well as any other pertinent factors of their specific financial
situation. With this information, SFSI designs and creates investment portfolio strategies to
4
manage client investment assets and their financial affairs. SFSI manages client investment
portfolios on a discretionary basis according to the terms of the advisory agreement.
Discretion means that the client and SFSI have agreed that SFSI will select the identity and
amount of securities to be bought or sold in their accounts without first consulting with the
client. However, along with this authority, SFSI engages clients in continual, ongoing
conversations and regular reviews to confirm that clients remain comfortable with the
guidelines they have provided to manage their investment assets and understand
investment changes, and the reasons behind changes in their portfolio investments.
SFSI is not required to verify any information received from the client or from the client’s
other professionals (e.g., attorneys, accountants, etc.) to perform these services and is
expressly authorized to rely on such information provided by the client and their authorized
professionals. SFSI supervised employees, in their individual capacities as insurance agents,
may provide insurance product recommendations as part of the financial planning
process. The client is under no obligation to act upon any such recommendation. SFSI may
collect a commission on insurance products purchased by a client. Other insurance
products may be fee-based on a separate wrap fee schedule.
The client is also advised that it remains the client’s responsibility to promptly notify SFSI of
any change in the client’s financial situation or investment objectives for the purpose of
reviewing, evaluating, or revising SFSI’ previous recommendations and/or services.
Concierge Services
Certain clients may elect to receive Concierge Services, which are designed to assist with
tailored financial planning objectives. These services are generally available to existing
clients and households with at least $5,000,000 in assets under management (AUM).
Concierge Services can include, but are not limited to, coordinating with the client’s tax
accountant, tax attorney, estate planning and business attorneys, philanthropic
coordination, and planning for and coordinating various client-related goals, personal
financial management and special projects.
Concierge Services are optional and will be provided only upon agreement with the client
regarding the scope of services and fees.
Custodian for Wrap Program
SFSI utilizes Fidelity Brokerage Services (Fidelity) as its custodian and clearing broker-
dealer for wrap program accounts. Fidelity’s services as clearing broker-dealer are
reasonable and consistent with our fiduciary responsibilities to our advisory clients. SFSI
periodically conducts a review of Fidelity’s services to ensure continued consistency with
our policies and procedures and fiduciary duty. Additionally, SFSI periodically reviews the
services of other custodians and clearing broker-dealers for comparative evaluation
purposes.
5
Fees for Participation in the Wrap Program
Fees for Portfolio Management are typically charged as an annual asset-based management
fee and a separate Program Fee, which are billed quarterly (based on the account value at
the end of the quarter) and in advance. SFSI’s Program Fee is paid instead of brokerage
commissions, transaction fees and other related costs and expenses that would normally be
incurred by the client from the custodian. In addition, Program Fees offset other technology
costs including portfolio reporting, certain administrative fees, which cover compliance-
related expenses, and investment research tools incurred to manage our client portfolios.
Program Fees are asset based charged at a uniform rate of .10% to .08% of assets under
management and separate from the Portfolio Management Fee. This fee structure is
intentionally designed to address any potential conflicts of interest and to segregate the costs
associated with the overall management of the portfolio for the different services delivered.
This fee offsets the costs associated with the utilization of custodians and technology tools
where fees by these third parties would otherwise be charged to the client.
The asset-based fees for the SFSI wrap program range according to the size, nature and
complexity of the client relationship. In some situations, SFSI may accommodate clients in
creating a custom fee schedule. Once household AUM assets surpass a break point fee
threshold, all the assets will be charged based on the lower fee. Example: A household with
$750,000 AUM will have an annual fee of 0.95% applied to each account. Current
client relationships exist where fees are lower, but never higher, than the schedule
below. Final fees will be disclosed to clients within the client agreement:
Household Assets under Management
Annual Percent Fee
$0 - $500,000
1.15%
$500,001 - $1,000,000
0.95%
$1,000,001 - $2,000,000
0.85%
$2,000,001 - $5,000,000
0.75%
$5,000,001 - $10,000,000
0.65%
$10,000,000 and Over
0.55%
Description of Platform and Technology Fee
This fee is charged to offset some of the costs of the trading, technology and custodial
platform along with the technology, investment research tools, administrative fees, which
cover compliance-related expenses, and reporting suite of tools that SFSI uses and provides
to our clients.
6
SFSI charges a technology/platform fee based on the schedule below:
Household Assets under Management
Annual Percent Fee
Up to $3,000,000
0.10%
$3,000,001 and Over
0.08%
The platform technology fee is charged quarterly and once the household AUM assets
surpass the $3,000,001 threshold, then all the assets in the household will be charged at the
lower fee rate.
Prior to engaging us to provide Portfolio Management services, you are required to enter
into a formal investment advisory agreement with us setting forth the wrap program fees to
be charged to your account and other terms and conditions. Typically, SFSI charges all new
relationships quarterly and in advance, based on the value of your account on the last day of
the previous quarter. If the portfolio management agreement is executed at any time other
than the first day of the calendar quarter, the appropriate prorated fees based on the date
SFSI began managing assets will be charged quarterly and in arrears. The prorated fee for
both investment management and program fee will be charged to accounts the following
quarter in addition to the quarterly fee in advance. If an advisory contract is terminated,
fees will be reimbursed in proportion to the number of days in the quarter for which you are
not a client.
Description of the Concierge Services Fee
Concierge Services are available at a rate of up to .15% of assets under management and
are separate from the Portfolio Management Fee.
Fee Comparison and Other Charges
As referenced above, portions of the fees paid to SFSI are used to cover advisory services as
well as custodial costs. Services provided through the Program may cost clients more or less
than purchasing these services separately. Program fees may be higher or lower than other
comparable programs. Wrap fee programs typically assume a certain amount of trading
activity in the client’s account, for example re-balancing the portfolio for the client’s
individual development plan. Therefore, prolonged periods of holding cash positions, limited
trading activity and inactivity may result in higher fees than if the account paid fees or
commissions for each transaction separately.
A one-time initial personal portfolio development fee may be charged for complex portfolios
that could range up to $2,500.00. The fee is assessed on variables such as number of accounts,
size of total household AUM, and level of special client-based guidelines or restrictions on
investment positions for example, types of companies, sectors, or regions. Portfolios that
7
generally may require more research beyond what our firm typically provides will be
assessed a higher, one-time initial model development fee.
The amount you pay for our wrap program and platform technology fees will depend, for
example, on the services you receive and the amount of assets in your household. The more
assets you have in the advisory accounts, the more you will pay us but will decline as a
percentage of assets as your assets increase. The amount paid to SFSI does not vary based on
the type of investment we select on your behalf. The wrap program fee is paid instead of
brokerage commissions, transaction fees and other related costs and expenses that would
normally be incurred by the client from the custodian, as well as the reporting and research
technology. The platform technology fee offsets some of the costs of the trading and other
technology SFSI deploys to service client accounts. Both fees reduce the value of your account
and will be deducted from your account. Neither one of these fees pays for any taxes that you
may incur from your portfolio. Although transaction fees are usually included in the wrap
program fee, sometimes you will pay an additional transaction fee for investments bought
and sold outside our preferred custodian. Examples of other fees not included in the wrap
program are SEC Section 31 fees, ADR fees, and fees to wire money. Some investments may
also impose additional fees that will reduce the value of your investment over time, such as
mutual funds and ETFs (exchange traded funds) and any other fees required by law. As part
of our investment advisory services to you, we may invest in or you may transfer in mutual
funds, exchange traded funds, or alternative investments. The fees that you pay to our firm
for investment advisory services are separate and distinct from the fees and expenses
charged by mutual funds, exchange traded funds or alternative investments, venture capital
funds or private placements which are described in each fund's prospectus or disclosure.
These fees can include a management fee and other fund expenses in the form of an expense
ratio.
SFSI also offers investment discretionary services on direct packaged products such as
mutual funds, including 529 accounts and variable insurance products. A flat annual fee of
0.50% of the assets under management will be charged quarterly in arrears. For variable
insurance products a flat annual fee of 0.75% of the assets under management will be
charged quarterly in arrears.
Fee Discretion
SFSI, in its sole discretion, has the authority to negotiate a lesser fee amount based upon
certain criteria (e.g., historical relationships, related accounts, etc.). Other fee arrangements
may exist for legacy clients which are no longer offered.
Fee Debit
A client’s written agreement with SFSI establishes the specific way fees are charged. Clients
authorize SFSI to directly debit fees from one or more of their investment accounts.
8
Management fees are not prorated for each capital contribution and withdrawal made
during the applicable calendar quarter.
Item 5 – Account Requirements and Types of Clients
SFSI offers its wrap program to individuals, families, trusts, estates, charitable organizations,
foundations and corporations.
Item 6 – Portfolio Manager Selection and Evaluation
Investment Portfolio Management
SFSI consults with clients to develop an appropriate investment strategy that includes the
client’s investment objectives, investment selection, an appropriate asset allocation strategy,
and provides proper education on the risk/return characteristics of available
investments. Investment strategies center on long-term investing that will generally follow
a buy and hold strategy, updated periodically to reflect changes in the client’s or participant’s
financial objectives and/or risk tolerance. Clients are responsible to promptly notify SFSI if
there are changes in their financial situation that would change the manner of how we
manage their portfolio, which would include placing any limitations on the overall portfolio
management or individual holdings. Clients are entitled to place reasonable restrictions or
mandates on the management of their accounts if SFSI determines, in its sole discretion, these
restrictions would not materially impact the management strategy or performance or prove
overly burdensome to SFSI’s management efforts.
SFSI provides ongoing investment supervision, rebalancing your portfolio as needed and/or
when there is a substantive deposit or withdrawal. We will initiate communication with you, at
a minimum, annually to review and discuss any changes to your investment objectives,
changes in market conditions and overall performance of your portfolios. You will receive
ongoing and continuing information from SFSI on the economy, capital markets and other
financial educational and planning topics pertinent to SFSI oversight of their client assets.
You will also have the ability to meet with a SFSI representative at any time, upon request.
Investment Selection and Analysis
SFSI recommends investments based upon sector, market capitalization, market style,
domestic vs. international, allocation, proper balance with equity and fixed income for
alignment with the investment policy directive created with the client. SFSI uses a variety of
research tools and other relevant information available in the marketplace in determining
its in-house investment advice or recommendations. SFSI uses these research tools to invest
in individual securities on our contracted custodial platforms for client accounts and will not
unless expressly discussed with clients, transact on platforms outside of contracted
platforms with SFSI.
9
Performance Based Fees and Side by Side Management
SFSI does not charge performance based or side by side management fees.
Investment Strategies
At SFSI, we manage the inherent risk in the financial markets through asset allocation and
portfolio diversification. Our approach incorporates traditional asset classes, such as
domestic and international equities including equities with companies that pay dividends
and/or don’t pay dividends and both common and preferred stock of companies with varied
market capitalization (small, medium and large). We also include corporate, government,
agency, municipal, international and domestic bonds, as well as structured notes.
Additionally, we may invest in closed end and exchange traded funds and alternative
investments that may include private equity and venture capital. SFSI takes a diversified
approach to portfolio management, and each client has an investment strategy tailored to
their individual financial objectives and risk tolerance.
We recommend all types of securities, and do not recommend one particular type of security
over another, as each client has various needs and tolerance for risk. Each type of security
has its own unique set of risks associated with it. Risks can vary widely, even within the same
type of investment. However, generally speaking, the greater the anticipated return of an
investment, the higher the risk of loss associated with that investment.
Risk of Loss
There is no assurance that an investment will provide positive performance over any period
of time. Past performance, while important, is no guarantee of future results and different
periods and market conditions may result in significantly different outcomes. Specific types
of risk each client should understand, as they may be applicable to unique investment assets
in a portfolio, include:
Market Risk: The price of a security may drop in reaction to tangible and intangible
events and conditions. This type of risk is caused by external factors independent of
a security’s particular underlying circumstances. For example, political, economic,
and social conditions may trigger market events.
Inflation Risk: When any type of inflation is present, a dollar today will not buy
as much as a dollar next year, because purchasing power is eroding at the rate of
inflation.
Currency Risk: Overseas investments are subject to fluctuations in the value of the
dollar against the currency of the investment’s originating country. This is also
referred to as exchange rate risk.
Reinvestment Risk: This is the risk that future proceeds from investments may have
to be reinvested at a potentially lower rate of return (i.e. interest rate). This primarily
relates to fixed income securities.
10
Asset Allocation Risk: Asset allocation may have a more significant effect on account
value when one of the heavily weighted asset classes is performing more poorly than
the others. Diversification and strategic asset allocation do not assure profit or
protect against loss in declining markets.
Concentrated Portfolio Risk: To the extent a portfolio has a large portion in a
single security or several securities it bears more risk because it is not diversified.
Changes in the value of significantly over-weighted security positions may have a
much more substantial directional effect, either negative or positive, on the
portfolio’s performance. Mutual funds or exchange-traded funds can spread some of
the risk out, depending on their investment objective.
Emerging Foreign Market Risk: Investment in the securities of foreign issuers
may experience more rapid and extreme changes in value than funds with
investments solely in securities of U.S. companies. The securities markets of many
foreign countries are relatively small, with a limited number of companies representing
a small number of industries. Additionally, foreign securities issuers may not be
subject to the same degree of regulation as U.S. issuers. Reporting, accounting, and
auditing standards of foreign countries differ, in some cases significantly, from U.S.
standards. Also, nationalization, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, currency
blockage, political change or diplomatic developments could adversely affect
investments in a foreign country.
Fixed Income Risks, Including: interest rate risk, which is the chance that bond
prices overall will decline because of rising interest rates; income risk, which is the
chance that a strategy’s income will decline because of falling interest rates; credit risk,
which is the chance that a bond issuer will fail to pay interest and principal in a timely
manner, or that negative perceptions of the issuer’s ability to make such payments
will cause the price of the bond to decline; and call risk, which is the chance that
during periods of falling interest rates, issuers of callable bonds may call (repay)
securities with higher coupons or interest rates before their maturity dates. The
investment would then lose any price appreciation above the bond’s call price and
would be forced to reinvest the unanticipated proceeds at lower interest rates,
resulting in a decline in the investment’s income.
Structured Note Risk: In the event that a structured product issuer becomes
insolvent and defaults on their listed securities, investors will be considered as
unsecured creditors and will have no preferential claims to any assets held by the
issuer. Investors should pay close attention to the financial strength and credit
worthiness of structured product issuers. Products such as derivative warrants and
callable bull/bear contracts are leveraged and can change in value rapidly and may fall
to zero resulting in a total loss of the initial investments. Structured securities are
generally less liquid than conventional agency or corporate debt securities. As such,
it may be relatively difficult to liquidate a structured security holding in a timely
manner in conjunction with withdrawal requests, margin calls or other market
developments or factors. Additionally, the illiquid nature of these assets may make
them harder to value.
11
Alternative Investment, Private Equity and Venture Capital Risk: Early stage
investing can deliver higher than average returns, also has a risk of potential complete
loss. This is considered a long-term type of investment. Investors need to be
accredited or qualified depending on the specific investment. These types of
investments are not liquid and investors need to be carefully qualified and vetted.
Voting of Client Securities
If you own shares of applicable securities, you are responsible for exercising your right to
vote as a shareholder. We will not vote proxies on behalf of your advisory accounts. In most
cases, you will receive proxy materials directly from the account custodian. SFSI will provide
guidance and assistance in understanding proxy materials, upon request.
Class Action Lawsuits
We do not determine if securities held by you are the subject of a class action lawsuit, or if
you are eligible to participate in class action settlements or litigation. We also do not initiate
or participate in litigation to recover damages on your behalf. However, we will assist you
in gathering data to participate in class action lawsuits, at your request.
Item 7 – Client Information Provided to Portfolio Managers
SFSI does not engage third-party portfolio managers.
Item 8 – Client Contact with Portfolio Managers
SFSI does not engage third-party portfolio managers.
Item 9 – Additional Information
Disciplinary Information
Registered Investment Advisors are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal
or disciplinary events that would be material to the evaluation of SFSI or the integrity of SFSI’s
management. SFSI has no legal or disciplinary events to report.
Item 10 - Marketing and Advertising
SFSI may, via written arrangement, retain third parties to act as promoters for SFSI’s
investment management services. All compensation with respect to the foregoing will be
fully disclosed to each client to the extent required by applicable law. SFSI will ensure each
promoter is properly registered in all appropriate jurisdictions, if required. All such referral
activities will be conducted in accordance with Rule 206(4)-1 under the Advisers Act, where
applicable.
12
Item 11 - Other Financial Industry Activities or Affiliations
SFSI employees that hold a current in force insurance license may sell insurance products to
clients to execute recommendations that may have been uncovered during a financial plan
engagement. Some of the products may pay a commission that will be disclosed and paid to
SFSI. If an insurance product carrier offers a fee-based product alternative, SFSI will
generally recommend such a product that will fall under the umbrella of the wrap fee
program. Clients are under no obligation to purchase insurance products through SFSI.
Insurance products do not fall under the asset-based management fee or the program fee.
SFSI does not receive free marketing services from insurance companies in exchange for
marketing the insurance company’s products. SFSI is also aware of the conflicts of interest
in recommending “switches” from one insurance product to another to earn additional
commissions. Insurance products are typically recommended to clients on a limited basis
and a “switch” from one insurance product to another will only be recommended if it is truly
in the client’s best interest. If insurance commissions are paid on the product purchased by
our clients, the insurance product is not included in the advisory or program fee calculations.
This means we are only paid insurance commissions or advisory and program fees on the
same product – not both. Commissionable insurance products are typically term, universal
or whole life policies. Long-term care insurance and disability policies may also be
recommended.
Item 12 - Code of Ethics
SFSI has adopted a Code of Ethics for all employees describing its high standard of business
conduct, and our fiduciary duty to clients. SFSI acknowledges that fiduciary duty is our
responsibility according to both the Advisers Act, as well as the more recent DOL Fiduciary
Rule. 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 individuals at SFSI must acknowledge the terms of the Code of Ethics annually, or
as amended.
SFSI anticipates that accounts SFSI has advisement authority over, may hold positions
purchased by SFSI or recommended by SFSI in which SFSI clients or employees, directly or
indirectly, have a position of interest. SFSI employees are required to follow SFSI’s Code of
Ethics. Subject to satisfying this policy and applicable laws, employees of SFSI may trade for
their own accounts in securities which are recommended to SFSI clients. The Code of Ethics
is designed to assure that the personal securities transactions, activities and interests of
advisory employees will not interfere with (i) making decisions in the best interest of
advisory clients and (ii) implementing such decisions while, at the same time, allowing
employees to invest for their own accounts. Under the Code certain classes of securities have
been designated as exempt transactions, based upon a determination that these would
13
materially not interfere with the best interests of clients. Nonetheless, because the Code of
Ethics in some circumstances would permit employees to invest in the same securities as
clients, there is a possibility that employees might benefit from market activity by a Plan or
client in a security held by an employee. Employee trading is monitored to reasonably
prevent conflicts of interest between SFSI and its clients.
Clients or prospective clients may request a copy of the firm's Code of Ethics by contacting
us at 952-988-0452 or info@stilesfinancial.com.
Item 13 - Account Reviews
SFSI provides ongoing investment supervision, rebalancing your portfolio as needed and/or
when there is a substantive deposit or withdrawal. We communicate with you, at a minimum,
annually to review and discuss any changes to your investment objectives, changes in market
conditions and overall performance of your portfolios. The process includes an investment-
by-investment review for performance, appropriate allocation, alignment with objectives
and risk tolerance, and total portfolio value. Factors within the quarter that may trigger
additional review include unusual market activity or a change in the client’s investment
objective or financial status.
Item 14 - Account Statements and General Reports
All clients of SFSI receive statements from their custodian at least quarterly. Clients can
also access account information through the custodian’s secure website.
Item 15 - Custody
Custody is defined as an investment advisory firm having access to client funds or securities.
SFSI and its affiliates require that outside custodians hold all client assets.
SFSI prohibits its supervised persons from acting as trustee for any client account.
SFSI may deduct fees from client accounts for using SFSI’s portfolio management services.
This deduction for SFSI fees is granted with a Withdrawal Power of Attorney, wherein the
client provides written authority to the custodian to accept and act upon the instructions of
SFSI to deduct fees each quarter. Clients are advised to review their fees as reported on their
custodial statements and to respond immediately to SFSI with any questions. All clients of
SFSI receive statements at least quarterly from your custodian, the qualified custodian that
holds and maintains the client’s investment assets.
SFSI is deemed to have custody of funds for certain accounts where clients have established
a standing letter of authorization (SLOA) that allows Fidelity to disburse funds upon your
direction to one or more third-party designees. We follow the seven conditions outlined by
the SEC in their No-Action Letter on Custody dated 2/21/2017, which allows us to avoid an
14
annual surprise custody examination.
Item 16 - Trade Errors
Should a trading error occur in any client accounts, our policy is to restore the effected
account to the position it should have been in had the trading error not occurred. Depending
on the specific circumstance, our corrective actions may include canceling the trade,
reimbursing the account, and/or adjusting the overall allocation. If a profit results from
correcting the trade, you are not entitled to the profit as a net gain. If a loss results you will
not incur the loss.
Item 17 - Referrals
SFSI does not participate in any referral arrangements.
Item 18 - Receipt of Economic Benefit
SFSI receives marketing assistance from some vendors. This creates a conflict because
occasionally vendors will contribute financially to offset certain costs associated with some
marketing activities. This conflict is mitigated because SFSI will always place the interests of
clients ahead of its own or any IAR’s interests.
The custodians that we are contracted with offer some services that do not directly benefit
you as the client and in some cases benefit only SFSI. Some examples of this are educational
opportunities such as a conference where costs are discounted. Custodians may provide some
legal and compliance consultation, marketing consulting and support, and referrals on
practice management and business succession that may result in a fee SFSI may incur
internally.
Item 19 - Additional Financial Information
Registered investment advisory firms are required to provide certain financial information
or disclosures about SFSI’s financial condition. SFSI has no financial commitment that impairs
its ability to meet contractual and fiduciary commitments to clients and has not been the
subject of a bankruptcy proceeding. SFSI carries no debt.
15
March 23, 2026
Susan M. Stiles, CFP®, CHFC®, AIF®, CPFA®, MBA
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Susan M. Stiles that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Susan M. Stiles is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/2278334.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Susan M. Stiles, CFP®, CHFC®, AIF®,
CPFA®, MBA, born 1959
Education and Professional Designations
Susan M. Stiles graduated from Cornell University, Johnson School of Management with an
MBA in Finance and Accounting in 1991 and from Cornell University, School of Hotel
Administration with a BS in 1981.
Ms. Stiles attained her CFP® (Certified Financial Planner®) designation in 1997. This is a
certification awarded by the Certified Financial Plan Board of Standards. To earn the CFP®
certification, candidates must: (1) have an associate degree (or higher) from an accredited
college or university; (2) have at least three years of full-time personal financial planning
experience, and (3) must complete a CFP® board registered program. To maintain the
designation, 30 hours of continuing education are required every two years including 2
hours of code of ethics education.
Ms. Stiles attained her Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designation in July 2007.
This designation is awarded by The American College and requires three years of full-time
business experience within the preceding five years and the completion of nine courses (that
are the equivalent of 27 semester credit hours) with a final closed-book exam for each course.
30 hours of continuing education are required every two years.
Ms. Stiles earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 2006. This is a designation
offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must meet a point-
based threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry experience and/or
professional development. Each candidate must complete an educational program and pass
a final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of continuing education are required per
year.
Ms. Stiles earned the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA®) designation in 2017. This is a
designation that is issued by the National Association of Plan Advisors. There are no
prerequisites, but candidates must successfully complete a final proctored certification
exam. There are 10 credits of continuing education required each year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as President since 2000.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal
or disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Ms. Stiles is a licensed insurance agent with SFSI.
Additional Compensation
Susan M. Stiles is a licensed insurance agent. From time to time, she will offer clients advice
or products from those activities. Clients should be aware that these services may pay a
commission and involve a conflict of interest, as commissionable products conflict with the
fiduciary duties of a registered investment adviser. Stiles Financial Services, Inc. always acts
in the best interest of the client, including the sale of commissionable products to advisory
clients. There are circumstances where insurance products do not pay a commission but are
under a fee-based wrap arrangement. Clients always have the right to decide whether or not
to utilize the services of any representative of Stiles Financial Services, Inc. in such an
individual’s outside capacities.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer, is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions at the mailing
address, email address or contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Paul E. Tichy, AIF®, MBA
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Paul E. Tichy that supplements
the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have received a copy
of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact information listed above
if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure or if you have
questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Paul E. Tichy is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/1448730.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Paul E. Tichy, AIF®, MBA, born 1961
Education and Professional Designations
Paul E. Tichy graduated from DePaul University with an MBA in 1992 and from
Northwestern University with a BA in 1984.
Mr. Tichy earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 11/2017. This is a
designation offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must
meet a point-based threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry
experience and/or professional development. Each candidate must complete an educational
program and pass a final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of continuing
education are required per year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as Investment Analyst and Portfolio Manager
since May 2016.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal
or disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Mr. Tichy is not engaged in any investment-related business or occupation (other than this
advisory firm).
Additional Compensation
Other than salary, annual bonuses, or regular bonuses, Mr. Tichy does not receive any
economic benefit from any person, company, or organization, in exchange for providing
clients advisory services through Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer, is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr. Tichy’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Kristine E. Meyer, CPFA®, AIF®, AAMS®
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Kristine E. Meyer that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
or
by
Additional information about Kristine E. Meyer is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/7176179.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Kristine E. Meyer, CPFA®, AIF®, AAMS®,
born 1984
Education and Professional Designations
Kristine E. Meyer graduated from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities with a BA in
English in 2006.
Ms. Meyer attained her Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS®) designation in
2011. This designation is awarded by the College for Financial Planning and requires a series
of 10 self-study modules, followed by a closed book proctored exam. There are 16
hours of continuing education required every two years to maintain the designation.
Ms. Meyer earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 08/2020 This is a
designation offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must
meet a point-based threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry
experience and/or professional development. Each candidate must complete an educational
program and pass a final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of continuing
education are required per year.
Ms. Meyer earned the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA®) designation in 10/2021. This
is a designation that is issued by the National Association of Plan Advisors. There are no
prerequisites, but candidates must successfully complete a final proctored certification
exam. There are 10 credits of continuing education required each year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated a Retirement Plan Specialist since September
2019.
Cornerstone Private Asset Trust Company as a Retirement Plan Specialist from June
2009 to September 2019.
Cornerstone Private Asset Trust Company as a Trust Operations Supervisor from
June 2009 to September 2019.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal
or disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. Ms. Meyer declared Bankruptcy in 2019.
Other Business Activities
Ms. Meyer has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Ms. Meyer does not receive any additional compensation.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Ms. Meyer’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Mark R. Gierach, AIF®, MBA
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Mark R. Gierach that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Mark R. Gierach is available on the SEC’s website at
visiting
or
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/3116480.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Mark R. Gierach, AIF®, MBA, born 1976
Education and Professional Designations
Mark R. Gierach graduated from Carroll University, Waukesha, WI with a BS in Business
Management in 1998.
Mr. Gierach graduated from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities with a Masters in
Business Administration (MBA) in Finance in 2006.
Mr. Gierach earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) in 2024. This is a
designation offered and recognized by the Center for Fiduciary Studies. Candidates must
meet a point-based threshold based on a combination of education, relevant industry
experience and/or professional development. Each candidate must complete an
educational program and pass a final exam. To maintain this designation, six hours of
continuing education are required per year.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as Investment Analyst and Portfolio Manager
since July 2022.
Bremer Bank as Senior Portfolio Manager from May2016 to May 2022.
Balanced Capital Management as Principal from August 2012 to May 2016.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal
or disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Mr. Gierach has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Other than salary, annual bonuses, or regular bonuses, Mr. Gierach does not receive any
economic benefit from any person, company, or organization, in exchange for providing
clients advisory services through Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr.
Gierach’s activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email
address or contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
John R. Stone
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about John R. Stone that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about John R. Stone is available on the SEC’s website at
visiting
or
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/3116480.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for John R. Stone, born 1964
Education and Professional Designations
John R. Stone graduated from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC with
a BA in Management and Society in 1987.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as a Senior Wealth Manager as of March 2024.
US Bank as a Private Wealth Advisor from September 2021 to February 2024.
Bremer Bank as a Private Wealth Advisor from August 2018 to September 2021.
Ameriprise Financial as a Senior Financial Advisor / Manager from December 2012
to August 2018.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal
or disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Mr. Stone has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Mr. Stone does not receive any additional compensation.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr. Stone’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Bradford T. Aylin that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Bradford T. Aylin is available on the SEC’s website at
visiting
or
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/7476230.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Bradford T. Aylin, CFP®, born 1998
Educational Background and Professional Designations
Bradford Aylin graduated from the University of St. Thomas, Minneapolis, MN with a
bachelor’s degree in Finance with a minor in Data Analytics in 2020.
Mr. Aylin attained his CFP® (Certified Financial Planner®) designation in 2025. This is a
certification awarded by the Certified Financial Plan Board of Standards. To earn the CFP®
certification, candidates must: (1) have an associate degree (or higher) from an accredited
college or university; (2) have at least three years of full-time personal financial planning
experience, and (3) must complete a CFP® board registered program. To maintain the
designation, 30 hours of continuing education are required every two years including 2
hours of code of ethics education.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as a Private Wealth Manager and Investment
Adviser Representative as of August 2025.
Secured Retirement Advisors, LLC as a Financial Advisor from January 2022 to April
2025.
Secured Retirement Advisors, LLC as an Investment Advisor Representative from
December 2021 to June 2025.
Secured Retirement Advisors, LLC as a Client Service Specialist from September 2020
to December 2021.
Item 3. Disciplinary Information
Mr. Aylin has no information applicable to this Item.
Item 4. Other Business Activities
Mr. Aylin has no other reportable business activity.
Item 5. Additional Compensation
Mr. Aylin does not receive any additional compensation.
Item 6. Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer, is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Mr. Aylin’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the contact information provided on
the cover of this Brochure.
March 23, 2026
Rachel K. Engel
Biography Supplement, Form ADV Part 2B
7505 Metro Blvd, Suite 510
Edina, MN 55439
(952) 988-0452
This brochure supplement provides information about Rachel K. Engel that
supplements the Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s brochure. You should have
received a copy of that brochure. Please contact Susan M. Stiles at the contact
information listed above if you did not receive Stiles Financial Services Incorporated’s
brochure or if you have questions about the contents of this supplement.
by
Additional information about Rachel K. Engel is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov
visiting
or
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/individual/summary/7115308.
Biography Supplement – Form ADV Part 2B for Rachel K. Engel, born 1990
Education and Professional Designations
Rachel K. Engel graduated from Carleton College in Northfield, MN with a bachelor’s
degree in Art History in 2012.
Business Experience
Stiles Financial Services Incorporated as Corporate Business Development and as an
Investment Adviser Representative as of October 2025.
Thrivent Distributors LLC as an Investment Consultant from May 2024 to October
2025.
Thrivent with Various Positions Held from May 2019 to October 2025.
Disciplinary Information
Registered investment advisers are required to disclose all material facts regarding any legal
or disciplinary events that would be material to your evaluation of each supervised person
providing investment advice. No information is applicable to this Item.
Other Business Activities
Ms. Engel has no other reportable business activity.
Additional Compensation
Ms. Engel does not receive any additional compensation.
Supervision
Ms. Stiles, as President and Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for the activities and
operation of the Firm. She should be contacted directly with any questions about Ms. Engel’s
activities for Stiles Financial Services Incorporated at the mailing address, email address or
contact information provided on the cover of this Brochure.
FACTS
Why?
WHAT DOES STILES FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL
INFORMATION?
Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit
some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal
information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.
What?
The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This
information can include:
●
●
Social Security number, tax identification number, and employee identification number
Account balances, income, and total net worth
How?
All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section
below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons we choose
to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.
Reasons we can share your personal information
Do we share?
Can you limit this sharing?
Yes
No
No
N/A
For our everyday business purposes—
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court
orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus
For our marketing purposes—
to offer our products and services to you
No
N/A
For joint marketing with other financial companies
No
N/A
No
N/A
For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes—
information about your transactions and experiences
For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes—
information about your creditworthiness
No
N/A
For our affiliates to market to you
No
N/A
For non-affiliates to market to you
Questions?
Call 952-988-0452
Who We Are
STILES FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
Who is providing this
notice?
What We Do
How do we protect your
personal information?
How do we collect your
personal information?
Why can’t you limit all
sharing?
Sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes—information about your creditworthiness
Affiliates from using your information to market to you
Sharing for non-affiliates to market to you
To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that
comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.
We collect your personal information, for example, when you
● Open an account or deposit money
●
Enter into an advisory contract
●
Tell us about your investment or retirement portfolio
Federal law gives you the right to limit only
●
●
●
State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.
Your choices will apply to everyone on your account—unless you tell us otherwise.
What happens when you
limit sharing for a jointly
owned account?
Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and non-financial companies.
Definitions
Affiliates
Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and non-financial companies.
Non-affiliates
Joint marketing
A formal agreement between non-affiliated financial companies that together market financial products or
services to you.
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