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November 28, 2025
Form ADV Part 2A: Firm Brochure
CONTACT INFORMATION
Verity Asset Management, Inc.
Address:
280 S Mangum St Ste 550
Durham, NC 27701-3683
Phone:
Email:
Web:
919.490.6717 ext.109
compliance@verityinvest.com
https://verityinvest.com/
This brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Verity Asset
Management, Inc. If you have any questions about the contents of this brochure, please contact us at
919-490-6717 (Ext. 109) or compliance@verityinvest.com. 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. Registration with the SEC as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of
skill or training.
Additional information about Verity Asset Management, Inc. also is available on the SEC’s website at
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/. You can search this site by a unique identifying number, known as a CRD
number. Our Firm's CRD number is 158667.
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Item 2 Material Changes
Workplace Retirement Plan Model Portfolios – Consulting Agreement
For certain of our Workplace models, used primarily in Retirement Plan accounts (including some versions of the
Conservative, Balanced Growth, Dynamic Growth, and Focused Growth strategies used in retirement plans as well as on
other custody platforms), we have entered into an investment consulting agreement with Meeder Investment
Management to provide investment research, mutual fund analytics, and related consulting services to further support our
overall investment management process. We continue to maintain full control of the discretionary management process
for the strategies; we will continue to make all asset allocation decisions and direct the implementation of all account
allocation changes in a manner consistent with our investment philosophy and our objective of meeting your stated
personal investment objectives.
There will be no change to your investment advisory or investment management fees as a result of this relationship.
Selected Meeder Funds will typically comprise a targeted 20-30% of the overall portfolio construction in a manner
intended to complement the other holdings. The Meeder Funds we will select are managed funds, so the underlying
expense ratio will be higher in those cases where they replace index funds in the portfolio. Since we are receiving
investment consulting services from Meeder without directly compensating them, a conflict of interest exists. We are
taking steps to mitigate this conflict by ensuring that the experience and expertise provided by Meeder contribute valuable
research and analysis for the management of our portfolios. This relationship was established based on its potential to
add significant value, and we reserve the right to discontinue it at any time if it no longer aligns with our objectives.
Domestic Equity Opportunity and Concentrated Rotation Model Portfolios – Fee Change
Effective October 1, a model-specific management fee of 0.10% (1/10 of one percent) has been added to these models to
cover a small increase in investment management expenses. See Item 5 for additional information.
Parent Company Acquisition
Effective July 1, 2025, Verity Asset Management’s parent company, Verity Financial Group, was acquired by Simplicity
Financial Marketing Holdings, Inc., resulting in a formal change of control of Verity Asset Management (“Verity”). As
previously communicated to those of you who were clients at the time of the transaction, the parties do not expect any
changes to Verity’s operations or management, and we intend to continue providing you with services under your investment
advisor agreements as we have in the past, with no impact on the investment advisory services that you currently receive
from your advisor apart from new options that may become available with the anticipated expansion of the business.
Verity U.S. Treasury Fund
Verity Asset Management (“Verity”) is your fiduciary within the meaning of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as
amended, the Internal Revenue Code, and/or the Employee’s Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. As such, we owe a
fiduciary duty to each of our clients. This duty is principles-based and applies to the entire relationship between Verity and
its clients. We have developed impartial conduct standards as formal obligations to serve each client’s best interests, to
charge only reasonable compensation, to avoid any misleading statements, and to disclose and manage potential
conflicts of interest.
On December 1, 2023, Verity launched the Verity U.S. Treasury Fund (the “Fund”), a no-load open-end mutual fund. The
Fund is a series of the Series Portfolio Trust.
In some Investment Advisory accounts, we allocate the assets in each account by selecting a portfolio of mutual funds to
meet the overall account objectives. If we select the Verity U.S. Treasury Fund as one of those allocations, we have a
conflict of interest, because we have the opportunity to profit from investment advisory fees charged by the Fund.
When we select the Fund in your portfolio, we will do so through the discretionary trading authority you granted to us in
the execution of your Investment Advisory Agreement. Your discretionary authority allows us, without prior discussion,
consultation, or consent from you, to buy the Fund in your account(s).
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When we select the Verity U.S. Treasury Fund as one of the funds an account, we are handling two separate functions: (1)
providing ongoing investment advisory services to the client that include allocating the account to meet the client’s
investment objectives and (2) conducting the research, trading, and various other activities involved in managing the
mutual fund. Typically, these functions are performed by different individuals within the Firm. We are compensated
separately for each of these functions.
When we select the Fund, it is our objective to add value to the portfolio. Given the background and experience of the
Portfolio Manager of the Fund, we believe there is a potential benefit to clients if we are able to determine the portfolio
management decisions for the Fund in a manner consistent with our investment philosophies and the specific way in
which we are seeking to use Treasury securities within client portfolios. There is, however, no guarantee that we will
succeed in adding value or that performance may not be greater using a different fund or funds.
Item 3 Table of Contents
Page
Item 1 Cover Page
Item 2 Material Changes
Item 3 Table of Contents
Item 4 Advisory Business
Item 5 Fees and Compensation
Item 6 Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management
Item 7 Types of Clients
Item 8 Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
Item 9 Disciplinary Information
Item 10 Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
Item 11 Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal Trading
Item 12 Brokerage Practices
Item 13 Review of Accounts
Item 14 Client Referrals and Other Compensation
Item 15 Custody
Item 16 Investment Discretion
Item 17 Voting Client Securities
Item 18 Financial Information
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Brochure Supplement – Portfolio Managers
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Item 4 Advisory Business
Verity Asset Management, Inc. is a SEC-registered investment adviser. Our principal place of business is located in the
American Tobacco Historic District in Durham, North Carolina. Our Firm was formed as an independent broker-dealer in
1996 under the name, Verity Investments, Inc.; we began conducting business as a registered investment adviser in 2005.
In June 2011, the broker-dealer business was moved to a separate corporate entity, and we changed our name to Verity
Asset Management, Inc.
Verity Financial Group, Inc., our Firm's parent corporation, owns 100% of the stock of Verity Asset Management, Inc. Item
10 has additional information about the ownership of Verity Financial Group and our industry affiliations.
Verity Asset Management, Inc. offers the following advisory services to our clients:
DISCRETIONARY ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT
AMOUNT OF MANAGED ASSETS - As of 12/31/2024, we were actively managing $1,041,329,944 of clients' assets on a
discretionary basis. We do not directly manage any accounts on a non-discretionary basis.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES:
MODEL PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Our Firm provides discretionary portfolio management services to clients primarily but not exclusively through model
portfolios. Models may be managed by us or by outside third-party managers which we have selected. Some of the
models are based on a broad tactical asset allocation approach to investment management. Certain more specialized
models use other methodologies, which will be described below. Each model is designed to meet a specific investment
objective.
Tactical Asset Allocation Models
Asset allocation is an investment strategy that seeks to balance risk and reward by diversifying a portfolio across multiple
asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and cash. Tactical asset allocation is an active version of the strategy that seeks to
improve the risk-adjusted returns by modifying the allocation mix to take advantage of market pricing anomalies and/or
market trends. Anomalies could include overpriced or underpriced markets, market sectors, or individual securities.
To enhance the number of potential opportunities and to increase our portfolio diversification options, we may select
securities from a very broad range of asset classes, market sectors, and countries. Models may be invested at various
times with targeted exposure to U.S. and foreign equity and debt securities, emerging markets equity and debt,
commodities, real estate, and currencies.
We may also purchase securities that "short" selected equity or debt markets; as a result, they increase in value when
those markets decline. Securities of this type are most often used to hedge or offset market risk.
Specific securities in these portfolios may be selected from open and closed-end mutual funds, exchange-traded funds
(ETFs), and individual securities.
Although tactical allocation is used with the intent of better managing overall market risk, the risk of loss inherent in
securities markets remains. There can be no assurance that the strategies we implement will not result in greater risk of
loss if our assessment of market conditions and choice of securities and/or hedging strategies prove incorrect. Among
other risks, the specific market anomalies which the strategies are seeking to exploit may change, and the timing of our
adjustments to portfolios may be inappropriate. In addition, if used alone, securities with direct exposure to commodities,
emerging markets, and currencies traditionally have considerably greater risk than average large company U.S. stocks and
bonds; by using them as part of a larger asset allocation strategy, our intent may be to reduce overall portfolio risk, but
there is no guarantee we will achieve that objective. Trading frequency will vary based upon our ongoing evaluation of
economic and market conditions along with the specific holdings in each model; any lack of trades does not mean we are
not monitoring on a continuous and ongoing basis.
In addition to risks within equity markets as expressed above, bonds and preferred securities are also subject to varying
degrees of credit, liquidity, and interest rate risk. Preferred securities in particular can be less liquid than other securities,
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making them very volatile under certain market conditions; selling these securities under such conditions can result in
significant loss of value.
Conservative Total Return Model
The objective is growth of capital with a material reduction of risk compared to a typical diversified stock portfolio.
Tactical All Asset Model
The objective is growth of capital in a manner that is less erratic than broad U.S. equity markets. The model seeks to
enhance risk-adjusted performance, not on a year-to-year basis, but over multi-year cycles of market ups and downs.
Retirement Platform Models
Our Firm provides discretionary portfolio management of retirement accounts for individual participants on certain
retirement plan platforms, including those of TIAA, Fidelity Investments, IPX Retirement, Charles Schwab, PCS, Aspire, and
others. These accounts are managed using model portfolios. Security selection for the retirement platform models is
typically limited to the mutual funds (and, in some cases, annuities and/or annuity subaccounts) available within each
retirement plan. As a result, the strategies are modified as may be appropriate based upon the specific fund options of
each plan. A version of these mutual fund strategies may also be available for accounts held outside of retirement plans.
Workplace Conservative Model
The objective is stable growth of capital with a material reduction of risk compared to a typically diversified stock
portfolio.
Workplace Balanced Growth Model The objective is growth of capital over time at a modest rate relative to broad U.S.
equity markets, seeking to balance opportunity for growth with management of downside risk. The Balanced Growth
Model is more aggressive than the Conservative Model.
Workplace Dynamic Growth Model The objective is strong growth of capital over the long term. It will assume greater
volatility and risk of loss than the Balanced Growth Model but will seek to achieve a comparable or lower level of risk than
the overall U.S. equity market.
Workplace Focused Growth Model
The objective is aggressive growth of capital. It may assume equal or greater risk than the U.S. equity market and is
expected to remain fully invested or close to fully invested in equities at all times.
Workplace Retirement Income Model
The objective is to provide both income and distribution options for retirement. It is structured with a goal of accumulating
and ultimately distributing a reliable stream of retirement income, incorporating an annuity allocation intended to
contribute to both goals. (Guarantees that may come with an annuity are dependent on the claims paying ability of the
underlying insurance company. Annuity product parameters are defined exclusively by the underlying insurance carrier.
Participants who choose to annuitize some or all their savings to income benefits are making a permanent decision; once
income benefits have begun, participants are unable to change to another option. The ability to annuitize is subject to
each specific retirement plan’s rules, and certain products may not be available to all persons. Verity does not have any
direct relationship with any annuity provider beyond certain distribution and platform access agreements. Explanation of
annuity provisions is for general information only; specific guarantees, contract provisions, annuitization options and all
other information about any annuity in the portfolio should be requested directly from the pertinent insurance company or
companies.)
Some retirement plans offer Self-Directed Brokerage Account options, which provide access to a much larger universe of
mutual funds. We offer versions of the models above designed specifically for these Self-Directed Brokerage Accounts,
sometimes referring to them as “Sector Based” Models.
Verity Asset Management, Inc. is not sponsored by, affiliated with, or in any way related to TIAA, Fidelity Investments, IPX
Retirement, Charles Schwab, PCS, Aspire or other platforms or custodians or any of their affiliates.
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Specialty Models - Managed by Verity
We also offer Specialty Models managed by Verity portfolio managers. These specialized strategies may be more
targeted than the majority of our models, or they may be unique in other ways. They may be selected for the purpose of
offering additional opportunities for growth, diversification, and/or other potential benefits.
Concentrated Rotation Model
The objective is aggressive growth of capital. The model is expected to exhibit significant volatility and a greater risk of
loss compared to a typical diversified equity portfolio. It is designed for clients seeking an aggressive component that is
not exclusively composed of equities to complement a more broadly diversified portfolio.
Target allocations will cover three broad categories: (1) approximately 40-50% individual stocks, typically concentrated
among no more than 5-6 companies; (2) approximately 30% in equity sector-based ETFs or mutual funds; and (3)
approximately 20-30% in non-equity assets. The model may be invested at various times with exposure to U.S., foreign,
and emerging markets equity securities, and, in the non-equity category, may be invested in various debt securities,
commodities, real estate, and currencies. It may also be in the non-equity category purchase securities that short selected
equity or debt markets and thus increase in value when those markets decline. Specific securities may be selected from
open and closed-end mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and individual stocks.
Portfolio concentration poses a significant increase in portfolio risk, and high volatility should be expected. Securities in
this model are also subject to short-term trading, so this model may be expected to exhibit a much greater turnover of
securities than some less aggressive models. Consequently, accounts may experience higher transaction costs (though
we expect these to remain minimal), and tax consequences of short-term trading should be considered if the model will
be used in taxable accounts.
Small/MidCap Value Model
The objective is growth of capital at a rate greater than the unmanaged Russell 2500 Value Index. The Russell 2500 Value
Index is an unmanaged index of U.S. small and midcap value stocks.
The portfolio manager uses a set of screening criteria in an effort to identify small and midcap companies that are
currently selling at a discount to their estimated value. The premise is that the market will ultimately recognize the
estimated full value of the company, and the share price will rise to reflect that value, though there is no guarantee that
this will occur. Primary risks of the strategy include the potential that the assessments of value are incorrect, the timing of
allocation changes is ineffective, or the securities selected fail to rise in value in the manner anticipated. In addition, share
prices of smaller companies tend to be more volatile than those of larger companies.
The model will typically consist of 15 to 25 individual stocks and is designed to be close to fully invested at all times. It
can be expected to experience market risk and volatility similar to the Russell 2500 Value Index, but concentration of the
portfolio in a limited number of stocks can also result in greater risk of loss.
Tactical MultiCap Value Model
The objective is growth of capital at a rate greater than the unmanaged Russell 3000 Value Index over full market cycles.
The Russell 3000 Value Index is an unmanaged index of U.S. value stocks covering the spectrum from small cap to large
cap.
The portfolio manager uses a set of screening criteria in an effort to identify companies that are currently selling at a
discount to their estimated value. The premise is that the market will ultimately recognize the estimated full value of the
company, and the share price will rise to reflect that value, though there is no guarantee that this will occur. Primary risks
of the strategy include the potential that the assessments of value are incorrect, the timing of allocation changes is
ineffective, or the securities selected fail to rise in value in the manner anticipated.
To manage risk, the portfolio manager monitors technical trends for U.S. stocks. When the aggregate price action of
tracked equities turns negative, this will trigger the implementation of a hedge position designed to offset much of the risk
of a decline in stock prices. There is no guarantee that the timing or effect of this strategy will be successful.
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The model will typically consist of 10 to 25 individual stocks. Concentration of the portfolio in a limited number of stocks
can also result in greater risk of loss, though the goal is to materially reduce market risk over longer periods of time using
the hedging strategy explained above.
There is a variation of this model, called the MultiCap Value Model. The MultiCap Value Model uses the same stock
selection process. However, it does not use a hedge position to reduce risk; it is thus fully exposed to market risk at all
times.
Domestic Equity Opportunity Model
The objective is growth of capital at a rate which exceeds the S&P 500. The model is expected to consist of individual
stocks along with ETFs which track various sectors of the U.S. equity market. In an effort to enhance potential return and
reduce risk, the model may be concentrated in sectors displaying more favorable fundamentals and/or trends, in the
judgment of the manager; however, at least 3 of the 10 S&P 500 sectors must be represented in the portfolio at all times.
The model may hold cash and cash equivalents but does not intend to hold more than 25% in cash at any time.
In considering risk, an investor should expect to be fully exposed to the risk of declines in the broad U.S. equity market. In
addition, since the model will selectively invest in specific market sectors and in certain individual securities, it could
potentially experience greater volatility and decline in value than the overall market if its selection of sectors and
securities proves unfavorable.
Opportunistic Income Model
The objective is to provide an unconstrained income strategy, allowing the portfolio manager to seek the most attractive
total return opportunities – based on prevailing market conditions, with a strong focus on managing downside risks.
The portfolio may invest in diversified sectors in the fixed income markets (including government securities, corporate
bonds, high yield bonds, and mortgage and asset-backed securities), preferred securities, income producing stocks, and
other publicly traded securities, including convertible bonds and REITs. Exposures to these asset classes may be acquired
using any combination of individual securities, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), or mutual funds. Additionally, the portfolio
manager has discretion to use funds that short the markets, primarily for the purpose of attempting to protect the
portfolio against the potential negative impact of rising interest rates.
The goal of the portfolio’s risk management process is to achieve a level of risk comparable to a diversified bond fund,
but given the range of securities which may be used, there is no guarantee this will be achieved. As mentioned previously,
a primary portfolio risk is the potential negative effect of rising interest rates on bonds and other income producing
securities. Bonds and preferred securities are also subject to varying degrees of credit, liquidity, and interest rate risk.
Preferred securities in particular can be less liquid than other securities, making them very volatile under certain market
conditions; selling these securities under such conditions can result in significant loss of value. In addition, equity
securities and REITs, though normally limited as a percentage of the portfolio, are frequently volatile.
Multiple versions of this model may be implemented over time in an effort to improve client results. These variations may
be the result of account size, liquidity of certain income securities, or maturities of certain fixed income securities.
Enhanced Income Model – Closed to new investors, effective March 20, 2024.
The objective is to provide an enhanced yield as compared to cash and money market type instruments by accepting a
limited degree of fluctuation of principal. To achieve this objective, the strategy will typically a) invest primarily in short-
term securities that are slightly beyond the duration of traditional money market funds, and b) also invest in a broader mix
of securities.
The portfolio may invest in diversified sectors in the fixed income markets (including government securities, corporate
bonds, high yield bonds, and mortgage and asset-backed securities), preferred securities, income producing stocks, and
other publicly traded securities, including convertible bonds, and REITs.
The goal of the portfolio’s risk management process is to achieve a lower level of sensitivity to interest rates than typical
intermediate bond portfolios; however, even short-term income securities are exposed to risk from rising interest rates.
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Bonds and preferred securities are also subject to varying degrees of credit and liquidity risk. Preferred securities in
particular can be less liquid than other securities, making them very volatile under certain market conditions; selling these
securities under such conditions can result in significant loss of value. In addition, any equities, REITs, high yield bonds,
convertible bonds, or other securities, can be expected to experience a higher degree of individual volatility as compared
to short-term bonds.
Multiple versions of this model may be implemented over time in an effort to improve client results. These variations may
be the result of account size, liquidity of certain income securities, or maturities of certain fixed income securities.
Tax-Advantaged Income Model
The objective is to provide income taxable for federal income tax purposes at a rate lower than maximum income tax
rates, with a secondary objective of capital appreciation. As a result, the strategy may be particularly well-suited for
income-oriented investors in higher tax brackets.
This strategy will typically be more appropriate for taxable accounts, as IRAs and other non-taxable accounts will not gain
any tax benefit. However, there may be other considerations pertinent to each individual investor, that may make this
strategy preferable to comparable strategies offered by the Firm, including but not limited to potentially greater liquidity of
the strategy’s holdings as compared to other strategies holding preferred securities.
The strategy expects to invest primarily in preferred securities but may at the discretion of the manager hold limited
allocations to non-preferred short-term fixed income securities and cash equivalents. Preferred securities and other fixed
income securities are subject to market risk, along with credit, liquidity, and interest rate risk. Preferred securities in
particular can be less liquid than other securities, making them very volatile under certain market conditions; selling these
securities under such conditions can result in significant loss of value. Preferred securities that pay qualified dividends
are also subject to risk associated with changes in federal income tax rates or rules.
Tax-Exempt Income Models
The objective is to provide income exempt from federal income tax, with a secondary objective of capital appreciation. As
a result, the strategy may be particularly well-suited for income-oriented investors in higher tax brackets. Income may be
subject to federal alternative minimum tax (AMT) as well as state and local taxes. State-specific variations of the strategy,
such as Verity North Carolina Tax-Exempt Income, will focus on municipal bonds which can be exempt from both federal
and state income tax in the respective state(s).
The strategy will invest primarily in investment-grade municipal bonds which are exempt from federal income tax (and,
where appropriate, state income tax). Under normal circumstances, the average maturity of the bonds is expected to fall
between 3 and 10 years. Municipal instruments in the portfolio may include general obligation, revenue obligation,
industrial development, and moral obligation bonds, along with tax-exempt derivative instruments, stand-by commitments,
and municipal instruments backed by forms of credit enhancement issued by domestic or foreign banks.
Bonds will be subject to risk to principal in the event of rising interest rates. In addition, they are subject to credit and
liquidity risk. Municipal bonds are also subject to risk associated with changes in federal income tax rates or rules. State-
specific versions of the strategy will by definition be less geographically diversified, which may as a result subject them to
greater risk than a portfolio with greater geographic diversity.
High Income Strategy (Model)
The objective is to provide (1) indirect access to returns from private debt and/or private equity and other traditionally
higher yielding securities through diversified investments in publicly traded entities such as Closed-End Funds (CEFs) and
Business Development Companies (BDCs), among others; (2) regular income streams to complement opportunities for
capital appreciation; and (3) daily liquidity and flexible portfolio structure.
The model provides an investor with an opportunity to diversify their overall investment portfolio into alternative assets
without lock-up periods and frequent illiquidity characteristic of many of the underlying securities. At the same time, the
model is internally diversified across sectors, including real estate, private debt, and private equity-backed companies, to
help mitigate risk. By purchasing only publicly traded securities, the model trades some of the return potential of direct
investment in private debt and equity for easier access and flexibility and lower liquidity risk.
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The model will typically invest in categories of securities including Closed-End Funds (CEFs), Business Development
Companies (BDCs), Preferred Securities, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), Structured Credit, and/or certain
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) that can during certain periods be exposed to significant liquidity risk as a consequence
of holding private debt or equity positions, collateralized loan obligations, real estate, and various thinly traded securities
that are in some cases traded in private and unregulated markets or are otherwise so thinly traded that there can be
substantial loss of principal if they are forced to sell during periods of significant market disruption or general lack of
buying interest. The model holds a portfolio of exclusively publicly traded securities that provide daily liquidity, but this
may not fully mitigate the negative effect of illiquid underlying securities during severe market events. In addition to the
types of securities previously mentioned, the model may invest without restriction in government bonds, corporate bonds,
mortgage and asset-backed securities, convertible bonds, municipal bonds, and equities.
In general, income-producing securities are subject to market risk, interest rate risk and credit risk, among other factors,
all of which may be heightened for the above categories of securities. Certain categories of securities are also subject to
unique risk factors, including but not limited to the following: Closed-End funds often trade at a discount to their net asset
value; Business Development Companies generally invest in less mature U.S. private companies or thinly traded U.S.
public companies; Real Estate valuations are subject to changing general and local economic and environmental
conditions; High Yield Bonds are by definition subject to heightened credit risk. The above is not a complete list of risks;
these securities may in certain instances have exposure to investment restrictions, leverage risk, financial sector risks,
derivatives risk, counterparty risk, mark-to-market risk, risk related to swap agreements, floating rate risk, equity risk, and
risk associated with foreign and/or emerging markets, among others.
In addition to the investment management and advisory fees charged by Verity, the model will indirectly bear its
proportionate share of any management fees and other operating expenses incurred by CEFs, BDCs, and ETFs and of any
performance-based or incentive fees payable by BDCs in which it invests.
Because of the unique nature of the securities comprising the model in combination with the Model’s investment
minimum, the Model is restricted to Accredited Investors.
Specialty Models - Managed by Outside Third-Party Managers
We may also elect to use Specialty Models managed by outside third-party managers. In evaluating, selecting, and
monitoring these models, we are acting as a manager of managers. As with our internally managed Specialty Models,
these specialized strategies may sometimes be more targeted than our tactical asset allocation models, or they may be
unique in other ways. They may be selected for the purpose of offering additional opportunities for growth, diversification,
and/or other potential benefits. Clients should also refer to the Form ADV Part 2 of the outside third-party manager, which
we will provide, for a full description of their services.
Earth Equity Green Sage Sustainability Model
The objective is growth of capital from a global portfolio of stocks focused on companies with a “sustainability” ethic.
(Sustainable investing in general terms considers the environmental, social, and corporate governance practices of
companies in addition to traditional investment approaches.) Companies involved in the fossil fuel industry are not
eligible for selection. The selection process will employ fundamental analysis in combination with other metrics. The
portfolio will consist of 30-50 stocks of large, mid, and small cap companies, with no more than 4 stocks from any single
industry. A minimum of 30% of the companies will be domiciled outside of the United States. The portfolio is reset
annually and is reviewed for adjustments once at mid-year, when up to 20% of the portfolio may be changed.
Investments in foreign companies, small cap companies, and companies which are not yet profitable carry greater risks
than the typical large U.S. company, so the inclusion of companies in those categories make this an aggressive growth
strategy which is subject to higher-than-average volatility. In addition, the exclusion of companies and industries which do
not meet the strategy’s proprietary selection criteria may present a risk that the strategy will not be as effectively
diversified as strategies that do not have this restriction.
Franklin Street Strategic Large Cap Growth
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The objective is growth of capital at a rate greater than Russell 1000 Growth Index over a normal business cycle (typically
3+ years). The Russell 1000 Growth Index is an unmanaged index of U.S. large cap growth stocks.
Franklin Street measures the attractiveness of a business by evaluating its operating margins, returns on capital, and
reinvestment opportunities. They believe that duration of growth is the most important factor in valuing a growth
company, so particular focus is placed upon an assessment of a company’s sustainable advantages within its
marketplace. A valuation model is prepared for each company based upon return on invested capital, cost of capital,
earnings growth rate, and expected duration of growth. Buy and sell decisions are based primarily upon the “warranted
price/earnings ratio” established by this valuation model.
The portfolio is designed to consist primarily of high-quality large cap growth companies, but it may also invest in smaller
companies when opportunities warrant. The portfolio typically holds 35-40 individual stocks. Growth equities are typically
subject to greater risk than the broad equity market. In addition, there is a risk that the portfolio manager’s assessments
of value prove incorrect, causing the portfolio to underperform its index.
Other Models
Certain Investment Advisor Representatives may, with the approval of the Chief Investment Officer, direct allocation
strategy for models used only with their personal clients, based on their assessment of client financial circumstances and
investment objectives. The allocation strategy is monitored by the Chief Investment Officer. All trading is conducted by
one of our Firm's portfolio managers.
Investment Risk
It is important to note that there is no guarantee that the investment objective of any model or strategy will be achieved.
There is always a risk of losing money in any investment strategy, and there is no guarantee that strategies that have been
successful in the past will be similarly successful in the future.
Model Suitability
Through personal discussions with each client in which the client's risk tolerance, personal and financial status, and
account objectives are established, we help guide clients in selecting suitable model portfolios for their accounts. Each
model is managed based on the portfolio objective of the model, rather than on each client's individual objectives. The
Chief Investment Officer is responsible for monitoring all models for adherence to their stated strategies. To ensure
continued suitability of the model selection(s) for each client's account(s), we will:
1. Seek to maintain regular communication with each client, no less than annually, consistent with the nature of the
account and the client's desired frequency of communication. One objective of this periodic communication will be to stay
informed of any change in financial circumstances or investment objectives that might warrant a change in model or
composite selection, and to determine whether the client wants to make or modify any reasonable restrictions on the
management of the account.
2. Send written account profile forms to each client no less than every 36 months requesting updated information
regarding changes in the client's financial circumstances and investment objectives.
3. Require written confirmation from the client for all model changes, with suitability of the change approved by one of our
Firm's compliance principals.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES:
INDIVIDUAL PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Dividend Builder Strategy
For accounts with a minimum of $250,000 in assets, we will provide management of an individual portfolio of dividend
paying securities. The primary goal of this strategy is to produce a relatively stable and growing stream of dividends;
growth of capital is a secondary objective. Companies will be selected in part based on an established record of earnings
10
and dividend growth. They will also be screened with an objective of purchasing at attractive fundamental values, among
other factors. The intent is to hold these securities through market ups and downs for the primary purpose of receiving
the dividend income; however, companies are continually monitored and may be sold and replaced in the portfolio if they
are considered to be significantly overvalued or if there may be tax benefits to the sale, among other considerations.
Portfolios using the strategy will typically consist of 20 – 25 securities.
Clients may impose reasonable restrictions on securities to be held in their account and may in certain instances broaden
the goals of the portfolio in consultation with the portfolio manager. Holdings may include cash and cash equivalents,
including exchange-traded CDs.
The portfolios will generally consist of individual stocks, although they may also hold a limited number of exchanged-
traded REITs and/or master limited partnerships. Portfolio values can be expected to fluctuate with the equity markets,
and there is always the potential to suffer significant loss of value in any individual security. As such, account holders
should be prepared to weather sometimes significant fluctuations in value, despite the overall goal of maintaining a
relatively consistent and growing dividend stream. In addition, dividend payments are not guaranteed to grow over time
and may be discontinued by companies at any time.
Fixed Income Portfolios
For a minimum allocation of $100,000, we will create and manage a customized portfolio of individual bonds and/or other
fixed-income securities, including preferred securities and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). In limited instances, clients
using this service may elect to include equity holdings in their portfolio under the same fee structure. The general intent is
to hold the bonds in the portfolio until maturity for the purpose of receiving the interest income; however, companies are
continually monitored and may be sold and replaced in the portfolio at the discretion of the portfolio manager.
The principal values of the securities in the portfolio will fluctuate, so there is a risk of loss if they are sold prior to
maturity. Preferred securities and other fixed income securities are subject to market risk, along with credit, liquidity, and
interest rate risk. Preferred securities in particular can be less liquid than other securities, making them very volatile under
certain market conditions; selling these securities under such conditions can result in significant loss of value. Preferred
securities typically do not have maturity dates and thus do not guarantee a return of principal at maturity. The portfolio
manager will seek to manage credit risk by diversifying the portfolio when holding fixed-income securities other than U.S
Treasury securities, but portfolios of smaller sizes are likely to be less diversified.
Clients may impose reasonable restrictions on securities to be held in their account.
Capital Advisory Services
For a minimum allocation of $1,000,000, we will create and manage a custom portfolio of fixed-income securities and/or
stocks and other securities based upon individual client goals and objectives. Clients may impose reasonable restrictions
on securities to be held and may in general give direction regarding any specific desires and preferences for their
portfolio. Security selection will be guided by fundamental analysis along with other considerations pertinent to each
account.
These portfolios will be structured with a goal of corresponding to the risk tolerance profile communicated to us by the
client and/or their advisor. There are no guarantees those objectives will be met in all cases, and there is always a risk of
loss, particularly in portfolios holding a smaller number of individual securities.
General
In other instances, a client may request that some or all the account assets be held outside of any model or strategy. In
some cases, this will be a temporary circumstance for new clients of our Firm who have transferred their assets to one of
our custodians in-kind and are transitioning their accounts over a short period of time into our models. In all such cases,
our Firm provides continuous advice to the client regarding the investment of client funds based on the individual needs
of the client. As a result of personal discussions in which goals and objectives based on a client's particular
circumstances are established, we develop and manage a suitable portfolio. We manage these advisory accounts on a
discretionary basis. Account supervision is guided by the client's stated objectives (i.e., aggressive, moderately
11
aggressive, moderate, etc.), as well as tax considerations. Clients may impose reasonable restrictions on investing in
certain securities, types of securities, or industry sectors.
Our investment recommendations are not limited to any specific product or service, including those offered by a broker-
dealer or insurance company, and can include advice regarding the following securities:
Exchange-listed securities
Equity options
Foreign issuers
Exchange Traded Notes (ETNs)
•
• Securities traded over-the-counter
•
•
• Corporate debt securities (other than commercial paper)
• Municipal securities
• Variable life insurance
• Variable annuities
• Mutual fund and exchange traded fund (ETF) shares
•
• United States governmental securities
•
•
Interests in partnerships investing in real estate
Interests in partnerships investing in oil and gas interests
Because some types of investments involve higher degrees of risk, they will only be recommended when consistent with
the client's stated investment objectives, tolerance for risk, liquidity and suitability.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES:
INSTITUTIONAL PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Our Firm may offer portfolio management services to institutional accounts, including defined benefit pension plans,
endowments, foundations, and family offices. The investment strategy for each will be determined based upon the needs
and circumstances of the pertinent entity and will operate within the parameters of the entity's investment policy
statement (IPS).
The selected strategy will typically utilize or mirror one or more of our model portfolios (described above), depending on
the entity's risk tolerance profile, liquidity considerations, and time horizons.
To enhance our potential to uncover investment opportunities and to increase diversification options, our Firm makes
investment selections from a very broad range of asset classes, market sectors, and countries. Models may be invested
at various times with exposure to U.S. and foreign equity and fixed-income securities, emerging markets equity and debt,
commodities, real estate, and currencies. We may also purchase securities that short selected equity or fixed-income
markets and thus increase in value when those markets decline. Such positions are most often used for hedging
purposes in the management of portfolio risk.
Specific securities may be selected from open and closed-end mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and individual
securities.
Although tactical asset allocation is frequently used with the intent of better managing overall market risk, the risk of loss
inherent in securities markets remains. There can be no assurance that strategies will not result in greater risk of loss if
our assessment of market conditions and choice of securities prove incorrect. Among other risks, the specific market
anomalies which the strategies are seeking to exploit may change, and the timing of our adjustments to the portfolio may
be inappropriate. In addition, if used alone, securities with direct exposure to commodities, emerging markets, and
currencies traditionally have greater risk than average large company U.S. stocks and bonds; by using them as part of a
larger asset allocation strategy, even when our intent is to actually reduce overall portfolio risk, there is no guarantee we
will implement that objective successfully.
The entity's IPS may place restrictions on investing in certain securities or types of securities.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES:
SUB-ADVISORY, AND THIRD-PARTY MANAGER SERVICES
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Our Firm may offer certain of the above services on various custody and third-party platforms through sub-advisory or
third-party manager agreements with outside Investment Advisers. Under these agreements, we may provide clients of
the outside Investment Advisers or platforms with any of the model portfolio strategies outlined above, depending upon
the terms of each specific agreement. In some cases, investment advisory services may be provided in conjunction with
various administrative and operational services, including fee calculation and trade management, as part of a turnkey
asset management platform. Administrative and operational services may also be offered independent of investment
management services. Under the terms of these agreements, we do not have direct contact with the individual clients and
do not make a determination of the suitability of the model selected. That responsibility remains with the Investment
Adviser and/or the client which is electing to use our portfolio management services. In some arrangements, we may
elect to provide an investment strategy selection guide to assist in this process.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES:
MUTUAL FUND MANAGER SERVICES
Our Firm acts as investment adviser to the Verity U.S. Treasury Fund, and open-end management investment company,
and, in such capacity, provides investment advisory services to the Fund, including managing the investment and
reinvestment of the assets of the Fund, in accordance with the investment objectives, policies and restrictions of the Fund
as set forth in the Fund’s prospectus and statement of additional information.
RETIREMENT PLAN SERVICES
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES TO RETIREMENT PLAN SPONSORS
We provide various advisory services to pension plans either separately or in combination. Clients for these services may
include 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, 457(b) plans, other defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans and/or profit-
sharing plans.
Investment Policy Statement Preparation (IPS) - We may assist the plan sponsor in developing an appropriate investment
strategy that reflects the plan sponsor's stated investment objectives for management of the overall plan. Using this
information, we will prepare a written IPS detailing objectives, responsibilities, investment guidelines, and monitoring
criteria, among other considerations.
Selection of Investment Vehicles - We may screen and recommend to plan sponsors an appropriate menu of investment
options for plan participants, taking into consideration fund management, expenses, risk characteristics, and asset class,
among other factors.
Monitoring of Mutual Funds / Investment Managers - We may monitor the plan's fund lineup on a quarterly basis and
provide reports to the plan sponsors. Included in our reports there will be funds that have been placed on "watch lists" for
possible replacement and recommendations for replacement of funds when we believe such action is warranted.
Employee Communications - We may provide educational support and investment workshops designed for the plan
participants. The nature of the topics to be covered will be determined by us and the client. Where pertinent, will follow the
guidelines established in ERISA Section 404(c).
Model Portfolios - If this feature is selected by the plan sponsor, our Firm will provide one or more of our Tactical Asset
Allocation Models (described above) as investment options for plan participants. If a participant selects one of our
models, we will manage the assets for the participant on a discretionary basis according to the specific strategy of that
model.
Plan Design Consulting - We may review plan document provisions, features, and benefits elected under the governing
document. A qualified consultant will lead a review of available and elected plan features, in coordination with the plan
document provider and designated plan administrator. Plan design considerations will include plan sponsor objectives,
organizational structure, available plan arrangements and optimization of benefits.
Compliance Review - We may coordinate operational controls through collaboration among all appropriate parties,
including the plan sponsor, plan administrator, plan auditor, ERISA attorney, and among others. Responsibility for plan
13
compliance rests exclusively with the plan sponsor, but through effective collaboration and administrative procedures,
plan related compliance can be handled effectively and efficiently, and in compliance with relevant regulations.
Vendor Management - Our consulting services may support vendor analysis and review for the multiple service providers
involved in plan administration, including payroll service providers, third party plan administrators, plan auditors, ERISA
attorneys, plan custodians, record keepers, participant service providers, advisors and software service providers.
Vendor Fee/Service Reviews - We may offer third party benchmark reporting to assist in evaluating reasonable fees
charged by service providers offering plan services as an ERISA covered service provider.
Other Fiduciary Services - We may accept written designation as a Fiduciary to the plan under either ERISA Section 3(21)
or ERISA Section 3(38).
OTHER SERVICES
ALLOCATION ALERT SERVICE
We provide a portfolio monitoring and allocation alert service to participants in certain defined contribution retirement plans,
such as 401(k)s, on a non-discretionary basis. The allocation alert service provides specific recommendations to clients
regarding the allocation of investments in their retirement accounts. Recommendations are provided via email, and the
client is responsible for implementing the recommended investment allocations. The account monitoring and
recommendations are based on each client's personal risk profile, financial circumstances, and objectives.
Strategies offered fall into three categories each with a different degree of market risk:
• Conservative (formerly “Moderate”) – The objective is moderate growth, but with an equal and sometimes greater
focus on controlling risk.
• Balanced Growth (formerly “Core”) – The primary objective is growth, with a secondary focus on controlling risk.
• Dynamic Growth (formerly “Aggressive”) – The objective is maximum longer-term growth. Greater potential for
loss and more significant fluctuations in value are to be expected.
There can be no guarantee that the strategies will be successful. As with all investments, there is a risk of loss.
NON-DISCRETIONARY ADVICE TO RETIREMENT AND MANAGED ACCOUNT PLATFORMS
Acting as a strategist, we may provide recommendations and investment advice regarding the construction and
maintenance of model allocations to retirement platforms and /or managed account platforms. For each model provided,
our services will include recommended securities, weightings of each security, and changes to the weightings. We will not
have control over actual execution of trades in any respect, including the timing of execution. We will not have discretion
over client accounts or access to individual client information.
FINANCIAL PLANNING
On a limited basis, we may provide financial planning and consulting services for a fee. Clients using this service will
typically receive a written report focusing in the areas of retirement planning, survivorship planning, education planning,
investment allocation, and long-term care planning. Alternatively, a client may elect consultation services in one or more
specific areas.
We gather the necessary information through in-depth personal interviews and from financial documents provided by the
client. Typically, the financial plan is presented to the client within six months of the contract date, provided that all the
information needed to prepare the financial plan has been promptly provided.
Implementation of financial plan recommendations is entirely at the client's discretion. Should we offer our investment
management or financial products in addition to financial planning services, there is a potential conflict of interest since
there is an incentive for us to recommend products or services for which we may receive additional fees or commissions.
However, financial planning clients are under no obligation to act upon any of our recommendations or to purchase any
other products or services offered by our Firm.
ADVISORY REFERRAL SERVICES
14
In very limited instances, our Firm may receive compensation for referring a client to another registered investment
adviser which offers services different from our own. Based on a client's individual circumstances and objectives, we may
recommend the other investment adviser's services and assist the client in completing the other investment adviser's
account paperwork. In any such instance, we will ensure that all federal and/or state requirements governing solicitation
activities are met.
Item 5
Fees and Compensation
DISCRETIONARY INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES FALL INTO SEVERAL CATEGORIES
Full investment advisory fees are illustrated on the combination Account Application / Investment Advisory Agreement
package you execute for each account. Please read these documents carefully and thoroughly. Some account agreements
have only a single investment advisory fee; however, total fees you pay to Verity may consist of a combination of different
fees, variously described as Investment Advisory Fees, Investment Management Fees, Additional Fees for certain Models
or Strategies, and/or Platform Fees. Each fee, where applicable, is based upon a component of the overall service being
provided to you; each has a specific purpose. Please ask your Investment Advisor Representative to identify and explain
all the fees to you. The information below provides an overview of the various fees that may apply to you depending on the
type of account and your personal goals and circumstances, but full fee information for your account(s) will be found on
your Account Application / Investment Advisory Agreement package(s).
Investment advisory fees are paid in arrears unless indicated otherwise. Fees are due on the first day of the calendar
quarter and are based on each account's average daily balance during the prior calendar quarter unless indicated
otherwise. Fees are prorated for accounts opened during the quarter.
(1) Comprehensive Investment Advisory Services for Individual Accounts at
AXOS Advisor Services, Charles Schwab Institutional, Fidelity IWS, and PCS
Our Firm provides comprehensive investment management services for accounts held in custody at AXOS Advisor
Services, Charles Schwab Institutional, Fidelity IWS, and PCS.
Basic Advisory Fees
Annualized Fees:
Assets Under
Management (Per Custodian)
First
Next
Next
Next
Next
Next
Next
Above
$100,000
$ 50,000
$100,000
$250,000
$250,000
$250,000
$1.5 million
$2.5 million
1.50%
1.20%
1.15%
0.95%
0.75%
0.60%
0.50%
0.45%
Exceptions are the Enhanced Income Model and the Tax-Exempt Income Model. Neither of these models are subject to
the basic investment advisory fee. The Enhanced Income Model has a flat 0.60% annual advisory fee, and the Tax-Exempt
Income Model has a flat 0.90% annual advisory fee.
Alternate fee arrangements are available and may be agreed upon based on individual circumstances. We may group
certain related accounts for the purpose of determining fees. Accounts holding unmanaged securities only will not be
charged an investment advisory fee. Employees of Verity Asset Management will not be charged an investment advisory
fee for their Verity 401(k) plan accounts.
In early 2021, E*Trade Advisor Services (now AXOS Advisor Services) transferred all 403(b) accounts previously held at
E*Trade Advisor Services to the PCS Retirement custody platform. Advisory fees did not change, and grouping of PCS
15
accounts with related accounts remaining at AXOS Advisor Services for fee purposes did not change; however, the fee
calculation methodology for PCS accounts is now based on the end of quarter valuation rather than average daily
balance.
For further details regarding other fees and expenses, please see “General Information” below.
Model-Specific and Strategy-Specific Investment Management Fees
In addition to the Basic Advisory Fee, there may be specific investment management fees for certain models and
individual portfolio strategies.
Maximum annualized fees for Verity Small/MidCap Value, Tactical MultiCap Value, and MultiCap Value:
First
Next
Above
Assets Under
Management
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
$100,000
0.45%
0.40%
0.35%
Maximum annualized fees for Verity Opportunistic Income and Verity Tax-Advantaged Income:
First
Above
Assets Under
Management
$100,000
$100,000
0.35%
0.30%
Maximum annualized fees for Verity Domestic Equity Opportunity:
Maximum annualized fees for Verity Concentrated Rotation:
Maximum annualized fees for Verity Conservative Total Return:
Maximum annualized fees for Verity Dividend Builder Strategy:
Maximum annualized fees for Verity High Income:
0.10%
0.10%
0.15%
0.35%
0.95%
Maximum annualized fees for Individual Fixed Income portfolios, or Capital Advisory Services:
0.30%
First Year*
0.10%
Subsequent
(* The First Year will run from the initial funding date through the end of the fourth full calendar quarter.)
Maximum annualized fees for models managed by outside third-party managers:
Franklin Street Strategic Large Cap Growth:
Earth Equity Green Sage Sustainability
0.60%
0.40%
Fees for anyone holding a Specialty Model prior to May 30, 2012, will not be subject to change for assets invested in that
specific model. Fees for anyone holding Tactical MultiCap Value prior to July 1, 2013, will not be subject to change.
Any fees may be applied at lower rates at the discretion of management.
(2) Investment Advisory Services for Certain Defined Contribution Plan Participants and
Fidelity NTF Fund Platform Accounts
Our Firm provides ongoing account management to individual participants in defined contribution retirement plans and
certain mutual fund custody platforms. Investment options are typically restricted to NTF (No Transaction Fee) mutual
funds and exchange traded funds. In limited instances, exchange traded funds which are subject to transaction fees may
be used if a substitution is deemed to be in the best interest of the client and a comparable NTF fund is not available. Our
Firm does not receive any benefit from transaction fees.
Annualized Fees:
Assets Under
16
First
Next
Next
Above
Management
$250,000
$250,000
$250,000
$750,000
1.25%
1.10%
0.95%
0.80%
Alternate fee arrangements are available and may be agreed upon based on individual circumstances. Under these
arrangements, the maximum total annual fee that may be charged, including investment management and investment
advisory fees, is 1.25% on all platforms other than the Aspire and IPX platforms. The maximum total annual fee on the
Aspire and IPX platforms is 1.95%. Fees charged at higher rates under Investment Advisory Agreements pre-dating this
document may be currently grandfathered but can be renegotiated at the request of the client.
We may group certain related accounts for the purpose of determining fees. Fees for accounts established prior to
10/1/2009 and accounts established between 10/1/2009 and 12/31/2011 will not be subject to increase. In certain
instances, where no advisor fee collect provision is incorporated into an employer plan, we will have discretion to waive
management fees for participants of the plan.
(3) Investment Advisory Services for Institutional
Accounts
Our Firm offers comprehensive investment management services for institutions such as defined benefit pension plans,
foundations, endowments, and family offices. Rates are negotiable.
(4) Sub-Advisor, Third Party Manager, Investment Strategist, and Solicitor Arrangements
Our Firm may enter into agreements to serve as a sub-advisor, third-party manager, or investment strategist for outside
Investment Advisers or investment platforms or through turnkey asset management platforms. We may also enter into
solicitor agreements with outside Investment Advisors. Under these various agreements, we may provide discretionary
account management, non-discretionary asset allocation advice, and/or related administrative services. Rates payable for
these services are negotiable. We will disclose our rates as may be applicable under each of these agreements on any of
our pertinent documents and/or marketing materials.
*****
[Exception to section (1) Comprehensive Investment Advisory Services for Individual Accounts, above]
On January 1, 2014, Verity Asset Management accepted client assignment of certain Investment Advisory accounts from
Chatham Advisors, LLC. Investment Advisory accounts that were assigned and accepted from Chatham Advisor, LLC on
the Charles Schwab custody platform are “grandfathered” for purposes of fee billing. These accounts and a limited
number of newer accounts held on the Schwab platform continue to be billed quarterly in advance based on the market
value of the assets under management at the end of the previous calendar quarter. If such a Client Agreement is
terminated, a pro-rata portion of any advisory fees that were paid but not yet earned as of the date of termination will be
promptly refunded to the client.
*****
General Information
Termination of the Advisory Relationship: A client will have a period of five (5) business days from the date of signing an
investment advisory agreement to unconditionally rescind the agreement and receive a full waiver of all fees. Thereafter,
an investment advisory agreement may be canceled at any time, by either party, upon receipt of thirty (30) days’ written
notice. Upon termination of any account, fees will be prorated to the date of termination, and any prepaid, unearned fees
will be promptly refunded.
Third-Party Manager Fees: In certain instances, we may select third-party managers to manage parts of a client's account.
These third-party managers will charge investment advisory fees for their services. In some cases, a client may have the
option of investing directly with the third-party manager for a lower fee, without our services. In that case, the client would
17
not receive the services provided by our Firm which are designed, in part, to assist the client in allocating their
investments in a diversified manner and seeking appropriate points at which to enter and exit various strategies. The
client should review both the fees charged by the third-party managers and our fees to fully understand the total amount
of fees to be paid by the client and to thereby evaluate the advisory services being provided.
Mutual Fund, Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), and Exchange Traded Note (ETN) Fees: The majority of client accounts with
our Firm will contain mutual funds, ETFs and/or ETNs, each of which charge certain fees and expenses to their
shareholders (often expressed as an “expense ratio”). All fees paid to our Firm for investment advisory services are
separate and distinct from the mutual fund, ETN and ETF fees and expenses. These fees and expenses are described in
each fund's prospectus and will generally include a management fee, other fund expenses, and, possibly, a distribution
fee. In our role as investment advisor, we do not accept distribution fees, nor do we offer mutual fund share classes which
would pay us either an initial or a deferred sales charge. However, a client could invest in a fund directly, without our
services. In that case, the client would not receive the services provided by our Firm which are designed, in part, to assist
the client in allocating their investments in a diversified manner and seeking appropriate points at which to enter and exit
various funds. The client should review both the fees charged by the funds and our fees to fully understand the total
amount of fees to be paid by the client and to thereby evaluate the advisory services being provided.
Additional Fees and Expenses: In addition to our advisory fees and any fees associated with mutual funds, ETFs, ETNs or
third-party managers, clients are also responsible for any transaction fees imposed by custodians or broker dealers and
any custody fees or other fees and expenses charged by custodians, unless indicated otherwise. Certain clients may have
requested from their brokerage custodians that they be permitted to maintain borrowing capability (margin) within their
accounts. Clients are responsible for any fees or expenses charged by their custodian for these borrowing arrangements.
Borrowing capability may only be accessed by the client and under no circumstances will it be utilized by Verity to
purchase additional securities for the client. Clients understand that the proceeds of any securities liquidation will first
reduce any current margin debit balances. Please refer to the "Brokerage Practices" section (Item 12) of this Form ADV
Part 2 for additional information.
ERISA Accounts: In providing discretionary account management services to clients with certain qualified retirement plan
accounts, our Firm is acting as a fiduciary under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, and to the extent applicable, a
fiduciary under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”). Neither our Firm, nor any affiliate,
reasonably expects to receive any compensation, direct or indirect, for its services other than those advisory fees
specified within the governing advisory agreement with the client. If we receive any other compensation for such services,
we will (i) offset that compensation against our stated fees, and (ii) will disclose the amount of such compensation and
the payer of such compensation.
Fee Deduction and Billing: Wherever available, advisory fees will be deducted directly from one or more of the client's
accounts. Where fee deduction is not available, the client may pay fees via direct billing or ACH.
Advisory Fees in General: Clients should note that similar advisory services may be available from other registered (or
unregistered) investment advisers for similar or lower fees.
Limited Prepayment of Fees: Under no circumstances do we require or solicit payment of fees in excess of $1200 more
than six months in advance of services rendered.
*****
RETIREMENT PLAN SERVICES
Our Firm provides services to retirement plans and plan sponsors that include plan governance, selection and monitoring
of investment options, and various other fiduciary and non-fiduciary services, as outlined in Item 4 above. Investment
advisory fees are paid quarterly in arrears. Fees are due on the first day of the calendar quarter. Rates are negotiable. Fees
may be payable based on the average daily balance, the balance at the midpoint of the quarter, the end of quarter balance,
or some other appropriate basis agreed upon in writing between the parties. Alternatively, the fee may be stated as a flat
rate agreed upon between the parties.
ALLOCATION ALERT SERVICE
18
The annual fee for this service is 1.00% of the first $250,000 of applicable retirement plan assets, 0.85% of the next
$250,000, and 0.70% of any plan assets above $500,000. These fees are paid quarterly in arrears based on the account’s
value on the last day of the prior calendar year. Fees are due on the first day of the calendar quarter and will be prorated
for accounts opened during the quarter.
The minimum account size for this service at the time of application will be $100,000. Our Firm's Compliance Officer may
make limited exceptions based upon facts and circumstances.
A client will have a period of five (5) business days from the date of signing the Allocation Alert agreement to
unconditionally rescind the agreement and receive a full waiver of all fees. Thereafter, either party may terminate the
agreement with 30 days’ written notice. Upon termination, fees will be prorated to the date of termination, and any
unearned portion of the fee will be refunded to the client.
Clients should also note that lower fees for comparable services may be available from other sources.
NON-DISCRETIONARY ADVICE TO MANAGED ACCOUNT PLATFORMS
Our Firm may provide recommendations and investment advice regarding the construction and maintenance of model
portfolios to the manager of a managed account platform. Rates payable to our Firm by the managed account platform
are negotiable.
FINANCIAL PLANNING
Our Financial Planning fees may be either hourly or fixed. They are based on the nature of the services being provided and
the complexity of each client's circumstances. Fees are negotiable and are agreed upon prior to entering into a contract
with any client.
Hourly fees will typically range from $100 to $250 per hour. Although the length of time it will take to provide a Financial
Plan will depend on each client's personal situation, we will provide an estimate for the total hours at the start of the
advisory relationship. Hourly fees are due and billable in arrears, on a quarterly basis based upon an itemized statement
of work.
Fixed fees will typically range from $500 to $10,000, depending on the specific arrangement reached with the client. The
lesser of $500 or one-half of any fixed fee is due as an initial deposit upon completion of our initial fact-finding session
with the client. The balance is due upon completion of the plan.
The client will have a period of five (5) business days from date of execution to unconditionally rescind the Agreement
and receive a full refund. Thereafter, the client may terminate the Agreement by providing us with written notice prior to
delivery of the plan or completion of services. Upon termination, the client will be responsible for the time expended at the
stated hourly rate as earned compensation, and the unearned portion of any deposit will be refunded.
Financial Planning Fee Offset: We reserve the discretion to reduce or waive the hourly fee and/or the minimum fixed fee if
a financial planning client chooses to engage us for our investment supervisory services.
The client will be billed quarterly in arrears based on actual hours accrued.
ADVISORY REFERRAL SERVICES
Our fees for referrals to another investment adviser are paid by the referred adviser, who shares with our Firm a
percentage of the fees received from the client. Clients will receive a separate disclosure document describing the fee
paid to us by such adviser(s). Clients should refer to that adviser's' disclosure document for information regarding its fees,
billing practices, minimum required investments and termination of advisory agreements.
Item 6 Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management
Verity Asset Management, Inc., does not charge performance-based fees.
Item 7 Types of Clients
Verity Asset Management, Inc., offers advisory services to the following types of clients:
• Individuals (both high net worth and other than high net worth individuals)
19
• Pension and profit-sharing plans
• Institutional clients (including endowments and foundations)
• Corporations or other businesses not listed above
• Other registered investment advisers
Item 8 Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
We use the following strategies in managing client accounts, provided that such strategies are appropriate to the needs of
the client and consistent with the client's investment objectives, risk tolerance, and time horizons, among other
considerations:
Asset Allocation. Asset allocation is an investment strategy that seeks to balance risk and reward by diversifying a
portfolio across multiple asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and cash, rather than focusing primarily on individual
security selection. It focuses on general movements in complete markets or market sectors rather than on the
performance of individual securities.
Tactical Asset Allocation. Tactical asset allocation is an active version of the strategy that seeks to improve risk adjusted
returns by modifying the allocation mix to benefit from market pricing anomalies and/or market trends. Although this
strategy is used with the intent of managing overall market risk, the risk of loss inherent in securities markets remains.
One risk of asset allocation is that the client may not participate in sharp increases in a particular security, market sector,
or overall market. Another risk of tactical asset allocation is that the strategy may underperform if our assessment of
market conditions and choice of securities prove incorrect. Among the additional factors, the specific market anomalies
which the strategy is seeking to exploit may change or disappear in the future, or the timing of our adjustments to the
portfolio may be inappropriate.
Note that in using cash as an asset class for tactical purposes, there may be periods of time when the return on the cash
allocation in a portfolio will be less than the advisory fee.
Value Strategies. A value strategy will use one or more methods of screening a group of stocks to identify those stocks
that may be underpriced relative to other stocks within the same group or classification. The strategy is based on the
belief that the prices of the underpriced stocks will ultimately increase relative to other stocks, closing this value gap and
causing these stocks to outperform. Risks of this strategy include (1) incorrect price analysis and (2) the potential for
selected companies to experience problems in sales, operations, management, or other areas that cause their prices to
fall further relative to other stocks.
Income Strategies. Our income strategies are designed to invest in targeted groups in income securities or flexibly across
a broad range of income-generating securities in an ongoing search for the more favorable opportunities in the current
market environment. The strategies that invest across a broad range of income-generating securities are generally
constructed to invest across two underlying core sub-strategies: (1) traditional income securities, and (2) non-traditional
income securities. Each of these sub-strategies is designed to provide unique sources of return and diversification for the
portfolio. Risks to individual securities in the portfolios include but are not limited to credit risk, liquidity risk and interest
rate risk; in addition, performance may suffer relative to less dynamic income strategies if the analysis of market
conditions and/or the timing of allocation changes prove unfavorable.
METHODS OF ANALYSIS
In an effort to enhance our asset allocation strategies, we use the following methods of analysis in setting allocation
target percentages and in decisions of which asset classes to own and when to buy or sell:
Fundamental Analysis. We attempt to understand the intrinsic value of securities by looking at economic and financial
factors (including the overall economy, industry conditions, and the financial condition of companies themselves) to
determine whether companies or markets are underpriced or overpriced. We also examine these factors to try to evaluate
whether current financial trends, such as profit growth, are sustainable.
Fundamental analysis does not attempt to anticipate market movements. This presents a risk, as the price of a security
can move up or down along with the overall market regardless of the economic and financial factors considered in
evaluating the security.
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Technical Analysis. We analyze past market movements and apply that analysis to the present in an attempt to recognize
recurring patterns of investor behavior that may predict future price movement. One element of technical analysis is
charting. In this type of technical analysis, we review charts of market activity in an attempt to identify important support
and resistance levels and to identify major and minor trends. (Levels of support are prices below which a security is less
likely to fall; levels of resistance are prices above which a security is less likely to rise.)
Technical analysis does not consider the underlying financial condition of a company. This presents a risk that poorly
managed or financially unsound companies may underperform regardless of our analysis.
Qualitative Analysis. We may subjectively evaluate non-quantifiable factors such as quality of management, potential
shifts in demand, strength of research and development, and various other factors not readily subject to measurement,
and predict changes to share price based on that analysis.
A risk in using qualitative analysis is that our subjective judgment may prove incorrect.
Risks for all forms of analysis. Our securities analysis methods rely on the assumption that the companies whose
securities we purchase and sell, the rating agencies that review these securities, and other publicly available sources of
information about these securities, are providing accurate and unbiased data. While we are alert to indications that data
may be incorrect, there is always a risk that our analysis may be compromised by inaccurate or misleading information.
HOLDING PERIODS
In responding to the various methods of analysis and executing our investment strategies, we may use a variety of holding
periods for the securities making up a client's portfolio:
Long-term purchases. We purchase certain securities with the idea of holding them in the client's account for a year or
longer. Typically, we employ this strategy when:
• we believe the securities to be currently undervalued, and/or
• we believe conditions are favorable for a particular asset class to trend higher in price over time or provide a risk
management benefit, regardless of the potential shorter-term projections for this class.
One risk in a long-term purchase strategy is that by holding the security for this length of time, we may not take advantage
of short-term gains that could be profitable to a client. Another is that, if our expectations prove incorrect, a security may
decline sharply in value before we make the decision to sell.
Short-term purchases. We purchase certain securities with the idea of selling them within a relatively shorter time
(typically less than a year). We do this in an attempt to take advantage of conditions that we believe may result in a
shorter-term swing in the price of the securities.
One risk is that the price may weaken sooner than we anticipate, leaving us with a potential loss. In addition, this strategy
will result in some increase in transaction costs as well as the less favorable tax treatment of short-term capital gains for
securities held in taxable accounts.
Trading. In a limited number of models or accounts, we may purchase securities with the idea of selling them very quickly
(typically within 30 days or less). We do this in an attempt to take advantage of brief price swings.
Trading presents a much greater timing risk than other strategies; selling at an inopportune time may result in a reduced
gain or an increased loss. In addition, this strategy may result in some increase in transaction costs as well as the less
favorable tax treatment of short-term capital gains for securities held in taxable accounts.
THIRD-PARTY MANAGERS
For some model portfolios, we may use outside third-party managers. These managers may use strategies, methods of
analysis, and holding periods different from those outlined above. When placing accounts into models specific to such
outside third-party managers, we will provide a copy of the outside manager’s Form ADV Part 2 to illustrate this
information as it applies to their model(s).
RISK OF LOSS
Regardless of investment strategy, methods of analysis, or holding periods, securities investments are not guaranteed.
You may lose money on your investments.
Item 9 Disciplinary Information
We are required to disclose any legal or disciplinary events that are material to a client's or prospective client's evaluation
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of our advisory business or the integrity of our management. Our Firm and our management personnel have no reportable
disciplinary events to disclose.
Item 10 Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
AFFILIATIONS
Verity Financial Group, the parent company of Verity Asset Management, Inc. and a wholly owned subsidiary of Simplicity
Financial Marketing Holdings, Inc., is an affiliated firm which is engaged in sales of selected life insurance and fixed
annuity products.
Verity Investments, Inc., an affiliated company that is also a wholly owned subsidiary of Verity Financial Group, Inc., is a
FINRA member broker-dealer.
Verity Asset Management is also affiliated with various insurance marketing organizations and the following registered
entities, all wholly owned subsidiaries of Simplicity Financial Marketing Holdings Inc.:
• Simplicity Wealth LLC (CRD No. 300572) (“Simplicity Wealth”) is an investment adviser registered with the SEC.
Simplicity Wealth offers various investment advisory services to individuals, corporate and institutional investors
and defined contribution and defined benefit retirement plans. Principal Business Address: 475 Springfield Ave,
Suite 1, Summit, NJ 07901
• The Leaders Group, Inc. (CRD No. 37157) is a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA specializing in the
wholesale brokerage business with a focus on variable universal life products. Principal Business Address: 475
Springfield Ave, Summit, NJ 07901
• TLG Advisors, Inc. (CRD No. 111052) (“TLG”) is an investment adviser registered with the SEC. TLG provides
investment supervisory services, manages investment advisory accounts, and furnishes investment advice to
individuals, retirement plans, pension and profit-sharing plans, trusts, estates, charitable organizations,
businesses and corporations through a network of independent investment advisor representatives. Principal
Business Address: 475 Springfield Ave, Suite 1, Summit, NJ 07901
• CoreCap Investments, LLC (CRD No. 37068) is a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA primarily offering
products such as mutual funds, variable insurance products, equities, bonds, and options amongst other
products. Principal Business Address: 27777 Franklin Road, Suite 700, Southfield, MI 48034
• CoreCap Advisors, LLC (CRD No. 158819) is an investment adviser registered with the SEC providing investment
and portfolio management services to its clients, including advisory services through sub-advisory relationships.
Principal Business Address: 27777 Franklin Road, Suite 700, Southfield, MI 48034
MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL REGISTRATIONS
In addition to their primary role as Investment Advisor Representatives of our Firm, certain management personnel of our
Firm may be Registered Representatives of Verity Investments, Inc., our affiliated broker-dealer, or may be licensed as
agents for various insurance companies. In addition to providing investment advice on a fee basis, such persons may
recommend and sell securities, insurance, or other products on a commission basis through associated companies.
Clients are, of course, not under any obligation to purchase any financial product. The implementation of any or all
recommendations is solely at the discretion of the client.
As previously disclosed, we may in isolated instances recommend the services of another registered investment adviser
to our clients. In exchange, we receive a referral fee from the selected investment adviser. The fee received by us is a
percentage of the fee charged by that investment adviser to the client.
Clients should be aware that the receipt of additional compensation by Verity Asset Management, Inc. and/or its
management persons or employees creates a conflict of interest that could impair the objectivity of our Firm and these
individuals when making advisory recommendations. Our Firm endeavors at all times to put the interest of our clients first
as part of our fiduciary duty as a registered investment adviser. In addition, we take the following steps to address this
conflict:
• we disclose to clients the existence of all material conflicts of interest, including the potential for our Firm and our
employees to earn other compensation from advisory clients in addition to our Firm's advisory fees.
• we disclose to clients that they are not obligated to purchase products or services we recommend.
• we collect, maintain and document relevant client background information, including the client’s financial goals,
objectives and risk tolerance to properly assess the suitability of various products and services.
• we conduct reviews of each client account at appropriate intervals to carefully verify that all recommendations made
to a client are suitable to the client’s needs and circumstances.
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• we require that our employees provide prior notice of any outside employment activity so that we may ensure that any
conflicts of interest in such activities are properly addressed.
• we periodically review these outside employment activities to verify that any conflicts of interest continue to be
properly addressed by our Firm; and
• we educate our employees regarding the responsibilities of a fiduciary, including the need to have a reasonable and
independent basis for the investment advice provided to clients.
Item 11 Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal
Trading
Our Firm has adopted a Code of Ethics which sets forth high ethical standards of business conduct that we require of our
employees, including compliance with applicable federal securities laws.
Verity Asset Management, Inc. and our personnel owe a duty of loyalty, fairness and good faith towards our clients, and
have an obligation to adhere not only to the specific provisions of the Code of Ethics but to the general principles that
guide the Code.
Our Code of Ethics includes policies and procedures for the review of all securities transactions in outside brokerage
accounts by the Firm’s access persons to assure that no personal trading disadvantages clients in any way; our Code of
Ethics requires the prior approval of any purchase of securities in a limited offering (e.g., private placement) or an initial
public offering. Our code also provides for oversight, enforcement and recordkeeping provisions.
Verity Asset Management, Inc.'s Code of Ethics does not permit insider trading. It includes policies and procedures
designed to prevent the use of material non-public information. While we do not believe that we have any particular
access to non-public information, all employees are reminded that such information may not be used in a personal or
professional capacity.
A copy of our Code of Ethics is available to our advisory clients and prospective clients. You may request a copy by email
sent to compliance@verityinvest.com, or by calling us at 919-490-6717 (Ext. 109).
PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
Our Code of Ethics is designed to ensure that the personal securities transactions, activities and interests of our
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.
Our Firm and/or individuals associated with our Firm may buy or sell for their personal accounts securities identical to or
different from those recommended to our clients. In addition, any Associated Person(s) may have an interest or position
in a certain security which may also be recommended to a client. Associated Persons may buy or sell securities for their
personal accounts based on investment considerations which our Firm may not deem appropriate for clients.
In all cases, client orders are given priority. In no case will an Associated Person receive a better price or more favorable
circumstances than a client in trading executed by the Firm. Personal transactions of Associated Persons are regularly
monitored to ensure that client interests are put first in all relevant circumstances.
We may aggregate our employee trades with client transactions where possible and when compliant with our duty to seek
best execution for our clients. In these instances, participating clients will receive an average share price, and transaction
costs will be shared equally and on a pro-rata basis. In the instances where there is a partial fill of a particular batched
order, we will allocate all purchases pro-rata, with each account paying the average price. Our employee accounts will be
included in the pro rata allocation. See Item 12 for further information.
As these situations represent actual or potential conflicts of interest to our clients, we have established the following
policies and procedures for implementing our Firm’s Code of Ethics, to ensure our Firm complies with its regulatory
obligations and provides our clients and potential clients with full and fair disclosure of such conflicts of interest:
1. No principal or employee of our Firm may put his or her own interest above the interest of an advisory client.
2. No principal or employee of our Firm may buy or sell securities for their personal portfolio(s) where their decision is a
result of information received as a result of his or her employment unless the information is also available to the
investing public.
3. No person employed by us may knowingly purchase or sell any security prior to a transaction(s) being implemented for
an advisory account. This prevents such employees from benefiting from transactions placed on behalf of advisory
accounts.
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4. We require prior approval for any IPO or private placement investments by related persons of the Firm.
5. We maintain a list of anyone associated with our Firm that has access to advisory recommendations ("access person").
6. We have established procedures for the maintenance of all required books and records.
7. All of our principals and employees must act in accordance with all applicable Federal and State regulations governing
registered investment advisory practices.
8. We require delivery and acknowledgment of the Code of Ethics by each supervised person of our Firm.
9. We have established policies requiring the reporting of Code of Ethics violations to our senior management.
10. Any individual who violates any of the above restrictions may be subject to termination.
As disclosed in the preceding section of this Brochure (Item 10), related persons of our Firm may be separately registered
as securities representatives of a broker-dealer and/or appointed as an insurance agent of various insurance companies.
Please refer to Item 10 for a detailed explanation of these relationships and important conflict of interest disclosures.
ACCOUNT TRANSFERS
Our Firm has different fee schedules for Comprehensive Investment Advisory Services and Investment Advisory Services
for Defined Contribution Retirement Plan Participants (as noted in Item 5).
Whenever our Firm and/or any of our personnel receive a higher fee or other incentive for recommending a rollover or
transfer to a different plan and/or custody platform, this would create a conflict of interest that could impair the
objectivity of our Firm and these individuals when making advisory recommendations. Our Firm endeavors at all times to
put the interest of our clients first as part of our fiduciary duty as a registered investment adviser. In such a situation, we
will recommend a rollover or transfer to the client only if we believe there is strong reason to believe the transfer is
suitable and is in the client's best interest. We will disclose to the client the existence of all material conflicts of interest,
including any difference in fees between the two plans or platforms and the potential for our Firm and our employees to
earn greater compensation as a result of such a transfer. We will disclose to the client that he or she is not obligated to
purchase products or services we recommend, and that he or she should carefully consider the pros and cons before
making any decision to implement a transfer.
MODEL PORTFOLIO FEE DIFFERENTIALS
Certain models or investment strategies have added fees, as illustrated in Item 5. In general, the additional fees are either
primarily or fully applied to cover the added expense of investment management personnel and software used in the
management of those particular strategies. Using such personnel and software for security research and selection may in
some cases help reduce or eliminate other client expenses, such as mutual fund and ETF expense ratios. However, the
ability of the Firm to generate higher revenues from some models or strategies may also in some cases create a conflict
of interest for members of the Firm’s senior management, potentially impairing the objectivity of these individuals when
making advisory recommendations. Our Firm endeavors at all times to put the interest of our clients first as part of our
fiduciary duty as a registered investment adviser. In addition, we disclose to clients that they are not obligated to
purchase products or services we recommend; and we collect, maintain and document relevant client background
information, including the client’s financial goals, objectives and risk tolerance, to properly assess the suitability of various
products and services.
PROPRIETARY MUTUAL FUND
We have one proprietary product, the Verity U.S. Treasury Fund (the “Fund”), a no-load open-end mutual fund. The Fund is
a series of the Series Portfolio Trust.
In some Investment Advisory accounts, we allocate the assets in each account by selecting a portfolio of mutual funds to
meet the overall account objectives. If we select the Verity U.S. Treasury Fund as one of those allocations, we have a
conflict of interest, because we have the opportunity to profit from investment advisory fees charged by the Fund. When
we select the Fund in your portfolio, we will do so through the discretionary trading authority you granted to us in the
execution of your Investment Advisory Agreement. Your discretionary authority allows us, without prior discussion,
consultation, or consent from you, to buy the Fund in your account(s).
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When we select the Verity U.S. Treasury Fund as one of the funds an account, we are handling two separate functions: (1)
providing ongoing investment advisory services to the client that include allocating the account to meet the client’s
investment objectives and (2) conducting the research, trading, and various other activities involved in managing the
mutual fund. Typically, these functions are performed by different individuals within the Firm. We are compensated
separately for each of these functions.
When we select the Fund, it is our objective to add value to the portfolio. Given the background and experience of the
Portfolio Manager of the Fund, we believe there is a potential benefit to clients if we are able to determine the portfolio
management decisions for the Fund in a manner consistent with our investment philosophies and the specific way in
which we are seeking to use Treasury securities within client portfolios. There is, however, no guarantee that we will
succeed in adding value or that performance may not be greater using a different fund or funds.
Item 12 Brokerage Practices
Generally, our Firm will not select the broker-dealer to be used in executing transactions placed through the investment
advisory platforms of our custodians. However, in certain limited circumstances, we may direct the custodian to place
transactions through a specific broker or dealer if we have determined that, by doing so, we may obtain for the client a more
favorable commission, exchange rate, or trade execution. We do not receive any added value, including research or services,
for directing transactions to any broker or dealer.
BLOCK TRADING
Client accounts are generally associated with one or more model portfolios. Our custodians' proprietary model processing
software aggregates individual orders from accounts within each of the various models into block orders to purchase or
sell specific securities. Among other factors, this permits us to execute trades in a timelier, more equitable, and less
expensive manner. Each client's personal account records will illustrate the securities held by, and bought and sold for,
that account.
In executing block transactions, no client will be favored over any other client; each client that participates in an
aggregated order will participate at the average share price for all transactions made to fill the order. Transaction costs
will be charged to clients on a pro-rata basis in proportion to each client's participation. Our Firm will receive no additional
compensation of any kind as a result of aggregation of orders.
If we are buying or selling a given security in accounts at more than one custodian, we will typically aggregate trades only
among those clients whose accounts can be traded at a single custodian. Where applicable, we will rotate or vary the
order of custodians through which we place trades on any particular day.
If block orders cannot be completely filled, we may be forced to allocate the partially filled orders among the accounts
participating in the order The methodology to be used, which is implemented by the custodian’s software, is based upon
the general principle that securities being purchased are allocated based upon the relative size of each account and
securities being sold are allocated in proportion to the size of each account’s position in that security after first selling all
positions for accounts that may be terminating and transferring. Partially filled orders will be allocated pro-rata based
upon these principles. We will maintain records of all partially filled orders which are manually allocated reflecting review
by either the Chief Investment Officer or the Chief Compliance Officer of the securities bought and sold by each account.
The order may be allocated on a basis different from these stated policies if all client accounts receive fair and equitable
treatment and the reason for the different allocation is explained and approved in writing by our Chief Compliance Officer
no later than one hour after the opening of the markets on the trading day following the day the order was executed.
Trades for persons associated with our Firm are included in these policies. Thus, in the event of a partially filled order,
accounts for Associated Persons will participate in the pro rata allocation along with all other participating accounts.
CUSTODY RELATIONSHIPS
Verity Asset Management, Inc. has arrangements with AXOS Advisor Services, Fidelity Brokerage Services / National
Financial Services LLC (“Fidelity”), TIAA-CREF, Charles Schwab and Company, Inc. (“Schwab”), PCS, and IPX/FPS (the
“Custodians”) through which each custodian provides our Firm with their "platform" services. The platform services
include, among others, brokerage, custodial, administrative support, record keeping and related services. These services
are intended to support intermediaries like Verity Asset Management, Inc. in conducting business. They are designed to
serve the best interests of our clients, but they may also benefit us.
AXOS, Fidelity, and Schwab may in certain instances charge brokerage commissions and other transaction fees for
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effecting certain securities transactions. Any commissions and transaction fees charged by each Custodian may vary and
may also be higher or lower than those charged by other custodians and broker-dealers.
Our Firm may also receive additional services from certain of the Custodians, which may include portfolio management
technology and performance accounting services, among other things. Without these arrangements, we might be
compelled to purchase the same or similar services at our own expense.
As a result of receiving such services for no additional cost, we may have an incentive to continue to use or expand the
use of one or the other Custodian's services. We examined this potential conflict of interest when we chose to enter into
each of these relationships and have determined that the relationships are each, in the appropriate situations, in the best
interests of our clients and that they satisfy our client obligations, including our duty to seek best execution. A client may
pay a commission, custody fee, or other expense that is higher than another qualified broker-dealer might charge to effect
the same transaction or service where we determine in good faith that the charge is reasonable in relation to the value of
the overall services received. In seeking best execution, the determinative factor is not the lowest possible cost, but
whether the transaction represents the best qualitative execution, taking into consideration the full range of a custodian or
broker-dealer’s services, including the value of execution capability, commission rates, responsiveness, and related
services. Accordingly, while Verity Asset Management, Inc. will seek competitive rates, to the benefit of all clients, we may
not necessarily obtain the lowest possible commission rates or other expenses for specific client account transactions
and services. We are not affiliated with any of these Custodians.
Item 13 Review of Accounts
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES:
MODEL PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Reviews: Our Firm places accounts into one or more model portfolios except in limited cases where clients elect to hold
assets in a non-modeled status. Model portfolios are designed and managed under the supervision of the Chief
Investment Officer to conform to defined investment objectives. New account paperwork submitted by clients is reviewed
by a compliance principal to verify suitability of the model or other investment selection(s) prior to acceptance of the
account, and client requests for model portfolio changes, which must be in writing, are also reviewed for suitability.
Models are monitored regularly by the respective portfolio manager and the Chief Investment Officer for consistency with
their investment objectives, and trades are monitored by the Chief Investment Officer using a Daily Trade Blotter.
Electronic systems at custodians or third-party software providers allow portfolio managers to identify any accounts
within a model that have become imbalanced beyond defined parameters. Trades may be processed at the discretion of
the portfolio manager to bring those accounts back into appropriate balance.
Using these systems, there is currently no practical limit on the number of accounts within any given model that may be
reviewed by an associate. Distributions and terminations are monitored for unusual account activity.
All of the above systems are under the direct supervision of Gordon T. Wegwart, Chief Investment Officer/Chief
Compliance Officer. Suitability reviews are conducted by Gordon T. Wegwart, Chief Compliance Officer; Michael Hazen,
Director of Compliance; William R. Hopwood, Director of Workplace Savings; or another compliance principal as may be
appropriate. Monitoring and management of models is carried out by Gordon Wegwart, Chief Investment Officer, and the
following Portfolio Managers: Brian R. Kurtzer, Steven J. Lewis, Brad N. Corbett, Peter G. Klas, Malcolm M. Trevillian,
Sujatha Avutu, and Christopher C. Bolles. Monitoring of distributions and terminations is conducted by either Gordon T.
Wegwart or William R. Hopwood.
Investment advisory representatives of the Firm seek to conduct reviews with clients on a periodic basis, with a goal of
communication no less than annually either in person, by phone, or by mail to monitor their personal, tax, and financial
status along with any other circumstances that may warrant a change in investment objectives. As a further step, a profile
mailing is sent to each client on a 3-year cycle requesting written updates to account objectives and other account related
information.
Reports: Account statements are generated quarterly by the respective account custodians. The statements are sent
directly to clients by the account custodians. These statements list the account positions, activity in the account during
the prior quarter, and other related information. Additionally, clients are able to access their account activity at all times
via the respective custodian’s website.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES:
INDIVIDUAL PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Reviews: Accounts that are managed on a non-modeled basis are reviewed at the time of account opening and thereafter
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on a frequency appropriate to the nature of the account. Accounts are reviewed in the context of each client's stated
investment objectives and guidelines. The primary point of review is at the time of any trades, with trading in client
accounts conducted exclusively by one of the Firm’s portfolio managers or designated traders, subject to limited
exceptions as noted below:
These accounts are reviewed and traded by or at the specific direction of either Gordon T. Wegwart, Chief Investment
Officer, Brad N. Corbett, Senior Portfolio Manager, Malcolm Trevillian, Portfolio Manager, Sujatha Avutu, Portfolio
Manager, or William R. Hopwood, Director of Workplace Savings, with limited exceptions provided to selected advisors to
handle individual trades in which a portfolio manager may not be readily available or for convenience of a given client. Any
such exceptions operate under narrow parameters supervised and documented in each instance by the Chief Investment
Officer.
Reports: Account statements are generated quarterly by the account custodians. The statements are sent directly to
clients by the account custodians. These statements list the account positions, activity in the account during the prior
quarter, and other related information. Additionally, clients are able to access their account activity at all times via the
custodian’s website.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES TO RETIREMENT PLAN SPONSORS
Reviews: Our Firm will review each plan sponsor's Investment Policy Statement (IPS) whenever the plan sponsor advises
us of a change in circumstances. We will review the investment options of the plan according to the agreed upon time
intervals established in the IPS. Such reviews will generally occur quarterly.
These accounts are reviewed by either Gordon T. Wegwart, Chief Investment Officer, Peter G. Klas, Portfolio Manager, or
Albert Otto, Director of Employer Plans.
Reports: Our Firm will provide reports to Pension Consulting Services clients based on the terms set forth in the client's
Investment Policy Statement (IPS).
FINANCIAL PLANNING SERVICES
Reviews: While reviews may occur at different stages depending on the nature and terms of the specific engagement,
typically no formal reviews will be conducted for Financial Planning clients unless otherwise contracted for.
Reports: Financial Planning clients will typically receive a completed financial plan or a retirement income planning
analysis, depending upon the specific service contracted. Additional reports will not typically be provided unless otherwise
contracted for.
Item 14 Client Referrals and Other Compensation
CLIENT REFERRALS
Our Firm may pay referral fees to independent persons or Firms ("Promoters") to introduce clients to us. Whenever we pay
a referral fee, we require the Promoter to provide the prospective client with a copy of this document (our Firm Brochure)
along with a disclosure statement that includes the following information:
• the Promoter's name and relationship with our Firm.
• the fact that the Promoter is being paid a referral fee.
• the amount of the fee, and
• whether the fee paid to us by the client will be increased above our normal fees in order to compensate the Promoter.
Client fees may be increased as a result of this arrangement. Any increase will be specifically disclosed.
OTHER COMPENSATION
It is the policy of Verity Asset Management, Inc. not to accept or allow our related persons to accept any form of
compensation, including cash, sales awards or other prizes, from a non-client in conjunction with the advisory services we
provide to our clients.
Item 15 Custody
We previously disclosed in the "Fees and Compensation" section (Item 5) of this Brochure that our Firm directly debits
advisory fees from client accounts.
As part of this billing process, the client's custodian is advised, where applicable, of the amount of the fee to be deducted
from that client's account. On at least a quarterly basis, the custodian is required to send directly to the client an account
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statement showing all transactions within the account during the reporting period.
Because the custodian does not in all cases calculate the amount of the fee to be deducted, it is important for clients to
carefully review their custodial statements to verify the accuracy of the calculation, among other things. Clients should
contact us directly if they believe that there may be an error in their statement.
Item 16 Investment Discretion
Clients may hire us to provide discretionary asset management services, in which case we place trades in a client's
account without contacting the client prior to each trade to obtain the client's permission.
Our discretionary authority includes the ability to do the following without contacting the client:
• determine the security to buy or sell; and/or
• determine the amount of the security to buy or sell
Clients give us discretionary authority when they sign a discretionary investment advisory agreement with our Firm,
providing us with limited power of attorney, and may limit this authority by giving us written instructions. Clients may also
change/amend such limitations by once again providing us with written instructions.
Item 17 Voting Client Securities
As a matter of Firm policy, we do not vote proxies on behalf of clients. Therefore, although our Firm may provide
investment advisory services relative to client investment assets, clients maintain exclusive responsibility for: (1) directing
the manner in which proxies solicited by issuers of securities beneficially owned by the client shall be voted, and (2)
making all elections relative to any mergers, acquisitions, tender offers, bankruptcy proceedings or other type events
pertaining to the client’s investment assets. Clients are responsible for instructing each custodian of the assets to
forward to the client copies of all proxies and shareholder communications relating to the client’s investment assets. We
do not offer any consulting assistance regarding proxy issues to clients.
Item 18 Financial Information
Under no circumstances do we require or solicit payment of fees in excess of $1200 per client more than six months in
advance of services rendered. Therefore, we are not required to include a financial statement.
As an advisory Firm that maintains discretionary authority for client accounts, we are required to disclose any financial
condition that is reasonable likely to impair our ability to meet our contractual obligations. Verity Asset Management, Inc.
has no additional financial circumstances to report. Verity Asset Management, Inc., has never been the subject of a
bankruptcy petition.
28
JULY 15, 2025
Form ADV Part 2B: Brochure Supplement
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Gordon T. Wegwart; Chief Investment Officer
Brian R. Kurtzer; Senior Portfolio Manager
Brad N. Corbett; Director of Fixed Income and Alternative Investing
Malcolm M. Trevillian; Portfolio Manager
Steven J. Lewis; Portfolio Manager
Sujatha R. Avutu; Portfolio Manager
CONTACT INFORMATION
Verity Asset Management, Inc.
Address:
280 S Mangum St Ste 550
Durham, NC 27701-3683
Telephone:
Email:
Web:
919.490.6717
compliance@verityinvest.com
https://verityinvest.com/
This brochure supplement provides information about the individual(s) listed above that supplements the
Verity Asset Management, Inc. brochure. You should have received a copy of that brochure. Please contact
Verity's Chief Compliance Officer if you did not receive Verity's brochure or if you have any questions about the
contents of this supplement.
Additional information about the individual(s) listed above is available on the SEC’s website at
https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/
29
EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 11, 2025
ADV Part 2B
Brochure Supplement
Gordon Thomas Wegwart
• We require that our employees seek prior approval for any
ITEM 1 – COVER PAGE
outside employment business activity.
• We attempt to contact you at least annually to conduct a
comprehensive review of your financial situation and
ensure that our recommendations continue to be aligned
with your best interests.
Gordon Thomas Wegwart
Verity Asset Management, Inc.
280 S Mangum St, Ste 550, Durham, NC 27701-3683
919-490-6717
compliance@verityinvest.com
www.verityinvest.com
Please see Item 10 of our Firm's Form ADV Part 2 for more
details.
Non-Investment Related Activities
No other business or occupation provides substantial
compensation or involves a substantial amount of his time.
ITEM 5 – ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION
This brochure supplement provides information about Gordon
Wegwart that supplements the Verity Asset Management
brochure. You should have received a copy of that brochure.
Please contact Verity's Compliance Officer if you did not
receive Verity's brochure or if you have any questions about the
contents of this supplement.
Mr. Wegwart does not receive any economic benefit from a
non-advisory client for the provision of advisory services.
Additional information about Gordon Thomas Wegwart is
available on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
ITEM 6 – SUPERVISION
ITEM 2 – EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND BUSINESS
EXPERIENCE
Mr. Wegwart reports to Amy L Simonson, Board of Directors
(919-490-6717)
Gordon Thomas Wegwart
Born 1954
Educational Background
• Duke University; BA; History / Religion – Summa Cum
Laude; 1976
Business Experience
Mr. Wegwart has been an Investment Advisor Representative
and President, Chief Investment Officer with Verity Asset
Management since 09/1996
•
•
•
•
Partner; Simplicity Group Holdings, LP; 7/2025 – Present
Registered Representative, President; Verity Investments,
Inc.; 06/2011 – Present
Partner; Verity Financial Group; 7/2025 – Present
President; Verity Financial Group; 09/1996 – 7/2025
Our Firm assigns accounts to one or more model portfolios
except in limited cases where clients elect to hold assets in a
non-modeled status. Model portfolios are designed and
managed under the supervision of the Chief Investment Officer
to conform to defined investment objectives. New account
paperwork submitted by clients is reviewed by a Supervisory
Principal to verify the model or other investment selection(s)
prior to acceptance of the account, and client requests for
portfolio changes, which must be in writing, are aligned with
the best interest of the client. Models are monitored daily by
the respective portfolio manager for consistency with
investment objectives, and all trades in non-modeled accounts
are reviewed by a supervisory principal. Trades are reviewed
daily by the Chief Investment Officer using a Daily Trade
Blotter. Distributions and terminations are monitored daily for
unusual activity.
ITEM 3 – DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
Mr. Wegwart has no reportable disciplinary history.
ITEM 4 – OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Investment Related Activities
Mr. Wegwart is a Registered Representative of a Broker-Dealer
and a licensed insurance agent. The ability to recommend and
sell securities or insurance on a commission basis creates a
conflict of interest, as there is an incentive to recommend such
products in a manner that prioritizes financial gain over a
client’s needs. Our Firm always endeavors to put the interest of
our clients first as part of our fiduciary duty as a Registered
Investment Adviser. In addition, we take the following steps to
address this conflict:
• We disclose to clients the existence of all material
conflicts of interest.
• We disclose to clients that they are not obligated to
purchase products or services we recommend.
• We collect, maintain, and document relevant client
background information to properly assess the suitability
of various products and services.
EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 11, 2025
ADV Part 2B
Brochure Supplement
Brian Richard Kurtzer
ITEM 1 – COVER PAGE
• We attempt to contact you at least annually to conduct a
comprehensive review of your financial situation and
ensure that our recommendations continue to be aligned
with your best interests.
Please see Item 10 of our Firm's Form ADV Part 2 for more
details.
Brian Richard Kurtzer
Verity Asset Management, Inc.
280 S Mangum St, Ste 550, Durham, NC 27701-3683
919-490-6717
compliance@verityinvest.com
www.verityinvest.com
Non-Investment Related Activities
No other business or occupation provides substantial
compensation or involves a substantial amount of his time.
ITEM 5 – ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION
This brochure supplement provides information about Brian
Kurtzer that supplements the Verity Asset Management
brochure. You should have received a copy of that brochure.
Please contact Verity's Compliance Officer if you did not
receive Verity's brochure or if you have any questions about the
contents of this supplement.
Mr. Kurtzer does not receive any economic benefit from a non-
advisory client for the provision of advisory services.
ITEM 6 – SUPERVISION
Additional information about Brian Richard Kurtzer is available
on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Mr. Kurtzer reports to Gordon T Wegwart (919-490-6717)
ITEM 2 – EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND BUSINESS
EXPERIENCE
Brian Richard Kurtzer
Born 1957
Educational Background
•
•
Fordham University School of Law; JD; Law; 1996
State University of New York at Albany; BS; Business
Administration; 1979
Business Experience
Mr. Kurtzer has been an Investment Advisor Representative
with Verity Asset Management since 10/2004
•
•
Our Firm assigns accounts to one or more model portfolios
except in limited cases where clients elect to hold assets in a
non-modeled status. Model portfolios are designed and
managed under the supervision of the Chief Investment Officer
to conform to defined investment objectives. New account
paperwork submitted by clients is reviewed by a Supervisory
Principal to verify the model or other investment selection(s)
prior to acceptance of the account, and client requests for
portfolio changes, which must be in writing, are aligned with
the best interest of the client. Models are monitored daily by
the respective portfolio manager for consistency with
investment objectives, and all trades in non-modeled accounts
are reviewed by a supervisory principal. Trades are reviewed
daily by the Chief Investment Officer using a Daily Trade
Blotter. Distributions and terminations are monitored daily for
unusual activity.
Registered Representative; Simplicity Investments, Inc.;
11/2025 – Present
Registered Representative; Verity Investments, Inc.;
06/2011 – 11/2025
ITEM 3 – DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
Mr. Kurtzer has no reportable disciplinary history.
ITEM 4 – OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Investment Related Activities
Mr. Kurtzer is a Registered Representative of a Broker-Dealer.
The ability to recommend and sell securities on a commission
basis creates a conflict of interest, as there is an incentive to
recommend such products in a manner that prioritizes
financial gain over a client’s needs. Our Firm always endeavors
to put the interest of our clients first as part of our fiduciary
duty as a Registered Investment Adviser. In addition, we take
the following steps to address this conflict:
• We disclose to clients the existence of all material
conflicts of interest.
• We disclose to clients that they are not obligated to
purchase products or services we recommend.
• We collect, maintain, and document relevant client
background information to properly assess the suitability
of various products and services.
• We require that our employees seek prior approval for any
outside employment business activity.
EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 11, 2025
ADV Part 2B
Brochure Supplement
Brad Nolan Corbett
ITEM 1 – COVER PAGE
portfolio changes, which must be in writing, are aligned with
the best interest of the client. Models are monitored daily by
the respective portfolio manager for consistency with
investment objectives, and all trades in non-modeled accounts
are reviewed by a supervisory principal. Trades are reviewed
daily by the Chief Investment Officer using a Daily Trade
Blotter. Distributions and terminations are monitored daily for
unusual activity.
Brad Nolan Corbett
Verity Asset Management, Inc.
280 S Mangum St, Ste 550, Durham, NC 27701-3683
919-490-6717
compliance@verityinvest.com
www.verityinvest.com
This brochure supplement provides information about Brad
Corbett that supplements the Verity Asset Management
brochure. You should have received a copy of that brochure.
Please contact Verity's Compliance Officer if you did not
receive Verity's brochure or if you have any questions about the
contents of this supplement.
Additional information about Brad Nolan Corbett is available
on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
ITEM 2 – EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND BUSINESS
EXPERIENCE
Brad Nolan Corbett
Born 1974
Educational Background
• Gettysburg College; BA, Finance & Accounting; 1997
• University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill; MBA; 2002
Business Experience
Mr. Corbett has been an Investment Advisor Representative
and the Director of Fixed Income & Alternate Investing with
Verity Asset Management since 06/2014
ITEM 3 – DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
Mr. Corbett has no reportable disciplinary history.
ITEM 4 – OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Investment Related Activities
No other business or occupation provides substantial
compensation or involves a substantial amount of his time.
Non-Investment Related Activities
No other business or occupation provides substantial
compensation or involves a substantial amount of his time.
ITEM 5 – ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION
Mr. Corbett does not receive any economic benefit from a non-
advisory client for the provision of advisory services.
ITEM 6 – SUPERVISION
Mr. Corbett reports to Gordon T Wegwart (919-490-6717)
Our Firm assigns accounts to one or more model portfolios
except in limited cases where clients elect to hold assets in a
non-modeled status. Model portfolios are designed and
managed under the supervision of the Chief Investment Officer
to conform to defined investment objectives. New account
paperwork submitted by clients is reviewed by a Supervisory
Principal to verify the model or other investment selection(s)
prior to acceptance of the account, and client requests for
EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 11, 2025
ADV Part 2B
Brochure Supplement
Malcolm McEachern Trevillian
ITEM 1 – COVER PAGE
Malcolm McEachern Trevillian
Verity Asset Management, Inc.
280 S Mangum St, Ste 550, Durham, NC 27701-3683
919-490-6717
compliance@verityinvest.com
www.verityinvest.com
This brochure supplement provides information about Malcolm
Trevillian that supplements the Verity Asset Management
brochure. You should have received a copy of that brochure.
Please contact Verity's Compliance Officer if you did not
receive Verity's brochure or if you have any questions about the
contents of this supplement.
Our Firm assigns accounts to one or more model portfolios
except in limited cases where clients elect to hold assets in a
non-modeled status. Model portfolios are designed and
managed under the supervision of the Chief Investment Officer
to conform to defined investment objectives. New account
paperwork submitted by clients is reviewed by a Supervisory
Principal to verify the model or other investment selection(s)
prior to acceptance of the account, and client requests for
portfolio changes, which must be in writing, are aligned with
the best interest of the client. Models are monitored daily by
the respective portfolio manager for consistency with
investment objectives, and all trades in non-modeled accounts
are reviewed by a supervisory principal. Trades are reviewed
daily by the Chief Investment Officer using a Daily Trade
Blotter. Distributions and terminations are monitored daily for
unusual activity.
Additional information about Malcolm McEachern Trevillian is
available on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
ITEM 2 – EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND BUSINESS
EXPERIENCE
Malcolm McEachern Trevillian
Born 1956
Educational Background
•
Furman University; BA; Economics; 1978
Business Experience
Mr. Trevillian has been an Investment Advisor Representative
and Portfolio Manager with Verity Asset Management since
08/2008.
•
Financial Advisor; Verity Financial Group; 08/2008 –
Present
Designations
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA); CFA Institute
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a globally respected,
graduate level investment credential awarded by the CFA
Institute. The three levels of the CFA Program test proficiency
with a wide range of fundamental and advanced investment
topics, including ethical standards, fixed income and equity
analysis, economics, portfolio management, among others.
ITEM 3 – DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
Mr. Trevillian has no reportable disciplinary history.
ITEM 4 – OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Investment Related and Non-Investment Related Activities
No other business or occupation provides substantial
compensation or involves a substantial amount of his time.
ITEM 5 – ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION
Mr. Trevillian does not receive any economic benefit from a
non-advisory client for the provision of advisory services.
ITEM 6 – SUPERVISION
Mr. Trevillian reports to Gordon T Wegwart (919-490-6717)
EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 11, 2025
ADV Part 2B
Brochure Supplement
Steven James Lewis
• We require that our employees seek prior approval for any
ITEM 1 – COVER PAGE
outside employment business activity.
• We attempt to contact you at least annually to conduct a
comprehensive review of your financial situation and
ensure that our recommendations continue to be aligned
with your best interests.
Steven James Lewis
Verity Asset Management, Inc.
280 S Mangum St, Ste 550, Durham, NC 27701-3683
919-490-6717
compliance@verityinvest.com
www.verityinvest.com
Please see Item 10 of our Firm's Form ADV Part 2 for more
details.
Non-Investment Related Activities
No other business or occupation provides substantial
compensation or involves a substantial amount of his time.
ITEM 5 – ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION
This brochure supplement provides information about Steve
Lewis that supplements the Verity Asset Management
brochure. You should have received a copy of that brochure.
Please contact Verity's Compliance Officer if you did not
receive Verity's brochure or if you have any questions about the
contents of this supplement.
Mr. Lewis does not receive any economic benefit from a non-
advisory client for the provision of advisory services.
Additional information about Steven James Lewis is available
on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
ITEM 6 – SUPERVISION
ITEM 2 – EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND BUSINESS
EXPERIENCE
Mr. Lewis reports to Gordon T Wegwart (919-490-6717)
Steven James Lewis
Born 1960
Educational Background
• Hofstra University; Pre-Law; Attended from 1979 – 1980
Business Experience
Mr. Lewis has been an Investment Advisor Representative and
Portfolio Manager, Small-MidCap Value with Verity Asset
Management since 10/2006
•
•
•
Financial Advisor; Verity Financial Group; 10/2006 –
Present
Registered Representative; Simplicity Investments, Inc.;
11/2025 – Present
Registered Representative; Verity Investments, Inc.;
06/2011 – 11/2025
Our Firm assigns accounts to one or more model portfolios
except in limited cases where clients elect to hold assets in a
non-modeled status. Model portfolios are designed and
managed under the supervision of the Chief Investment Officer
to conform to defined investment objectives. New account
paperwork submitted by clients is reviewed by a Supervisory
Principal to verify the model or other investment selection(s)
prior to acceptance of the account, and client requests for
portfolio changes, which must be in writing, are aligned with
the best interest of the client. Models are monitored daily by
the respective portfolio manager for consistency with
investment objectives, and all trades in non-modeled accounts
are reviewed by a supervisory principal. Trades are reviewed
daily by the Chief Investment Officer using a Daily Trade
Blotter. Distributions and terminations are monitored daily for
unusual activity.
ITEM 3 – DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
Mr. Lewis has no reportable disciplinary history.
ITEM 4 – OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Investment Related Activities
Mr. Lewis is a Registered Representative of a Broker-Dealer
and a licensed insurance agent. The ability to recommend and
sell securities or insurance on a commission basis creates a
conflict of interest, as there is an incentive to recommend such
products in a manner that prioritizes financial gain over a
client’s needs. Our Firm always endeavors to put the interest of
our clients first as part of our fiduciary duty as a Registered
Investment Adviser. In addition, we take the following steps to
address this conflict:
• We disclose to clients the existence of all material
conflicts of interest.
• We disclose to clients that they are not obligated to
purchase products or services we recommend.
• We collect, maintain, and document relevant client
background information to properly assess the suitability
of various products and services.
EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 11, 2025
ADV Part 2B
Brochure Supplement
Sujatha Reddy Avutu
ITEM 1 – COVER PAGE
Sujatha Reddy Avutu
Verity Asset Management, Inc.
280 S Mangum St Ste 550 Durham NC 27701-3683
919.490.6717
compliance@verityinvest.com
www.verityinvest.com
This brochure supplement provides information about Sujatha
Avutu that supplements the Verity Asset Management
brochure. You should have received a copy of that brochure.
Please contact Verity's Compliance Officer if you did not
receive Verity's brochure or if you have any questions about the
contents of this supplement.
Our firm places accounts into one or more model portfolios
except in limited cases where clients elect to hold assets in a
non-modeled status. Model portfolios are designed and
managed under the supervision of members of the Investment
Team and the Chief Investment Officer to conform to defined
investment objectives. New account paperwork submitted by
clients is reviewed by a compliance principal to verify
suitability of the model or other investment selection(s) prior to
acceptance of the account, and client requests for portfolio
changes, which must be in writing, are also reviewed for
suitability. Models are monitored daily by the respective
portfolio manager for consistency with investment objectives,
and non-modeled accounts are reviewed at least quarterly.
Trades are reviewed daily by the Chief Investment Officer using
a Daily Trade Blotter. Distributions and terminations are
monitored daily for unusual activity.
Additional information about Sujatha Reddy Avutu is available
on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
ITEM 2 – EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND BUSINESS
EXPERIENCE
Sujatha Reddy Avutu
Born 1959
Educational Background
• University of Dayton; BS Finance; 1987
• Miami University; MBA Finance, Management Information
Systems; 1992
Business Experience
Ms. Avutu has been an Investment Advisor Representative with
Verity Asset Management since 01/2022
• Advisor, Portfolio Manager; Aston Peak; 05/2016 –
Present
Professional Designations
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a globally respected,
graduate level investment credential awarded by the CFA
Institute. The three levels of the CFA Program test a
proficiency with a wide range of fundamental and advanced
investment topics, including ethical standards, fixed income
and equity analysis, economics, portfolio management, among
others.
ITEM 3 – DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION
Ms. Avutu has no reportable disciplinary history.
ITEM 4 – OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Investment Related and Non-Investment Related Activities
No other business or occupation provides substantial
compensation or involves a substantial amount of her time.
ITEM 5 – ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION
Ms. Avutu does not receive any economic benefit from a non-
advisory client for the provision of advisory services.
ITEM 6 – SUPERVISION
Ms. Avutu reports to Gordon T Wegwart (919-490-6717)