View Document Text
Watershed Private Wealth LLC
1415 West 22nd Street
Suite 550
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Phone (630) 478-0195
www.watershedprivatewealth.com
July 30, 2025
Form ADV Part 2A Brochure
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC is a registered investment adviser. An "investment adviser" means any
person who, for compensation, engages in the business of advising others, either directly or through
publications or writings, as to the value of securities or as to the advisability of investing in, purchasing,
or selling securities, or who, for compensation and as part of a regular business, issues or promulgates
analyses or reports concerning securities. Registration with the SEC or any state securities authority does
not imply a certain level of skill or training.
This brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Watershed Private
Wealth, LLC If you have any questions about the contents of this brochure, please contact us at (630) 645-
3848 and/or info@watershedprivatewealth.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.
Additional information about Watershed Private Wealth, LLC is available on the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 2
Material Changes - Item 2
On February 26, 2025, we filed our annual updating amendment for fiscal year end 2024. In January 2025, Joshi
Koneru became a part owner of our firm. We have amended Item 4 of our Form ADV Part 2 Brochure to disclose
this fact.
a
copy of our new Brochure, please
contact us
at
(630) 478-0195
We review and update our brochure at least annually to make sure that it remains current. If you would like to
and/or
receive
info@watershedprivatewealth.com.
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 3
Table of Contents - Item 3
Contents
Advisory Business - Item 4 ........................................................................................................................ 4
Fees and Compensation - Item 5 .............................................................................................................. 6
Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management - Item 6 .......................................................... 8
Types of Clients - Item 7............................................................................................................................ 8
Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss - Item 8..................................................... 8
Disciplinary Information - Item 9 ............................................................................................................ 15
Other Financial Industry Activities or Affiliations - Item 10 .................................................................... 15
Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal Trading - Item 11 ........... 16
Brokerage Practices - Item 12 ................................................................................................................. 17
Review of Accounts - Item 13 ................................................................................................................. 18
Client Referrals and Other Compensation - Item 14 .............................................................................. 18
Custody - Item 15 .................................................................................................................................... 19
Investment Discretion - Item 16 ............................................................................................................. 19
Voting Client Securities - Item 17 ........................................................................................................... 19
Financial Information - Item 18 .............................................................................................................. 19
Requirements of State-Registered Advisers - Item 19 ............................................................................ 20
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 4
Advisory Business - Item 4
A. Description of Advisory Firm
Watershed Private Wealth LLC (hereinafter “WPWL”) is a Limited Liability Company organized in the State of
Illinois. The firm was formed in August 2021. As of January 2025, WPWL’s principal owners are Brendan G. Moody
and Joshi I. Koneru.
You may see the term Associated Person throughout this Brochure. As used in this Brochure, this term refers to
anyone from our firm who is an officer, employee, and all individuals providing investment advice on behalf of
our firm. Where required, such persons are properly licensed or registered as investment adviser representatives.
B. Description of the types of advisory services offered.
Portfolio Management Services
WPWL offers ongoing portfolio management services based on the individual goals, objectives, time horizon, and
risk tolerance of each client. Once such information is gathered, the firm constructs a portfolio allocation that is
designed to match the client's specific situation. Portfolio management services include, but are not limited to,
the following:
• Investment strategy
• Personal investment policy
• Asset allocation
• Asset selection
• Risk tolerance
• Regular portfolio monitoring
WPWL evaluates the current investments of each client with respect to their risk tolerance levels and time
horizon. WPWL will request discretionary authority from clients in order to select securities and execute
transactions without permission from the client prior to each transaction. Risk tolerance levels are documented
in the Investment Policy Statement, which is given to each client.
Currently, WPWL offers its Portfolio Management Services in conjunction with GeoWealth Management, LLC,
(“GWM”). GWM assists our firm with back-office support, trading, report preparation, and billing. We use model
portfolios developed by the sub adviser and/or other registered investment advisers. These other investment
advisers are responsible for the research and security selection, WPWL is responsible for the supervision of the
account and the sub adviser is responsible for day-to-day trading, billing calculation and other back-office
operations. All clients will be provided with a current copy of the sub adviser’s Form ADV Part 2 Brochure at the
inception of service. This document provides important disclosures about the sub adviser’s services, portfolio
models, fees, conflicts of interest, disciplinary history (if any), and other important information that would help
clients understand the scope of sub advisory services provided by the sub adviser.
WPWL seeks to provide that investment decisions are made in accordance with the fiduciary duties owed to its
accounts and without consideration of WPWL’s economic, investment or other financial interests. To meet its
fiduciary obligations, WPWL attempts to avoid, among other things, investment or trading practices that
systematically advantage or disadvantage certain client portfolios, and accordingly, WPWL’s policy is to seek fair
and equitable allocation of investment opportunities/transactions among its clients to avoid favoring one client
over another over time. It is WPWL’s policy to allocate investment opportunities and transactions it identifies as
being appropriate and prudent, including initial public offerings ("IPOs") and other investment opportunities that
might have a limited supply, among its clients on a fair and equitable basis over time.
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 5
Financial Planning
WPWL provides financial consulting on a range of matters for clients. These services include analysis and
recommendations relating to cash flow, projected income taxes, estate objectives, education funding, investment
portfolio evaluation, long term health care planning, retirement planning, tax planning, and insurance provisions
and needs. Once Watershed completes this analysis, a representative from the firm meets with the client and
finalizes a financial plan where different financial and/or estate planning and investment strategies are discussed.
The client is provided with a summary in regard to the firm’s analysis and recommendations. When a specific
strategy is decided upon, the implementation of that strategy begins and is reviewed, monitored, and updated
by meetings, telephone calls and correspondence. Not all clients engage Watershed for every service described.
Services Limited to Specific Types of Investments
WPWL provides advice on various types of securities, such as exchange listed equities, over the counter equities,
foreign issues, American depository receipts, investment company securities (including mutual funds variable
products, and exchange traded funds), options contracts on securities, and interests in partnership investing in
real estate, or other private equity investments. Additionally, we may provide advice on existing investments you
may hold at the inception of the advisory relationship or on other types of investments for which you ask advice.
Advisory recommendations are based on financial information that you disclose to us at the time the services are
provided. Certain assumptions may be made with respect to interest and inflation rates and the use of past trends
and performance of the market and economy. Past performance is in no way an indication of future returns. As
your financial situation, goals, objectives, or needs change, you must notify us promptly.
C. Client Tailored Services and Client Imposed Restrictions
WPWL will tailor a program for each individual client. This will include an interview session to get to know the
client’s specific needs and requirements as well as a plan that will be executed by WPWL on behalf of the client.
WPWL may use model allocations together with a specific set of recommendations for each client based on their
personal restrictions, needs, and targets. Clients may impose restrictions in investing in certain securities or types
of securities in accordance with their values or beliefs. However, if the restrictions prevent WPWL from properly
servicing the client account, or if the restrictions would require WPWL to deviate from its standard suite of
services, WPWL reserves the right to end the relationship.
D. Wrap Fee Programs
A wrap fee program is an investment program where the investor pays one stated fee that includes management
fees and transaction costs. WPWL does not participate in wrap fee programs.
E. Assets Under Management
As of December 31, 2024, WPWL has the following assets under management:
Discretionary Amounts
$302,042,079.00
Non-discretionary Amounts
$0.00
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 6
Fees and Compensation - Item 5
A. Fee Schedule
Portfolio Management Services Fees
For portfolio management services, WPWL charges an annual fee based on a percentage of assets under
management. Fees are based on the following fee schedule:
Total Assets Under Management
$0 - $1,000,000
$1,000,000 - $2,000,000
$2,000,000 - $5,000,000
$5,000,000 - $10,000,000
Over $10,000,000
Annual Fees
1.20%
1.00%
0.85%
0.75%
0.50%
WPWL’s portfolio management fees are payable quarterly, in advance, and are based on the value of the assets
in the portfolio on the last business day of the prior billing period. Our firm uses a breakpoint fee schedule. This
means that the entire portfolio is charged the same asset management fee. For example, a client with $3,000,000
in assets under management on the last business day of the first quarter would pay a fee of $6,375 on the first
business day of the second quarter (($3,000,000 x 0.85%)/4 = $6,375). The management fee for the initial quarter
shall be calculated on a pro rata basis commencing on the day the assets are initially designated to us for
management.
The fee listed above includes the compensation received by GWM, our current sub adviser. GWM gives us access
to a model provider marketplace where client assets can be placed in investment models created by a number of
outside managers. In some cases, these models are provided for no additional fees. However, some models are
subject to a separate fee charged by the model manager. These additional fees will range from 0.15% to 0.85%
and will only apply to the portion of the portfolio invested in the model. All such fees will be clearly disclosed to
the client at the time of allocation.
Most clients engage us for ongoing portfolio management combined with financial planning services. When this
occurs, the costs of our financial planning advice are typically included within the asset-based fees we charge for
our rendering of portfolio management services to you.
These fees are generally negotiable and the final fee schedule will be memorialized in the client’s advisory
agreement. Clients may terminate the agreement without penalty for a full refund of WPWL's fees within five
business days of signing the Investment Advisory Contract. Thereafter, clients may terminate the Investment
Advisory Contract immediately upon written notice. Upon termination, for any unearned asset-based fees paid
in advance, the fee refunded will be equal to the balance of the fees collected in advance minus the daily rate*
times the number of days elapsed in the billing period up to and including the day of termination. (*The daily rate
is calculated by dividing the annual asset-based fee rate by 365.)
Financial Planning Fees
Financial planning fees range from $1,000 to $10,000. The fees are negotiable, and the final fee schedule will be
attached as Exhibit II of the Financial Planning Agreement. Financial Planning fees are waived for portfolio
management clients. Fees are paid in advance. We do not require you to pay fees six or more months in advance
and in excess of $1,200.
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 7
Clients may terminate the agreement without penalty, for full refund of WPWL’s fees, within five business days
of signing the Financial Planning Agreement. Thereafter, clients may terminate the Financial Planning Agreement
upon written notice.
B. Payment of Fees
Payment of Portfolio Management Fees
The portfolio management fee is deducted from the client's account held at the custodian. The client authorizes
us or GWM to debit the fee from the client’s account. If insufficient cash is available to pay such fees, securities
in an amount equal to the balance of unpaid fees will be liquidated to pay for the unpaid balance. We may deduct
the fee from a single, client-designated account to facilitate billing. We encourage you to carefully review the
statements you receive from the qualified custodian. If you have questions about your statements, or if you did
not receive a statement from the qualified custodian, please call our office number located on the cover page of
this brochure. In limited cases, we may invoice the client directly for the payment of fees.
Payment of Financial Planning Fees
Fixed Financial Planning fees are paid via check or wire.
C. Client Responsibility for Third Party Fees
All fees paid to WPWL for investment advisory services are separate and distinct from the fees and expenses
charged by investment companies like mutual funds and exchange traded funds to their shareholders. These fees
and expenses are described in each fund's prospectus. These fees generally include management fees, other fund
expenses, early redemption fees, and possible distribution fees. A client could invest in an investment company
directly, without the services of WPWL. In that case, the client would not receive the services provided by WPWL,
which are designed, among other things, to assist the client in determining which mutual fund or funds are most
appropriate to each client's financial condition and objectives. Accordingly, the client should review both the fees
charged by the funds and the fees charged by WPWL to understand fully the total amount of fees to be paid by
the client and to evaluate the advisory services being provided.
Mutual funds generally offer multiple share classes based upon certain eligibility and/or purchase requirements.
For instance, in addition to retail share classes (typically referred to as class A, class B, and class C shares), mutual
funds may also offer institutional share classes or other share classes that are specifically designed for purchase
by investors who meet certain specified eligibility criteria, including, for example, whether an account meets
certain minimum dollar amount thresholds or is enrolled in an eligible fee-based investment advisory program.
Institutional share classes usually have a lower expense ratio than other share classes.
For clients investing in mutual funds, the firm requires that the Associated Person purchase the share class most
beneficial to the client, generally the institutional or advisory share class. In some cases, these share classes are
not made available by the sponsor fund. Here, the firm will direct the Associated Person to seek a comparable,
similar mutual fund that provides an advisory share class, and offer the fund and share class to the client. If no
comparable fund with an advisory share class is available, the client may pay higher fees that include 12b-1 fees.
Further information regarding fees and charges assessed by a mutual fund is available in each mutual fund’s
prospectus. Although the firm uses its best efforts to purchase lower cost mutual fund shares when available,
some mutual fund companies do not offer institutional classes or funds that do not pay 12b-1 distribution fees.
Billing on Cash Positions: The firm treats cash and cash equivalents as an asset class. Accordingly, unless otherwise
agreed in writing, all cash and cash equivalent positions (e.g., money market funds, etc.) are included as part of
assets under management for purposes of calculating the firm’s advisory fee. At any specific point in time,
depending upon perceived or anticipated market conditions/events (there being no guarantee that such
anticipated market conditions/events will occur), the firm may maintain cash and/or cash equivalent positions for
defensive, liquidity, or other purposes. While assets are maintained in cash or cash equivalents, such amounts
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 8
could miss market advances and, depending upon current yields, at any point in time, the firm’s advisory fee could
exceed the interest paid by the client’s cash or cash equivalent positions.
Periods of Portfolio Inactivity: The firm has a fiduciary duty to provide services consistent with the client’s best
interest. As part of its investment advisory services, the firm will review client portfolios on an ongoing basis to
determine if any changes are necessary based upon various factors, including but not limited to investment
performance, fund manager tenure, style drift, account additions/withdrawals, the client’s financial
circumstances, and changes in the client’s investment objectives. Based upon these and other factors, there may
be extended periods of time when the firm determines that changes to a client’s portfolio are neither necessary
nor prudent. Notwithstanding, unless otherwise agreed in writing, the firm’s annual investment advisory fee will
continue to apply during these periods, and there can be no assurance that investment decisions made by the
firm will be profitable or equal any specific performance level(s).
D. Prepayment of Fees
WPWL collects fees in advance. Upon termination of a client relationship, any prepaid, unearned fees will be
promptly refunded to the client.
E. Outside Compensation For the Sale of Securities to Clients
Neither WPWL nor its supervised persons accept any compensation for the sale of investment products, including
asset-based sales charges or service fees from the sale of mutual funds.
Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management - Item 6
WPWL does not accept performance-based fees or other fees based on a share of capital gains on or capital
appreciation of the assets of a client.
Types of Clients - Item 7
WPWL generally offers investment advisory services to individuals, pension and profit-sharing plans and their
participants, trusts, estates, charitable organizations, corporations, and other business entities.
There is no account minimum for any of WPWL’s services.
Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss - Item 8
A. Methods of Analysis and Investment Strategies
Methods of Analysis
WPWL will use various external methods of analysis to determine an appropriate investment strategy. We seek
to recommend investment strategies or products that will give you a diversified portfolio consistent with your
investment objective. We do this by analyzing the various products, investment strategies, and external portfolio
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 9
managers to which we provide access. That analysis includes a review of the structure, cost, and investment
performance history of each manager. We also use research provided by third parties such as BlackRock in
determining the type of investments that should be held in client portfolios.
Asset allocation models used by portfolio managers and/or other third-party investment managers are developed
in accordance with investment programs developed by these entities. Clients should refer to the relevant portfolio
managers and/or other third-party investment manager’s Form ADV Part 2 Brochures or comparable disclosure
documents for more information about the methods of analysis and investment strategies used by those firms.
Methods of analysis include Charting analysis, Cyclical analysis, Fundamental analysis, Modern portfolio theory,
Quantitative analysis and Technical analysis:
•
Charting analysis involves the use of patterns in performance charts. WPWL uses this technique to search
for patterns used to help predict favorable conditions for buying and/or selling a security.
•
Cyclical analysis involves the analysis of business cycles to find favorable conditions for buying and/or
selling a security.
•
Fundamental analysis involves the analysis of financial statements, the general financial health of
companies, and/or the analysis of management or competitive advantages.
• Modern portfolio theory is a theory of investment that attempts to maximize portfolio expected return
for a given amount of portfolio risk, or equivalently minimize risk for a given level of expected return,
each by carefully choosing the proportions of various asset.
• Quantitative analysis deals with measurable factors as distinguished from qualitative considerations
such as the character of management or the state of employee morale, such as the value of assets, the
cost of capital, historical projections of sales, and so on.
•
Technical analysis involves the analysis of past market data; primarily price and volume.
B. Material Risks Involved
•
Charting analysis strategy involves using and comparing various charts to predict long and short term
performance or market trends. The risk involved in using this method is that only past performance data
is considered without using other methods to crosscheck data. Using charting analysis without other
methods of analysis would be making the assumption that past performance will be indicative of future
performance. This may not be the case.
•
Cyclical analysis assumes that the markets react in cyclical patterns which, once identified, can be
leveraged to provide performance. The risks with this strategy are two-fold: 1) the markets do not always
repeat cyclical patterns; and 2) if too many investors begin to implement this strategy, then it changes
the very cycles these investors are trying to exploit.
•
Fundamental analysis concentrates on factors that determine a company’s value and expected future
earnings. This strategy would normally encourage equity purchases in stocks that are undervalued or
priced below their perceived value. The risk assumed is that the market will fail to reach expectations of
perceived value.
• Modern portfolio theory assumes that investors are risk averse, meaning that given two portfolios that
offer the same expected return, investors will prefer the less risky one. Thus, an investor will take on
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 10
increased risk only if compensated by higher expected returns. Conversely, an investor who wants higher
expected returns must accept more risk. The exact trade-off will be the same for all investors, but
different investors will evaluate the trade-off differently based on individual risk aversion characteristics.
The implication is that a rational investor will not invest in a portfolio if a second portfolio exists with a
more favorable risk-expected return profile – i.e., if for that level of risk an alternative portfolio exists
which has better expected returns.
• Quantitative analysis Investment strategies using quantitative models may perform differently than
expected as a result of, among other things, the factors used in the models, the weight placed on each
factor, changes from the factors’ historical trends, and technical issues in the construction and
implementation of the models.
•
Technical analysis attempts to predict a future stock price or direction based on market trends. The
assumption is that the market follows discernible patterns and if these patterns can be identified then a
prediction can be made. The risk is that markets do not always follow patterns and relying solely on this
method may not take into account new patterns that emerge over time.
Investment Strategies
We may use one or more of the following investment strategies when advising you on investments:
• Long Term Purchases – securities purchased with the expectation that the value of those securities will
grow over a relatively long period of time, generally greater than one year. Using a long-term purchase
strategy generally assumes the financial markets will go up in the long-term, which may not be the case.
There is also the risk that the segment of the market that you are invested in or perhaps just your
particular investment will go down over time even if the overall financial markets advance. Purchasing
investments long-term may create an opportunity cost - "locking-up" assets that may be better utilized
in the short-term in other investments.
• Short Term Purchases – securities purchased with the expectation that they will be sold within a relatively
short period of time, generally less than one year, to take advantage of the securities' short-term price
fluctuations. Using a short-term purchase strategy generally assumes that we can predict how financial
markets will perform in the short-term which may be very difficult and will incur a disproportionately
higher amount of transaction costs compared to long-term trading. There are many factors that can
affect financial market performance in the short-term (such as short-term interest rate changes, cyclical
earnings announcements, etc.) but may have a smaller impact over longer periods of time.
• Trading – securities are sold within 30 days. The principal type of risk associated with trading is market
risk. There can be no assurance that a specific investment will achieve its investment objectives and past
performance should not be seen as a guide to future returns. The value of investments and the income
derived may fall as well as rise and investors may not recoup the original amount invested. Other factors,
such as changes in exchange control regulation, tax laws, withholding taxes, international, political and
economic developments, and government, economic or monetary policies, may affect investments as
well. Additionally, trading is speculative. Market movements are difficult to predict and are influenced
by, among other things, government trade, fiscal, monetary and exchange control programs and policies;
changing supply and demand relationships; national and international political and economic events;
changes in interest rates; and the inherent volatility of the marketplace. In addition, governments from
time to time intervene, directly and by regulation, in certain markets, often with the intent to influence
prices directly. The effects of governmental intervention may be particularly significant at certain times
in the financial instrument markets and such intervention (as well as other factors) may cause these
markets to move rapidly.
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 11
• Margin Transactions – margin strategies allow an investor to purchase securities on credit and to borrow
on securities already in their custodial account. Interest is charged on any borrowed funds for the period
that the loan is outstanding. When you purchase securities, you may pay for the securities in full or you
may borrow part of the purchase price from your broker-dealer. If you intend to borrow funds in
connection with your account, you will be required to open a margin account, which will be carried by
the broker-dealer of your account. The securities purchased in such an account are the broker-dealer’s
collateral for its loan to you. If the securities in a margin account decline in value, the value of the
collateral supporting this loan also declines, and, as a result, a brokerage firm is required to take action,
such as issue a margin call and/or sell securities or other assets in your accounts, in order to maintain
necessary level of equity in the account. It is important that you fully understand the risks involved in
trading securities on margin, which are applicable to any margin account that you may maintain,
including any margin Account that may be established as a part of our advisory services and held by your
broker-dealer. These risks include the following:
1. You can lose more funds than you deposit in your margin account.
2. The broker-dealer can force the sale of securities or other assets in your account.
3. The broker-dealer can sell your securities or other assets without contacting you.
4. You may not be able to choose which securities or other assets in your margin account are
liquidated or sold to meet a margin call.
5. The broker-dealer may move securities held in your cash account to your margin account and
pledge the transferred securities.
6. You may not be entitled to an extension of time on a margin call.
C. Risks of Specific Securities Utilized
Investing in securities involves the risk of loss that clients should be prepared to bear. Clients should fully
understand the nature of the contractual relationship(s) into which they are entering and the extent of their
exposure to risk. Certain investing strategies may not be suitable for many members of the public. You should
carefully consider whether the strategies employed would be appropriate for you in light of your experience,
objectives, financial resources, and other relevant circumstances.
WPWL's use of margin transactions and options trading generally holds greater risk of capital loss. Clients should
be aware that there is a material risk of loss using any investment strategy. The investment types listed below
(leaving aside Treasury Inflation Protected/Inflation Linked Bonds) are not guaranteed or insured by the FDIC or
any other government agency.
Mutual Funds: Investing in mutual funds carries the risk of capital loss and thus you may lose money investing in
mutual funds. All mutual funds have costs that lower investment returns. The funds can be of bond “fixed income”
nature (lower risk) or stock “equity” nature.
Equity investment generally refers to buying shares of stocks in return for receiving a future payment of dividends
and/or capital gains if the value of the stock increases. The value of equity securities may fluctuate in response to
specific situations for each company, industry conditions and the general economic environments.
Fixed income investments generally pay a return on a fixed schedule, though the amount of the payments can
vary. This type of investment can include corporate and government debt securities, leveraged loans, high yield,
and investment grade debt and structured products, such as mortgage and other asset-backed securities,
although individual bonds may be the best-known type of fixed income security. In general, the fixed income
market is volatile and fixed income securities carry interest rate risk. (As interest rates rise, bond prices usually
fall, and vice versa. This effect is usually more pronounced for longer-term securities.) Fixed income securities
also carry inflation risk, liquidity risk, call risk, and credit and default risks for both issuers and counterparties. The
risk of default on treasury inflation protected/inflation linked bonds is dependent upon the U.S. Treasury
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 12
defaulting (extremely unlikely); however, they carry a potential risk of losing share price value, albeit rather
minimal.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs): An ETF is an investment fund traded on stock exchanges, similar to stocks.
Investing in ETFs carries the risk of capital loss (sometimes up to a 100% loss in the case of a stock holding
bankruptcy). Areas of concern include the lack of transparency in products and increasing complexity, conflicts of
interest and the possibility of inadequate regulatory compliance. Risks in investing in ETFs include trading risks,
liquidity and shutdown risks, risks associated with a change in authorized participants and non-participation of
authorized participants, risks that trading price differs from indicative net asset value (iNAV), or price fluctuation
and disassociation from the index being tracked. With regard to trading risks, regular trading adds cost to your
portfolio thus counteracting the low fees that one of the typical benefits of ETFs. Additionally, regular trading to
beneficially “time the market” is difficult to achieve. Even paid fund managers struggle to do this every year, with
the majority failing to beat the relevant indexes. With regard to liquidity and shutdown risks, not all ETFs have
the same level of liquidity. Since ETFs are at least as liquid as their underlying assets, trading conditions are more
accurately reflected in implied liquidity rather than the average daily volume of the ETF itself. Implied liquidity is
a measure of what can potentially be traded in ETFs based on its underlying assets. ETFs are subject to market
volatility and the risks of their underlying securities, which may include the risks associated with investing in
smaller companies, foreign securities, commodities, and fixed income investments (as applicable). Foreign
securities in particular are subject to interest rate, currency exchange rate, economic, and political risks, all of
which are magnified in emerging markets. ETFs that target a small universe of securities, such as a specific region
or market sector, are generally subject to greater market volatility, as well as to the specific risks associated with
that sector, region, or other focus. ETFs that use derivatives, leverage, or complex investment strategies are
subject to additional risks. Precious Metal ETFs (e.g., Gold, Silver, or Palladium Bullion backed “electronic shares”
not physical metal) specifically may be negatively impacted by several unique factors, among them (1) large sales
by the official sector which own a significant portion of aggregate world holdings in gold and other precious
metals, (2) a significant increase in hedging activities by producers of gold or other precious metals, (3) a
significant change in the attitude of speculators and investors. The return of an index ETF is usually different from
that of the index it tracks because of fees, expenses, and tracking error. An ETF may trade at a premium or
discount to its net asset value (NAV) (or indicative value in the case of exchange-traded notes). The degree of
liquidity can vary significantly from one ETF to another and losses may be magnified if no liquid market exists for
the ETF’s shares when attempting to sell them. Each ETF has a unique risk profile, detailed in its prospectus,
offering circular, or similar material, which should be considered carefully when making investment decisions.
Some ETF may be invested in commodities. Commodities are tangible assets used to manufacture and produce
goods or services. Commodity prices are affected by different risk factors, such as disease, storage capacity,
supply, demand, delivery constraints and weather. Because of those risk factors, even a well-diversified
investment in commodities can be uncertain.
Real estate funds (including REITs) face several kinds of risk that are inherent in the real estate sector, which
historically has experienced significant fluctuations and cycles in performance. Revenues and cash flows may be
adversely affected by: changes in local real estate market conditions due to changes in national or local economic
conditions or changes in local property market characteristics; competition from other properties offering the
same or similar services; changes in interest rates and in the state of the debt and equity credit markets; the
ongoing need for capital improvements; changes in real estate tax rates and other operating expenses; adverse
changes in governmental rules and fiscal policies; adverse changes in zoning laws; the impact of present or future
environmental legislation and compliance with environmental laws.
Annuities are a retirement product for those who may have the ability to pay a premium now and want to
guarantee they receive certain monthly payments or a return on investment later in the future. Annuities are
contracts issued by a life insurance company designed to meet requirement or other long-term goals. An annuity
is not a life insurance policy. Variable annuities are designed to be long-term investments, to meet retirement
and other long-range goals. Variable annuities are not suitable for meeting short-term goals because substantial
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 13
taxes and insurance company charges may apply if you withdraw your money early. Variable annuities also involve
investment risks, just as mutual funds do.
Structured Notes: Below are some specific risks related to the structured notes recommended by our firm:
•
Complexity: Structured notes are complex financial instruments. Clients should understand the reference
asset(s) or index(es) and determine how the note’s payoff structure incorporates such reference asset(s)
or index(es) in calculating the note’s performance. This payoff calculation may include leverage
multiplied by the performance of the reference asset or index, protection from losses should the
reference asset or index produce negative returns, and/or fees. Structured notes may have complicated
payoff structures that can make it difficult for clients to accurately assess their value, risk and potential
for growth through the term of the structured note. Determining the performance of each note can be
complex and this calculation can vary significantly from note to note depending on the structure. Notes
can be structured in a wide variety of ways. Payoff structures can be leveraged, inverse, or inverse-
leveraged, which may result in larger returns or losses. Clients should carefully read the prospectus for a
structured note to fully understand how the payoff on a note will be calculated and discuss these issues
with our firm.
•
•
•
• Market risk: Some structured notes provide for the repayment of principal at maturity, which is often
referred to as “principal protection.” This principal protection is subject to the credit risk of the issuing
financial institution. Many structured notes do not offer this feature. For structured notes that do not
offer principal protection, the performance of the linked asset or index may cause clients to lose some,
or all, of their principal. Depending on the nature of the linked asset or index, the market risk of the
structured note may include changes in equity or commodity prices, changes in interest rates or foreign
exchange rates, and/or market volatility.
Issuance price and note value: The price of a structured note at issuance will likely be higher than the fair
value of the structured note on the date of issuance. Issuers now generally disclose an estimated value
of the structured note on the cover page of the offering prospectus, allowing investors to gauge the
difference between the issuer’s estimated value of the note and the issuance price. The estimated value
of the notes is likely lower than the issuance price of the note to investors because issuers include the
costs for selling, structuring, and/or hedging the exposure on the note in the initial price of their notes.
After issuance, structured notes may not be re-sold on a daily basis and thus may be difficult to value
given their complexity.
Liquidity: The ability to trade or sell structured notes in a secondary market is often very limited, as
structured notes (other than exchange-traded notes known as ETNs) are not listed for trading on
securities exchanges. As a result, the only potential buyer for a structured note may be the issuing
financial institution’s broker-dealer affiliate or the broker-dealer distributor of the structured note. In
addition, issuers often specifically disclaim their intention to repurchase or make markets in the notes
they issue. Clients should, therefore, be prepared to hold a structured note to its maturity date or risk
selling the note at a discount to its value at the time of sale.
Credit risk: Structured notes are unsecured debt obligations of the issuer, meaning that the issuer is
obligated to make payments on the notes as promised. These promises, including any principal
protection, are only as good as the financial health of the structured note issuer. If the structured note
issuer defaults on these obligations, investors may lose some, or all, of the principal amount they
invested in the structured notes as well as any other payments that may be due on the structured notes.
Fixed Income Security Risk: When investing in bonds, there is the risk that the issuer will default on the bond and
be unable to make payments. Further, individuals who depend on set amounts of periodically paid income face
the risk that inflation will erode their spending power. Fixed-income investors receive set, regular payments that
face the same inflation risk.
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 14
Interest Rate Risk: Fixed income securities and funds that invest in bonds and other fixed income securities may
fall in value if interest rates change. Generally, the prices of debt securities rise when interest rates fall, and their
prices fall when interest rates rise. Longer-term debt securities are usually more sensitive to interest rate changes.
Credit Risk: Investments in bonds and other fixed income securities are subject to the risk that the issuer(s) may
not make required interest payments. An issuer suffering an adverse change in its financial condition could lower
the credit quality of a security, leading to greater price volatility of the security. A lowering of the credit rating of
a security may also offset the security's liquidity, making it more difficult to sell. Funds investing in lower quality
debt securities are more susceptible to these problems and their value may be more volatile.
Municipal Securities Risk: The value of municipal obligations can fluctuate over time. Value may be affected by
adverse political, legislative and tax changes. Financial developments affecting the municipal issuers affect the
value as well. Because many municipal obligations are issued to finance similar projects by municipalities (e.g.,
housing, healthcare, water and sewer projects, etc.), conditions in the sector related to the project can affect the
overall municipal market. Payment of municipal obligations may depend on an issuer’s general unrestricted
revenues; revenue generated by a specific project, the operator of the project, or government appropriation or
aid. There is a greater risk if investors can look only to the revenue generated by the project. In addition, municipal
bonds generally are traded in the “over-the-counter” market among dealers and other large institutional
investors. From time to time, liquidity in the municipal bond market (the ability to buy and sell bonds readily) may
be reduced in response to overall economic conditions and credit tightening.
Cryptocurrency Risk: Certain ETFs recommended to clients may be invested in Cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency
(e.g., bitcoin and ether), often referred to as “virtual currency”, “digital currency,” or “digital assets,” is designed
to act as a medium of exchange. Cryptocurrency is an emerging asset class. There are thousands of
cryptocurrencies, the most well-known of which is bitcoin. Certain of the firm’s clients may have exposure to
bitcoin or another cryptocurrency, directly or indirectly through an investment such as an ETF or other investment
vehicles. Cryptocurrency operates without central authority or banks and is not backed by any government.
Cryptocurrencies may experience very high volatility and related investment vehicles may be affected by such
volatility. As a result of holding cryptocurrency, certain of the firm’s clients may also trade at a significant premium
or discount to NAV. Cryptocurrency is also not legal tender. Federal, state or foreign governments may restrict
the use and exchange of cryptocurrency, and regulation in the U.S. is still developing. The market price of many
cryptocurrencies, including bitcoin, has been subject to extreme fluctuations. If cryptocurrency markets continue
to be subject to sharp fluctuations, investors may experience losses if the value of the client’s investments decline.
Similar to fiat currencies (i.e., a currency that is backed by a central bank or a national, supra-national or quasi-
national organization), cryptocurrencies are susceptible to theft, loss and destruction. Cryptocurrency exchanges
and other trading venues on which cryptocurrencies trade are relatively new and, in most cases, largely
unregulated and may therefore be more exposed to fraud and failure than established, regulated exchanges for
securities, derivatives and other currencies. The SEC has issued a public report stating U.S. federal securities laws
require treating some digital assets as securities.
Cryptocurrency exchanges may stop operating or permanently shut down due to fraud, technical glitches, hackers
or malware. Due to relatively recent launches, most cryptocurrencies have a limited trading history, making it
difficult for investors to evaluate investments. Generally, cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible such that
an improper transfer can only be undone by the receiver of the cryptocurrency agreeing to return the
cryptocurrency to the original sender. Digital assets are highly dependent on their developers and there is no
guarantee that development will continue or that developers will not abandon a project with little or no notice.
Third parties may assert intellectual property claims relating to the holding and transfer of digital assets, including
cryptocurrencies, and their source code. Any threatened action that reduces confidence in a network’s long-term
ability to hold and transfer cryptocurrency may affect investments in cryptocurrencies.
Many significant aspects of the U.S. federal income tax treatment of investments in cryptocurrency are uncertain
and an investment in cryptocurrency may produce income that is not treated as qualifying income for purposes
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 15
of the income test applicable to regulated investment companies. Certain cryptocurrency investments may be
treated as a grantor trust for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and an investment by the firm’s clients in such a
vehicle will generally be treated as a direct investment in cryptocurrency for tax purposes and “flow-through” to
the underlying investors.
Recommendation of Other Advisers: In the event we recommend a third-party investment adviser to manage all
or a portion of your assets, we will primarily rely on investment model portfolios and strategies developed by the
third-party investment adviser and their portfolio managers. If there is a significant deviation in characteristics or
performance from the stated strategy and/or benchmark, we may recommend changing models or replacing a
third-party investment adviser. The primary risks associated with investing with a third-party investment adviser
is that while a particular third-party investment adviser may have demonstrated a certain level of success in the
past; it may not be able to replicate that success in future markets. In addition, as we do not control the underlying
investments in third-party model portfolios, there is also a risk that a third-party may deviate from the stated
investment mandate or strategy of the portfolio, making it a less suitable investment for our clients. To mitigate
this risk, we seek third parties with proven track records that have demonstrated a consistent level of
performance and success over time. A third-party’s past performance is not a guarantee of future results and
certain market and economic risks exist that may adversely affect an account’s performance that could result in
capital losses in your account.
Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing in securities involves a risk of loss that you, as a
client, should be prepared to bear.
Disciplinary Information - Item 9
A. Criminal or Civil Actions
There are no criminal or civil actions to report.
B. Administrative Proceedings
There are no administrative proceedings to report.
C. Self-regulatory Organization (SRO) Proceedings
There are no self-regulatory organization proceedings to report.
Other Financial Industry Activities or Affiliations - Item 10
A. Registration as a Broker/Dealer or Broker/Dealer Representative
Neither WPWL nor its representatives are registered as, or have pending applications to become, a broker/dealer
or a representative of a broker/dealer.
B. Registration as a Futures Commission Merchant, Commodity Pool Operator, or a Commodity Trading Advisor
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 16
Neither WPWL nor its representatives are registered as or have pending applications to become either a Futures
Commission Merchant, Commodity Pool Operator, or Commodity Trading Advisor or an associated person of the
foregoing entities.
C. Registration Relationships Material to this Advisory Business and Possible Conflicts of Interests
Neither WPWL nor its representatives have any material relationships to this advisory business that would present
a possible conflict of interest.
D. Selection of Other Advisers or Managers and How This Adviser is Compensated for Those Selections
We recommend the services of GWM to assists our firm with back-office support, trading, report preparation,
and billing. We use model portfolios developed by the GWM and/or other registered investment advisers like
BlackRock Fund Advisors, BlackRock Investment Management, LLC, and BlackRock Investments, LLC, which is the
distributor of the BlackRock and iShares funds within the BlackRock model portfolios. We do not receive
compensation from these entities.
We recommend the services of third-party accountants to provide tax preparation services to our clients. We
compensate these service providers directly for their services.
Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal Trading - Item 11
A. Code of Ethics
WPWL has a written Code of Ethics that covers the following areas: Prohibited Purchases and Sales, Insider
Trading, Personal Securities Transactions, Exempted Transactions, Prohibited Activities, Conflicts of Interest, Gifts
and Entertainment, Confidentiality, Service on a Board of Directors, Compliance Procedures, Compliance with
Laws and Regulations, Procedures and Reporting, Certification of Compliance, Reporting Violations, Compliance
Officer Duties, Training and Education, Recordkeeping, Annual Review, and Sanctions. WPWL's Code of Ethics is
available free upon request to any client or prospective client.
B. Recommendations Involving Material Financial Interests
WPWL does not recommend that clients buy or sell any security in which a related person to WPWL or WPWL has
a material financial interest.
C. Investing Personal Money in the Same Securities as Clients.
From time to time, representatives of WPWL may buy or sell securities for themselves that they also recommend
to clients. This may provide an opportunity for representatives of WPWL to buy or sell the same securities before
or after recommending the same securities to clients resulting
in representatives profiting off the
recommendations they provide to clients. Such transactions may create a conflict of interest. WPWL will always
document any transactions that could be construed as conflicts of interest and will never engage in trading that
operates to the client’s disadvantage when similar securities are being bought or sold.
D. Trading Securities At/Around the Same Time as Clients’ Securities
From time to time, representatives of WPWL may buy or sell securities for themselves at or around the same time
as clients. This may provide an opportunity for representatives of WPWL to buy or sell securities before or after
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 17
recommending securities to clients resulting in representatives profiting off the recommendations they provide
to clients. Such transactions may create a conflict of interest; however, WPWL will never engage in trading that
operates to the client’s disadvantage if representatives of WPWL buy or sell securities at or around the same time
as clients.
Brokerage Practices - Item 12
A. Factors Used to Select Custodians and/or Broker/Dealers
Custodians/broker-dealers will be recommended based on WPWL’s duty to seek “best execution,” which is the
obligation to seek execution of securities transactions for a client on the most favorable terms for the client under
the circumstances. Clients will not necessarily pay the lowest commission or commission equivalent, and WPWL
may also consider the market expertise and research access provided by the broker-dealer/custodian, including
but not limited to access to written research, oral communication with analysts, admittance to research
conferences and other resources provided by the brokers that may aid in WPWL's research efforts. WPWL will
never charge a premium or commission on transactions, beyond the actual cost imposed by the broker-
dealer/custodian.
WPWL will require clients to use Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC (“Fidelity”), and Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.
Advisor Services (“Schwab”). WPWL accesses Fidelity and Schwab through its sub advisory relationship with
GWM.
Research and Other Soft Dollar Benefits
While WPWL has no formal soft dollar program in which soft dollars are used to pay for third party services, WPWL
may receive research, products, or other services from custodians and broker-dealers in connection with client
securities transactions (“soft dollar benefits”). WPWL may enter into soft-dollar arrangements consistent with
(and not outside of) the safe harbor contained in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended. There can be no assurance that any particular client will benefit from soft dollar research, whether or
not the client’s transactions paid for it, and WPWL does not seek to allocate benefits to client accounts
proportionate to any soft dollar credits generated by the accounts. WPWL benefits by not having to produce or
pay for the research, products or services, and WPWL will have an incentive to recommend a broker-dealer based
on receiving research or services. Clients should be aware that WPWL’s acceptance of soft dollar benefits may
result in higher commissions charged to the client.
Brokerage for Client Referrals
WPWL receives no referrals from a broker-dealer or third party in exchange for using that broker-dealer or third
party.
Directed Brokerage
WPWL will require clients to use a specific broker-dealer to execute transactions. Not all advisers require clients
to use a particular broker-dealer.
Trade Aggregation
If WPWL buys or sells the same securities on behalf of more than one client, then it may (but would be under no
obligation to) aggregate or bunch such securities in a single transaction for multiple clients in order to seek more
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 18
favorable prices, lower brokerage commissions, or more efficient execution. In such case, WPWL would place an
aggregate order with the broker on behalf of all such clients in order to ensure fairness for all clients; provided,
however, that trades would be reviewed periodically to ensure that accounts are not systematically
disadvantaged by this policy. WPWL would determine the appropriate number of shares and select the
appropriate brokers consistent with its duty to seek best execution, except for those accounts with specific
brokerage direction (if any). At this time GWM places all trades for our firm's clients and follows the methodology
listed above.
Review of Accounts - Item 13
A. Frequency and Nature of Periodic Reviews and Who Makes Those Reviews
WPWL monitors client account holdings on a continuous basis and conducts a formal review of investment
allocations at least annually. Accounts are reviewed by the Associated Person assigned to the account.
A financial plan is a snapshot in time and no ongoing reviews are conducted. We recommend clients engage us
on a periodic basis to update their financial plan. Financial planning clients who have engaged us for ongoing
portfolio management will receive a review of their plan as part of their annual review.
B. Factors That Will Trigger a Non-Periodic Review of Client Accounts
Reviews may be triggered by material market, economic or political events, or by changes in client's financial
situations (such as retirement, termination of employment, physical move, or inheritance).
C. Content and Frequency of Regular Reports Provided to Clients
Each portfolio management client will receive a monthly statement detailing the client’s account, including assets
held, asset value, and calculation of fees. This written statement will come from the custodian. GWM will also
provide a written report on at least a quarterly basis.
Client Referrals and Other Compensation - Item 14
A. Economic Benefits Provided by Third Parties for Advice Rendered to Clients (Includes Sales Awards or Other
Prizes)
Occasionally, our firm and our Associated Persons will receive additional compensation from vendors and product
sponsors. Compensation could include such items as gifts; an occasional dinner or ticket to a sporting event;
reimbursement in connection with educational meetings with an Associated Person, reimbursement for
consulting services, client workshops, or events; or marketing events or advertising initiatives, including services
for identifying prospective clients. Receipt of additional economic benefits presents a conflict of interest because
our firm and Associated Persons have an incentive to recommend and use vendors based on the additional
economic benefits obtained rather than solely on the client’s needs. We address this conflict of interest by
recommending vendors that we, in good faith, believe are appropriate for the client’s particular needs. Clients
are under no obligation contractually or otherwise, to use any of the vendors recommended by us.
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 19
B. Compensation to Non – Advisory Personnel for Client Referrals
WPWL does not directly or indirectly compensate any person who is not advisory personnel for client referrals.
Custody - Item 15
WPWL does not have physical custody of any client funds and/or securities. The sub-adviser calculates and
deducts advisory fees directly from the client’s custodial account(s) pursuant to an authorization provided by you
directly to the sub-adviser. The sub-adviser then remits our portion of the fees to us. In such cases, we do not get
involved in the fee calculation or deduction process.
With respect to third-party standing letters of authorization (“SLOA”) where a client grants us authority to direct
custodians to disburse funds to one or more third-party accounts, we are deemed to have custody pursuant to
Rule 206(4)-2 (the “Custody Rule”). In such cases, we will take steps to have controls and oversight in place to
comply with the no-action letter issued by the SEC on February 21, 2017 (the “SEC no-action letter”). Provided we
meet all of the conditions stipulated in the SEC no-action letter, we are not required to comply with the surprise
examination requirements of the Custody Rule. Where our firm acts pursuant to a third-party SLOA, we believe
we are making a good faith effort to comply with the representations noted in the SEC no-action letter.
Additionally, since many of the representations noted in the SEC no-action letter involve the qualified custodian’s
operations, we will collaborate closely with our custodian(s) to ensure that the representations are met.
Investment Discretion - Item 16
WPWL provides discretionary and non-discretionary investment advisory services to clients. The advisory contract
established with each client sets forth the discretionary authority for trading. Where investment discretion has
been granted, WPWL generally manages the client’s account and makes investment decisions without
consultation with the client as to when the securities are to be bought or sold for the account, the total amount
of the securities to be bought/sold, what securities to buy or sell, or the price per share. In some instances,
WPWL’s discretionary authority in making these determinations may be limited by conditions imposed by a client
(in investment guidelines or objectives, or client instructions otherwise provided to WPWL.
Voting Client Securities - Item 17
WPWL will not ask for, nor accept voting authority for client securities. Clients will receive proxies directly from
the issuer of the security or the custodian. Clients should direct all proxy questions to the issuer of the security.
Financial Information - Item 18
A. Balance Sheet
WPWL neither requires nor solicits prepayment of more than $1,200 in fees per client, six months or more in
advance, and therefore is not required to include a balance sheet with this brochure.
Watershed Private Wealth, LLC
Form ADV Part 2A
Page 20
B. Financial Conditions Reasonably Likely to Impair Ability to Meet Contractual Commitments to Clients
Neither WPWL nor its management has any financial condition that is likely to reasonably impair WPWL’s ability
to meet contractual commitments to clients.
C. Bankruptcy Petitions in Previous Ten Years
WPWL has not been the subject of a bankruptcy petition in the last ten years.
Requirements of State-Registered Advisers - Item 19
This section is not applicable because our firm is SEC registered