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Preserving Legacies since 1991
WHVP
WEBER HARTMANN VRIJHOF & PARTNERS LTD.
Firm Brochure ADV Part 2A
March 24, 2025
Item 1. Cover Page
This brochure (Form ADV Part 2A) provides information about the qualifications and business practices
of Weber Hartmann Vrijhof & Partners Ltd. (“WHVP”). WHVP is a registered investment advisor (“RIA”)
with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) under the Investment Advisers
Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”).
If you have any questions about the contents of this brochure, please contact us by telephone at (from
the USA) 011 41 44 315 77 77 or by e-mail at info@whvp.ch.
information about WHVP
is available on
The information in this brochure has not been approved or verified by the SEC or by any state securities
authority. Additional
the SEC’s website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. There is no specific level of skill or training required to “register” as an RIA
with the SEC.
Item 2. Material Changes
The following material changes have been made to the brochure since the last version issued in March
2024:
Minor amendments in the pricing:
a) Quarterly minimum fees were introduced and charged in CHF to hedge the currency risk
b) A discount with amended fee structure was integrated for volumes between 3 and 5 million USD
Weber Hartmann Vrijhof & Partners Ltd.
Schaffhauserstrasse 418
8050 Zurich, Switzerland
Phone: (from the USA) 011 41 44 315 77 77
Fax: (from the USA) 011 41 44 315 77 78
www.whvp.ch info@whvp.ch
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Item 3. Table of Contents
Item 1. Cover Page
1
Item 2. Material Changes
1
Item 3. Table of Contents
2
Item 4. Advisory Business
Firm Description
Principal Owner
Services
Wrap Fee Programs
Assets under Management
3
3
3
3
4
4
Item 5. Fees and Compensation
Fees for Discretionary and Non-Discretionary Management Service
Fees for Other Services
Other fees and expenses you may incur
4
4
5
5
Item 6. Performance Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management
Performance Based Fee Scheme
Side-by-Side Management
5
5
5
Item 7. Types of Clients
5
Item 8. Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategy and Risk of Loss
Methods of Analysis
Investment Strategy
Types of Securities
Material Investment Risks
6
6
6
6
7
Item 9. Disciplinary Information
9
Item 10. Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
9
Item 11. Code of Ethics, Participation in Client Transactions and Personal Trading
Code of Ethics
Participation or Interest in Client Transactions
9
10
10
Item 12. Brokerage Practices
Block Trades
Decision Making Process; Balancing the Interests of Multiple Client Accounts
Use of Soft Dollars
Trade Errors
11
11
12
12
13
Item 13. Review of Accounts
13
Item 14. Client Referrals and Other Compensation
13
Item 15. Custody
13
Item 16. Investment Discretion
14
Item 17. Voting Client Securities
Proxy Voting
Class Actions
14
14
14
Item 18. Financial Information
14
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Item 4. Advisory Business
Firm Description
Weber Hartmann Vrijhof & Partners Ltd. (“WHVP” or the “Firm” or “we”), a Swiss corporation based
in Zurich, Switzerland, provides investment advisory services to clients’ resident in the United States
(“US” or “USA”). We also serve US taxpayers or dual citizens living outside the US and clients who
have no connection to the US. WHVP commenced operations in 1991.
Principal Owner
The principal owners of WHVP are Jamie Eileen Vrijhof-Droese and Urs Patrick Vrijhof-Droese, each
equal shareholders with 50%.
Services
WHVP provides wealth management solutions to individuals as well as high net worth clients mainly
on a discretionary basis. We focus our investments outside the US, offering our US clients
geographical diversification and exposure to non-US markets. All client accounts (each an “Account”)
are maintained at third-party financial institutions.
Client Accounts broadly are managed in a similar manner, however, differences in each portfolio occur
due to client specific objectives, tax considerations, liquidity, risk tolerances, expected returns and
legal restrictions. WHVP primarily invests in equities, fixed income securities, foreign currencies and
precious metals taking positions in specific securities that WHVP believes are undervalued or present
an opportunity for appreciation in the context of macro-economic factors. WHVP generally avoids
investments in funds.
WHVP’s advice is limited to the types of securities and transactions as set forth in Item 8.
Discretionary Management Service
Under the discretionary management mandate, WHVP has the authority to supervise and direct the
investments of and for each client’s account without prior consultation with the client. WHVP
determines which investments are bought and sold for the account and the total amount of the
purchases and sales. WHVP’s authority may be subject to conditions imposed by individual clients.
For example, a client may restrict or prohibit transactions in certain types of investments, as set forth
and agreed upon between WHVP and the client.
Non-Discretionary Management Service
Under the non-discretionary management mandate, the Client requests WHVP to execute the
purchase and sale of securities and other investments with the assets deposited under the account.
WHVP will execute its duties based on the discretion and direction of the Client or the authorized
representative within reasonable time. WHVP has no discretion over nor any responsibility for the
investments bought, sold or held in the Account and is not responsible for any delayed execution.
Only written instructions given by the Client or any authorized representative to WHVP shall be valid
and binding. Accordingly, WHVP will not choose any of the investments or the time of their disposal.
The Client maintains all responsibility for any gains or losses the Account may experience.
Other Services
Occasionally, WHVP is requested by clients to perform additional services such as providing advice
on watch or art acquisitions, or tailor measured concierge services and additional needs. In such
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particular cases, WHVP will charge for these additional services on an hourly basis depending on
time and expertise required.
Wrap Fee Programs
WHVP does not participate in wrap fee programs.
Assets under Management
WHVP managed approximately USD 163 million as of December 31, 2024.
Item 5. Fees and Compensation
WHVP generally charges fees for its services as a percentage of the market value of assets under
management (“AUM”). The asset management fee is charged quarterly in arrears. AUM is measured
with reference to the last business day of the respective calendar quarter. The fee generally is
calculated in the reference currency of the Account and charged in Swiss Francs, using as exchange
rate the banks ask price as of the last business day of the respective calendar quarter.
In all cases, WHVP may waive, discount or negotiate fees in its discretion. WHVP may also charge
additional fees for services outside the scope of the services described above. Any additional fees
are disclosed to the client.
WHVP relies on custodian banks of its clients to value the assets in the respective client Accounts,
and WHVP computes its asset management fees based on these valuations provided by the
custodian bank. At the end of the quarter, WHVP arranges with the custodian bank for the direct
payment of its fee from each client’s Account. The statement from the custodian bank will reflect all
amounts disbursed from the Account, including the amount of any fee paid to WHVP.
WHVP is a fee-only investment adviser and does not receive any remuneration from third parties in
connection with the investment advice it provides to clients.
Compensation is not payable in advance. Accounts initiated or terminated during a calendar quarter
will be charged a prorated fee. Upon termination of any relationship, accrued, unpaid fees will be due
and payable.
Fees for Discretionary and Non-Discretionary Management Service
The following fee schedule generally applies for WHVP’s discretionary management service:
Minimum
CHF 2,000 per quarter
Fee
1.5% p.a.
1.25% p.a.
Negotiable
Assets under Management
USD 500,000 – USD 3,000,000
USD 3,000,000 – USD 5,000,000
From USD 5,000,000
Permanent Portfolio (no longer available for new clients) 1.2% p.a.
CHF 700 per quarter
The following fee schedule generally applies for WHVP’s non-discretionary management service:
Minimum
CHF 1,250 per quarter
Assets under Management
USD 500,000 – USD 5,000,000
From USD 5,000,000
Fee
1% p.a.
Negotiable
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Fees for Other Services
Additional service fees may range from CHF 200 to CHF 500 per hour as agreed upon with the client
on a case-by-case basis.
There is no minimum annual fee for other services.
Other fees and expenses you may incur
Fees charged by WHVP do not include custodian fees, flat fees or so-called all-in fees, fees for trade
settlement, brokerage commissions, or any other fee imposed by the custodian bank or the broker.
WHVP’s fees do not include management or other fees charged by funds or other products that client
Accounts may be invested in from time to time.
Item 6. Performance Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management
Performance Based Fee Scheme
WHVP presently does not charge performance-based fees.
Side-by-Side Management
WHVP manages many client Accounts and as a result of differences in the fees charged on various
accounts, WHVP has conflicts related to such side-by-side management of different accounts. For
example, WHVP Advisors may manage more than one account according to the same or a
substantially similar investment strategy and yet have a different fee schedule applicable to such
account as a result of the respective clients’ AUM with WHVP.
Side-by-side management of different types of accounts may raise conflicts of interest when two or
more accounts invest in the same securities or pursue a similar although not identical strategy. These
potential conflicts include the favorable or preferential treatment of an account or a group of accounts,
conflicts related to the allocation of investment opportunities, and transactions in one account that
closely follow related transactions in a different account. In addition, the results of the investment
activities for one account may differ significantly from the results achieved for other accounts,
particularly if WHVP individually tailors clients’ Accounts.
WHVP has policies and procedures in place aimed to ensure that all client Accounts are treated fairly
and equitably. WHVP strives to equitably allocate investment opportunities among relevant Accounts
over time. In addition, investment decisions for each Account are made with specific reference to the
individual needs and objectives of the Account. Accordingly, WHVP may give advice or exercise
investment responsibility or take other actions for some clients (including related persons) that may
differ from the advice given, or the timing and nature of actions taken, for other clients. Investment
results for different Accounts, including Accounts that are generally managed in a similar style, also
may differ as a result of these considerations. Some clients may not participate at all in some
investments in which other clients participate, or may participate to a different degree or at a different
time.
Item 7. Types of Clients
WHVP offers investment management services to individuals either directly or through their estate
planning or holding structures. WHVP also manages investments held within individual retirement
accounts (IRA’s).
In addition to serving US resident clients, WHVP provides discretionary and non-discretionary
investment advisory services to non-US resident clients including non-U.S. based asset managers.
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The provisions of the Advisers Act do not apply to the management services provided by WHVP to
these non-US clients. This brochure describes only the service offering to US persons as defined
under SEC Rule 902.
Generally, WHVP prefers its client relationships to have a minimum of USD 500,000 of assets under
management. WHVP may accept amounts below this minimum requirement or may retain accounts
that have dropped below the minimum requirement due to market fluctuation or investment
performance. Accounts that have family corporate or other relationships may be aggregated for
purposes of the minimum account size.
Item 8. Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategy and Risk of Loss
Methods of Analysis
WHVP invests based on its views of market trends, which are reflected in its asset allocations in its
discretionary mandates. WHVP manages assets by using a top-down, macro-economic analysis in
combination of bottom-up analysis of both market timing and specific security selection. Generally,
WHVP seeks to obtain broad diversification across countries, industries, company size, long term
themes and short-term opportunities. Investment selection also is based on the value to be obtained
from diversification, optimizing risk/return profiles, identifying value and forecasting trends. WHVP
uses fundamental research to complement its investment selection. WHVP’s own analysis is
supplemented with third-party independent research.
Investment Strategy
We offer our US clients the opportunity to obtain diversification in their assets by investing almost
exclusively in non-US securities. We generally make investments with a mid to long term investment
horizon. We invest in securities that we believe possess fundamentals in line with our investment
objectives, client risk tolerance, and that offer acceptable volatility and potential for appreciation in
sectors or markets that we believe are undervalued. Many clients have significant positions in
precious metals accounts in gold, silver, platinum and/or palladium. Some of these accounts represent
physical holdings of the underlying metal and some of these accounts represent the custodian bank’s
commitment to provide the monetary equivalent of the metal’s value.
WHVP manages numerous Accounts with similar or identical investment objectives. Despite such
similarities, portfolio decisions relating to client investments and the performance resulting from such
decisions may differ from client to client. WHVP will not necessarily purchase or sell the same
securities at the same time or in the same proportionate amounts for all eligible clients, particularly if
different clients have materially different amounts of capital under management with WHVP or
different amounts of investable cash available.
Types of Securities
Whilst over periods we may invest in the types of securities outlined below, generally, we invest in
non-US sovereign and corporate issued fixed income securities and equity investments in mid-to-
large capitalization non-US companies.
Generally, WHVP may invest in the following securities and transactions: exchange-listed securities,
securities traded over-the-counter, securities issued by non-US issuers, corporate debt securities,
fiduciary deposits, U.S. or foreign government securities, exchange traded funds, foreign currency
transactions, royalty trusts, real estate investment trusts (“REITs”), certain derivatives or structured
products. Most securities we invest in are not registered with the SEC. WHVP is able to invest clients
on a discretionary basis in securities offered outside the US in reliance on Regulation S under the
Securities Act of 1933.
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Material Investment Risks
Clients should bear in mind that investing in securities involves a risk of loss. Clients should be
prepared to bear the risk of losing their investment in securities. Past performance is not an indication
as to future results.
Among other risks, all investments made by WHVP will be subject to market risk, liquidity risk, and
interest rate risk, and may be subject to credit and counterparty risk, risk in fluctuations of commodity
pricing, risk of loss due to political and economic developments in foreign markets, and risks involving
movements in the currency markets. US clients should bear in mind that because WHVP invests
mainly outside the US, such clients should not invest all of their assets with WHVP because the US
market is an important market.
Risks Relating to Foreign Currency Exposure. Accounts managed by WHVP are routinely subject to
foreign currency risks and bear a potential risk of loss arising from fluctuations in value between the
US Dollar and such other currencies. WHVP mainly invests in securities and other investments that
are denominated in currencies other than US Dollars. Some client’s Accounts hold significant foreign
currency positions. Accordingly, the value of such assets may be affected favorably or unfavorably by
fluctuations in currency rates. Often clients are seeking this foreign currency exposure. Thus, WHVP
generally does not seek to hedge the foreign currency exposure. Even to the extent that WHVP does
seek to hedge the foreign currency exposure, such hedging strategies may not necessarily be
available or effective.
Non-U.S. Investments. Investments in non-US securities expose the client’s portfolio to risks in
addition to those risks associated with investments in US securities. Such risks include, among other
things, trade balances and imbalances, economic policies of various foreign governments, exchange
control regulations, withholding taxes, potential for nationalization of assets or industries, and the
political instability of foreign nations.
Market Risk. Market risk refers to the risk of loss arising from general economic and market conditions,
such as interest rates, availability of credit, inflation rates, commodity prices, economic uncertainty,
changes in laws and national and international political circumstances. Each Account is subject to
market risk, which will affect volatility of securities prices and liquidity. Such volatility or illiquidity could
impair profitability or result in losses.
Risks Related to Equity Investments. Investments in equity securities generally involve a high degree
of risk. Prices are volatile and market movements are difficult to predict. These price movements may
result from factors affecting individual companies or industries. Price changes may be temporary or
last for extended periods. The value of specific equity investments generally correlates to the
fundamentals of each particular security, but prices of equity investments may raise or fall regardless
of fundamentals due to movements in securities markets.
Risks Related to Fixed Income Investments. Investments in fixed income securities (i.e., bonds)
represent numerous risks such as credit, interest rate, reinvestment, and prepayment risk, all of which
affect the value of the security and volatility of such value. In general, bonds with longer maturities
are more sensitive to price changes. Additionally, the prices of high yield, fixed-income securities
fluctuate more than high quality debt issues. Prices are especially sensitive to developments affecting
the company’s business and to changes in the ratings assigned by rating agencies. Prices are often
closely linked with the company’s stock prices. High yield securities can experience sudden and sharp
price swings due to changes in economic conditions, stock market activity, large sales by major
investors, default, or other factors. Developments in the credit market may have a substantial impact
on the companies we may invest in and will affect the success of such investments. In the event of a
default, the investment may suffer a partial or total loss.
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Risks Related to Investments in Funds. For purposes of this discussion, the term “Fund” includes, but
is not limited to, a U.S. or non-U.S. unit investment trusts, open-end and closed-end mutual funds,
real estate investment trusts, and exchange traded funds (“ETFs”). Investments in Funds carry risks
associated with the particular Fund. Each Fund and the respective manager will charge their own
management and other fees, which will result in a Client bearing an additional level of fees and
expenses. U.S. mutual funds generally must distribute all gains to investors, including investors who
may not have an economic gain from investing in the fund, which can lead to negative tax effects on
investors, particularly non-U.S. persons. Investments in certain non-U.S. funds by U.S. persons result
in U.S. tax and reporting obligations and failing to comply with such requirements can result in
significant penalties. Funds generally have unique risks of loss as described in their offering
documents. Funds can make use of leverage to enhance returns, which raise the risk of default,
interest rate risk, and increase volatility. Certain Funds invest in derivatives, which can raise specific
counter-party risks. Funds that are not traded can have illiquidity and valuation risks resulting in the
inability to redeem or sell the Fund on demand. See the discussion below relating to risks in structured
products and derivatives for more information on the risks of investing in Funds.
Risks Related to Structured Products & Derivatives. WHVP may invest in structured products or
derivatives or invest in Funds that hold investments in structured products or derivatives. In addition
to the risks that apply to all investments in securities, investing and engaging in derivative instruments
and transactions may involve different types of risk and possibly greater levels of risk. These risks
include, but are not limited to the following:
Leverage. Certain investment instruments such as derivatives may use leverage to achieve returns.
The use of leverage may have the effect of disproportionately increasing an account’s exposure to
the market for the securities or other assets underlying the derivative position and the sensitivity of
an account’s portfolio to changes in market prices for those assets. Leverage will tend to magnify both
the positive impact of successful investment decisions and the negative impact of unsuccessful
investment decisions by WHVP on an account’s performance.
Counterparty Credit Risk. When a derivative is purchased, a client’s Account will be subject to the
ability and willingness of the other party to the contract (a “counterparty”) to perform its obligations
under the contract. Although exchange-traded futures and options contracts are generally backed by
a guarantee from a clearing corporation, an Account could lose the benefit of a contract in the unlikely
event that the clearing corporation becomes insolvent. The counterparty’s obligations under a forward
contract, over-the-counter option, swap or other over-the-counter derivative contract are not so
guaranteed. If the counterparty to an over-the-counter contract fails to perform its obligations, an
account may lose the benefit of the contract and may have difficulty reclaiming any collateral that an
account may have deposited with the counterparty.
Lack of Correlation. The market value of a derivative position may correlate imperfectly with the
market price of the asset underlying the derivative position. To the extent that a derivative position is
being used to hedge against changes in the value of assets in an account, a lack of price correlation
between the derivative position and the hedged asset may result in an account’s assets being
incompletely hedged or not completely offsetting price changes in the derivative position.
Illiquidity. Over-the-counter derivative contracts are usually subject to restrictions on transfer, and
there is generally no liquid market for these contracts. Although it is often possible to negotiate the
termination of an over-the-counter contract or enter into an offsetting contract, a counterparty may be
unable or unwilling to terminate a contract with an account, especially during times of market instability
or disruption. The markets for many exchange traded futures, options and other instruments are quite
liquid during normal market conditions, but this liquidity may disappear during times of market
instability or disruption.
Less Accurate Valuation. The absence of a liquid market for over-the-counter derivatives increases
the likelihood that WHVP will not be able to correctly value these interests.
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Risks Related to Precious Metal Accounts & Physical Precious Metals. Precious metal accounts and
investments in physical precious metals offered by custodian banks, present special investment risks.
These metal accounts generally are notated with reference to the market price of the respective
precious metal as determined by the respective custodian bank. The value of precious metals is
volatile and generally based on the current spot or market price of the particular metal. The value of
precious metals is driven by a variety of factors on a global basis including, among other factors,
industrial demand, market supply, and investor demand. Metals should not be perceived as safer
investments but rather this asset class also is speculative and volatile. Unless specifically agreed by
the custodian bank, a precious metal account generally does not represent a right to convert to
physical delivery and as such, generally there is a counterparty risk based on the financial strength
and solvency of the custodian bank to pay the monetary equivalent of the notated value in the
precious metal account. Alternatively, in the case of non-segregated physical holdings, there are other
risks including the potential inability for the custodian bank to deliver the physical metal timely and
liquidity risks associated with taking physical delivery of precious metals. Clients should see the
specific risk disclosures issued by the custodian bank relating to precious metal accounts and physical
precious metals.
Risks Related to Income Trusts. Investments in income trusts (i.e., royalty trusts or real estate
investment trusts) present a number of risks, some inherent in the asset class and some dependent
on the specific nature of the particular income trust. Investors generally have more limited corporate
governance rights and the specific instruments may limit or restrict the fiduciary duties of the
managers of the trust. Generally, all royalty trusts own an investment in a depleting asset, that is, the
trust holds underlying assets that are being sold or licensed to generate the income stream used to
pay dividends to the investors. Eventually, unless replenished, the underlying asset will be depleted
entirely. There are risks associated with the accuracy of the stated reserves of the trust’s assets and
the value of such underlying assets generally is heavily dependent on the price of a natural resource
or commodity (i.e., the price of oil or gas). There can be materially different tax characteristics
associated with an income trust. The value of the income stream, and thereby the market value of the
investment in the income trust, is dependent upon general market and economic risks, including
interest rate and inflationary risks. Certain income trusts engage in significant capital redemptions,
which can impact tax and valuation risks.
Item 9. Disciplinary Information
WHVP has not been involved in any legal or disciplinary events.
Item 10. Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
WHVP management personnel are neither registered, nor have an application pending to register as,
broker-dealers, registered representatives of a broker-dealer, future commissions merchants,
commodity pool operators, commodity trading advisors, or associated persons of the foregoing
entities.
WHVP is supervised by the Supervisory Authority AOOS/Schweizerische Aktiengesellschaft für
Aufsicht in Switzerland, a self-regulatory organization in Switzerland, which is monitored by the Swiss
Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA). Furthermore, WHVP is licensed by FINMA, as well
as a member of the Ombudsman OFS Ombud Finance Switzerland.
WHVP’s Chief Compliance Officer may perform compliance services for any other, independently
operating RIA. WHVP does not believe this arrangement presents a conflict of interest.
WHVP does not recommend or select other investment advisers for its clients.
Item 11. Code of Ethics, Participation in Client Transactions and Personal Trading
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WHVP seeks to minimize conflicts of interest and resolve those conflicts of interests in favor of its
clients to the extent it determines reasonable and necessary in accordance with its Code of Ethics.
Code of Ethics
WHVP treats all clients equitably and has a duty to act in its clients’ best interests. Except as otherwise
described in this brochure, the interests of clients will be placed above WHVP’s interests in case of
any conflict. WHVP has adopted a Code of Ethics (the “Code”) and attendant policies and procedures
governing personal securities transactions by WHVP and its personnel. The Code also provides
guidance and instruction to WHVP and its personnel on their ethical obligations in fulfilling its duties
of loyalty, fairness and good faith towards the clients.
The overriding principle of WHVP’s Code of Ethics is that all employees of WHVP owe a fiduciary
duty to clients for whom WHVP acts as investment adviser or sub-adviser. Accordingly, employees of
WHVP are responsible for conducting personal trading activities in a manner that does not interfere
with a client’s portfolio transactions or take improper advantage of a relationship with any client.
The Code contains provisions designed to try to: (i) prevent, among other things, improper trading by
WHVP’s employees; (ii) identify conflicts of interest; and (iii) provide a means to resolve any actual or
potential conflicts of interest in favor of the clients. The Code attempts to accomplish these objectives
by, among other things: (i) requiring pre-clearance of specific trades, which includes documenting any
exceptions to such pre-clearance requirement; (ii) restricting trading in certain securities that may
cause a conflict of interest, as well as (iii) periodic reporting regarding transactions and holdings of
employees.
The Code contains sections including, but not limited to, the following key areas: (i) restrictions on
personal investing activities; (ii) gifts and business entertainment; and (iii) outside business activities.
The Code also provides for WHVP’s execution of supervisory policies and procedures, and the review
and enforcement processes of such policies and procedures. WHVP has designated a Chief
Compliance Officer responsible for maintaining, reviewing and enforcing WHVP’s Code of Ethics and
corresponding policies and procedures.
The fundamental position of WHVP Advisors is that, in effecting personal securities transactions,
personnel of WHVP Advisors must place at all times the interests of clients ahead of their own
pecuniary interests. All personal securities transactions by these persons must be conducted in
accordance with the Code of Ethics and in a manner to avoid any actual or potential conflict of interest
or any abuse of any person’s position of trust and responsibility. Further, these persons should not
take inappropriate advantage of their positions with or on behalf of a client.
If a person subject to the Code of Ethics fails to comply with the Code, such person may be subject
to sanctions, which may include warnings, disgorgement of profits, restrictions on future personal
trading, and, in the most severe cases, the possibility of dismissal.
WHVP will provide a copy of the Code of Ethics to any client or prospective client upon request.
Participation or Interest in Client Transactions
Although WHVP does not hold proprietary positions, WHVP employees or related persons may own,
buy, or sell for themselves the same securities that they or WHVP have recommended to clients.
Thus, from time to time, a client Account may purchase or hold a security in which a related person
of WHVP has financial interest or an ownership position, or a related person may purchase a security
that is held in a client Account.
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Also, from time to time, WHVP employees or related persons may invest alongside the firm’s clients,
both to align the interest of firm and personnel and firm clients and as an expression of confidence in
our portfolio management efforts. In order to ensure that WHVP personnel never trade ahead of their
clients, the firm requires all trading in specific positions for officer and employee accounts to come
after the analogous trades are executed for client accounts. Firm personnel communicate freely and
frequently among themselves in order to ensure the application of these fundamental restrictions.
Item 12. Brokerage Practices
WHVP does not have custody or possession of client assets. Each of WHVP’s clients maintains
custody of his or her assets at one or more custodians (Swiss, Austrian or Liechtenstein based banks)
generally selected from a list of preferred custodians maintained by WHVP. WHVP reviews the list of
preferred custodians on an annual basis and as part of that review, considers a custodian bank’s
pricing, brokerage practices and execution guarantees. Swiss based preferred custodians generally
must agree to obtain best execution in accordance with the custodian’s duties under Swiss banking
law, however, best execution for these purposes can differ from the SEC’s definition of best execution.
Other factors that WHVP uses to evaluate preferred custodians include the following: more convenient
access to a trading desk; the ability to have asset management fees deducted directly from client
accounts; access to an electronic communications network for client order entry and account
information; and favorable fee schedules. No single criteria will validate nor invalidate a custodian
from being a preferred custodian or service provider used, but rather, all criteria taken together will
be used in evaluating the preferred custodians.
Each custodian maintains relationships with designated broker-dealers (including, sometimes and for
certain securities, an affiliate of the custodian). WHVP effectuates security transactions through the
custodian or the broker or dealer designated by the custodian bank. WHVP does not guarantee best
execution or the best commissions because WHVP does not control these factors. Therefore, clients
should be aware of the following:
- WHVP does not negotiate commission rates with broker-dealers with whom orders are placed
either directly or via the custodian as the broker-dealer is dictated by the custodian. The
applicable commissions are agreed upon between the client and the custodian when the client
accepts the applicable commission schedule published by the custodian.
- Commission charges will vary among clients and best execution may not be guaranteed by
WHVP.
Because the client selects the custodian (generally from a list of preferred custodians) and thereby
the broker-dealer to be used for securities transactions involving its account, different clients may
have accounts at the same custodian bank or a single client may have multiple accounts at different
custodian banks. Therefore, a client may pay an executing broker a higher commission for a securities
transaction than might be charged by another broker-dealer executing the same transaction or than
the commission charged by the broker-dealer executing a similar transaction for another client of
WHVP. Commission charges may also vary between clients. It also is possible that the broker-dealer
used for transactions may not be a registered broker-dealer under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act
of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).
Block Trades
WHVP generally will combine orders into block trades when purchasing the same security for multiple
client Accounts. Such aggregated orders (“block trades”) will be pre-allocated among the participating
client Accounts. When selecting the participating accounts, a variety of factors such as suitability,
investment objectives and strategy, risk tolerance and / or the ability to invest additional funds will be
taken into consideration. In determining the portion for each participating account further factors such
as account’s size, diversification, asset allocation and position weightings as well as any other
appropriate factors might be of relevance. Participating Accounts in a block trade placed with the
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same broker or the same custodian bank generally will receive an average price. Transaction costs
will be shared on a proportionate basis and as determined in the agreement with the custodian. This
can either be a sharing on a pro rata basis or based on the implemented degression model, whereas
costs decrease in relation to the purchased quantity and include the application of a minimum rate,
when shared costs are below a defined amount. Partial fills of transactions generally will be allocated
on a pro rata basis, however, WHVP will not allocate partial fills on a pro rata basis when it does not
make practical sense for client Accounts to receive positions determined to be too small to justify
likely transaction costs (i.e., commissions) or to provide sufficient exposure to the security. WHVP will
make such determinations in a fair and practical manner.
Because WHVP’s clients maintain Accounts at different custodian banks and because many of these
custodian banks mandate the use of a specific broker (see description above), often WHVP places
more than one block trade for the same security with more than one broker. WHVP transmits such
block trades to more than one broker in a random pattern (i.e., WHVP does not favor one custodian
bank or broker over another with respect to the order in which block trade orders are sent). The
average price realized on a securities order placed with different brokers will vary broker to broker,
and clients generally will receive different average prices and transaction costs for the same security
order depending upon the custodian bank and the respective broker used in the block trade. Also
note, since some banks warehouse securities orders until filled, there may be delays in settlement
between client Accounts depending on the practice of the respective custodian bank and/or broker.
Decision Making Process; Balancing the Interests of Multiple Client Accounts
In making the decision as to which securities are to be purchased or sold and the amounts thereof,
WHVP is guided by the general guidelines set up at the inception of the adviser-client relationship in
cooperation with the client and a periodic review of the asset allocation. These general guidelines
cover such matters as the relative proportion of debt and equity securities to be held in the portfolio,
the degree of risk that the client wishes to assume and the types and amounts of securities to be held
in the portfolio. WHVP’s authority may be further limited by specific instructions from the client, which
may restrict or prohibit transactions in certain securities.
WHVP may manage numerous accounts with similar or identical investment objectives or may
manage accounts with different objectives that may trade in the same securities. Despite such
similarities, portfolio decisions relating to client investments and the performance resulting from such
decisions may differ from client to client. WHVP will not necessarily purchase or sell the same
securities at the same time or in the same proportionate amounts for all eligible clients, particularly if
different clients have selected different investment profiles, have materially different amounts of
capital under management with WHVP or different amounts of investable cash available. In certain
instances, such as purchases of less liquid publicly traded securities or oversubscribed public
offerings, it may not be possible or feasible to allocate a transaction pro rata to all eligible clients,
especially if clients have materially different sized portfolios. Therefore, not all clients will necessarily
participate in the same investment opportunities or participate on the same basis.
Use of Soft Dollars
WHVP may maintain soft dollar arrangements, and to the extent it does it will only do so in accordance
with the conditions of the safe harbor provided by Section 28(e) of the Exchange Act. Section 28(e)
is a “safe harbor” that permits an investment manager to use brokerage commissions or “soft dollars”
to obtain research and brokerage services that provide lawful and appropriate assistance in the
investment decision-making process.
Research services within Section 28(e) may include, but are not limited to, research reports (including
market research); certain financial newsletters and trade journals; software providing analysis of
securities portfolios; corporate governance research and rating services; attendance at certain
seminars and conferences; discussions with research analysts; meetings with corporate executives;
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consultants’ advice on portfolio strategy; data services (including services providing market data,
company financial data, certain valuation and pricing data and economic data); and advice from
brokers on order execution.
Brokerage services within Section 28(e) may include, but are not limited to, services related to the
execution, clearing and settlement of securities transactions and functions incidental thereto (i.e.,
connectivity services between an investment adviser and a broker-dealer and other relevant parties
such as custodians); trading software operated by a broker-dealer to route orders; software that
provides trade analytics and trading strategies; software used to transmit orders; clearance and
settlement in connection with a trade; electronic communication of allocation instructions; routing
settlement instructions; post trade matching of trade information; and services required by the SEC
or a self-regulatory organization such as comparison services, electronic confirms or trade
affirmations.
Trade Errors
Although WHVP’s goal is to execute trades seamlessly in the manner intended by the client and
consistent with its investment decisions, WHVP recognizes that errors can occur for a variety of
reasons. WHVP’s policy in dealing with such errors is to:
Identify any errors in a timely manner.
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- Correct all errors so that any affected account is placed in the same position it would have been
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in had the error not occurred.
Incur all costs associated with correcting an error (or to pass the costs on to the broker,
depending on which party is at fault). Costs from corrective actions are not to be passed on to
a client.
- Evaluate how the error occurred and assess if any changes in any processes are warranted or
if any continuing education is required.
The consequences and the required corrective measures may be different depending upon the nature
of the error or the account affected.
Item 13. Review of Accounts
The portfolios of all investment advisory clients are internally reviewed quarterly or bi-annual by the
advisers of WHVP. Transactions in accounts are reviewed by WHVP on a regular basis. Significant
changes in stock prices will also trigger a review. Various other circumstances also result in review of
accounts. When necessary, accounts may be rebalanced based on WHVP’s tactical asset allocations,
while striving to minimize potential tax implications.
Item 14. Client Referrals and Other Compensation
WHVP is a fee-only adviser. WHVPs policy is not to accept compensation from third parties relating
to the investment advice it gives to its clients.
WHVP may pay fees for client referrals to individuals or entities for services provided in identifying
and introducing prospective advisory clients, investment advisory or other services. Any such
arrangements will comply with the conditions and requirements of Rule 206(4)-1 under the Investment
Advisers Act of 1940.
WHVP’s employees or associated persons may be invited to attend seminars and meetings with the
costs associated with such meetings borne by a sponsoring brokerage firm or other party extending
the invitation.
Item 15. Custody
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WHVP typically is given authority to have its fees directly deducted from a client’s account.
Consequently, WHVP is deemed to have custody of such funds. WHVP has established procedures
to ensure the client’s account is held at a qualified custodian in a separate account for each client.
The client establishes the bank account directly and therefore is aware of the qualified custodian’s
name, address and the manner in which investments are maintained. Account statements are
prepared by the custodian bank and delivered directly to the client or the client’s representative at
least quarterly.
Generally, these statements include a listing of all valuations and all transactions occurring during the
period. Clients should carefully review these statements and when they have questions contact either
WHVP or the custodian bank. The custodian bank may provide, generally upon a client’s request, a
tax report for the client.
Item 16. Investment Discretion
WHVP accepts discretionary authority to manage client accounts as described above. Clients rarely
restrict the authority by which WHVP may act; however, each client has the opportunity to
communicate any form of limitation in writing. In the context of a discretionary mandate, WHVP makes
investment decisions without consulting the client by utilizing its limited power of attorney for the
management of the account maintained at the custodian bank selected by the client. WHVP never
has discretionary authority to select a qualified custodian for a client’s account.
In addition, WHVP accepts non-discretionary portfolio mandates to manage client accounts as
described above.
Item 17. Voting Client Securities
Proxy Voting
WHVP generally does not have the authority to vote client proxies. Clients make arrangements
directly with their custodian to vote proxies for securities or where proxy or other solicitation materials
have to be sent to. If WHVP inadvertently receives any proxy materials on behalf of a client, WHVP
will promptly forward such materials to the client.
WHVP will exercise investment authority for certain corporate actions (such as, but not limited to
tenders, rights offering, splits etc.) in connection with discretionary accounts. For advisory clients,
corporate actions are discussed with them prior to the event taking place.
Clients who have questions about proxies may contact WHVP for further information.
Class Actions
WHVP does not direct client participation in class action lawsuits. WHVP will determine whether to
return any documentation inadvertently received regarding clients’ participation in class actions to the
sender, or to forward such information to the appropriate clients.
WHVP will not advise or act on behalf of clients in any legal proceeding, including bankruptcies or
securities shareholder class action litigation involving securities held or previously held in client
accounts. Accordingly, WHVP is not responsible for responding to, or forwarding to clients, any class
action settlement offers relating to securities currently or previously held in the client account.
Item 18. Financial Information
WHVP has not been the subject of a bankruptcy petition at any time. As of the date of this brochure
we do not believe it is reasonably likely that any future liability will impact our ability to meet our
contractual commitments to our clients.
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