Who is my advisor?
WJ Interests
You will be assigned a dedicated financial advisor who will work closely with you throughout your entire financial journey. If your primary advisor is not available, any WJ wealth advisor can assist you.
Big Investment Firms
Large firms often employ a team or "book of business" approach. This means that rather than having a single dedicated advisor, clients may interact with multiple advisors and support staff over time since employee turnover happens frequently.
Do-It-Yourself
Every decision, from investment choices to tax strategies, is self-taught and self-managed. This method relies heavily on personal research and knowledge.
How is my advisor qualified?
WJ Interests
Our five CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals are held to the highest ethical and professional standards in the industry. Our Portfolio Manager also holds a CFA designation.
Big Investment Firms
Certifications depend on the firm but are not required. Some hold CFP® or CFA designations. Many are not fiduciaries.
Do-It-Yourself
Depends on experience of individual. A DIY approach to financial planning can often lead to unanswered questions due to a lack of access to qualified resources.
What am I actually getting?
WJ Interests
You will receive personalized support and guidance through tailored planning advice, including comprehensive financial planning and professional investment management.
Big Investment Firms
Clients at larger firms might experience a more transactional relationship, where the focus is on managing a portfolio of clients rather than tailoring services to your unique needs and goals.
Do-It-Yourself
Limited to knowledge of the individual.
How is my advisor compensated?
WJ Interests
We are paid only by our clients through a transparent fee structure (Fee-Only). We do not accept commissions or pay for referrals.
Big Investment Firms
Varies, three type of compensation structures: (1) Fee-Only (paid only by client), (2) Fee-Based (paid by client and may receive add'l compensation for financial products) or (3) Commission (paid by products they sell).
Do-It-Yourself
The cost to the individual is time and potential risk of making uninformed decisions that could impact long-term financial health.
Who is this structure best suited for?
WJ Interests
Someone who is looking for peace of mind knowing their advisor will serve in their best interest.
Big Investment Firms
Someone that trusts an advisor to act in their best interest, regardless of how advisor is compensated or incentivized.
Do-It-Yourself
Someone with a passion and desire to constantly study financial markets and legislation pertaining to financial planning matters.
How will my money be invested?
WJ Interests
Your investment portfolio will be tailored and designed to meet your goals and objectives as outlined in your customized financial plan.
Big Investment Firms
Large firms typically focus on "cookie cutter" investment solutions or products they can sell to generate more revenue for their firm, not always necessarily in the true best interest of the client.
Do-It-Yourself
Typically will not have access to the lowest cost investment options or even access to most investment options due to investment minimums.
