What is Your Advisor’s Technical Expertise

When you hire a financial advisor, you might not be clear about what you are paying for. The fact is, there are numerous analytical and technical activities that I carry out on behalf of clients. These services – whether portfolio-related or client-focused – take time and require special expertise. Here are a few.

Portfolio Services:

1.

Developing investment strategies. First of all, I do an analysis of the portfolio you are bringing to our engagement. I seek to minimize any hidden fees; evaluate the character of your current holdings, and work with you to understand where your investing interests lie. Communication between us is a large part of this process. For example, when considering individual stocks, I will ask you which brands you are loyal to and which you wish to avoid and why. We will discuss the role of risk and the importance of diversification. Also, my aim is to understand your short-, medium- and long-term goals; and determine the right amount of defensiveness or aggressiveness to employ to reach those goals. The right investment strategy is critical, as it can enable a portfolio to substantially multiply itself over time. My objective is to empower you to build wealth by taking calculated risks with my guidance.

2.

Portfolio analysis. After I have developed the necessary strategies relating to your different goals, I will evaluate and select the investments to put in your portfolio. My previous work as an analyst with NASDAQ provided me the high-level skills to analyze stocks quickly and thoroughly. This analysis also applies to doing due diligence on mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

3.

Portfolio management. Unlike many advisors, I personally manage my clients’ portfolios and do not outsource this service. Drawing upon my 20 years of trading experience, I know when to buy, when not to buy, and when to sell. I construct portfolios in two parts:

• Core holdings (primarily low-cost ETFS) to manage risk, which are adjusted according to performance, or changes in money managers
• Satellite holdings, including stocks, which are personalized to individuals strategies

4.

Continuous environmental scanning. I am deeply plugged into the trends of both macro- and micro-economic environments. I follow numerous financial and industry sources to see where the economy is going. My experience enables me to review and analyze cycles and historical dynamics, understand the influence of current national and state political priorities, watch companies who are experiencing exponential growth, and much more.

Client Services:

5.

Problem-solving. I can also help you navigate the financial implications of other aspects of life, helping with:

• Salary negotiations
• Divorce planning and preparation, from pre- to post-divorce, including dividing assets and financial negotiation
• Estate planning, including scenario development and paperwork preparation
• Informal intermediation to other financial institutions, including asking questions you may not know to ask and helping you fully understand the products you own and their impact on you now and in the future

6.

Behavioral coaching. I want clients to engage with me around their investments, especially when an investment falls below a certain range and they may be afraid to sell.  Furthermore, when clients bring stock ideas to me, I welcome an informed dialogue to understand the reasons and motivations influencing their thoughts.

Can you take on all of these responsibilities? Are you willing to give up your time and money to learn how?

When you engage with me, you are paying for my specialized knowledge, experience, tools, and my time. Along with my expertise, you are working with a certified financial planner who is trustworthy and a good listener, behavioral coach, and communicator. As a fiduciary, I will work diligently for you, always with your best interests in mind.

Click here to start the conversation with Harris & Harris Wealth Management.