Shreder Investment Consulting Group L.L.C.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

►  How are you compensated?

We utilize a hybrid compensation model which allows you to choose the most appropriate compensation structure for your needs - not ours.  Click here for information on Fee-Only, Fee-Based and Commission based compensation. 

►  Why are your fees so low?

Foremost is our efficient use of technology, which helps keep our operating costs down.  SACM's size also allows for economies-of-scale pricing with our other service providers, such as Schwab Institutional, and our consortium of money managers.

►  How is it possible to help protect my investments and provide enhanced returns?

SICG's primary investment vehicle, the SACM UMA, is structured to help mitigate investment portfolio risk and volatility by utilizing a consortium of money managers and investments that are chosen based on their synergistic, risk-adjusted performance during both favorable and unfavorable market environments.  SACM's Dynamic Asset Allocation Overlay option may also be utilized to help reduce stock market risk exposure when market indicators are negative, and enhance investment portfolio appreciation potential when market indicators are positive.  In addition, allocations may be made to non-correlated and/or inverse investments, as-well-as investments that have principal and income guarantees made directly by the issuers.

►  Do you guarantee returns?  

We do not guarantee or assure that any investment, investment strategy or financial advice undertaken will be profitable.  Investments in securities involve the risk of loss.  However, financial products may be utilized that have guarantees made directly by the issuers.

►  Do you use mutual funds?  

Only when appropriate.  Equity mutual funds are normally too expensive and tax inefficient to be a significant allocation in many of our clients' portfolios.  Click here for more information on hidden mutual fund expenses and tax issues.

►  Where are my investments held?  

UMA cash and securities are held at Schwab Institutional, the institutional division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.  Schwab Institutional is our preferred custodian because of strong commitment to client service, industry leading technology and the added peace-of-mind obtained from "The Schwab Security Guarantee" and "SchwabSafe®" security measures.   Also, Schwab Institutional accounts may be linked directly to Charles Schwab's local retail branch office account.  Other custodians are available, including Fidelity Investments and TD Ameritrade.

►  Is my money safe?  

We believe that trust is an essential part of our business relationship, but we also believe in the importance of verification.  Therefore, for your added security and protection, you are provided with direct phone and internet access to all utilized wealthcare providers.  All checks for investment services are made payable directly to the service providers, such as Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.  Also, account data, statements, performance reports and documents are available directly from the service providers.    In addition to SIPC coverage, Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. also offers "The Schwab Security Guarantee".  Click here for details.

►  Are you a Fiduciary?  

Yes.  As a fiduciary, we have a legal duty to always act in your best interests.  SACM has also successfully completed an Investment Fiduciary Audit (IFA) by an Accredited Investment Fiduciary Auditor (AIFA) and maintains the internal control procedures necessary to insure the consistent administration of all seven standards of fiduciary care.

►  Do you have Professional Liability Insurance coverage?

Yes.  Click here to view my E & O Certificate.

►  Is my personal and financial information secure?

Yes.  SICG is fully committed to safeguarding your privacy and holding your personal information in the strictest confidence.  Click here to view SICG's Privacy Policy.

►  What extra services do you provide?

As a boutique style investment firm, we am able to provide concierge levels of service, such as vastly expanded office and phone hours, convenient house call service*, accompaniment to meetings with other financial services professionals* (legal, tax, insurance, etc.), an as-needed time commitment for account education and online audio/video conferencing.  Also, in our efforts to continue providing unparalleled personalized care, we plan on limiting our investment advisory services to a maximum of 50 clients.  *Logistics permitting.

►  Is there a charge for a consultation?

There is no charge for the initial one hour office consultation.  A  $200 per hour fee is accessed thereafter for non-clients.  The hourly fee is waived for clients of SICG. 

 

"Why Pay More ...for Less?"

 

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