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Guiding Principles

At the heart of Spain and Smith Wealth Advisors are 4 pillars that we use as our guiding principles for how we view and manage our client relationships.

 

The 4 Pillars of Trustworthy
Client Relationships

Spain & Smith Pillars

Pillar 1: Transparency and Realistic Planning 

We believe in transparency and providing you with a potential picture possible of your financial future. This aligns with our commitment to upholding the CFP® code of ethics

Here is what this means for you: 

  • Our goal is to factor in all costs: Financial planning tools often use historical returns that do not account for investment fees. We take a different approach by including advisory fees in our analysis because we understand they can impact your long-term results.
     

  • Our goal is to consider how future market conditions affect your financial plan: We believe historical returns may not be a reliable indicator of what to expect in the future, so we incorporate projections of potentially lower returns over the next 5, 10, 15, and 20 years compared to historical averages. 

 

We believe our comprehensive approach will empower you, with our partnership, to create a strong financial plan that will target your short- and long-term goals.

Pillar 2: Understanding How We Manage Your Portfolio 

We believe in a data-driven approach to portfolio management. We utilize a framework known as Portfolio Attribution to analyze the sources of your investment performance. Portfolio attribution means comparing all the elements of your portfolio to the standard benchmark or index to help you better understand your portfolio performance measurement. Portfolio Attribution could also be known as Index Attribution or Blended Benchmarking, which means using a quantitative method used to evaluate a portfolio’s performance by comparing it against a benchmark. 

Here is how it benefits you: 

  • Transparency and Source of Returns: We break down your portfolio's performance into four key drivers: asset allocation, security selection, short-term adjustments, and unforeseen factors.  This allows us to clearly understand what is working and what is not, and to focus on the areas with the greatest potential impact. We leverage this knowledge to strategically build your portfolio. 
     

  • Focus on Long-Term Performance: Our analysis is conducted net of advisory fees, reflecting what matters to you – your bottom line. Our goal is to deliver competitive results and try to minimize underperformance. 

 

Pillar 3: Client-Centric Partnerships: Building Trust Beyond Accolades  

We believe your financial journey deserves a partner - one who values transparency and puts your well-being first, which is what it means to be a part of a fiduciary relationship. We build strong relationships, craft personalized plans, and guide you with experience. 

 

We certainly care about our reputation, but our philosophy is to prioritize client trust over industry accolades, awards, and recognition. We let our work and relationships speak for themselves.

 

  • Your goals are our focus: Our team is equipped to deliver the personalized guidance we believe you need to achieve your financial goals. 
     

  • Transparency You Can Trust: Building a strong relationship starts with clear communication. Our team takes the time to explain investment strategies, fees, and how they measure success – in terms you understand. 
     

  • Your Goals, Our Focus: Your unique life deserves a unique plan. We believe in personalized strategies tailored to your unique situation and aspirations. 

 

 

Pillar 4: Spain and Smith Wealth Advisors: Where Integrity Meets Innovation 

At Spain and Smith Wealth Advisors, financial planning is not just about numbers. It is about building trust and striving to exceed your expectations. That is where our "Golden Rule+" comes in. It is more than just treating clients fairly – it is a deep commitment to going the extra mile. 

Think of it as a guiding principle woven into everything we do. It is not a dusty old rulebook; it is a promise to navigate life’s financial situations with honesty and empathy. We treat our clients the way we would want to be treated, with generosity and genuine care. 

 

In today's ever-changing financial landscape, the “Golden Rule+” acts as our compass. It motivates us to constantly improve and serve our clients better than ever before. We do not want to just meet expectations; we aim to exceed them. After all, as William Faulkner might say, true success is measured by the depth of our compassion, not just numbers in an account. 

 

With the Golden Rule+ as our foundation, let us help you navigate your financial future with comfort and confidence.

Interested in Learning more? Let's Talk!

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