We believe that asset allocation – selecting the right mix of assets to include in a portfolio, not picking individual securities or managers – is the most important decision in the overall investment process. Therefore, we spend considerable time creating an appropriate asset allocation for each client.

Asset allocation is the primary driver of investment results.

Because we believe that asset allocation is more of an art than a science, we don’t rely on checkbox answers to simple questionnaires, nor do we depend on quantitative models to generate a client’s asset allocation. Instead, we develop each asset allocation only after engaging in meaningful, personal conversations aimed at achieving a thorough understanding of the investor’s objectives and constraints.

Once the asset allocation is determined, we develop a plan on how best to efficiently locate assets across investment accounts. We perform this often overlooked exercise because certain investments should be carefully positioned in either tax-exempt or taxable accounts depending on variables such as time horizon, tax status, and estate planning.