We understand that choosing a financial advisor is an important decision. Below are answers to some of the questions we hear most often. If you don't see your question here, we'd be happy to speak with you.
+ Why should I hire someone instead of investing on my own?
You certainly could invest on your own. You could also change your own oil, do your own home improvement projects, and make your own clothes. There are many reasons people choose to delegate certain tasks. Delegation allows us to focus on what we enjoy or where we can add the most value. At Rothman Investment Management, we do more than simply manage investment portfolios. We take the time to get to know you, understand what is important to you, and help you develop a financial plan designed to support your goals. We build and monitor investment portfolios based on your individual circumstances and make adjustments as your needs or market conditions change. We also consider factors such as tax-efficient investing, retirement income planning, charitable giving strategies, and other financial planning topics that may be appropriate for your situation. Many investors find value in working with a financial advisor for guidance, discipline, and long-term planning. However, every investor's experience is different, and working with an advisor does not guarantee investment results or eliminate investment risk.
+ What does fee-only mean?
Fee-only means that we are compensated directly by our clients for the advice and services we provide. We do not receive commissions for recommending investment products, nor do we receive compensation from mutual fund companies, insurance companies, or other third parties based on the investments we recommend. Because our compensation comes directly from our clients, our focus is on providing advice that we believe is appropriate for each client's individual goals and circumstances.
+ What is a fiduciary?
A fiduciary is someone who is legally obligated to act in the best interest of another. As a registered investment adviser, Rothman Investment Management has a fiduciary duty when providing investment advice. That means we are required to place our clients' interests ahead of our own and to identify, disclose, and appropriately address conflicts of interest. We believe our clients deserve advice that is objective, transparent, and tailored to their individual needs.
+ What is a reasonable expectation for investment returns?
That depends on your risk tolerance, time horizon, financial goals, and many other factors. While the U.S. stock market has historically experienced positive long-term growth, past performance is not indicative of future results. Future returns are uncertain, and no investment strategy can guarantee profits or protect against losses. Every portfolio is different. Rather than focusing on a specific rate of return, we work with clients to build investment strategies that are appropriate for their individual circumstances and long-term objectives. If you'd like to discuss what may be appropriate for your situation, we'd be happy to meet with you.
+ Is financial planning the same thing as investing?
No. Financial planning is the process of identifying what you want to accomplish, evaluating your current financial situation, and developing a strategy designed to help you work toward your goals. Investing is one important part of that process. It involves managing your investments in a way that supports your overall financial plan. At Rothman Investment Management, we believe investment management is most effective when it is part of a comprehensive financial plan.
+ Who does RIM work for?
At Rothman Investment Management, we work directly for our clients. Because we are a fee-only advisory firm, we do not receive commissions for recommending investment products, and we are compensated directly by our clients for the services we provide. Our goal is to provide advice that is appropriate for each client's individual needs, objectives, and financial circumstances.
+ What is a Registered Investment Adviser?
A Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) is a firm that provides investment advice and portfolio management services and is regulated by either the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or applicable state securities regulators, depending on the firm's size and registration status. As a registered investment adviser, Rothman Investment Management provides investment advice under a fiduciary standard and believes this model best aligns with our commitment to serving our clients' interests.
If you have additional questions about our services, we'd be happy to speak with you. Please contact us to schedule a conversation or learn more about how we may be able to help.