Understanding where you stand and where you want to go are two important facts to establish. Comprehensive financial planning helps clients understand the risks they face, prudent adjustments to consider and the path to pursue for accomplishing their goals. Legacy planning is more qualitative in nature but, ultimately, equally important. There’s a tremendous failure rate of inheritances and the mission of those assets coming to fruition as estates pass to the second and third generation. Legacy planning is designed to engage the entire family to articulate and secure core values, family traditions, life lessons, philanthropic aspirations and continuity across generations.

The foundation of investment management begins with constructing a portfolio of various asset classes. Throughout the financial planning process, we are held to a fiduciary standard in the management of these assets and pursue an efficient and cost-effective blend of investments that is appropriate given a stated set of objectives and risk preferences. There are a number of investment vehicles and approaches to this portion of an investment portfolio, which we customize for each client.

Non-publicly traded alternative investments cover a broad spectrum of offerings that are typically designed to perform differently than traditional asset classes. This lack of correlation to traditional asset classes has the ability to improve portfolio efficiency and the relationship between risk and return. We work with qualified families to identify potential investment strategies that are suitable for their situation. These investments include private equity, hedge funds, managed futures and real estate.

Borrowing is an essential need for many families. Whether it’s to acquire something (e.g., home, business, property, private investment, etc.), refinance an existing debt, or cover a short-term expense, having access to credit is a strategic tool for many. We assist clients to identify competitive solutions and work in partnership with Raymond James Bank to deliver solutions that include mortgages, security based lending, margin, aviation lending and corporate & real estate banking.

Trust administration and charitable giving are important wealth-management components. There is a myriad of unique, tailored trust solutions available to each client. Under its federal charter, Raymond James Trust can serve as trustee, co-trustee, custodian, personal representative or agent to the trustee.

Further, charitable giving not only supports the causes and organizations that families are passionate about but also serves as a strategic tax-management tool. Philanthropic services are facilitated through Raymond James Charitable and include Donor Advised Funds, Charitable Gift Annuities, Pooled Income Funds and Charity Advised Accounts. We take the time to explain the value of each of these tools and how they can best support your goals and financial situation.