Real Retirement Solutions
designed to improve- Wealth Preservation
- Management of Risky Assets
- Peace of Mind
This is achieved through an ongoing assessment of market risks given your specific financial situation and goals.
Professional Expertise
Leadership Team

Richard Furmanski
CFA, CFP®
has been a portfolio manager and analyst for over 35 years. He manages conservative, tax-efficient portfolios for both pre-retirees and retirees. His lower risk approach appeals to investors who want less volatility and competitive risk-adjusted returns.

Mary Ellen Adam
Director of Operations
has been in office administration for over twenty years. Her experience includes customer service, firm operations, and office administration. She interacts with our clients on a day-to-day basis and handles any requests that may arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you can’t find the answer to your questions here, feel free to give us a call at 847-847-2505
Do you manage both stock and bond portfolios?
Yes. We build a portfolio of conservative, high-quality stocks and hold them for the long-term. The average holding period is 4 – 5 years. Our focus is on stocks that are suitable for retirement portfolios.
Our high-quality bond portfolios are designed to provide both income and stability of principal. Bonds provide the anchor for balanced accounts (those holding both stocks and bonds).
What is your investment philosophy?
Will the portfolio be managed in accordance with my financial goals?
What kind of expertise do you have and how can that help me in difficult markets?
Are you sensitive to taxes when managing portfolios?
How have you performed?
How do you charge for your services?
Recent Commentaries
Stay up to date with all of our latest comments and analysis.
December 2022 Market Commentary
The stock market has been strong since early October. The S&P 500 rallied 6.5% in October and is up 2.5% so far in November (through November 28th). Although this is likely a bear market rally, something has changed in investors’ minds. In the short term, investors...
November 2022 Market Commentary
After the market and sentiment hit a low on September 30, stocks had a fabulous October. The Dow surged 14.0% in October with the S&P 500 up 8.0%. NASDAQ trailed but was up 3.9%. It was the best month for the Dow since January 1976. The most impressive part of this...
October 2022 Market Commentary
Here is our annual Q and A of questions most asked by clients: Q When will the bear market in stocks end? A It will be hard to know precisely when the bear market ends. Unfortunately, they don’t ring a bell when the coast is clear. A...
Monthly Updates
December 2022 Mid-Month Recap
During this holiday season, we want to take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude to all of our clients and friends. Our best wishes to you and your loved ones for a Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah! Where is this year’s Santa Claus...
November 2022 Mid-Month Recap
Sometimes it is hard to find glimmers of hope in the midst of a bear market. Maybe last Thursday’s 1200 point surge in the Dow was an indication the worst is over. Time will tell. Seasonals, however, are very bullish right now. Here is what we mean: First,...