Santa Came Late

by | Jan 8, 2019 | Monthly Updates

Since the widespread panic we saw at the Christmas Eve lows, the stock market has staged a massive 11% rally in just over three weeks (another reminder why ‘market timing’ doesn’t work). Based on the 10-day change in the advance/decline line (a market breadth...
2019: Money in Motion

2019: Money in Motion

by | Jan 6, 2019 | Recent Commentary

Fourth Quarter Recap:  What a difference a quarter can make. The S&P 500 was up 9% through September but then declined 14% in Q4 to end (6.2)% for the year. Many other U.S. stock market measures were down more. And volatility raged throughout the quarter....

Why We Use Laddered Bond Portfolios

by | Dec 19, 2018 | Short Takes

Managing fixed income portfolios in-house using separately managed accounts requires expertise not often found with most investment advisory firms.  However, it can provide flexibility and cost savings compared to mutual funds or exchange traded funds (ETFs).  At...
Knowledge – Results

Experts in Risk Management

Are you prepared for the next market correction or financial crisis?

Let us Help
Knowledge – Results

Experts in Risk Management

Are you prepared for the next market correction or financial crisis?

Let us Help
Knowledge – Results

Experts in Risk Management

Are you prepared for the next market correction or financial crisis?

Let us Help
Knowledge – Results

Experts in Risk Management

Are you prepared for the next market correction or financial crisis?

Let us Help
3

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.

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Professional Expertise

Leadership Team

Richard Furmanski

Richard Furmanski

CFA

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.

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Mary Ellen Adam

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.

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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?
We take great care in purchasing only high-quality stocks and bonds intent on a multi-year holding period. Portfolio turnover and taxable realized gains are modest in comparison to other active managers. We do not time the market but will become more defensive, in terms of stock holdings, when market conditions warrant.
Will the portfolio be managed in accordance with my financial goals?
Yes. Each of our clients has a custom-tailored portfolio. These custom portfolios are designed to meet specific client objectives with a thoughtful approach to specific constraints such as risk tolerance. And as each client’s situation changes, the portfolio does as well. There is no cookie cutter approach.
What kind of expertise do you have and how can that help me in difficult markets?
We have been working with high-net-worth clients like you since 1982. Over that time we have helped them to navigate several bear markets and financial crises (including the stock market crash of 1987). We hold the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designations.
Are you sensitive to taxes when managing portfolios?
Yes. Our holding period for an individual stock averages 4 plus years which means our turnover is low and realized gains can be carefully managed. Further, where possible, we tax loss harvest small losses as a way of offsetting gains taken elsewhere in the portfolio.
How have you performed?
Results will differ by client and the level of customization but we have provided competitive investment returns for many years.
How do you charge for your services?
We charge a management or consultant fee based upon the size and level of customization of the account. As the account grows, we benefit together.

Recent Commentaries

Stay up to date with all of our latest comments and analysis.

November 2025 Market Commentary

We are in the heart of earnings season, and it has been an excellent one. About 64% of S&P 500 companies have...
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The Three Types of Corrections Investors Face

Mar 18, 2018

The corporate earnings growth rate (year/year) for Q4, 2017 was a spectacular 15.2%, the highest quarterly growth rate reported in over six years. It marked the third time in the past four quarters earnings growth was in double digits. Revenues grew an impressive 7.9%...

The Sweet Smell of Large Caps

Feb 18, 2018

The unfolding 2018 market narrative trumpets the expectation of strong corporate profits ahead. But first, let’s take a look at how fourth quarter 2017 reports are shaping up so far. Fourth quarter earnings are expected to grow 11.2% (ex­financial companies). We are...

Market Jitters Send Stocks Down 10%

Feb 18, 2018

As of last night’s close, the S&P 500 has dropped 10% in the last nine trading days. Investors are nervous about the rapid escalation in interest rates this year as well as a whiff of inflation with wage gains up 2.9% in January. Many are concerned the Fed will...

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Monthly Updates

A Valuation Measure For Everyone

Jan 22, 2020

Sentiment affects valuations:  Last year’s big rise in the S&P 500 was sparked more by optimism and rising sentiment (which resulted in higher P/Es) than earnings growth.  Can we get another strong year of stock market performance based on rising sentiment?  Let’s...

Stocks Having Best Year Since 2013

Dec 16, 2019

During this holiday season, we want to take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation to all of our clients and friends.  We cherish every relationship and are thinking of you with gratitude.  We wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and Happy...

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