FAQ
Rich's Book
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) are one of the most important financial developments of the last fifty years.
This book explains, in easy to understand terms, how ETFs work and the many advantages they offer compared to traditional mutual funds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I get started?
- Who holds my money?
- Can I use a custodian other than Fidelity?
- Do you charge for an initial consultation?
- Who has access to my money?
- If I am not satisfied is there a cost to terminate the agreement?
- Can I access my account online?
- What type of reporting will I receive?
- How many transactions do you make per year?
- Is this a pooled account?
- Who makes the investment decisions for my portfolio?
- What types of accounts are suitable for ETF investments?
How do I get started?
To get started, you must open an account with Fidelity Investments and appoint us as your investment advisor. We have all the necessary Fidelity new account documents. Next, you must sign our Investment Advisory Agreement. If you need additional information, please refer to our form ADV.
Who holds my money?
We use Fidelity Investments as our primary custodian. Fidelity is one of the largest and most respected brokerage firms in the country.
Can I use a custodian other than Fidelity?
We will consider alternative custodial arrangements for accounts in excess of one million dollars.
Do you charge for an initial consultation?
No, there is never a fee or charge to meet with us. We understand the importance of earning your trust. Therefore, there is no fee for initial consultations or discussions.
Who has access to my money?
The only person or persons who have access to your account are those listed as owner(s). We have limited power of attorney to buy or sell securities on your behalf. We do not have direct access to any funds in your account.
If I am not satisfied is there a cost to terminate the agreement?
Either party can terminate the Investment Agreement at any time, for any reason. There is not a termination fee or required holding period. The final quarterly fee will be prorated based on the number of days during the quarter the account was under our management.
Can I access my account online?
Yes, you can review your account online as frequently as desired through Fidelity Investments’ web page.
What type of reporting will I receive?
Fidelity will provide you with a regular monthly statement and confirmation notice on all trades. We provide you with a detailed quarterly report and a comprehensive year-end review and analysis.
How many transactions do you make per year?
The number of transactions in your portfolio each year will vary based on market conditions and our research. In a normal year you can anticipate between 8 and 12 trades. We typically hold between 8 and 10 positions in every portfolio. Again, as market and economic conditions change the number of holdings in any given portfolio may change.
Is this a pooled account?
No, each portfolio we manage is designed to meet the specific needs of that client. Unlike a mutual fund, you do not simply own a piece of a larger portfolio. You own the securities in your portfolio and it is managed with your goals in mind.
Who makes the investment decisions for my portfolio?
All investment decisions are made by Richard D. Romey and William E. Koehler. Combined, they have over 50 years of experience in the financial services industry and are considered experts in the area of ETF-based portfolio management. Richard is author of Strategic Index Investing - Unlocking the Power of Exchange-Traded Index Funds, a book that provides a detailed analysis of ETFs and ETF-based portfolio management strategies. Richard and William have been quoted in numerous financial publications over the years, including the Wall Street Journal, Investor's Business Daily, and ABC News.
What types of accounts are suitable for ETF investments?
ETFs are suitable investment vehicles for all types of portfolios, both taxable and tax-deferred, including IRAs, 529s, and 401(k) plans.