Goals-Based Planning: Where Value Resides
By: Don Burrows, Jr. Hilltop Securities, Inc. don. Burrows @ hilltopsecurities. com
The traditional approach to the relationship between a financial advisor and their client has generally focused on investment performance or individual transactions. While this model has worked in the past, goals-based planning models that focus on cultivating a meaningful financial partnership— have begun to proliferate in the retail financial services sector.
Financial advice isn’ t one-size-fits-all, so the relationship between an advisor and their client is where value really lies. The goals-based planning model is based on specific goals, objectives and the risk tolerance of the individual investor, all of which are viewed through a holistic, longterm timeline. The critical key here is that planning is not a one-time event— it’ s an ongoing process that continues to grow and take shape throughout the span of an investor’ s life.
With goals-based planning, your financial advisor acts as a fiscal counselor, guiding you and your portfolio through challenging markets, personal life events and unforeseen lifestyle disruptions.
The value of a financial advisory team
If a relational approach to financial advice is where value resides, wouldn’ t you want the peace of mind knowing there is a team working to build that relationship? Working with a team of experienced financial professionals can be one of the ways to take control of your future. In a rapidly changing world with many uncertainties and few guarantees, having a team that serves as your closest ally and fiercest advocate can empower you to pursue your financial goals. A strong advisory team relationship is also beneficial for a variety of other reasons, including:
• You have more than one set of eyes locked on one common goal: the client’ s best interest.
With a team advisory approach to goals-based financial planning, you have the advantage of each advisor bringing their own skill to the table— whether it be in the bond market, estate planning, long-term care insurance or even guidance related to enrolling in employee-sponsored retirement plans( 401k, 403b, Profit Sharing Plan). At every stage of life, your financial goals are the central focus of every member of your advisory team. If an unforeseen event affects one member of the team, the relationship will carry on without interruption.
• You have a team of advisors to walk with you not only through the ups-and-downs of the markets, as well as the ups-and-downs of life.
Working with a team of advisors can help you better prepare for the unexpected with the added benefit of having knowledgeable partners to stand beside you when life happens. The reality is markets will rise and fall and unexpected life events will always get in the way of
carefully constructed planning. A team of experienced advisors can help you navigate volatility and provide you with guidance on difficult decisions that can have significant, long-term impacts on your future.
About Our Team
Don Burrows, Clint Auttonberry and Mike Agol established the Burrows, Auttonberry & Agol Investment Group of HilltopSecurities more than 5 years ago. Don, Clint and Mike began their careers as institutional bond brokers and traders serving insurance companies, banks, mutual funds and other professional investors. Later, the team decided to utilize their deep knowledge of the markets to private clients, families, endowments and foundations. Today, the team focuses on goalsbased financial planning. Rolando Villarreal, who joined the team in 2017, oversees all business development and community involvement initiatives. Also new to the team is Pauline Smith, who oversees all client-service functions. Together the Burrows, Auttonberry and Agol Investment Group delivers personal service and ongoing financial advice to their clients and the League City community.
About Hilltop Securities Inc.
Hilltop Securities Inc., a member of NYSE, FINRA and SIPC, delivers the forthright advice and tailored solutions necessary for municipal issuers, institutions, broker-dealers and individuals to thrive. The financial services firm and registered investment adviser is headquartered in Dallas, Texas, with offices across the United States. Areas of focus include public finance, municipal and taxable fixed income underwriting, sales and trading; equity and portfolio trading; retail brokerage services; security clearing; structured finance; and securities lending. A wholly owned subsidiary of Hilltop Holdings Inc.( NYSE:
HTH), HilltopSecurities’ affiliates include Hilltop Securities Independent Network Inc., PlainsCapital Bank, PrimeLending and National Lloyds Corp oration.
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