Momentum - Business to Business Online Magazine MOMENTUM April 2018 | Page 28

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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