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Frequently Asked Questions

What do you mean by fee-only?

A fee-only financial advisor is compensated directly by their clients for financial advice and ongoing investment management. We do not receive commissions or kickbacks from financial products, which minimizes conflict and requires us to act as fiduciaries (i.e. we act in your best interest). This is the most transparent and objective compensation structure available.

Why do I need a financial advisor?

Whether you lack time, skill, or discipline, you need a financial advisor to stay accountable and be proactive. It’s easy to document your plan on paper, but if someone isn’t in your corner looking out for your financial well-being, it’s easy to get off track. It’s about creating a to-do list, getting it done, and then doing it again – life evolves, and so does your plan. Our goal is to give you confidence in your financial decisions and free up your time, enabling you to live a better, more confident life.

I want to learn more but I’m not sure Gunder is a good fit. What’s the next step?

Schedule an introductory meeting with us here. There is no charge or commitment to have an initial meeting – this is a chance for us to get to know each other. Financial planning involves a sense of vulnerability and we want to make sure you’re comfortable with us and our approach. We’ll ask more about your finances, goals, and your feelings as it relates to money.

Who is NOT a good fit for Gunder?

Anyone who thinks we can beat the market or predict the future. Also, anyone who isn’t open to utilizing technology as a means of communication and document storage. Lastly, this is a partnership – if you aren’t willing to put in the effort, this relationship won’t work.  We want you to interact with our planning tools – don’t expect a 40-page PDF’d deliverable over here!  

Why Gunder vs. another firm OR ROBO advisor?

First off, it’s worth mentioning we’re considered “independent” – we’re not required to sell you proprietary investment products. Secondly, with increasing financial technology available, investment management has become a commodity in some sense. So how do we differentiate ourselves?  Clients want a relationship with someone they can trust as they embark on their financial journey, particularly as situations evolve and get more complex. Answers aren’t always black and white and emotions can cloud your ability to achieve financial success. Having a partnership with a financial advisor who is relatable and simplifies the process is key. Our goal is to do more than manage your investments – we strive to deliver an advice-driven experience that you can count on.

What if I don’t live in the metro-Detroit area?

We utilize the latest technology enabling us to work with clients all over the country. We can meet by phone, virtually, or in-person if you’re in the Detroit region. Life is busy – we want to cause the least amount of disruption to your schedule while still allowing us to have a meaningful conversation. Local clients are welcome to meet virtually as well.

What’s ESG investing?

ESG stands for environmental, social, and governance. Investments meeting ESG criteria are screened based on a company’s operations by analyzing socially conscious factors. As the demand for ESG investments becomes more mainstream, other concepts such as socially responsible investing (SRI), impact investing, and values-based investing are gaining popularity as well. While they are different in their approach, they all share a sustainability theme. If interested, we’re happy to have a more detailed conversation with you to determine if investing a portion or all of your portfolio into ESG investments is a good fit.

Why did you name your firm Gunder Wealth Management?

Gunder is the name of the ski run in Beaver Creek, CO where we got engaged back in 2006. Although Ashlee didn’t know how to ski before we met, needless to say, it’s an annual family excursion now!