Edward R. Kuresman, CFA, Regional President and Senior Managing Director
The best client-advisor relationships are built on alignment — of values, goals, and investment philosophy. Asking the right questions early can save time, prevent misunderstandings, and set the stage for a long-term relationship that grows with you. Edward R. Kuresman, CFA, Regional President, Senior Managing Director, suggests asking these questions to evaluate whether an advisor is the right match:
1. Are senior leadership and key employees fee-paying clients of the firm?
This demonstrates whether the team genuinely believes in their own advice. Advisors who invest alongside their clients show confidence in their recommendations and align their interests with yours.
2. Does the firm’s investment philosophy align with mine?
A mismatch in philosophy can create unnecessary tension and frustration. Ensuring alignment helps you feel confident that your portfolio is managed in a way that reflects your values, goals, and tolerance for risk.
3. Will I be working with a team or an individual?
A team may provide broader expertise and multiple perspectives, while an individual may offer a more direct, personalized relationship. Understanding the structure allows you to anticipate how communication and decision-making will work.
4. Will recommendations be customized to my situation?
You want solutions tailored to your unique circumstances, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Personalized guidance can align your plan with your priorities, lifestyle, and long-term objectives.
5. How does your firm stay informed about changes in markets, tax laws, and technology?
Financial landscapes evolve quickly. Advisors who actively stay informed can provide timely, relevant advice and adjust strategies proactively as circumstances change.
Aiming for True Alignment
These questions provide clarity about how an advisor works and whether their approach complements your goals. Alignment fosters trust, reduces friction, and creates a foundation for a productive, long-term partnership.
“Philosophy matters,” Edward notes. “If an advisor’s approach doesn’t match your own, the relationship will never feel right — no matter how skilled they are.”
Understanding how an advisor works and what they prioritize helps you determine whether a partnership will truly support your financial objectives. Contact our team today to explore how we can help craft a financial strategy that reflects your priorities and supports your long-term goals.
Please send your questions, comments, and feedback to: info@mai.capital. The opinions and analyses expressed herein are subject to change at any time. Any suggestions contained herein are general, and do not take into account an individual’s or entity’s specific circumstances or applicable governing law, which may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and be subject to change. Distribution hereof does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, investment, or other professional advice. Recipients should consult their professional advisors prior to acting on the information set forth herein. In accordance with certain Treasury Regulations, we inform you that any federal tax conclusions set forth in this communication, were not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used by any taxpayer, for the purposes of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.
