Question 1

Do you have a customer satisfaction or refund policy?

Accepted Answer

Client contracts may be cancelled at any time with 30 days advance notice.

Question 2

What are your qualifications? What is your education background?

Accepted Answer

David has earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (TM) designation by taking coursework through New York University and passing a two day, ten hour exam. David also earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation by taking coursework though Stetson University and passing an exam.  David holds a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from The Georgia Institute of Technology.

Question 3

How are you compensated? How will I pay for your services?

Accepted Answer

The annual fee is a standard 0.92% of managed assets.  Fees are automatically processed from accounts on a quarterly basis and reported on custodial statements.

Question 4

If you are going to manage my account, will you obtain my permission every time you buy or sell something?

Accepted Answer

No, the client contract grants limited power of attorney for Middleton Advisory LLC to manage accounts without prior authorization for every trade or transaction.  However, transactions are limited to internal trades or to transfers to/from a client's authorized bank account.

Question 5

How many clients do you currently manage?

Accepted Answer

23

Question 6

Will you be the only person working with me?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  However, coordination with your tax advisor, attorney, or insurance agent may be necessary.

Question 7

Do you offer any guaranteed results?

Accepted Answer

No. Making guarantees about future investment returns is unethical and downright illegal.  You will receive reasonable expectations for the future, with the calculated probability that your financial goals will be met, based on mutually agreed upon assumptions.

Question 8

How much risk should I be willing to take?

Accepted Answer

Insufficient risk may lead to your money growing below the inflation rate and a devastating loss in purchasing power over time.  Excessive risk may lead to an emotionally jarring short-term drop in your net worth and may cause cash flow problems.  Your portfolio will be managed with the correct amount of risk for your situation and personal risk tolerance.

Question 9

Have you ever been charged with any breaches?

Accepted Answer

No.

Question 10

What financial institution(s) do you represent?

Accepted Answer

None. Middleton Advisory is a completely independent, fee-only, Registered Investment Advisor firm solely owned by David Middleton.

Question 11

What is your approach to financial planning?

Accepted Answer

After thorough discussion and analysis, including coordination with attorneys, accountants, and insurance agents, as necessary, clients receive a financial plan that outlines the proper investments and strategies for their unique circumstances. The plan is then implemented with a limited power of attorney agreement. However, even the best plans often need adjustment or correction as circumstances change.  Regular meetings and updates will ensure that your financial accounts are managed appropriately over the years.

Question 12

What services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Financial Planning and Investment Management.  This involves coordination with your tax advisor, attorney, and insurance agent, if necessary.

Middleton Advisory LLC can provide services to individuals or institutions.

Question 13

What is your approach to Education Planning?

Accepted Answer

Higher education costs are out of control.  Education planning involves setting goals based on future needs and then constructing an investment plan with a reasonable probability of hitting that goal.  Tax favored accounts such as 529 plans are generally a good idea for these investments.