Top private / alternative investments financial advisors in Ames, IA
The right financial advisor for you depends on how you weigh location, expertise, experience, the clients they typically serve, and how they work with you.
If you're considering private or alternative investments, you likely want to diversify beyond traditional stocks and bonds to potentially enhance returns or reduce risk. A common mistake is underestimating the complexity and unique risks these investments carry, which can lead to unexpected losses or liquidity issues.
- Risk assessment expertise. Confirm how the advisor evaluates the specific risks tied to private equity, hedge funds, or real assets.
- Liquidity planning. Ask how they help manage the timing of cash needs given these investments often have limited liquidity.
- Fee structure clarity. Private investments can have layered fees; ensure the advisor explains all costs clearly.
- Alignment with your goals. Discuss how they integrate alternative assets into your overall financial plan, not just as standalone picks.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Neal G
CFP®
Ames, IA
Mercer Global Advisors Inc.
Neal Gudmunson specializes in private and alternative investments in Ames, IA, supported by his CFP® certification and experience at Mercer Global Advisors, a large firm serving high-net-worth clients. His firm uses a Modern Portfolio Theory approach with globally diversified, risk-appropriate portfolios, and offers flat-fee structures with additional fees for extraordinary services, distinguishing him from advisors with different fee models or investment focuses.
Experience: 1 year
Avg account: $2,214,259
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Matthew C
Series 65
Johnston, IA
Edelman Financial Engines
Matthew Corley specializes in private and alternative investments, offering expertise in retirement income strategy and tax-loss harvesting, which supports diversified portfolio management in Ames, IA. Working with Edelman Financial Engines, a large firm known for technology-enabled advisory services, he provides flexible fee options including flat fees and AUM-based charges, catering to a broad client base with both advisor-led and online platforms.
Experience: 1 year
Avg account: $375,508
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Jennifer F
Series 63, Series 65
Ankeny, IA
Creative Planning
Jennifer Friedman offers expertise in private and alternative investments, supported by 12 years of experience and Series 63 and 65 licenses. Operating from a large firm managing $217 billion in assets, she employs a financial planning-led approach with low-cost indexing and tax-loss harvesting, serving high-net-worth clients with flat-fee structures, which may differ from advisors focusing solely on traditional investments or smaller firms.
Experience: 12 years
Avg account: $2,113,277
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