Large-firm, private / alternative investments financial advisors in Des Moines, 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. A common mistake is underestimating the complexity and risks involved, which can lead to misaligned portfolios or unexpected liquidity issues. Large-firm advisors often have access to a wider range of investment options and resources, which can influence your experience.
- Due diligence depth. Ask how they evaluate private deals and alternative assets to ensure they fit your risk tolerance and goals.
- Liquidity planning. Private investments can be less liquid; confirm how they help you manage cash flow needs alongside these holdings.
- Fee structure clarity. Large firms may have layered fees; understand how costs are disclosed and impact your returns.
- Regulatory awareness. Check how they navigate compliance and reporting requirements specific to private investments in your state.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Will S
Series 66
Des Moines, IA
Sanctuary Advisors, LLC
Will Schroeder specializes in private and alternative investments within a large firm setting in Des Moines, offering tailored strategies that include retirement income and business exit planning. His firm, Sanctuary Advisors, LLC, supports diverse client types with customizable investment programs and negotiates flat fees for financial planning, distinguishing him from advisors with standard AUM-based fees.
Experience: 3 years
Avg account: $1,618,113
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Brandon N
Series 63, Series 66
West Des Moines, IA
Charles Schwab
Brandon Neil specializes in private and alternative investments at Charles Schwab, a large firm known for its extensive resources and integrated service model, which can support complex portfolio needs in Des Moines. With 18 years of experience and a 0.80% annual AUM fee, he serves primarily high-net-worth clients, combining strategic asset allocation with access to diverse alternative assets, differentiating him from advisors with narrower focuses or smaller firms.
Experience: 18 years
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Jacob O
Series 65
Johnston, IA
Edelman Financial Engines
Jacob Oberender at Edelman Financial Engines is equipped to assist with private and alternative investments, leveraging the resources of a large firm known for technology-enabled advisory services and model-based portfolios. His flat-fee structure and experience with retirement income strategy and tax-loss harvesting offer a distinct approach compared to others, while his Series 65 designation and background in business ownership add practical insight for clients in Johnston, IA.
Experience: 2 years
Avg account: $375,508
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Megan U
CFP®, Series 66
West Des Moines, IA
Creative Planning
Megan Uphold's experience with private and alternative investments at Creative Planning, a large firm managing $217 billion in assets, equips her to handle complex portfolios in Des Moines. Her CFP® certification, flat-fee structure, and focus on tax-loss harvesting and sustainable investing distinguish her from other advisors by combining specialized expertise with transparent fees and a financial planning–led investment approach.
Experience: 10 years
Avg account: $2,113,277
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Lauren K
CFP®, Series 65
West Des Moines, IA
Mercer Global Advisors Inc.
Lauren Kaniuk specializes in private and alternative investments within a large firm setting in West Des Moines, offering access to diverse investment options and resources. Her firm employs Modern Portfolio Theory for globally diversified portfolios and serves high-net-worth clients with a flat-fee structure, distinguishing her approach from others by combining advanced strategies with transparent fees and a focus on established professionals.
Experience: 5 years
Avg account: $2,214,259
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