Independent, private / alternative investments financial advisors in Oakland, CA
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 unique risks and liquidity constraints these investments carry, which can affect your overall financial plan.
- Independent perspective. These advisors operate without firm ties, which can influence the range of investment options they consider for you.
- Risk and liquidity insight. Ask how they evaluate the specific risks and how easily you can access your money in alternative investments.
- Tax implications. Given California's high income taxes and property tax limits under Proposition 13, confirm how they integrate tax planning with your investment choices.
- Experience with alternatives. Inquire about their track record managing private investments, not just traditional portfolios, to ensure they understand this complex area.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Lydia I
Series 65
Oakland, CA
FM Capital Group
Lydia Idem specializes in private and alternative investments with 11 years of experience and a Series 65 designation, operating independently in Oakland, CA. Her firm, FM Capital Group, offers flat-fee pricing starting at $1,500 annually plus a retainer, and emphasizes strategic allocation and due diligence on private investment term sheets, setting her apart with performance-based fees on private placements and educational outreach.
Experience: 11 years
Avg account: $350,000
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Todd W
Alameda, CA
Legacy Wealth Management, LLC
Todd Wellnitz offers expertise in private and alternative investments with a flat-fee, independent advisory model, suitable for clients seeking personalized strategies in Alameda, CA. His firm, Legacy Wealth Management, serves individuals and organizations with discretionary and non-discretionary portfolio management, emphasizing tailored strategies and ongoing account monitoring, which may appeal to those valuing continuous oversight alongside alternative investment options.
Experience: 1 year
Avg account: $186,710
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Steven B
Series 65
Oakland, CA
Redhawk Wealth Advisors, Inc.
Steven Burke specializes in private and alternative investments in Oakland, CA, bringing eight years of industry experience and a Series 65 designation. His firm, RedHawk Wealth Advisors, offers flat-fee financial planning and serves a diverse client base including high-net-worth individuals and trusts, using a structured investment committee and third-party risk assessments to manage complex portfolios.
Experience: 8 years
Avg account: $442,025
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Michael C
CFP®, Series 63, Series 66
Oakland, CA
Contango Wealth Management LLC
Michael Castro offers expertise in private and alternative investments with 26 years of experience and CFP® certification, serving high-net-worth clients in Oakland, CA. His firm, Contango Wealth Management, uses a long-term trading approach blending fundamental analysis and quantitative methods, with flexible fee options including flat fees and AUM-based charges, distinguishing him from other independent advisors.
Experience: 27 years
Avg account: $1,305,931
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Michael S
Series 65
Oakland, CA
Heron Finance
Michael Sall specializes in private and alternative investments with a focus on real estate investing, operating independently in Oakland, CA. His firm, Heron Finance, offers algorithm-driven private credit portfolios using USD stablecoins and short-term government securities, charging a 1% annual fee, which differentiates his tech-driven approach from traditional advisors in the area.
Experience: 3 years
Avg account: $138,545
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