Mark P.. Shively

This firm provides investment advisory services and basic financial planning primarily to individuals, couples, and families, managing roughly $9 million across a small client base. Portfolios are typically constructed with true no-load mutual funds, and the firm also accepts limited, one-time hourly engagements for tasks such as estate-account reviews.

The adviser follows a conservative, long-term approach that emphasizes diversification, low-cost funds, and avoiding style drift, using screening criteria like cost, manager tenure, and peer-relative performance. Client relationships are largely consultative — the firm seeks to speak with clients before making investment decisions and uses discretionary authority mainly for routine housekeeping tasks such as required minimum distributions, scheduled checks, and fee transfers.

Notably, the firm distributes a quarterly newsletter and provides quarterly performance reports to clients, a communications practice that is uncommon among similar independent advisers. Other distinguishing features include the sole‑proprietor, low client-to-adviser structure and occasional engagement as an expert witness or consultant in industry arbitrations.