The term “asset management” can take on various definitions across corporate America. For some, asset management can mean a cost-effective organization of financial and physical assets. However, asset management in the finance world often means overseeing investments for individuals or entities.
Fisher Investments’ approach to asset management is to craft and implement an investment strategy for our clients based on their long-term goals and personal financial situation. We then provide ongoing portfolio management, client service and research to help them reach their longer-term goals.
Our clients include high-net-worth individuals and a broad range of institutions. They hire us to manage their financial assets by giving Fisher Investments authority to trade in their investment accounts to maintain their agreed upon investment strategies. Fisher Investments doesn’t take custody of clients’ assets. Our investment process involves helping clients establish or maintain brokerage accounts at a recognized brokerage firm. To utilize our asset management services, clients grant Fisher Investments decision-making authority over the securities held in their account—this type of service is called discretionary asset management. We work with clients to oversee the management of their underlying assets to help them reach their long-term goals and objectives.
While some asset managers simply create a strategy for clients and send them on their way, we believe successful asset management means investing and providing clients with proactive, world-class service. One of our biggest responsibilities is to keep clients focused on their longer-term goals and provide counsel and advice during various market conditions.
Some asset managers may not proactively help clients understand their investments or the overall investment process and strategy. At Fisher Investments, we are dedicated to client education and ongoing counsel. We believe our clients have a better chance of reaching their goals if they are educated on investing, aware of common behavioral investing mistakes and updated on our current market forecast.
To help educate clients, we offer several high-touch services, including the following:
We believe building strong client relationships is a crucial aspect of being an asset manager. Our client education offerings encourage open discourse between us and our clients and help us establish trusting relationships with our clients.
When you evaluate asset managers, you should consider what kind of portfolio management and service offerings you’ll be receiving. In order to get a more holistic view of each manager, you can ask them what investment solutions they offer and if they provide services beyond investing. Here are a few questions to consider:
Fisher Investments can create a customized portfolio based on a detailed analysis of your financial situation, investment goals and investment time horizon—how long you need your money to last. If you are interested in learning more about our approach to asset management, contact us today to speak with one of our qualified professionals or download one of our educational investment guides.