"Helping clients understand the true meaning of risk is one of the most important things we do. For many people, the greatest risk may be outliving their financial assets."–Joseph A. Palmesano | Senior Vice President | Wealth Management AdvisorThe Ryan Palmesano Group views your investment portfolio as a means to pursue your financial goals, not an end. We consider your strategy in the context of a broader approach to wealth management. Through our discovery process, we develop a deep understanding of your goals and values that forms a foundation for the strategies we suggest for you.Using sophisticated Merrill tools, combined with our own insights, we help clients define their investment personality and gauge their ability to tolerate risk and market volatility. We work closely with clients to educate them about the different forms risk can take, and the role it plays in pursuing investment objectives.When we design strategies for allocating the assets in individual portfolios, we consider client-driven criteria such as personal preferences, liquidity needs, risk profile and time horizons for pursuing specific goals. We generally recommend a broad range of asset classes that may include alternative investments, such as private equity, where appropriate.The strategies we recommend are implemented entirely through third-party managers. We select managers based on BofA Global Research and our own careful evaluation of their performance. Our approach to manager selection is transparent, and we take the time to explain why we recommend particular managers based on whether we believe they are a good fit with your investment style and the goals you wish to pursue.Tracking progress is integral to your strategy. Throughout our relationship with you, we will conduct periodic financial reviews and make recommendations to keep your strategy aligned with your financial goals and any important changes in your life.*Some or all alternative investments may not be in the best interests for certain investors. Certain alternative investments carry significant risk and are not subject to the same regulatory oversight as mutual funds and other traditional investments. For these reasons, access to alternative investments may be limited to investors who are designated as sophisticated, high-net-worth investors.*Any information presented in connection with BofA Global Research is general in nature and is not intended to provide personal investment advice. The information does not take into account the specific investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any specific person who may receive it. Investors should understand that statements regarding future prospects may not be realized. BofA Global Research is research produced by BofA Securities, Inc. ("BofAS") and/or one or more of its affiliates. BofAS is a registered broker-dealer, Member SIPC, and wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation. BofA Global Research does and seeks to do business with companies covered in its research reports. As a result, investors should be aware that the firm may have a conflict of interest that could affect the objectivity of this report. Investors should consider this report as only a single factor in making their investment decision.