Carlos Aleman

My Philosophy

I look at financial health the same way I look at physical health. Most of us only see a doctor once a year—or when something's wrong. But real wellness comes from building a lasting relationship, regularly exercising, taking preventive measures, and checking in regularly. Managing your wealth should work the same way. Money isn't the goal—it's the tool. How do we best maximize your hard\-earned money? The first step is figuring out what your "endgame" looks like. What do you want life to feel like? Once we know that, we can reverse\-engineer a plan that fits your goals, balances risk and reward, and evolves as life changes. Most importantly, your strategy should feel right to you—not just on paper, but in real life. It should reflect your values, your priorities, and the way you want to live. My role is to make sure your plan does exactly that, and to keep it evolving as your life and goals change. That way, your wealth isn't just managed—it's working for the future you envision.

How I Work

++Step 1: Discovery++ Our relationship begins with a candid conversation—either virtually or in person if you're local. During this initial meeting, I focus on: * Gaining a clear understanding of your financial picture, objectives, and any immediate priorities (such as equity compensation, diversification, retirement planning, or a business liquidity event). * Outlining my role and process, and establishing expectations for communication and timelines. * Identifying opportunities to add value and ensure our approach aligns with your vision. If we agree to move forward, I will gather essential information to build a well\-informed strategy. This includes: * Asking thoughtful, forward\-looking questions. * Reviewing your risk tolerance and investment preferences. * Collecting financial statements and confirming next steps. ++Step 2: Proposal++ In our second meeting, I present a **Merrill** **Personal Wealth Analysis (PWA)** tailored to the details you've shared. This is where I: * Deliver a customized plan and investment proposal aligned with your goals and risk profile. * Simplify complex financial concepts so you feel informed and confident. * Review allocation options and demonstrate how the strategy supports your objectives. This meeting is designed to ensure clarity and alignment. If adjustments are needed, we refine the plan together before moving forward. ++Step 3: Implementation and Onboarding++ When you're ready, we proceed with account setup and documentation. If additional discussion is helpful, we schedule a third meeting to address any remaining questions and finalize details. Once accounts are opened and transfers initiated, I: * Confirm you have full access to your Merrill portal. * Answer early questions and reinforce expectations for ongoing communication. ++Ongoing Partnership++ My commitment extends well beyond onboarding. I maintain a proactive approach through: * Quarterly reviews to assess performance, update goals, and address life changes. * Event\-driven conversations around market volatility, tax planning windows, or equity compensation milestones. * Strategic guidance for business owners navigating revenue cycles, expansion, or financing events. You can expect consistent communication and a trusted advisor who is present, engaged, and focused on your evolving needs.

Who I Serve

I work in helping individuals and businesses navigate complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence. My approach is built around understanding your unique challenges and creating strategies that align with your goals. Here's who I serve: ++Small Business Owners, Founders, and Partners++ Running a business means wearing multiple hats—and financial planning often takes a back seat. I help entrepreneurs and business leaders protect what they've built and plan for sustainable growth. Common Challenges: * Balancing personal and business finances without sacrificing either. * Managing cash flow and liquidity for operations and expansion. * Planning for succession or exit strategies. * Navigating tax complexities and minimizing liabilities. \* * Protecting against unexpected risks that could impact the business. How I Help: I provide integrated strategies that connect your business and personal finances, from tax\-efficient planning and risk management to retirement and succession strategies. My goal is to help you grow your business while securing your financial future. \*Merrill and I do not offer tax advice. Please consult your CPA or tax advisor for assistance. ++Tech, Corporate, \& Working Professionals++ In fast\-paced industries, time is your most valuable asset. I work with professionals who want to maximize their earnings, optimize benefits, and build long\-term wealth without getting lost in the details. Common Challenges: * Understanding and leveraging equity compensation (RSUs, stock options). * Managing concentrated stock positions and reducing risk. * Planning for career transitions or early retirement. * Tax\-efficient strategies for high\-income earners. * Balancing aggressive growth goals with risk management. How I Help: I simplify complex compensation structures and create personalized plans that align with your career trajectory. From managing equity and minimizing tax exposure to building diversified portfolios, I help you turn your hard work into lasting wealth. ++Affluent and Successful Families++ Financial success brings complexity. I help families protect their wealth, plan for future generations, and align their financial strategies with their values. Common Challenges: * Preserving wealth across generations. * Coordinating estate planning and tax strategies. * Managing investment portfolios for growth and stability. * Planning for education, philanthropy, and legacy goals. * Navigating major life events with confidence and clarity. How I Help: I work closely with families to design wealth strategies that reflect their priorities—whether that's legacy planning, philanthropy, or education funding. My approach ensures your wealth is protected, optimized, and aligned with your long\-term vision.

Our Capabilities

Leveraging the combined resources of Merrill and Bank of America, I deliver a broad range of wealth management and banking solutions designed to help clients make confident, informed decisions. My focus is on serving exec professionals, business owners, and individuals with complex financial needs—providing strategies that are as forward\-thinking as the people I work with. ++Wealth \& Retirement Planning++ Your future deserves a plan that works as hard as you do. I help clients create retirement strategies that integrate income, investments, and tax considerations, including: * Coordinated planning across IRAs, pensions, and brokerage accounts * Strategies to maximize Social Security benefits * Tax\-aware withdrawal approaches * Preparing for healthcare and long\-term care costs ++Investment Management \& Portfolio Strategy++ Managing wealth isn't just about growth—it's about balance and resilience. My approach includes: * Building diversified portfolios across multiple asset classes * Designing tax\-efficient investment strategies * Incorporating alternative investments for added flexibility * Continuous risk assessment and performance oversight ++Business Succession \& Liquidity Planning++ For entrepreneurs and business owners, transitions are pivotal moments. I provide guidance to help protect and unlock business value through: * Exit planning and timing strategies * Valuation support and access to specialized resources * Capital solutions for growth or liquidity needs * Structuring transactions to align with personal and financial goals ++Custom Lending Solutions++ Liquidity shouldn't come at the expense of your long\-term strategy. I offer: * Securities\-based lending for flexibility without disrupting investments. * Tailored credit solutions for major purchases or business expansion * Access to Bank of America lending options, including mortgages, home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), and other personalized financing solutions. ++Trust, Estate \& Philanthropic Planning++ Preserving wealth and values across generations requires foresight and expertise. I assist with: * Designing and administering trusts * Estate planning strategies for tax efficiency and legacy goals * Charitable giving through foundations and trusts My goal is simple: to help you navigate complexity with clarity and confidence—whether you're planning for retirement, scaling a business, or shaping a lasting legacy. \*Some or all alternative investment programs may not be in the best interest of certain investors. No assurance can be given that any alternative investment's investment objectives will be achieved. \*Trust, fiduciary, and investment management services, including assets managed by the Specialty Asset Management Team,\] are provided by Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC, and wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation ("BofA Corp."), and its agents. Bank of America Private Bank is a division of Bank of America, N.A.

Common Questions

*Over the years, a few questions come up again and again — so I've answered the most common ones here to give you a head start before we ever talk.* **Do I need a certain net worth to work with you?** I work with people at a range of stages — from professionals still building wealth to families and business owners managing more complex situations. What matters more to me than a specific number is whether we're a good fit: I do my best work with people who value a thoughtful, long\-term relationship and want a real partner in their financial decisions. If you're wondering whether it makes sense to talk, it probably does — and there's no cost or obligation to a first conversation. **I have a large position in my company's stock (RSUs, ESPP, or options). How do I think about diversifying without a huge tax bill?** This is one of the most common situations I help people navigate, especially those coming from the tech world. A concentrated stock position can represent years of hard work — but it can also carry more risk than people realize. My approach is to first understand your full picture (goals, time horizon, and the details of your holdings), then explore diversification strategies that are mindful of tax impact and coordinated with your tax advisor. There's rarely a one\-size\-fits\-all answer, which is exactly why it's worth a personalized conversation rather than a rule of thumb. **What should I do with my equity compensation — sell, hold, or hedge?** I can't give a blanket answer here, and honestly you should be cautious of anyone who does. The right path depends on your overall financial plan, your other assets, your risk tolerance, and your tax situation. What I *can* do is help you weigh the trade\-offs clearly — so that whatever you decide is a deliberate choice aligned with your goals, not just inertia or emotion. My role is to bring structure and objectivity to a decision that's often more emotional than people expect. **How is working with you different from a robo\-advisor or my 401(k) provider?** Automated tools and plan providers can be great for certain things, but they're built for the average — not for you specifically. They generally won't help you think through a concentrated stock position, coordinate your investments with your estate and tax planning, or talk you through a major life or career decision. My value comes from the relationship: understanding your full situation, adapting as life changes, and being a person you can call when something important comes up. Technology is a tool I use; it isn't a substitute for personalized guidance. **What does the onboarding process look like, and what's expected of me?** It starts with a relaxed conversation about you — your goals, your family or business, and what's on your mind financially. From there, I'll take time to understand your full picture before we build a plan together. Getting started typically involves gathering some documents and account details so I can give you well\-informed guidance, but I'll walk you through each step. My goal is to make the process feel clear and unhurried, not overwhelming. **I run or lead a firm — how do you help business owners and principals?** A lot of my clients are professionals and owners in fields like architecture and design, where personal and business finances are closely intertwined. I help with the pieces that often get pushed to "someday": retirement planning for you and potentially your team, strategies for managing risk, and eventually planning for succession or a transition out of the business. Because I spent my early career working alongside technical professionals and understand how demanding these roles are, I aim to make this straightforward and worth your limited time. **What can I expect from our working relationship over time?** Financial planning isn't a one\-time event — life changes, markets change, and your plan should evolve too. I stay in regular contact, review your strategy as your circumstances shift, and make myself available when questions or opportunities come up. My aim is to be a steady, candid partner you can count on for the long haul.

Personalized planning

**Helping you create a personalized plan** At Merrill, we go beyond the traditional role of an advisor. * Your goals, concerns and attitude about investing are the foundation of your plan. * We actively listen and provide personalized advice — ensuring we understand what matters most to you and your family. * We're committed to creating a personalized plan that evolves with you to help you live well today while preparing for the future.

Team and resources

**Giving you access to our teams and solutions** Your advisor is one part of an experienced team dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Acting as your single point of contact, your advisor provides personalized strategies and connects you with: * Bank of America specialists, such as mortgage or trust professionals * Timely insights from BofA Global Research1 to help you stay informed and navigate ever\-changing markets * A [full suite](https://www.ml.com/solutions/all.html) of Merrill investing and Bank of America banking solutions ^1^~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](http://www.sipc.org/), and wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation ("BofA Corp.").~

Recognition