At Shields Abate Searle and Associates, we are an established group of professionals that continues to attract clients seeking our knowledge, know-how and ability to know them exceedingly well.
Since our team’s advisors began working together in 2010, we’ve shared the belief that a client’s mindset and motivations must form the bedrock of their financial strategy. We are proud to stand behind each client by getting out in front of the decisions they need to make – allowing us to provide thoughtful consideration, detailed analysis and careful examination of alternate scenarios.
It has been our practice to cultivate multi-faceted, multi-generational relationships with clients – giving us the depth of knowledge to address their short- and long-term priorities. Our philosophy also celebrates collaboration. Working in concert with each client and our firm’s specialists, we draw upon the resources and insights of a global financial institution to create dynamic strategies as unique as each client we assist.
Who do we serve?
By design, we work with a limited number of clients – in order to provide the intense focus that complex financial needs require. These include philanthropic organizations, members of their boards and individuals who are philanthropically inclined, as well as business owners (some with 401K plans), lobbyists, government workers and families that span generations and the nation’s geography. Similar to many of our clients, we take pride in serving our communities and the greater good.
Each of us recognizes that “wealth” encompasses multiple aspects of clients’ lives, both quantitative and qualitative. We are technically adept and analytically rigorous. At the same time, we are cognizant that “wealth” is ultimately personal and must embrace a client’s goals, values and family dynamics.
As advisors, guides, and sounding boards, we welcome the opportunity to simplify your financial life, so that you can focus on what most excites you – perhaps, the business you founded or the career in front of you. Maybe it’s sharing values with your children, so that they become capable stewards of your wealth and wishes. Or maybe it’s supporting a cause that’s close to your heart – enacting strategic philanthropy that’s measurable by us and meaningful to you. Whatever your passion, concern, or curiosity, we are eager to connect and learn more about you.
At Shields Abate Searle and Associates, we are devoted to appreciating where you've been, how hard you've worked, and what you've achieved. By the same token, we are eager to help you look forward and plan for circumstances you anticipate and prepare for those you don't.As veteran advisors who've spent our careers advising accomplished people, we intimately understand the decision points they face. We are adept at anticipating what's ahead. We also challenge clients to expand their thinking – to get at the core of what they want their wealth to accomplish, and help them pursue goals with purpose and precision.Our distinct, planning-based approach is ongoing – not a one-time event. Over the course of our relationship, we will spend significant time and effort developing and enhancing our understanding of you – what's on your mind and in your heart.How do we learn?By asking questions and listening (more than talking), we help clients identify their greatest concerns and most cherished goals. Often we ask, "What are your dreams and what keep you up at night? Who are you responsible for? Why have you come to us? And what role would you like us to play?"In the vast majority of cases, we find that a rewarding retirement lifestyle is the #1 priority for clients. Consequently, we've developed a strong competency in crafting retirement income generation and distribution strategies, as part of a real-world strategy that aims to increase wealth without unreasonable risk.What do we tell clients?• Money is not managed in a vacuum. It's there for a purpose – their retirement, launching a new venture, caring for a special needs child or an elderly parent. Pairing their purpose with their risk level to craft an investment strategy, we also look at upcoming life events that may signal a new consideration and appropriate planning.• We are genuinely caring and considerate of their lives and life events. It is not uncommon for us to visit clients in hospitals, attend funerals of family members, and extend ourselves in other ways. Clients also invite us into their lives – asking us to celebrate with them at wedding and anniversary parties.• By investing our time and sharing insights with clients, we can brighten their outlook, reduce their stress, and allow them to focus on the professional and personal pursuits they deem most important
CFP®, CIMA®
Bringing fresh perspectives to your financial life
The financial decisions you make today can help determine the future you build for yourself and your family. Carving a clear path forward starts with connecting your life and finances. A Merrill advisor provides access to the investing insights of Merrill and banking capabilities of Bank of America to help you make informed decisions as you pursue your goals.
