By Michael Riolo
When a client thanks me for my guidance, expresses confidence in the plan we develop, or feels a renewed optimism about their financial future, I am reminded of why I became a financial advisor. Helping people is important to me and it’s gratifying to know my advice makes a positive difference in my clients’ lives. While financial advising was not my first career, my way into the industry was a natural progression from the work I was already doing as an attorney.
Combining Two Passions
Law school and the legal practice are optimal experiences for an advisor because it requires you to assess liability and manage risk. After graduating from Boston College with a bachelor’s degree in economics and earning a law degree (Juris Doctor) from Pace University School of Law, I spent a number of years gaining valuable experience in the legal world, focusing on estate and tax planning, estate administration, and asset protection planning. During this period I witnessed the importance of financial planning. By listening to my clients and asking follow-up questions, I was able to spot planning gaps and issues that had the potential to cause financial problems down the road. As I helped people and families optimize their estate, I saw the importance of having an integrated plan that included all aspects of finance and life planning.
Working with Fortune 500 companies in the financial services industry, including Morgan Stanley, helped me gain valuable financial experience. However, since financial advice is more than just the management of assets, I felt the need to break from the large conglomerate structure and work with a company that takes into account all phases of the planning process, values the client relationship, and puts an emphasis on the role of a fiduciary.
Now I have the privilege of using my skills and knowledge in both law and finance to help individuals, families, and business entities organize, manage, and protect their wealth. As Director of Financial Planning and Senior Financial Advisor at Mountain Vista Wealth Management, I create, recommend, and implement tailored financial strategies, including portfolio management, and, if necessary, estate planning strategies, designed to meet my clients’ short-term and long-term goals.
The Best Part
Financial and estate matters can get complicated quickly and lead to plenty of stress. The most fulfilling part of my job is trying to help my clients work a problem prior to it becoming one. I have witnessed the results of failing to plan—from both the estate and financial perspective. In my experience, too often people are reactionary, rather than being proactive. Once the damage is done, it’s difficult to resolve. However, the professional advice I provide offers the opportunity to minimize and/or negate a potential issue altogether.
After listening to my clients’ needs and identifying issues, we strategize together and tailor a plan. Thereafter, we implement their plan and I help them navigate the complexities associated with reaching their objectives. I do everything possible to make sure my clients can rest their head easy on their pillow at night and feel excited about their future.
Start the Conversation
I would like to offer my assistance to you. Whether you are just starting to think about estate and/or financial planning, or you’ve been at it for a while and would like a review of your circumstances, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or (646) 779-5552 to schedule a complementary call and/or meeting. You can also connect with me on LinkedIn. I look forward to hearing from you.
About Mountain Vista
Mountain Vista was founded in early 2017 under the premise that large financial institutions do not provide everyone with the high-quality financial advice they deserve. Mountain Vista is a “fiduciary,” which means we are legally obligated to put the needs of our clients first. We are also “fee-only,” which means we are only compensated by the fees paid by our clients. By eliminating commission-based compensation, clients can rest assured that recommendations are based upon their suitability rather than compensation.
Mountain Vista’s stated mission is to help individuals and families strive to achieve their future financial goals without sacrificing their current needs and passions. By helping our clients formulate a sound plan, they will be more confident that their future goals can be achieved.