Overview
Assets Under Management: $959 million
Headquarters: TROY, MI
High-Net-Worth Clients: 212
Average Client Assets: $4 million
Services Offered
Services: Portfolio Management for Individuals
Fee Structure
Primary Fee Schedule (FORM ADV, PART 2 - BROCHURE)
Min | Max | Marginal Fee Rate |
---|---|---|
$0 | $1,000,000 | 1.00% |
$1,000,001 | $5,000,000 | 0.75% |
$5,000,001 | and above | 0.50% |
Illustrative Fee Rates
Total Assets | Annual Fees | Average Fee Rate |
---|---|---|
$1 million | $10,000 | 1.00% |
$5 million | $40,000 | 0.80% |
$10 million | $65,000 | 0.65% |
$50 million | $265,000 | 0.53% |
$100 million | $515,000 | 0.52% |
Additional Fee Schedule (FORM ADV, PART 2 - BROCHURE)
Min | Max | Marginal Fee Rate |
---|---|---|
$0 | $1,000,000 | 1.00% |
$1,000,001 | $5,000,000 | 0.75% |
$5,000,001 | and above | 0.50% |
Illustrative Fee Rates
Total Assets | Annual Fees | Average Fee Rate |
---|---|---|
$1 million | $10,000 | 1.00% |
$5 million | $40,000 | 0.80% |
$10 million | $65,000 | 0.65% |
$50 million | $265,000 | 0.53% |
$100 million | $515,000 | 0.52% |
Clients
Number of High-Net-Worth Clients: 212
Percentage of Firm Assets Belonging to High-Net-Worth Clients: 82.52
Average High-Net-Worth Client Assets: $4 million
Total Client Accounts: 481
Discretionary Accounts: 481
Regulatory Filings
CRD Number: 105609
Last Filing Date: 2024-03-21 00:00:00
Website: HTTPS://JAF-LTD.COM
Form ADV Documents
Primary Brochure: FORM ADV, PART 2 - BROCHURE (2025-03-24)
View Document Text
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd.
Investment Counsel
Form ADV, Part 2 - Brochure
901 Wilshire Drive
Suite 555
Troy, Michigan 48084
248-740-9400
2000 PGA Blvd. Suite 4440
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33408
2025
www.jaf-ltd.com
This Brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Jay A.
Fishman, Ltd. (JAF) and its supervised persons Jay A. Fishman, Todd M. Ifkovits, Eric J. Fishman
and Viorica Fuchs. If you have any questions about the contents of this Brochure, please contact
us at 248-740-9400. The information in this Brochure has not been approved or verified by the
United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or by any state securities authority.
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. is a registered investment adviser. Registration of an Investment Adviser
does not imply any level of skill or training. The oral and written communications of an Adviser
provide you with information about which you determine to hire or retain an Adviser.
Additional information about Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. and its supervised persons is also available on
the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. Our searchable IARD/CRD number is 105609.
Material Changes
Beginning in 2025, our fee schedule has changed for new accounts only. Existing clients will not
be affected. Please see the fee schedule on page 8 for details. There have been no other material
changes made to Jay A. Fishman, Ltd.’s (“JAF”) Part 2 Brochure since its prior Annual filing in
March, 2024. ANY QUESTIONS: JAF’s Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko, is available
to address any questions regarding Part 2.
Pursuant to SEC Rules, you will receive a summary of any material changes to this and subsequent
Brochures within 120 days of the close of our fiscal year. We will further provide other ongoing
disclosure information about material changes as necessary.
Currently, our Brochure may be requested or questions may be addressed by contacting Diane
Bedenko, Chief Compliance Officer at 248-740-9400 or dbicoll@jaf-ltd.com. Our Brochure is
also available on our web site www. jaf-ltd.com.
Additional information about Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. is also available via the SEC’s web site
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. The SEC’s web site also provides information about any persons
affiliated with Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. who are registered, or are required to be registered, as
investment adviser representatives of Jay A. Fishman, Ltd.
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Item 3 - Table of Contents
Item 2 – Material Changes……………………………………………………….... 2
Item 3 – Table of Contents………………………………………………………... 3
Item 4 – Advisory Business .…………………………...…………………………. 4
Item 5 – Investment Management Fees and Compensation .……………………... 8
Item 6 - Performance-Based Fees and Side by Side Management...…………… 10
Item 7 - Types of Clients……………..………………………………………… 10
Item 8 - Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss……..…. 10
Item 9 - Disciplinary Information…………………..……………………………..12
Item 10 - Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations………………........12
Item 11 - Code of Ethics………………………………………………………….. 12
Item 12 - Brokerage Practices………………………………………………….….13
Item 13 - Review of Accounts…………………………………………….…….... 15
Item 14 - Client Referrals and Other Compensation……………………….....….. 16
Item 15 – Custody ……………………………………………………………..….16
Item 16 - Investment Discretion……………………………………………..…… 17
Item 17 - Voting Client Securities…………………………………………..……. 17
Item 18 - Financial Information……………………………………………...……17
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Item 4 – Advisory Business
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. (JAF) began business in April, 1970 (formerly under the name Equity
Management and Research, Inc.) with four initial shareholders to provide investment counseling
and portfolio management services. Since 1983, Jay A. Fishman, one of the original founders,
has been the sole shareholder. The firm is an independent investment advisor registered with the
Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. We were
incorporated in the State of Michigan in 1970 and are headquartered in Troy, Michigan. As of
December 31, 2024, our discretionary client assets tabulated to $1,119,753,340.
.
The firm’s business is providing fee-based investment counseling services, including portfolio
management, to high net worth individuals and families, corporations and charitable institutions.
Client portfolios are separately managed and constructed with individually selected securities in
accordance with the client’s investment objective which reflects such considerations as growth,
income, time horizons, liquidity needs, risk tolerance and tax considerations. We believe that each
client has unique investment requirements and therefore we do not invest in packaged products or
model portfolios and also do not participate in broker-dealer sponsored wrap fee programs. We
generally do not invest in mutual funds unless directed by clients. We believe that the fees and
charges associated with these packaged products and mutual funds are often high, and therefore
detrimental to long term investment performance.
Our portfolio management team consists of Jay A. Fishman, Todd M. Ifkovits, CFA, Eric J.
Fishman and Viorica Fuchs. All are Fiduciaries and SEC Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs).
These are our supervised persons. Our management team utilizes fundamental research to select
each investment. All equity and fixed income securities are analyzed to conform to the client’s
investment objective. We believe in intermediate to long term investing and do not engage in short
term trading or market timing. We seek to provide a high level of client service and consider tax
implications by emphasizing long term capital gains in taxable portfolios. When requested to do
so, we can work together with client’s accountants, attorneys and other professional advisers to
help provide seamless and comprehensive advice for the client’s benefit.
JAF does not serve as an attorney, accountant or insurance agent, and no portion of our investment
services should be construed as legal, accounting or insurance services. To the extent requested
by a client, we may recommend the services of other professionals for certain non-investment
purposes. The client is under no obligation to engage the services of any such recommended
professional. The client retains absolute discretion over all such implementation decisions and is
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free to accept or reject any recommendation from JAF and/or its representatives. Please Note: If
the client engages any recommended unaffiliated professional, and a dispute arises thereafter
relative to such engagement, the client agrees to seek recourse exclusively from and against the
engaged professional. At all times, the engaged licensed professional(s) (i.e. attorney, accountant,
insurance agent, etc.), and not JAF, shall be responsible for the quality and competency of the
services provided.
Please Note: Retirement Rollovers - Potential for Conflict of Interest: A client or prospective
client leaving an employer typically has four options regarding an existing retirement plan (and
may engage in a combination of these options): (i) leave the money in the former employer’s plan,
if permitted, (ii) roll over the assets to the new employer’s plan, if one is available and rollovers
are permitted, (iii) roll over to an Individual Retirement Account (“IRA”), or (iv) cash out the
account value (which could, depending upon the client’s age, result in adverse tax consequences).
If JAF recommends that a client roll over their retirement plan assets into an account to be managed
by JAF, such a recommendation may create a conflict of interest if JAF will earn new (or increase
its current) compensation as a result of the rollover. When acting in such capacity, JAF serves as
a fiduciary under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), or the Internal Revenue
Code, or both. No client is under any obligation to rollover retirement plan assets to an account
managed by JAF. JAF’s Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko, remains available to address
any questions that a client or prospective client may have regarding the potential for conflict of
interest presented by such rollover recommendation.
Unaffiliated Private Investment Funds. JAF may also provide investment advice regarding
unaffiliated private investment funds. JAF, on a non-discretionary basis, may recommend that
certain qualified clients consider an investment in unaffiliated private investment funds. JAF’s role
relative to the private investment funds shall be limited to its initial and ongoing due diligence and
investment monitoring services. If a client determines to become a private fund investor, the
amount of assets invested in the fund(s) shall be included as part of “assets under management”
for purposes of JAF determining its investment advisory fee per Item 5 below. JAF’s clients are
under absolutely no obligation to consider or make an investment in a private investment fund(s).
Please Note: Private investment funds generally involve various risk factors, including, but not
limited to, potential for complete loss of principal, liquidity constraints and lack of transparency.
A complete discussion of which is set forth in each fund’s offering documents, which will be
provided to each client for review and consideration. Unlike liquid investments that a client may
own, private investment funds do not provide daily liquidity or pricing. Each prospective client
investor will be required to complete a Subscription Agreement, provided by the Fund Sponsor,
pursuant to which the client shall establish that he/she is qualified for investment in the fund, and
acknowledges and accepts the various risk factors that are associated with such an investment.
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Please Also Note: Valuation. In the event that JAF references private investment funds owned by
the client on any supplemental account reports prepared by JAF, the value(s) for all private
investment funds owned by the client shall reflect the most recent independent Fund valuation. If
no subsequent valuation post-purchase is provided then the valuation shall reflect the initial
purchase price (and/or a value as of a previous date), or the current value(s) (either the initial
purchase price and/or the most recent valuation provided). If the valuation reflects initial purchase
price (and/or a value as of a previous date), the current value(s) (to the extent ascertainable) could
be significantly more or less than original purchase price. The client’s advisory fee shall be based
upon reflected fund value(s).
As discussed below at Item 12, when requested to recommend a broker-dealer/custodian for client
accounts, JAF generally recommends that Schwab Advisor Services serve as the broker-
dealer/custodian for client investment management assets. Broker-dealers may charge brokerage
commissions and/or transaction fees for effecting securities transactions. In addition to JAF’s
investment advisory fee, brokerage commissions and/or transaction fees, clients will also incur,
relative to all mutual fund and exchange traded fund purchases, charges imposed at the fund level
(e.g. management fees and other fund expenses). The fees charged by Schwab Advisor Services
or any broker-dealer/custodian directed by the client, as well as the charges imposed at the mutual
fund and exchange traded fund level, are in addition to JAF’s advisory fee referenced in Item 5
below.
limited
to,
Portfolio Activity. JAF has a fiduciary duty to provide services consistent with the client’s best
interest. As part of its investment advisory services, JAF will review client portfolios on an
ongoing basis to determine if any changes are necessary based upon various factors, including, but
investment performance, market and economic conditions, account
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additions/withdrawals, and/or a change in the client’s investment objective. Based upon these
factors, there may be extended periods of time when JAF determines that changes to a client’s
portfolio are neither necessary nor prudent. Advisory fees remain payable during periods of
account inactivity. Of course, as indicated below, there can be no assurance that investment
decisions made by JAF will be profitable or equal any specific performance level(s).
Client Obligations. In performing our services, JAF shall not be required to verify any
information received from the client or from the client’s other professionals, and is expressly
authorized to rely thereon. Moreover, each client is advised that it remains his/her/its responsibility
to promptly notify JAF if there is ever any change in his/her/its financial situation or investment
objectives for the purpose of reviewing/evaluating/revising our previous recommendations and/or
services.
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Please Note: Investment Risk. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk,
and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment
strategy (including the investments and/or investment strategies recommended or undertaken by
JAF) will be profitable or equal any specific performance level(s).
Portfolio Managers
Jay A. Fishman/President - Before forming Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. in 1970, Mr. Fishman (age 80)
was an Investment Analyst with the National Bank of Detroit’s (now JP Morgan Chase & Co.)
Trust Investment Division. Prior to that time, he was an Instructor of Finance with the School of
Business at Western Michigan University, from which he had previously attained Bachelor (1966)
and Master (1967) of Business Administration degrees. During this period, Mr. Fishman also co-
authored the book “Corporations In Conflict: The Tender Offer” and several related articles.
Mr. Fishman was a founder of Jay A. Fishman, Ltd (formerly Equity Management and Research,
Inc.) in April 1970. In the 1970 to present period, Mr. Fishman’s activities include investment
research, portfolio management and client relations. Mr. Fishman is currently a member of the
Metropolitan Club of New York and the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club. He served as a founding
Director of the Western Michigan University Foundation from its inception in 1976 until 2004. In
addition, Mr. Fishman was an organizer of Valley Commerce Bank in Phoenix, Arizona in 1994
and served as Chairman of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee until he led the Bank’s
sale in April, 2005. He has also served on three other community banks' Board of Directors.
Todd M. Ifkovits CFA/Senior Portfolio Manager - Mr. Ifkovits (age 58) commenced
employment with Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. in November 1997. Prior to joining the firm, he was
employed as a Vice President and Portfolio Manager with Comerica Bank in Detroit, Michigan
where he spent seven years managing individual stock and bond portfolios for high-net worth
individuals and tax-exempt foundations. Mr. Ifkovits received a Master of Business
Administration (1993) from the University of Detroit and a Bachelor of Arts (1989) in Financial
Administration from Michigan State University. He received the Chartered Financial Analyst
(CFA) designation in 1997. Mr. Ifkovits is a member of the CFA Institute, the CFA Society of
Detroit, the Detroit Athletic Club and the Lochmoor Club.
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Eric J. Fishman, Portfolio Manager/Investment Analyst - Eric J. Fishman (age 28) is a Portfolio
Manager/Investment Analyst with Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. Prior to his employment, Eric spent
several summers as an analytical intern with the company. Eric attended Upper Canada College in
Toronto, Canada, and received an International Baccalaureate Diploma. He then studied at the
University of Michigan and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree, With Distinction, and majored in
Economics. Following graduation from the University of Michigan, Eric was employed by
Aspirant in Los Angeles in their Wealth Management department. Eric is a member of the Detroit
Athletic Club and the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club.
Viorica Fuchs, Portfolio Manager/Investment Analyst - Ms. Fuchs, (age 60) commenced
employment with Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. in February 2001. Ms. Fuchs has been extensively
involved in all operational and administrative activities of the firm including portfolio
administration, trading and client and broker services. Ms. Fuchs received a Master of Business
Administration with specialization in Finance from Walsh College (2015) and a Bachelor of
Business Administration, with a concentration in finance and accounting, from Walsh College of
Business in 2009. Ms. Fuchs is a member of the Economic Club of Detroit.
Item 5 – Investment Management Fees and Compensation
Investment management fees apply to the market value of fixed income securities, convertible
securities, common stocks, exchange traded funds, mutual funds, real estate limited partnerships
and short-term investment reserves.
1.00% of the first $1,000,000 of portfolio market value
0.75% of the next $1,000,000 - $5,000,000 of portfolio market value
0.50% of the excess over $5 million of portfolio market value
Fees are payable quarterly (either in advance or arrears, per the Investment Advisory Agreement
between JAF and the client) as services are rendered in the account equal to one-quarter of the
aforementioned annual fees using the then prevailing quarter-end market values. Fees will
increase or decrease as the market value of a portfolio changes.
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Fees are calculated based on the above percentages of assets under management for a client. We
do not receive any fees or commissions from any sources other than providing investment
counseling services.
Special fees, lower or higher than our fee schedule, will be quoted depending upon any special
circumstances, unusual size, substantial concentrations in one or more securities, and the overall
effort and responsibility involved. Such fees are subject to negotiation with each client.
The specific manner in which fees are charged by JAF is established in a written Investment
Advisory Agreement with each client. As noted, JAF generally invoices on a quarterly basis.
Clients may pay investment management fees directly or from their custodian account. Accounts
initiated after the beginning of a quarter or terminated before the end of a quarter will be charged
a prorated fee. Upon termination of any account, any prepaid, unearned fees will be promptly
refunded, and any earned, unpaid fees will be due and payable.
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. fees are exclusive of brokerage commissions, custodian fees and other related
costs and expenses which shall be incurred by the client. See “Item 12 – Brokerage Practices”
below. Mutual funds and exchange traded funds also charge internal management fees which are
disclosed in a fund’s prospectus. Such charges, fees and commissions are exclusive of and in
addition to JAF’s fees. We do not receive any portion of these commissions or fees from any such
funds.
JAF, in its sole discretion, may waive its $1 million aggregate account minimum (see Item 7 below)
and/or charge a lesser investment advisory fee based upon certain criteria (i.e. anticipated future
earning capacity, anticipated future additional assets, dollar amount of assets to be managed,
family or related accounts, account composition, competition, negotiations with client, etc.). Please
Note: As result of the above, similarly situated clients could pay different fees. In addition, similar
advisory services may be available from other investment advisers for similar or lower fees. ANY
QUESTIONS: JAF’s Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko, remains available to address any
questions that a client or prospective client may have regarding advisory fees.
Margin Accounts: Risks/Conflict of Interest. JAF does not recommend the use of margin for
investment purposes. A margin account is a brokerage account that allows investors to borrow
money to buy securities. By using borrowed funds, the customer is employing leverage that will
magnify both account gains and losses. The broker charges the investor interest for the right to
borrow money and uses the securities as collateral. Should a client determine to use margin, JAF
will include the entire market value of the margined assets when computing its advisory
fee. Accordingly, JAF’s fee shall be based upon a higher margined account value, resulting in JAF
9
earning a correspondingly higher advisory fee. As a result, the potential of conflict of interest arises
since JAF may have an economic disincentive to recommend that the client terminate the use of
margin. ANY QUESTIONS: Our Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko, remains available
to address any questions that a client or prospective client may have regarding the use of margin.
Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side by Side Management
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. and its supervised persons do not charge or participate in any side by side or
performance-based compensation (fees based upon or taking a share of profits in client accounts).
Item 7 - Types of Clients
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. provides portfolio management services to high net worth individuals,
families, corporations and charitable institutions on a discretionary basis. We normally require an
aggregate minimum account size of $1,000,000.
Item 8 - Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. has emphasized a disciplined, conservative investment philosophy for over
fifty-two years. We focus on wealth preservation and long term growth of capital. Our portfolio
managers are committed to deliver the firm’s investment philosophy to each client.
The cornerstones of our investment philosophy are as follows:
• We emphasize independent fundamental research to identify good and high quality
securities that possess the potential for above average investment returns over intermediate
and longer term periods of three to five years or longer. We believe that an emphasis on
long term investments in superior companies is rewarding.
• Our investment strategy emphasizes the construction of clients’ portfolios with a limited
number of good to high quality individual securities, including common stocks, bonds and
exchange traded funds. We emphasize a top down rather than bottom up approach to
security selection. Common stock and bond portfolios are each generally limited to 20 to
25 holdings. We strongly believe that excessive diversification produces average
performance over the longer-term.
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Our common stock research efforts are concentrated on companies with mid to large sized
capitalizations of $5 billion or greater and we select companies with strong financial positions and
superior growth prospects. Our firm is characterized as a Mid/Large Cap Growth at a Reasonable
Price (GARP) Manager. We may invest in common stocks of companies with smaller
capitalizations of less than $5 billion when opportunities become available. In addition to
companies with strong financial positions and superior growth prospects we also emphasize
companies with attractive and growing dividends.
Our fixed income strategy is grounded in the belief that bond portfolios are managed for safety,
diversification and income—not speculation. The firm’s fixed income philosophy emphasizes
quality, with a focus on attractive valuations in the current yield curve. We typically invest in U.S.
Treasury notes and bonds, as well as agency issues and good and high quality corporate bonds.
Our corporate bond portfolios generally emphasize investment grade bonds rated BBB+ or better;
however, we may invest in lower quality bonds, on a limited basis, if the value is compelling. Our
fixed income portfolios are constructed with a complete analysis of duration and convexity to
optimize investment return and risk.
Our investment sales discipline is determined by several factors including a change in company
fundamentals, achievement of target price or valuation, the discovery of more attractive investment
opportunities, on a relative basis, or a change in client investment objective. Short-term trading
transactions are generally avoided but may occur. Short sales and option writing are not utilized.
Some clients may direct the use of margin activity to potentially enhance investment returns or as
a source of funds for their personal withdrawals.
It is our judgment that fees, charges and commissions can have a meaningful impact on long term
investment results. Therefore, we are committed to maintaining low portfolio turnover and low
expenses. We believe that low costs can be accompanied with high levels of client service.
Key characteristics of selected investments include:
▪ Strong financial positions
▪ Attractive longer-term historical operating records
▪ Above average growth prospects
▪ Unique competency in their products or services
▪ Experienced and highly regarded management teams
▪ Attractive valuations
▪ High return on shareholder’s equity
Principal sources of information utilized in our research efforts include:
▪ Company annual reports
▪ Quarterly reports
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▪ Prospectuses
▪ Filings with the SEC
▪ Press releases
▪ Visits with companies
▪ Research material prepared by other firms
▪ Financial newspapers and publications
▪ Data from the Federal Government
Clients are advised that investments in common stocks and fixed income securities carries a risk
of loss of principal and that clients should be prepared to bear such losses.
Item 9 - Disciplinary Information
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. and its management have never been subject to any disciplinary event or
administrative or self-regulatory proceedings before the Securities and Exchange Commission,
any other federal regulatory agency, or any foreign financial regulatory authority since our
inception in 1970. In addition, our firm and its management have not been the subject of any other
proceedings involving the revocation or suspension of any professional attainments, designation
or licenses nor have they been the subject of any criminal or civil actions relating to investments
or investment related businesses.
Item 10 - Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. is a Registered Investment Adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. We are an independent, fee only
investment adviser. We do not act as a broker-dealer, or registered representative in any
transactions. In addition, JAF nor any supervised person has any affiliations with any bank,
brokerage firm, private investment fund or insurance company and does not sell any mutual funds,
packaged investment or insurance products, and as such, we do not receive commissions or
compensation from any third parties. We provide investment services directly to our clients and
do not utilize the services of any other investment advisers for our clients.
Item 11 - Code of Ethics
Jay A. Fishman Ltd., as a matter of policy and practice, and consistent with industry best practices
and SEC requirements (SEC Rule 204A-1 under the Advisers Act), has adopted a written Code of
Ethics for all employees describing its high standard of business conduct and fiduciary duty to
clients.
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The Code of Ethics includes provisions relating to the confidentiality of client information, a
prohibition on insider trading, a prohibition of rumor mongering, restrictions on the acceptance of
significant gifts and the reporting of certain gifts and business entertainment items, and personal
securities trading procedures, among other things. All supervised employees of JAF must
acknowledge the terms of the Code of Ethics annually, or as amended.
We have imposed restrictions upon ourselves and all supervised employees in connection with the
purchase or sale, directly or indirectly, for their own accounts or accounts controlled by them, of
securities purchased for or recommended to clients. We maintain strict guidelines and a Code of
Ethics for all our employees designed to assure that we do not benefit, directly or indirectly, from
transactions made for the accounts of clients and that no other conflict of interest exists.
Subject to satisfying this policy and applicable laws, officers, directors and employees of JAF may
invest for their own accounts in securities which are purchased for JAF’s clients. We recognize
that this represents a potential conflict of interest and our Code of Ethics is designed to impose
certain restrictions, see “Item 12 Broker Practices – Aggregation”, on the purchase and sale of
securities and to assure that the personal securities transactions, activities and interests of the
employees of JAF will not interfere with (i) making decisions in the best interest of advisory clients
and (ii) implementing such decisions while, at the same time, allowing employees to invest for
their own accounts. Employee trading is continually monitored under the Code of Ethics to prevent
conflicts of interest between JAF and its clients.
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd’s clients or prospective clients may request a copy of the firm’s Code of
Ethics by contacting Diane Bedenko at 248-740-9400 or dbicoll@jaf-ltd.com.
Item 12 - Brokerage Practices
As an investment advisory firm, JAF has a fiduciary duty to seek best execution for client
transactions. In the event that the client requests that we recommend a broker-dealer/custodian for
execution and/or custodial services, we generally recommend that investment accounts be
maintained at Schwab Advisor Services. Prior to engaging us to provide investment management
services, the client will be required to enter into a formal Investment Advisory Agreement with us
setting forth the terms and conditions under which we shall manage the client's assets, and a
separate custodial/clearing agreement with each designated broker-dealer/custodian. Factors that
we consider in recommending Schwab Advisor Services (or any other broker-dealer/custodian to
clients) include historical relationship, financial strength, reputation, execution capabilities,
pricing, research, and service. Although the commissions and/or transaction fees paid by our
clients shall comply with our duty to obtain best execution, a client may pay a transaction fee that
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is higher than another qualified broker-dealer might charge to effect the same transaction where
we determine, in good faith, that the transaction fee is reasonable. In seeking best execution, the
determinative factor is not the lowest possible cost, but whether the transaction represents the best
qualitative execution, taking into consideration the full range of a broker-dealer’s services,
including the value of research provided, execution capability, commission rates, and
responsiveness. Accordingly, although we will seek competitive rates, we may not necessarily
obtain the lowest possible commission rates for client account transactions. The brokerage
commissions or transaction fees charged by the designated broker-dealer/custodian are exclusive
of, and in addition to, our investment advisory fee.
Non-Soft Dollar Research and Additional Benefits: Although not a material consideration when
determining whether to recommend that a client utilize the services of a particular broker-
dealer/custodian, we can receive from Schwab Advisor Services (or another broker-
dealer/custodian, investment manager, platform or fund sponsor, or vendor) without cost (and/or
at a discount) support services and/or products, certain of which assist us to better monitor and
service client accounts maintained at such institutions. Included within the support services that
can be obtained by us may be investment-related research, pricing information and market data,
software and other technology that provide access to client account data, compliance and/or
practice management-related publications, discounted or gratis consulting services, discounted
and/or gratis attendance at conferences, meetings, and other educational and/or social events,
marketing support-including client events, computer hardware and/or software and/or other
products used by us in furtherance of its investment advisory business operations.
Our clients do not pay more for investment transactions effected and/or assets maintained at
Schwab Advisor Services as a result of this arrangement. There is no corresponding commitment
made by us to Schwab Advisor Services, other custodians or any other any entity to invest any
specific amount or percentage of client assets in any specific mutual funds, securities or other
investment products as result of the above arrangement.
Our Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko, remains available to address any questions
that a client or prospective client may have regarding the above arrangement and the
corresponding conflicts of interest presented by such arrangements.
Directed Brokerage: JAF will accept directed brokerage arrangements (when a client requires
that account transactions be effected through a specific broker-dealer). In such client directed
arrangements, the client will negotiate terms and arrangements for their account with that broker-
dealer, and JAF will not seek better execution services or prices from other broker-dealers or be
able to "batch" the client’s transactions for execution through other broker-dealers with orders for
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other accounts managed by JAF. As a result, a client could pay higher commissions or other
transaction costs or greater spreads, or receive less favorable net prices, on transactions for the
account than would otherwise be the case. Please Note: In the event that the client directs JAF to
effect securities transactions for the client’s accounts through a specific broker-dealer, the client
correspondingly acknowledges that such direction could cause the accounts to incur higher
commissions or transaction costs than the accounts would otherwise incur had the client
determined to effect account transactions through alternative clearing arrangements that may be
available through JAF. Higher transaction costs adversely impact account performance.
Order Aggregation: Transactions for each client account generally will be effected
independently, unless JAF decides to purchase or sell the same securities for several clients at
approximately the same time. JAF may (but is not obligated to) combine or “bunch” such orders
to obtain best execution, to negotiate more favorable commission rates or to allocate equitably
among JAF’s clients differences in prices and commissions or other transaction costs that might
have been obtained had such orders been placed independently. Under this procedure, transactions
will be averaged as to price and will be allocated among clients in proportion to the purchase and
sale orders placed for each client account on any given day. JAF shall not receive any additional
compensation or remuneration as a result of such aggregation.
Item 13 - Review of Accounts
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. conducts client account reviews on an ongoing basis. These reviews occur
at least monthly and often times on a weekly basis depending on market conditions, tax
considerations and client deposits and withdrawals. Reviewers are Jay A. Fishman, Todd M.
Ifkovits, CFA, Eric J. Fishman and Viorica Fuchs.
Our Portfolio Managers work together, including monitoring and reviewing, on the management
of all clients' portfolios and investments. JAF manages approximately 480 portfolios. Our clients
are provided with periodic inventories of their portfolios which display assets owned at cost and
market value, number of shares, estimated annual income, common stock industry diversifications
schedules, schedules of realized gains and losses and purchases and sales, and fixed income
maturity schedules. In addition, clients receive a time-weighted rate of return and an economic and
investment review. From time to time, we will provide clients with interim investment reviews.
Finally, clients are provided with a notification correspondence from the custodian or JAF after
investment transactions are executed. Clients also receive statements from their account custodian
on a monthly or quarterly basis.
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Item 14 - Client Referrals and Other Compensation
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. does not compensate any outside individuals or entities, directly or indirectly,
for client referrals. We do provide incentives to employees for client referrals. JAF, and its
supervised persons, do not receive any outside, third party, compensation or commissions.
As indicated at Item 12 above, JAF can receive from account custodians without cost (and/or at a
discount), support services and/or products. JAF’s clients do not pay more for investment
transactions effected and/or assets maintained at these custodians as result of these arrangements.
There is no corresponding commitment made by JAF to any custodian, or any other entity to invest
any specific amount or percentage of client assets in any specific mutual funds, securities or other
investment products as the result of the above arrangements. JAF’s Chief Compliance Officer,
Diane Bedenko, remains available to address any questions that a client or prospective client
may have regarding the above arrangements and the corresponding conflicts of interest
presented by such arrangements.
Item 15 – Custody
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. does not take custody of client assets as custody is provided by broker-dealers
and bank trust departments. Clients generally receive monthly statements from the broker-dealer,
and monthly or quarterly statements from a bank custodian. The statements clients receive directly
from the account custodian are the official record of the account. JAF reconciles and verifies these
custodian statements on a monthly basis. We encourage clients to reconcile the information
provided by us with the account custodian statement. A notation to this effect is made on our
periodic report that we provide to clients. We request that clients notify us promptly if they do not
receive custodian statements.
JAF shall have the ability to deduct, with client’s written direction, its advisory fee from the client’s
custodial account on a quarterly basis. Clients are provided with written transaction confirmation
notices, and a written summary account statement directly from the custodian, at least quarterly.
Please Note: To the extent JAF provides clients with periodic account statements or reports, the
client is urged to compare any statement or report provided by JAF with the account statements
received from the account custodian. Please Also Note: The account custodian does not verify the
accuracy of JAF’s advisory fee calculation. In addition, as a result of Jay A. Fishman, in his
individual capacity, serving as a Trustee or Successor Co-Trustee to JAF clients, JAF shall reflect
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that it has custody at Item 9 of Part 1 of Form ADV, and shall undergo an annual surprise CPA
examination for as long as Mr. Fishman serves in such capacity.
Item 16 - Investment Discretion
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. receives discretionary authority from the client at the outset of an advisory
relationship to select the identity and amount of securities to be bought or sold. In all cases,
however, such discretion is to be exercised in a manner consistent with the stated investment
objectives for the particular client account.
When selecting securities and determining amounts, JAF observes the client’s investment
objectives, limitations and restrictions. JAF follows all client directed investment guidelines and
restrictions.
Item 17 - Voting Client Securities
We are not responsible for voting proxies. We do assist clients in this endeavor at their request.
Item 18 - Financial Information
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. is not required to include its balance sheet for the most recent year as we do
not require or solicit a prepayment of more than $1,200 in investment management fees per client,
six months or more in advance. Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. has no financial commitments that would
impair its ability to meet contractual and fiduciary commitments to clients and has not been the
subject of a bankruptcy proceeding in the past 53 years.
ANY QUESTIONS: JAF’s Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko remains
available to address any questions regarding this Part 2.
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Additional Brochure: FORM ADV, PART 2 - BROCHURE (2025-03-24)
View Document Text
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd.
Investment Counsel
Form ADV, Part 2 - Brochure
901 Wilshire Drive
Suite 555
Troy, Michigan 48084
248-740-9400
2000 PGA Blvd. Suite 4440
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33408
2025
www.jaf-ltd.com
This Brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Jay A.
Fishman, Ltd. (JAF) and its supervised persons Jay A. Fishman, Todd M. Ifkovits, Eric J. Fishman
and Viorica Fuchs. If you have any questions about the contents of this Brochure, please contact
us at 248-740-9400. The information in this Brochure has not been approved or verified by the
United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or by any state securities authority.
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. is a registered investment adviser. Registration of an Investment Adviser
does not imply any level of skill or training. The oral and written communications of an Adviser
provide you with information about which you determine to hire or retain an Adviser.
Additional information about Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. and its supervised persons is also available on
the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. Our searchable IARD/CRD number is 105609.
Material Changes
Beginning in 2025, our fee schedule has changed for new accounts only. Existing clients will not
be affected. Please see the fee schedule on page 8 for details. There have been no other material
changes made to Jay A. Fishman, Ltd.’s (“JAF”) Part 2 Brochure since its prior Annual filing in
March, 2024. ANY QUESTIONS: JAF’s Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko, is available
to address any questions regarding Part 2.
Pursuant to SEC Rules, you will receive a summary of any material changes to this and subsequent
Brochures within 120 days of the close of our fiscal year. We will further provide other ongoing
disclosure information about material changes as necessary.
Currently, our Brochure may be requested or questions may be addressed by contacting Diane
Bedenko, Chief Compliance Officer at 248-740-9400 or dbicoll@jaf-ltd.com. Our Brochure is
also available on our web site www. jaf-ltd.com.
Additional information about Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. is also available via the SEC’s web site
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. The SEC’s web site also provides information about any persons
affiliated with Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. who are registered, or are required to be registered, as
investment adviser representatives of Jay A. Fishman, Ltd.
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Item 3 - Table of Contents
Item 2 – Material Changes……………………………………………………….... 2
Item 3 – Table of Contents………………………………………………………... 3
Item 4 – Advisory Business .…………………………...…………………………. 4
Item 5 – Investment Management Fees and Compensation .……………………... 8
Item 6 - Performance-Based Fees and Side by Side Management...…………… 10
Item 7 - Types of Clients……………..………………………………………… 10
Item 8 - Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss……..…. 10
Item 9 - Disciplinary Information…………………..……………………………..12
Item 10 - Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations………………........12
Item 11 - Code of Ethics………………………………………………………….. 12
Item 12 - Brokerage Practices………………………………………………….….13
Item 13 - Review of Accounts…………………………………………….…….... 15
Item 14 - Client Referrals and Other Compensation……………………….....….. 16
Item 15 – Custody ……………………………………………………………..….16
Item 16 - Investment Discretion……………………………………………..…… 17
Item 17 - Voting Client Securities…………………………………………..……. 17
Item 18 - Financial Information……………………………………………...……17
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Item 4 – Advisory Business
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. (JAF) began business in April, 1970 (formerly under the name Equity
Management and Research, Inc.) with four initial shareholders to provide investment counseling
and portfolio management services. Since 1983, Jay A. Fishman, one of the original founders,
has been the sole shareholder. The firm is an independent investment advisor registered with the
Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. We were
incorporated in the State of Michigan in 1970 and are headquartered in Troy, Michigan. As of
December 31, 2024, our discretionary client assets tabulated to $1,119,753,340.
.
The firm’s business is providing fee-based investment counseling services, including portfolio
management, to high net worth individuals and families, corporations and charitable institutions.
Client portfolios are separately managed and constructed with individually selected securities in
accordance with the client’s investment objective which reflects such considerations as growth,
income, time horizons, liquidity needs, risk tolerance and tax considerations. We believe that each
client has unique investment requirements and therefore we do not invest in packaged products or
model portfolios and also do not participate in broker-dealer sponsored wrap fee programs. We
generally do not invest in mutual funds unless directed by clients. We believe that the fees and
charges associated with these packaged products and mutual funds are often high, and therefore
detrimental to long term investment performance.
Our portfolio management team consists of Jay A. Fishman, Todd M. Ifkovits, CFA, Eric J.
Fishman and Viorica Fuchs. All are Fiduciaries and SEC Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs).
These are our supervised persons. Our management team utilizes fundamental research to select
each investment. All equity and fixed income securities are analyzed to conform to the client’s
investment objective. We believe in intermediate to long term investing and do not engage in short
term trading or market timing. We seek to provide a high level of client service and consider tax
implications by emphasizing long term capital gains in taxable portfolios. When requested to do
so, we can work together with client’s accountants, attorneys and other professional advisers to
help provide seamless and comprehensive advice for the client’s benefit.
JAF does not serve as an attorney, accountant or insurance agent, and no portion of our investment
services should be construed as legal, accounting or insurance services. To the extent requested
by a client, we may recommend the services of other professionals for certain non-investment
purposes. The client is under no obligation to engage the services of any such recommended
professional. The client retains absolute discretion over all such implementation decisions and is
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free to accept or reject any recommendation from JAF and/or its representatives. Please Note: If
the client engages any recommended unaffiliated professional, and a dispute arises thereafter
relative to such engagement, the client agrees to seek recourse exclusively from and against the
engaged professional. At all times, the engaged licensed professional(s) (i.e. attorney, accountant,
insurance agent, etc.), and not JAF, shall be responsible for the quality and competency of the
services provided.
Please Note: Retirement Rollovers - Potential for Conflict of Interest: A client or prospective
client leaving an employer typically has four options regarding an existing retirement plan (and
may engage in a combination of these options): (i) leave the money in the former employer’s plan,
if permitted, (ii) roll over the assets to the new employer’s plan, if one is available and rollovers
are permitted, (iii) roll over to an Individual Retirement Account (“IRA”), or (iv) cash out the
account value (which could, depending upon the client’s age, result in adverse tax consequences).
If JAF recommends that a client roll over their retirement plan assets into an account to be managed
by JAF, such a recommendation may create a conflict of interest if JAF will earn new (or increase
its current) compensation as a result of the rollover. When acting in such capacity, JAF serves as
a fiduciary under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), or the Internal Revenue
Code, or both. No client is under any obligation to rollover retirement plan assets to an account
managed by JAF. JAF’s Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko, remains available to address
any questions that a client or prospective client may have regarding the potential for conflict of
interest presented by such rollover recommendation.
Unaffiliated Private Investment Funds. JAF may also provide investment advice regarding
unaffiliated private investment funds. JAF, on a non-discretionary basis, may recommend that
certain qualified clients consider an investment in unaffiliated private investment funds. JAF’s role
relative to the private investment funds shall be limited to its initial and ongoing due diligence and
investment monitoring services. If a client determines to become a private fund investor, the
amount of assets invested in the fund(s) shall be included as part of “assets under management”
for purposes of JAF determining its investment advisory fee per Item 5 below. JAF’s clients are
under absolutely no obligation to consider or make an investment in a private investment fund(s).
Please Note: Private investment funds generally involve various risk factors, including, but not
limited to, potential for complete loss of principal, liquidity constraints and lack of transparency.
A complete discussion of which is set forth in each fund’s offering documents, which will be
provided to each client for review and consideration. Unlike liquid investments that a client may
own, private investment funds do not provide daily liquidity or pricing. Each prospective client
investor will be required to complete a Subscription Agreement, provided by the Fund Sponsor,
pursuant to which the client shall establish that he/she is qualified for investment in the fund, and
acknowledges and accepts the various risk factors that are associated with such an investment.
5
Please Also Note: Valuation. In the event that JAF references private investment funds owned by
the client on any supplemental account reports prepared by JAF, the value(s) for all private
investment funds owned by the client shall reflect the most recent independent Fund valuation. If
no subsequent valuation post-purchase is provided then the valuation shall reflect the initial
purchase price (and/or a value as of a previous date), or the current value(s) (either the initial
purchase price and/or the most recent valuation provided). If the valuation reflects initial purchase
price (and/or a value as of a previous date), the current value(s) (to the extent ascertainable) could
be significantly more or less than original purchase price. The client’s advisory fee shall be based
upon reflected fund value(s).
As discussed below at Item 12, when requested to recommend a broker-dealer/custodian for client
accounts, JAF generally recommends that Schwab Advisor Services serve as the broker-
dealer/custodian for client investment management assets. Broker-dealers may charge brokerage
commissions and/or transaction fees for effecting securities transactions. In addition to JAF’s
investment advisory fee, brokerage commissions and/or transaction fees, clients will also incur,
relative to all mutual fund and exchange traded fund purchases, charges imposed at the fund level
(e.g. management fees and other fund expenses). The fees charged by Schwab Advisor Services
or any broker-dealer/custodian directed by the client, as well as the charges imposed at the mutual
fund and exchange traded fund level, are in addition to JAF’s advisory fee referenced in Item 5
below.
limited
to,
Portfolio Activity. JAF has a fiduciary duty to provide services consistent with the client’s best
interest. As part of its investment advisory services, JAF will review client portfolios on an
ongoing basis to determine if any changes are necessary based upon various factors, including, but
investment performance, market and economic conditions, account
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additions/withdrawals, and/or a change in the client’s investment objective. Based upon these
factors, there may be extended periods of time when JAF determines that changes to a client’s
portfolio are neither necessary nor prudent. Advisory fees remain payable during periods of
account inactivity. Of course, as indicated below, there can be no assurance that investment
decisions made by JAF will be profitable or equal any specific performance level(s).
Client Obligations. In performing our services, JAF shall not be required to verify any
information received from the client or from the client’s other professionals, and is expressly
authorized to rely thereon. Moreover, each client is advised that it remains his/her/its responsibility
to promptly notify JAF if there is ever any change in his/her/its financial situation or investment
objectives for the purpose of reviewing/evaluating/revising our previous recommendations and/or
services.
6
Please Note: Investment Risk. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk,
and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment
strategy (including the investments and/or investment strategies recommended or undertaken by
JAF) will be profitable or equal any specific performance level(s).
Portfolio Managers
Jay A. Fishman/President - Before forming Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. in 1970, Mr. Fishman (age 80)
was an Investment Analyst with the National Bank of Detroit’s (now JP Morgan Chase & Co.)
Trust Investment Division. Prior to that time, he was an Instructor of Finance with the School of
Business at Western Michigan University, from which he had previously attained Bachelor (1966)
and Master (1967) of Business Administration degrees. During this period, Mr. Fishman also co-
authored the book “Corporations In Conflict: The Tender Offer” and several related articles.
Mr. Fishman was a founder of Jay A. Fishman, Ltd (formerly Equity Management and Research,
Inc.) in April 1970. In the 1970 to present period, Mr. Fishman’s activities include investment
research, portfolio management and client relations. Mr. Fishman is currently a member of the
Metropolitan Club of New York and the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club. He served as a founding
Director of the Western Michigan University Foundation from its inception in 1976 until 2004. In
addition, Mr. Fishman was an organizer of Valley Commerce Bank in Phoenix, Arizona in 1994
and served as Chairman of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee until he led the Bank’s
sale in April, 2005. He has also served on three other community banks' Board of Directors.
Todd M. Ifkovits CFA/Senior Portfolio Manager - Mr. Ifkovits (age 58) commenced
employment with Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. in November 1997. Prior to joining the firm, he was
employed as a Vice President and Portfolio Manager with Comerica Bank in Detroit, Michigan
where he spent seven years managing individual stock and bond portfolios for high-net worth
individuals and tax-exempt foundations. Mr. Ifkovits received a Master of Business
Administration (1993) from the University of Detroit and a Bachelor of Arts (1989) in Financial
Administration from Michigan State University. He received the Chartered Financial Analyst
(CFA) designation in 1997. Mr. Ifkovits is a member of the CFA Institute, the CFA Society of
Detroit, the Detroit Athletic Club and the Lochmoor Club.
7
Eric J. Fishman, Portfolio Manager/Investment Analyst - Eric J. Fishman (age 28) is a Portfolio
Manager/Investment Analyst with Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. Prior to his employment, Eric spent
several summers as an analytical intern with the company. Eric attended Upper Canada College in
Toronto, Canada, and received an International Baccalaureate Diploma. He then studied at the
University of Michigan and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree, With Distinction, and majored in
Economics. Following graduation from the University of Michigan, Eric was employed by
Aspirant in Los Angeles in their Wealth Management department. Eric is a member of the Detroit
Athletic Club and the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club.
Viorica Fuchs, Portfolio Manager/Investment Analyst - Ms. Fuchs, (age 60) commenced
employment with Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. in February 2001. Ms. Fuchs has been extensively
involved in all operational and administrative activities of the firm including portfolio
administration, trading and client and broker services. Ms. Fuchs received a Master of Business
Administration with specialization in Finance from Walsh College (2015) and a Bachelor of
Business Administration, with a concentration in finance and accounting, from Walsh College of
Business in 2009. Ms. Fuchs is a member of the Economic Club of Detroit.
Item 5 – Investment Management Fees and Compensation
Investment management fees apply to the market value of fixed income securities, convertible
securities, common stocks, exchange traded funds, mutual funds, real estate limited partnerships
and short-term investment reserves.
1.00% of the first $1,000,000 of portfolio market value
0.75% of the next $1,000,000 - $5,000,000 of portfolio market value
0.50% of the excess over $5 million of portfolio market value
Fees are payable quarterly (either in advance or arrears, per the Investment Advisory Agreement
between JAF and the client) as services are rendered in the account equal to one-quarter of the
aforementioned annual fees using the then prevailing quarter-end market values. Fees will
increase or decrease as the market value of a portfolio changes.
8
Fees are calculated based on the above percentages of assets under management for a client. We
do not receive any fees or commissions from any sources other than providing investment
counseling services.
Special fees, lower or higher than our fee schedule, will be quoted depending upon any special
circumstances, unusual size, substantial concentrations in one or more securities, and the overall
effort and responsibility involved. Such fees are subject to negotiation with each client.
The specific manner in which fees are charged by JAF is established in a written Investment
Advisory Agreement with each client. As noted, JAF generally invoices on a quarterly basis.
Clients may pay investment management fees directly or from their custodian account. Accounts
initiated after the beginning of a quarter or terminated before the end of a quarter will be charged
a prorated fee. Upon termination of any account, any prepaid, unearned fees will be promptly
refunded, and any earned, unpaid fees will be due and payable.
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. fees are exclusive of brokerage commissions, custodian fees and other related
costs and expenses which shall be incurred by the client. See “Item 12 – Brokerage Practices”
below. Mutual funds and exchange traded funds also charge internal management fees which are
disclosed in a fund’s prospectus. Such charges, fees and commissions are exclusive of and in
addition to JAF’s fees. We do not receive any portion of these commissions or fees from any such
funds.
JAF, in its sole discretion, may waive its $1 million aggregate account minimum (see Item 7 below)
and/or charge a lesser investment advisory fee based upon certain criteria (i.e. anticipated future
earning capacity, anticipated future additional assets, dollar amount of assets to be managed,
family or related accounts, account composition, competition, negotiations with client, etc.). Please
Note: As result of the above, similarly situated clients could pay different fees. In addition, similar
advisory services may be available from other investment advisers for similar or lower fees. ANY
QUESTIONS: JAF’s Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko, remains available to address any
questions that a client or prospective client may have regarding advisory fees.
Margin Accounts: Risks/Conflict of Interest. JAF does not recommend the use of margin for
investment purposes. A margin account is a brokerage account that allows investors to borrow
money to buy securities. By using borrowed funds, the customer is employing leverage that will
magnify both account gains and losses. The broker charges the investor interest for the right to
borrow money and uses the securities as collateral. Should a client determine to use margin, JAF
will include the entire market value of the margined assets when computing its advisory
fee. Accordingly, JAF’s fee shall be based upon a higher margined account value, resulting in JAF
9
earning a correspondingly higher advisory fee. As a result, the potential of conflict of interest arises
since JAF may have an economic disincentive to recommend that the client terminate the use of
margin. ANY QUESTIONS: Our Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko, remains available
to address any questions that a client or prospective client may have regarding the use of margin.
Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side by Side Management
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. and its supervised persons do not charge or participate in any side by side or
performance-based compensation (fees based upon or taking a share of profits in client accounts).
Item 7 - Types of Clients
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. provides portfolio management services to high net worth individuals,
families, corporations and charitable institutions on a discretionary basis. We normally require an
aggregate minimum account size of $1,000,000.
Item 8 - Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. has emphasized a disciplined, conservative investment philosophy for over
fifty-two years. We focus on wealth preservation and long term growth of capital. Our portfolio
managers are committed to deliver the firm’s investment philosophy to each client.
The cornerstones of our investment philosophy are as follows:
• We emphasize independent fundamental research to identify good and high quality
securities that possess the potential for above average investment returns over intermediate
and longer term periods of three to five years or longer. We believe that an emphasis on
long term investments in superior companies is rewarding.
• Our investment strategy emphasizes the construction of clients’ portfolios with a limited
number of good to high quality individual securities, including common stocks, bonds and
exchange traded funds. We emphasize a top down rather than bottom up approach to
security selection. Common stock and bond portfolios are each generally limited to 20 to
25 holdings. We strongly believe that excessive diversification produces average
performance over the longer-term.
10
Our common stock research efforts are concentrated on companies with mid to large sized
capitalizations of $5 billion or greater and we select companies with strong financial positions and
superior growth prospects. Our firm is characterized as a Mid/Large Cap Growth at a Reasonable
Price (GARP) Manager. We may invest in common stocks of companies with smaller
capitalizations of less than $5 billion when opportunities become available. In addition to
companies with strong financial positions and superior growth prospects we also emphasize
companies with attractive and growing dividends.
Our fixed income strategy is grounded in the belief that bond portfolios are managed for safety,
diversification and income—not speculation. The firm’s fixed income philosophy emphasizes
quality, with a focus on attractive valuations in the current yield curve. We typically invest in U.S.
Treasury notes and bonds, as well as agency issues and good and high quality corporate bonds.
Our corporate bond portfolios generally emphasize investment grade bonds rated BBB+ or better;
however, we may invest in lower quality bonds, on a limited basis, if the value is compelling. Our
fixed income portfolios are constructed with a complete analysis of duration and convexity to
optimize investment return and risk.
Our investment sales discipline is determined by several factors including a change in company
fundamentals, achievement of target price or valuation, the discovery of more attractive investment
opportunities, on a relative basis, or a change in client investment objective. Short-term trading
transactions are generally avoided but may occur. Short sales and option writing are not utilized.
Some clients may direct the use of margin activity to potentially enhance investment returns or as
a source of funds for their personal withdrawals.
It is our judgment that fees, charges and commissions can have a meaningful impact on long term
investment results. Therefore, we are committed to maintaining low portfolio turnover and low
expenses. We believe that low costs can be accompanied with high levels of client service.
Key characteristics of selected investments include:
▪ Strong financial positions
▪ Attractive longer-term historical operating records
▪ Above average growth prospects
▪ Unique competency in their products or services
▪ Experienced and highly regarded management teams
▪ Attractive valuations
▪ High return on shareholder’s equity
Principal sources of information utilized in our research efforts include:
▪ Company annual reports
▪ Quarterly reports
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▪ Prospectuses
▪ Filings with the SEC
▪ Press releases
▪ Visits with companies
▪ Research material prepared by other firms
▪ Financial newspapers and publications
▪ Data from the Federal Government
Clients are advised that investments in common stocks and fixed income securities carries a risk
of loss of principal and that clients should be prepared to bear such losses.
Item 9 - Disciplinary Information
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. and its management have never been subject to any disciplinary event or
administrative or self-regulatory proceedings before the Securities and Exchange Commission,
any other federal regulatory agency, or any foreign financial regulatory authority since our
inception in 1970. In addition, our firm and its management have not been the subject of any other
proceedings involving the revocation or suspension of any professional attainments, designation
or licenses nor have they been the subject of any criminal or civil actions relating to investments
or investment related businesses.
Item 10 - Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. is a Registered Investment Adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. We are an independent, fee only
investment adviser. We do not act as a broker-dealer, or registered representative in any
transactions. In addition, JAF nor any supervised person has any affiliations with any bank,
brokerage firm, private investment fund or insurance company and does not sell any mutual funds,
packaged investment or insurance products, and as such, we do not receive commissions or
compensation from any third parties. We provide investment services directly to our clients and
do not utilize the services of any other investment advisers for our clients.
Item 11 - Code of Ethics
Jay A. Fishman Ltd., as a matter of policy and practice, and consistent with industry best practices
and SEC requirements (SEC Rule 204A-1 under the Advisers Act), has adopted a written Code of
Ethics for all employees describing its high standard of business conduct and fiduciary duty to
clients.
12
The Code of Ethics includes provisions relating to the confidentiality of client information, a
prohibition on insider trading, a prohibition of rumor mongering, restrictions on the acceptance of
significant gifts and the reporting of certain gifts and business entertainment items, and personal
securities trading procedures, among other things. All supervised employees of JAF must
acknowledge the terms of the Code of Ethics annually, or as amended.
We have imposed restrictions upon ourselves and all supervised employees in connection with the
purchase or sale, directly or indirectly, for their own accounts or accounts controlled by them, of
securities purchased for or recommended to clients. We maintain strict guidelines and a Code of
Ethics for all our employees designed to assure that we do not benefit, directly or indirectly, from
transactions made for the accounts of clients and that no other conflict of interest exists.
Subject to satisfying this policy and applicable laws, officers, directors and employees of JAF may
invest for their own accounts in securities which are purchased for JAF’s clients. We recognize
that this represents a potential conflict of interest and our Code of Ethics is designed to impose
certain restrictions, see “Item 12 Broker Practices – Aggregation”, on the purchase and sale of
securities and to assure that the personal securities transactions, activities and interests of the
employees of JAF will not interfere with (i) making decisions in the best interest of advisory clients
and (ii) implementing such decisions while, at the same time, allowing employees to invest for
their own accounts. Employee trading is continually monitored under the Code of Ethics to prevent
conflicts of interest between JAF and its clients.
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd’s clients or prospective clients may request a copy of the firm’s Code of
Ethics by contacting Diane Bedenko at 248-740-9400 or dbicoll@jaf-ltd.com.
Item 12 - Brokerage Practices
As an investment advisory firm, JAF has a fiduciary duty to seek best execution for client
transactions. In the event that the client requests that we recommend a broker-dealer/custodian for
execution and/or custodial services, we generally recommend that investment accounts be
maintained at Schwab Advisor Services. Prior to engaging us to provide investment management
services, the client will be required to enter into a formal Investment Advisory Agreement with us
setting forth the terms and conditions under which we shall manage the client's assets, and a
separate custodial/clearing agreement with each designated broker-dealer/custodian. Factors that
we consider in recommending Schwab Advisor Services (or any other broker-dealer/custodian to
clients) include historical relationship, financial strength, reputation, execution capabilities,
pricing, research, and service. Although the commissions and/or transaction fees paid by our
clients shall comply with our duty to obtain best execution, a client may pay a transaction fee that
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is higher than another qualified broker-dealer might charge to effect the same transaction where
we determine, in good faith, that the transaction fee is reasonable. In seeking best execution, the
determinative factor is not the lowest possible cost, but whether the transaction represents the best
qualitative execution, taking into consideration the full range of a broker-dealer’s services,
including the value of research provided, execution capability, commission rates, and
responsiveness. Accordingly, although we will seek competitive rates, we may not necessarily
obtain the lowest possible commission rates for client account transactions. The brokerage
commissions or transaction fees charged by the designated broker-dealer/custodian are exclusive
of, and in addition to, our investment advisory fee.
Non-Soft Dollar Research and Additional Benefits: Although not a material consideration when
determining whether to recommend that a client utilize the services of a particular broker-
dealer/custodian, we can receive from Schwab Advisor Services (or another broker-
dealer/custodian, investment manager, platform or fund sponsor, or vendor) without cost (and/or
at a discount) support services and/or products, certain of which assist us to better monitor and
service client accounts maintained at such institutions. Included within the support services that
can be obtained by us may be investment-related research, pricing information and market data,
software and other technology that provide access to client account data, compliance and/or
practice management-related publications, discounted or gratis consulting services, discounted
and/or gratis attendance at conferences, meetings, and other educational and/or social events,
marketing support-including client events, computer hardware and/or software and/or other
products used by us in furtherance of its investment advisory business operations.
Our clients do not pay more for investment transactions effected and/or assets maintained at
Schwab Advisor Services as a result of this arrangement. There is no corresponding commitment
made by us to Schwab Advisor Services, other custodians or any other any entity to invest any
specific amount or percentage of client assets in any specific mutual funds, securities or other
investment products as result of the above arrangement.
Our Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko, remains available to address any questions
that a client or prospective client may have regarding the above arrangement and the
corresponding conflicts of interest presented by such arrangements.
Directed Brokerage: JAF will accept directed brokerage arrangements (when a client requires
that account transactions be effected through a specific broker-dealer). In such client directed
arrangements, the client will negotiate terms and arrangements for their account with that broker-
dealer, and JAF will not seek better execution services or prices from other broker-dealers or be
able to "batch" the client’s transactions for execution through other broker-dealers with orders for
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other accounts managed by JAF. As a result, a client could pay higher commissions or other
transaction costs or greater spreads, or receive less favorable net prices, on transactions for the
account than would otherwise be the case. Please Note: In the event that the client directs JAF to
effect securities transactions for the client’s accounts through a specific broker-dealer, the client
correspondingly acknowledges that such direction could cause the accounts to incur higher
commissions or transaction costs than the accounts would otherwise incur had the client
determined to effect account transactions through alternative clearing arrangements that may be
available through JAF. Higher transaction costs adversely impact account performance.
Order Aggregation: Transactions for each client account generally will be effected
independently, unless JAF decides to purchase or sell the same securities for several clients at
approximately the same time. JAF may (but is not obligated to) combine or “bunch” such orders
to obtain best execution, to negotiate more favorable commission rates or to allocate equitably
among JAF’s clients differences in prices and commissions or other transaction costs that might
have been obtained had such orders been placed independently. Under this procedure, transactions
will be averaged as to price and will be allocated among clients in proportion to the purchase and
sale orders placed for each client account on any given day. JAF shall not receive any additional
compensation or remuneration as a result of such aggregation.
Item 13 - Review of Accounts
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. conducts client account reviews on an ongoing basis. These reviews occur
at least monthly and often times on a weekly basis depending on market conditions, tax
considerations and client deposits and withdrawals. Reviewers are Jay A. Fishman, Todd M.
Ifkovits, CFA, Eric J. Fishman and Viorica Fuchs.
Our Portfolio Managers work together, including monitoring and reviewing, on the management
of all clients' portfolios and investments. JAF manages approximately 480 portfolios. Our clients
are provided with periodic inventories of their portfolios which display assets owned at cost and
market value, number of shares, estimated annual income, common stock industry diversifications
schedules, schedules of realized gains and losses and purchases and sales, and fixed income
maturity schedules. In addition, clients receive a time-weighted rate of return and an economic and
investment review. From time to time, we will provide clients with interim investment reviews.
Finally, clients are provided with a notification correspondence from the custodian or JAF after
investment transactions are executed. Clients also receive statements from their account custodian
on a monthly or quarterly basis.
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Item 14 - Client Referrals and Other Compensation
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. does not compensate any outside individuals or entities, directly or indirectly,
for client referrals. We do provide incentives to employees for client referrals. JAF, and its
supervised persons, do not receive any outside, third party, compensation or commissions.
As indicated at Item 12 above, JAF can receive from account custodians without cost (and/or at a
discount), support services and/or products. JAF’s clients do not pay more for investment
transactions effected and/or assets maintained at these custodians as result of these arrangements.
There is no corresponding commitment made by JAF to any custodian, or any other entity to invest
any specific amount or percentage of client assets in any specific mutual funds, securities or other
investment products as the result of the above arrangements. JAF’s Chief Compliance Officer,
Diane Bedenko, remains available to address any questions that a client or prospective client
may have regarding the above arrangements and the corresponding conflicts of interest
presented by such arrangements.
Item 15 – Custody
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. does not take custody of client assets as custody is provided by broker-dealers
and bank trust departments. Clients generally receive monthly statements from the broker-dealer,
and monthly or quarterly statements from a bank custodian. The statements clients receive directly
from the account custodian are the official record of the account. JAF reconciles and verifies these
custodian statements on a monthly basis. We encourage clients to reconcile the information
provided by us with the account custodian statement. A notation to this effect is made on our
periodic report that we provide to clients. We request that clients notify us promptly if they do not
receive custodian statements.
JAF shall have the ability to deduct, with client’s written direction, its advisory fee from the client’s
custodial account on a quarterly basis. Clients are provided with written transaction confirmation
notices, and a written summary account statement directly from the custodian, at least quarterly.
Please Note: To the extent JAF provides clients with periodic account statements or reports, the
client is urged to compare any statement or report provided by JAF with the account statements
received from the account custodian. Please Also Note: The account custodian does not verify the
accuracy of JAF’s advisory fee calculation. In addition, as a result of Jay A. Fishman, in his
individual capacity, serving as a Trustee or Successor Co-Trustee to JAF clients, JAF shall reflect
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that it has custody at Item 9 of Part 1 of Form ADV, and shall undergo an annual surprise CPA
examination for as long as Mr. Fishman serves in such capacity.
Item 16 - Investment Discretion
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. receives discretionary authority from the client at the outset of an advisory
relationship to select the identity and amount of securities to be bought or sold. In all cases,
however, such discretion is to be exercised in a manner consistent with the stated investment
objectives for the particular client account.
When selecting securities and determining amounts, JAF observes the client’s investment
objectives, limitations and restrictions. JAF follows all client directed investment guidelines and
restrictions.
Item 17 - Voting Client Securities
We are not responsible for voting proxies. We do assist clients in this endeavor at their request.
Item 18 - Financial Information
Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. is not required to include its balance sheet for the most recent year as we do
not require or solicit a prepayment of more than $1,200 in investment management fees per client,
six months or more in advance. Jay A. Fishman, Ltd. has no financial commitments that would
impair its ability to meet contractual and fiduciary commitments to clients and has not been the
subject of a bankruptcy proceeding in the past 53 years.
ANY QUESTIONS: JAF’s Chief Compliance Officer, Diane Bedenko remains
available to address any questions regarding this Part 2.
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