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HALBERT HARGROVE GLOBAL
ADVISORS, LLC
ADV Part 2A - Disclosure Brochure
Dated: March 28, 2025
Contact: Brenden Melrose, Chief Compliance Officer
111 W. Ocean Boulevard, 23rd Floor,
Long Beach, CA 90802
This brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Halbert
Hargrove Global Advisors, LLC. If you have any questions about the contents of this brochure, please
contact us at (800) 435-3505 or https://www.halberthargrove.com/. The information in this brochure
has not been approved or verified by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or by
any state securities authority.
Additional information about Halbert Hargrove Global Advisors, LLC also is available on the SEC’s
website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
References herein to Halbert Hargrove Global Advisors, LLC as a “registered investment adviser”
or any reference to being “registered” does not imply a certain level of skill or training.
Item 2
Material Changes
There have been the following material changes made to this Brochure since Halbert Hargrove Global
Advisors, LLC’s last Annual Amendment filing made on March 25, 2024:
•
Item 1 was updated to include HH’s address as 111 W. Ocean Boulevard, 23rd Floor,
Long Beach, California 90802.
•
Item 4 was updated to include a description of the Firm’s recommendation of digital
services through Zoe Financial, Inc., (“Zoe”) which is powered by the technology,
brokerage and clearing services of Apex Clearing Corporation (the “Digital
Program”). The Digital Program allows the Firm to engage with clients it might not
otherwise be able to accept or maintain under its traditional services. The Digital
Program allows the Firm to provide an automated trading platform for smaller
accounts. Zoe will provide administrative and management services that allow for the
Firm to build its own portfolios while providing automated or manual account
rebalancing. The Firm does not act as the sponsor of a wrap program, but the Zoe
platform acts as a wrap program, where Zoe has wrapped its fees with those of Apex
and HH.
•
Item 7 was updated to clarify that HH no longer imposes a minimum annual fee of
$7,500 for new clients.
•
Item 8 was updated to disclose risks of investing through the Digital Program. The
Firm pays Zoe a fee to participate and access the platform. There is a conflict of
interest for the Firm to recommend the Digital Program to meet a certain level of
assets on the platform. Furthermore, Zoe acts as a solicitor that refers business to the
Firm which results in a conflict of interest. Furthermore, because the Digital Program
provides advisory services primarily through the internet, there are risks that the
platform may not perform as intended or disclosed. Finally, the services through the
Digital Program are provided without consideration of tax consequences.
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Item 3
Table of Contents
Item 1 Cover Page .................................................................................................................................... 1
Item 2 Material Changes .......................................................................................................................... 2
Item 3
Table of Contents .......................................................................................................................... 3
Item 4 Advisory Business ........................................................................................................................ 4
Fees and Compensation .............................................................................................................. 12
Item 5
Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management .......................................................... 14
Item 6
Item 7
Types of Clients .......................................................................................................................... 14
Item 8 Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss ................................................... 14
Item 9 Disciplinary Information ............................................................................................................ 20
Item 10 Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations .................................................................. 20
Item 11 Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal Trading.............. 21
Item 12 Brokerage Practices .................................................................................................................... 22
Item 13 Review of Accounts .................................................................................................................... 24
Item 14 Client Referrals and Other Compensation .................................................................................. 24
Item 15 Custody ....................................................................................................................................... 26
Item 16
Investment Discretion ................................................................................................................. 27
Item 17 Voting Client Securities .............................................................................................................. 27
Item 18 Financial Information ................................................................................................................. 28
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Item 4
Advisory Business
A. Halbert Hargrove Global Advisors, LLC (“Registrant”, “HH”, or the “Firm”) is a limited
liability company formed in the State of California. HH became registered with the U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission in October 1988. HH is principally owned by Halbert
Hargrove Holdings, Inc.
B.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES
HH provides discretionary investment advisory services on a fee-only basis. The Firm’s
annual investment advisory fee includes investment management services, and, to the
extent specifically requested by the client, financial planning and consulting services. In
the event that the client requires extraordinary planning and/or consultation services (to be
determined in the sole discretion of HH), the Firm may determine to charge for such
additional services, the dollar amount of which shall be set forth in a separate written notice
to the client.
HH provides investment advisory services specific to the needs of each client. Before
providing investment advisory services, an investment adviser representative will ascertain
each client’s investment objectives. Thereafter, the Firm will recommend that the client
allocate investment assets consistent with the designated investment objectives. HH
primarily recommends that clients allocate investment assets among various individual
equity (stocks), debt (bonds) and fixed income securities, mutual funds and/or exchange
traded funds (“ETFs”) in accordance with the client’s designated investment objective(s).
Once allocated, the Firm provides ongoing monitoring and review of account performance,
asset allocation and client investment objectives.
It remains the client’s responsibility to promptly notify HH if there is ever any change in
their financial situation or investment objectives for the purpose of reviewing, evaluating
or revising the Firm’s previous recommendations and/or services.
FINANCIAL PLANNING AND CONSULTING SERVICES (STAND-ALONE)
HH may provide financial planning and/or consulting services (including investment and
non-investment related matters, including estate planning, insurance planning, etc.) on a
stand-alone separate fee basis.
Prior to engaging the Firm to provide planning or consulting services, clients are generally
required to enter into an agreement with the Firm setting forth the terms and conditions of
the engagement (including termination), describing the scope of the services to be provided
and the portion of the fee that is due from the client prior to the Firm commencing services.
It remains the client’s responsibility to promptly notify HH if there is ever any change in
their financial situation or investment objectives for the purpose of reviewing, evaluating
or revising the Firm’s previous recommendations and/or services.
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RETIREMENT PLAN SERVICES
Participant Directed Retirement Plans. The Firm can also provide investment advisory
and consulting services to participant directed retirement plans per the terms and conditions
of a separate Agreement between the Firm and the plan. For such engagements, the Firm
shall assist the Plan sponsor with the selection of an investment platform from which Plan
participants shall make their respective investment choices (which may include investment
strategies devised and managed by the Firm), and, to the extent engaged to do so, may also
provide corresponding education to assist the participants with their decision-making
process.
Client Retirement Plan Assets. If requested to do so, the Firm can provide investment
advisory services relative to 401(k) plan assets maintained by the client in conjunction with
the retirement plan established by the client’s employer. In such event, The Firm shall
allocate (or recommend that the client allocate) the retirement account assets among the
investment options available on the 401(k) platform. The Firm’s ability shall be limited to
the allocation of the assets among the investment alternatives available through the plan.
The Firm will not receive any communications from the plan sponsor or custodian, and it
shall remain the client’s exclusive obligation to notify the Firm of any changes in
investment alternatives, restrictions, etc. pertaining to the retirement account.
Trustee Directed Plans. The Firm can be engaged to provide discretionary investment
advisory services to ERISA retirement plans, whereby the Firm shall manage Plan assets
consistent with the investment objective designated by the Plan trustees. In such
engagements, the Firm will serve as an investment fiduciary as that term is defined under
The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”). The Firm will
generally provide services on an “assets under management” fee basis per the terms and
conditions of an Investment Advisory Agreement between the Plan and the Firm.
Miscellaneous
Limitations of Financial Planning and Non-Investment Consulting/Implementation
Services. As indicated above, to the extent requested by a client, the Firm may provide
financial planning and related consulting services inclusive of its advisory fee as set forth
at Item 5 below (exceptions may occur based upon assets under management, special
projects, etc., for which the Firm may charge a separate fee). However, neither the Firm
nor its investment adviser representatives assist clients with the implementation of any
financial plan, unless they have agreed to do so in writing. HH does not monitor a client’s
financial plan, unless specifically engaged to do so, and it is the client’s responsibility to
revisit the financial plan with HH, if desired.
Furthermore, although the Firm may provide recommendations regarding non-investment
related matters, such as estate planning, tax planning and insurance, HH does not serve as
an attorney or accountant, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or
accounting services. Accordingly, HH does not prepare estate planning documents or tax
returns.
To the extent requested by a client, the Firm may recommend the services of other
professionals for certain non-investment implementation purposes (i.e., attorneys,
accountants, insurance, etc.), including certain of the Firm’s representatives in their
individual capacities as licensed certified public accountants (See disclosure at Item 10.C
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below). 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 free to accept or reject any recommendation from the Firm and/or its representatives.
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 the Firm, shall be responsible for
the quality and competency of the services provided.
investment assets among unaffiliated
independent
the client’s designated
Independent Managers. The Firm may recommend that the client allocate a portion of a
client’s
investment managers
(“Independent Manager(s)”) in accordance with the client’s designated investment
objective(s). In such situations, the Independent Manager(s) will have day-to-day
responsibility for the active discretionary management of the allocated assets. The Firm
will continue to render investment supervisory services to the client relative to the ongoing
monitoring and review of account performance, asset allocation, and client investment
objectives. HH generally considers the following factors when recommending Independent
Manager(s):
investment objective(s), management style,
performance, reputation, financial strength, reporting, pricing, and research. The
investment management fees charged by the designated Independent Manager(s) are
exclusive of, and in addition to, the Firm’s ongoing investment advisory fee, subject to the
terms and conditions of a separate agreement between HH or the client and the Independent
Manager(s). The Firm’s advisory fee is set forth in the fee schedule at Item 5 below.
Use of Mutual and Exchange Traded Funds. Most mutual funds and exchange traded
funds are available directly to the public. Therefore, a prospective client can obtain many
of the funds that may be utilized by the Firm independent of engaging the Firm as an
investment advisor. However, if a prospective client determines to do so, he/she will not
receive the Firm’s initial and ongoing investment advisory services.
In addition to the Firm’s investment advisory fee described below, and transaction and/or
custodial fees discussed below, 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).
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 the Firm recommends that a client roll over their
retirement plan assets into an account to be managed by the Firm, such a recommendation
creates a conflict of interest if the Firm will earn new (or increase its current) compensation
as a result of the rollover. If the Firm provides a recommendation as to whether a client
should engage in a rollover or not (whether it is from an employer’s plan or an existing
IRA), the Firm is acting as a fiduciary within the meaning of Title I of the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act and/or the Internal Revenue Code, as applicable, which
are laws governing retirement accounts. No client is under any obligation to roll over
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retirement plan assets to an account managed by the Firm, whether it is from an employer’s
plan or an existing IRA.
Non-Discretionary Service Limitations. Clients that determine to engage the Firm on a
non-discretionary investment advisory basis must be willing to accept that the Firm cannot
effect any account transactions without obtaining prior consent to any such transaction(s)
from the client. Thus, in the event that the Firm would like to make a transaction for a
client’s account, and client is unavailable, the Firm will be unable to effect the account
transaction (as it would for its discretionary clients) without first obtaining the client’s
consent.
Unaffiliated Private Investment Funds. The Firm also provides investment advice
regarding private investment funds. The Firm, on a non-discretionary basis, may
recommend that certain qualified clients consider an investment in private investment
funds, the description of which (the terms, conditions, risks, conflicts and fees, including
incentive compensation) is set forth in the fund’s offering documents. The Firm’s role
relative to unaffiliated private investment funds shall be limited to its initial and ongoing
due diligence and investment monitoring services. If a client determines to become an
unaffiliated private fund investor, the amount of assets invested in the fund(s) shall be
included as part of “assets under management” for purposes of the Firm calculating its
investment advisory fee. The Firm’s fee shall be in addition to the fund’s fees. The Firm’s
clients are under absolutely no obligation to consider or make an investment in any private
investment fund(s).
Risks. 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, pursuant to which the client shall establish that the client is
qualified for investment in the fund, and acknowledges and accepts the various risk factors
that are associated with such an investment. The Firm’s investment advisory fee disclosed
at Item 5 below is in addition to the fees payable to the private fund.
Valuation. In the event that the Firm references private investment funds owned by the
client on any supplemental account reports prepared by the Firm, the value(s) for all private
investment funds owned by the client shall reflect the most recent valuation provided by
the fund sponsor. However, if subsequent to purchase, the fund has not provided an
updated valuation, the valuation shall reflect the initial purchase price. If subsequent to
purchase, the fund provides an updated valuation, then the statement will reflect that
updated value. The updated value will continue to be reflected on the report until the fund
provides a further updated value.
As result of the valuation process, if the valuation reflects initial purchase price or an
updated value subsequent to purchase price, the current value(s) of an investor’s fund
holding(s) could be significantly more or less than the value reflected on the report. Unless
otherwise indicated, the Firm shall calculate its fee based upon the latest value provided by
the fund sponsor.
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Interval Funds/Risks and Limitations. Where appropriate, the Firm may utilize interval
funds (and other types of securities that could pose additional risks, including lack of
liquidity and restrictions on withdrawals). An interval fund is a non-traditional type
of closed-end mutual fund that periodically offers to buy back a percentage of outstanding
shares from shareholders. Investments in an interval fund involve additional risk, including
lack of liquidity and restrictions on withdrawals. During any time periods outside of the
specified repurchase offer window(s), investors will be unable to sell their shares of the
interval fund. There is no assurance that an investor will be able to tender shares when or
in the amount desired. There can also be situations where an interval fund has a limited
amount of capacity to repurchase shares, and may not be able to fulfill all purchase orders.
In addition, the eventual sale price for the interval fund could be less than the interval fund
value on the date that the sale was requested. While an interval fund periodically offers to
repurchase a portion of its securities, there is no guarantee that investors may sell their
shares at any given time or in the desired amount. As interval funds can expose investors
to liquidity risk, investors should consider interval fund shares to be an illiquid investment.
Typically, the interval funds are not listed on any securities exchange and are not publicly
traded. Thus, there is no secondary market for the fund’s shares. Because these types of
investments involve certain additional risk, these funds will only be utilized when
consistent with a client’s investment objectives, individual situation, suitability, tolerance
for risk and liquidity needs. Investment should be avoided where an investor has a short-
term investing horizon and/or cannot bear the loss of some, or all, of the investment. There
can be no assurance that an interval fund investment will prove profitable or successful. In
light of these enhanced risks, a client may direct the Firm, in writing, not to purchase
interval funds for the client’s account.
Structured Notes. The Firm may purchase Structured Notes for client accounts. A
Structured Note is a financial instrument that combines two elements, a debt security and
exposure to an underlying asset or assets. It is essentially a note, carrying counter party
risk of the issuer. However, the return on the note is linked to the return of an underlying
asset or assets (such as the S&P 500 Index or commodities). It is this latter feature that
makes structured products unique, as the payout can be used to provide some degree of
principal protection, leveraged returns (but usually with some cap on the maximum return),
and be tailored to a specific market or economic view. Structured Notes will generally be
subject to liquidity constraints, such that the sale thereof before maturity will be limited,
and any sale before the maturity date could result in a substantial loss. There can be no
assurance that the Structured Notes investment will be profitable, equal any historical
performance level(s), or prove successful. If the issuer of the Structured Note defaults, the
entire value of the investment could be lost.
the
Socially Responsible (ESG) Investing Limitations. Socially Responsible Investing
incorporation of Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”)
involves
considerations into the investment due diligence process. The Firm does not maintain or
advocate an ESG investment strategy but will seek to employ ESG if directed by a client
to do so. If implemented, the Firm shall rely upon the assessments undertaken by the
unaffiliated mutual fund, exchange traded fund or separate account portfolio manager to
determine that the fund’s or portfolio’s underlying company securities meet a socially
responsible mandate.
ESG investing incorporates a set of criteria/factors used in evaluating potential
investments: Environmental (i.e., considers how a company safeguards the environment);
Social (i.e., the manner in which a company manages relationships with its employees,
8
customers, and the communities in which it operates); and Governance (i.e., company
management considerations). The number of companies that meet an acceptable ESG
mandate can be limited when compared to those that do not and could underperform broad
market indices.
Investors must accept these limitations, including potential for underperformance.
Correspondingly, the number of ESG mutual funds and exchange-traded funds are limited
when compared to those that do not maintain such a mandate. As with any type of
investment (including any investment and/or investment strategies recommended and/or
undertaken by the Firm), there can be no assurance that investment in ESG securities or
funds will be profitable or prove successful.
Client Obligations. In performing its services, the Firm 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 their
responsibility to promptly notify HH if there is ever any change in their financial situation
or investment objectives for the purpose of reviewing, evaluating or revising the Firm’s
previous recommendations and/or services.
Portfolio Activity. The Firm has a fiduciary duty to provide services consistent with the
client’s best interest. As part of its investment advisory services, the Firm will review client
portfolios on an ongoing basis to determine if any changes are necessary based upon
various factors, including, but not limited to, investment performance, fund manager
tenure, style drift, account additions/withdrawals, and/or a change in the client’s
investment objective. Based upon these factors, there may be extended periods of time
when the Firm determines that changes to a client’s portfolio are neither necessary nor
prudent. Clients nonetheless remain subject to the fees described in Item 5 below during
periods of account inactivity.
Cash Positions. The Firm treats cash as an asset class. As such, unless determined to the
contrary by the Firm, all cash positions (money markets, etc.) shall be included as part of
assets under management for purposes of calculating the Firm’s advisory fee. In addition,
while assets are maintained in cash, such amounts could miss market advances. Depending
upon current yields, at any point in time, the Firm’s advisory fee could exceed the interest
paid by the client’s cash positions.
Cash Sweep Accounts. Certain account custodians can require that cash proceeds from
account transactions or new deposits, be swept to and/or initially maintained in a
specific custodian designated sweep account. The yield on the sweep account will
generally be lower than those available for other money market accounts. When this
occurs, to help mitigate the corresponding yield dispersion the Firm shall (usually within
30 days thereafter) generally (with exceptions) purchase a higher yielding money market
fund (or other type security) available on the custodian’s platform, unless the Firm
reasonably anticipates that it will utilize the cash proceeds during the subsequent 30-day
period to purchase additional investments for the client’s account. Exceptions and/or
modifications can and will occur with respect to all or a portion of the cash balances for
various reasons, including, but not limited to the amount of dispersion between the sweep
account and a money market fund, the size of the cash balance, an indication from the client
of an imminent need for such cash, or the client has a demonstrated history of writing
checks from the account.
9
The above does not apply to the cash component maintained within the Firm’s actively
managed investment strategy (the cash balances for which shall generally remain in the
custodian designated cash sweep account), when there is an indication of client need for
access to such cash, to assets allocated to an unaffiliated investment manager, or cash
balances maintained for fee billing or opportunistic rebalancing purposes.
The client shall remain exclusively responsible for yield dispersion/cash balance decisions
and corresponding transactions for cash balances maintained in any Firm unmanaged
accounts.
Cybersecurity Risk. The information technology systems and networks that the Firm and
its third-party service providers use to provide services to the Firm’s clients employ various
controls that are designed to prevent cybersecurity incidents stemming from intentional or
unintentional actions that could cause significant interruptions in the Firm’s operations
and/or result in the unauthorized acquisition or use of clients’ confidential or non-public
personal information. In accordance with Regulation S-P, HH is committed to protecting
the privacy and security of its clients' non-public personal information by implementing
appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards. The Firm has established
processes to mitigate the risks of cybersecurity incidents, including the requirement to
restrict access to such sensitive data and to monitor its systems for potential breaches.
Clients and the Firm are nonetheless subject to the risk of cybersecurity incidents that could
ultimately cause them to incur financial losses and/or other adverse consequences.
Although HH has established processes to reduce the risk of cybersecurity incidents, there
is no guarantee that these efforts will always be successful, especially considering that HH
does not control the cybersecurity measures and policies employed by third-party service
providers, issuers of securities, broker-dealers, qualified custodians, governmental and
other regulatory authorities, exchanges, and other financial market operators and providers.
In compliance with Regulation S-P, HH will notify clients in the event of a data breach
involving their non-public personal information as required by applicable law.
Bitcoin, Cryptocurrency, and Digital Assets. HH does not recommend or advocate for
the purchase of, or investment in, Bitcoin, cryptocurrencies, or digital assets. Such
investments are considered speculative and carry significant risk. For clients who want
exposure to Bitcoin, cryptocurrencies, or digital assets, the Firm, may advise the client to
consider a potential investment in corresponding exchange traded securities, or an
allocation to separate account managers and/or private funds that provide cryptocurrency
exposure.
Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies are digital assets that can be used for various purposes,
including transactions, decentralized applications, and speculative investments. Most
digital assets use blockchain technology, an advanced cryptographic digital ledger to
secure transactions and validate asset ownership. Unlike conventional currencies issued
and regulated by monetary authorities, cryptocurrencies generally operate without
centralized control, and their value is determined by market supply and demand. While
regulatory oversight of digital assets has evolved significantly since their inception, they
remain subject to variable regulatory treatment globally, which may impact their risk
profile and liquidity.
Given that cryptocurrency investments are speculative and subject to extreme price
volatility, liquidity constraints, and the potential for total loss of principal, the Firm does
not exercise discretionary authority to purchase cryptocurrency investments for client
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accounts. Any investment in cryptocurrencies must be expressly authorized by the client.
Clients who authorize the purchase of a cryptocurrency investment must be prepared for
the potential for liquidity constraints, extreme price volatility, regulatory risk,
technological risk, security and custody risk, and complete loss of principal.
Recommendation of Digital Services Through a Wrap Program. The HH Digital
Program is an investment advisory service that blends online platforms with personalized
advice from your dedicated HH advisor. The Digital Program streamlines back-office
support and leverages the online platform provided by Zoe Financial, Inc. (“Zoe”) powered
by the technology, brokerage and clearing of Apex Clearing Corporation ("Apex"), a
FINRA-registered broker-dealer and qualified custodian. Zoe assists the Firm’s back-office
with reporting, administrative services, and other services relating to the administration of
client accounts.
The Digital Program allows the Firm to engage with clients it might not otherwise be able
to accept or maintain under its traditional services. The Digital Program allows the Firm to
provide an automated trading platform for smaller accounts. Zoe will provide
administrative and management services that allow for the Firm to build its own portfolios
while providing automated or manual account rebalancing.
The Firm does not act as the sponsor of a wrap program, but the Zoe platform acts as a
wrap program, where Zoe has wrapped its fees with those of Apex and HH. Clients in this
program will open an account on the platform and receive disclosures about Zoe’s services,
fees and conflicts, including Apex fees. HH does not control the delivery of these
documents, so if clients have any questions about these services and fees, they can contact
HH.
Disclosure Statement. A copy of HH’s written Brochure and CRS, as set forth on Parts 2
and 3 of Form ADV, respectively, shall be provided to each client prior to the execution of
any new advisory agreement.
C. HH shall provide investment advisory services specific to the needs of each client. Prior to
providing investment advisory services, an investment adviser representative will ascertain
each client’s investment objective(s). Thereafter, the Firm shall allocate and/or recommend
that the client allocate investment assets consistent with the designated investment
objective(s). The client may, at any time, impose reasonable restrictions, in writing, on
HH’s services.
D. HH may recommend investment strategies that include an unaffiliated wrap-fee program.
Under a wrap program, the program sponsor arranges for the investor participant to receive
investment advisory services, execution of securities brokerage transactions, custody and
reporting services for a single specified fee. Participation in a wrap program may cost the
participant more or less than purchasing such services separately.
If HH is engaged to provide investment advisory services as part of an unaffiliated wrap-
fee program, clients may incur higher transaction costs or receive less favorable net prices
on transactions for the account than would otherwise be the case through alternative
clearing arrangements recommended by the Firm. Higher transaction costs adversely
impact account performance.
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E. As of December 31, 2024, HH has $ 3,516,418,609 of assets under management.
$3,446,374,052 of these assets are managed on a discretionary basis and $70,044,557 are
managed on a non-discretionary basis.
Item 5
Fees and Compensation
A.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES
HH’s annual investment advisory fee shall range from 0.50% up to 1.00% of the total assets
placed under the Firm’s management/advisement as set forth in the following fee schedule:
PORTFOLIO VALUE
ANNUAL FEE
First $5,000,000
1.00%
Next $3,000,000
0.75%
Above $8,000,000
0.50%
RETIREMENT PLAN SERVICES
HH provides pension consulting services, in the capacity of a 3(21) and/or 3(38) advisor,
pursuant to which it assists sponsors of self-directed retirement plans with the selection
and/or monitoring of investment alternatives from which plan participants shall choose in
self-directing the investments for their individual plan retirement accounts. HH’s annual
fee for these services shall generally be a negotiable percentage of the total assets
maintained within the plan.
FINANCIAL PLANNING AND CONSULTING SERVICES (STAND-ALONE)
HH may provide financial planning and/or consulting services (including investment and
non-investment related matters, including estate planning, insurance planning, etc.) on a
stand-alone fee basis. The Firm’s planning and consulting fees are negotiable, but generally
are on a fixed fee basis, depending upon the level and scope of the service(s) required and
the professional(s) rendering the service(s).
DIGITAL PROGRAM
As discussed in Item 4, the Digital Program utilizes a digital platform provided by Zoe
with assets custodied by Apex. Zoe’s digital platform provides HH with simplified
management, reporting, and service solutions amongst other technological and brokerage
services (i.e., custody, trade execution, clearing and settlement by Apex). HH pays a fee to
Zoe to participate and access the platform. Clients will pay advisory fees in accordance
with the Firm’s fee schedule above. Clients should review their Zoe Agreement for further
information regarding Digital Program fees.
B. The Firm's annual investment advisory fee shall be prorated and paid quarterly, in advance, based
upon the market value of the assets, including accrued interest and dividends, on the last day of the
previous quarter. Clients may elect to have the Firm’s advisory fees deducted from their custodial
account. Both the Firm’s Agreement and the custodial/clearing agreement may authorize the
12
custodian to debit the account for the amount of the Firm’s investment advisory fee and to directly
remit that advisory fee to HH in compliance with regulatory procedures.
In the limited event that HH bills the client directly, payment is due upon receipt of the
Firm’s invoice.
C. As discussed below, unless the client directs otherwise or an individual client’s
circumstances require, the Firm shall generally recommend that National Financial
Services, LLC, (“NFS”) a Fidelity Investments company, and/or Charles Schwab & Co.
Inc. (“Schwab”) serve as the broker-dealer/custodian for client investment management
assets.
Broker-dealers such as NFS and Schwab charge brokerage commissions, transaction,
and/or other type fees for effecting certain types of securities transactions (i.e., including
transaction fees for certain mutual funds, and mark-ups and mark-downs charged for fixed
income transactions, etc.). The types of securities for which transaction fees, commissions,
and/or other type fees (as well as the amount of those fees) shall differ depending upon the
broker-dealer/custodian. While certain custodians, including NFS and Schwab, generally
(with the potential exception for large orders) do not currently charge fees on individual
equity transactions (including ETFs), others do.
There can be no assurance that NFS or Schwab will not change their transaction fee pricing
in the future.
NFS and Schwab may also assess fees to clients who elect to receive trade confirmations
and account statements by regular mail rather than electronically.
Clients will incur, in addition to the Firm’s investment management fee, brokerage
commissions and/or transaction fees, and, relative to all mutual fund and exchange traded
fund purchases, charges imposed at the fund level (e.g., management fees and other fund
expenses).
Clients engaging Independent Managers will incur additional investment advisory fees.
D. The Firm's annual investment advisory fee shall be prorated and paid quarterly, in advance,
based upon the market value of the assets, including accrued interest and dividends, on the
last day of the previous quarter.
Fee Dispersion. The Firm, in its discretion, may charge a lesser or higher investment
advisory fee, charge a flat fee, waive applicable minimum asset or minimum fee levels,
waive its fee entirely, or charge fee on a different interval, based upon certain criteria (i.e.,
anticipated future earning capacity, anticipated future additional assets, dollar amount of
assets to be managed, related accounts, account composition, complexity of the
engagement, anticipated services to be rendered, grandfathered fee schedules, employees
and family members, courtesy accounts, referrals from existing clients, competition,
negotiations with client, etc.). 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.
In the event that the client is subject to an annual minimum fee, the client could pay a
higher percentage fee than referenced above.
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The Agreement between HH and the client will continue in effect until terminated by either
party by written notice in accordance with the terms of the Agreement. Upon termination,
HH shall refund the pro-rated portion of the advanced advisory fee paid based upon the
number of days remaining in the billing quarter.
If assets are deposited into or withdrawn from an account after the inception of a quarter
that exceed five percent (5%) of the total value of all managed accounts on the day
withdrawal or deposit is made, the fee payable with respect to such assets will be prorated
based on the number of days remaining in the quarter.
E. Neither HH, nor its representatives accept compensation from the sale of securities or other
investment products.
Item 6
Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management
Neither HH nor any supervised person of the Firm accepts performance-based fees.
Item 7
Types of Clients
HH provides its services to individuals, pension and profit-sharing plans, trusts, estates,
charitable organizations, corporations and business entities.
Item 8
Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
A. HH may utilize the following methods of security analysis:
• Fundamental - (analysis performed on historical and present data)
HH may utilize the following investment strategies when implementing investment advice
given to clients:
• Long Term Purchases (securities held at least a year)
• Short Term Purchases (securities sold within a year)
HH’s Investment Committee evaluates potential investments using qualitative and
quantitative research. Qualitative evaluations are judgments about organizational and
investment process characteristics such as leadership, experience, adherence to philosophy,
integrity, and information management. Quantitative research involves analyzing portfolio
characteristics and performance, which includes risks taken, stability of return, source of
relative performance and the effect of costs and portfolio turnover. HH utilizes published
sources, consulting and business relationships, and internal research to make evaluations.
Investment Risk. Investing in securities involves risk of loss that clients should be
prepared to bear. Different types of investments involve different types and 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 the Firm) will be profitable or equal any specific performance level(s).
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All investment strategies have certain risks that are borne by the investor. Although
there is no way to list all risks involved with investing, the following are common risks
born by the majority of investors:
Interest Rate Risk: Fluctuations in interest rates may cause investment prices to fluctuate.
For example, when interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall.
Market Risk: Asset prices may drop in reaction to certain unforeseen events. Also referred
to as exogenous risk, this type of risk is caused by external factors independent of a
security’s particular underlying fundamentals or intrinsic value. For example, geo-political,
economic, legislative, and/or societal events may amplify market risk.
Inflation Risk: When inflation is present, a dollar today will not buy as much as a dollar
next year, because purchasing power is eroding at the rate of inflation.
Currency Risk: Overseas investments are subject to fluctuations in the value of the dollar
against the currency of the investment’s originating country. This is also referred to as
exchange rate risk.
Reinvestment Risk: This is the risk that future proceeds from investments may have to be
reinvested at a potentially lower rate of return (i.e., interest rate). This primarily relates to
fixed income securities.
Business Risk: These risks are associated with a particular industry or a particular
company within an industry. Some industries and/or companies may have historically
demonstrated more stability than others. Economic factors and business functions are
constantly changing. Past results are no guarantee of future performance.
Liquidity Risk: Liquidity is the ability to readily convert an investment into cash.
Generally, assets are more liquid if many traders are interested in a standardized product.
Financial Risk: Also referred to as leverage risk. Excessive borrowing to finance a
business’ operations may lead to financial strain and the ability to generate profits or meet
certain obligations. During periods of financial stress, the inability to meet loan obligations
may result in bankruptcy and/or a declining market value.
Counterparty Risk: The risk that each party may not be able to meet its contractual
obligations. This may also be referred to as default risk for fixed income investments. In
rare circumstances, the underlying securities within registered investment products may
become illiquid which may restrict the ability of investors to redeem shares at quoted
prices.
Execution Risk: The risk that buy/sell transactions may not be executed at favorable
prices. This may occur during periods of abnormal market conditions.
Investment Process
HH investigates the nature of returns, risks, diversification prospects and tax implications
for every major asset type and investing technique we include in portfolios. Portfolios are
built on HH’s belief in maximum diversification; all investment styles will periodically
underperform. HH’s disciplined approach is designed to avoid short-term reactions that
can cost investors real wealth. HH utilizes actively managed funds, passive (index) funds,
ETFs, interval funds, tender offer funds, structured products such as notes with options-
based payoffs, and separately managed accounts to implement investment allocations.
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All investment decisions are vetted through HH’s Investment Committee. Each member
has a predefined role and meetings are held at least monthly, but may also be held “as
needed”, to review investment positions and discuss new opportunities. The Investment
Committee is augmented by several independent consulting relationships with experienced
investment professionals. Before the Investment Committee begins the investment
selection process it first determines if there is a need for certain investments in client
portfolios. A general framework for analyzing the inclusion of a new asset class or
investment strategy may take many forms; however, HH begins with three major sets of
issues, each broken down into specific types of inquiries, referred to as “A, B, C.”
A.
Analytical relevance and importance:
• A general statement of the issues involved, generally including some discussion of
pros and cons, academic research, and background information on industry
positions relating to products generally as well as those specifically identified.
• A discussion of applications such as what types of accounts are suitable (taxable,
non-taxable, time horizon, risk / liquidity tolerance, etc.), as well as characterization
of the issues in terms of tactical vs. strategic nature.
• Implementation issues, i.e. are there multiple ways of achieving the same ends?
What are the pros and cons of each?
B.
Behavioral issues:
• What particular types of behavioral issues are likely to be most important and effect
successful implementation of a particular approach or strategy?
• How does a proposed solution address these issues?
• What informational or perceptual issues are most likely to impact investors
regarding the proposed strategy or approach, and how does the specific
implementation respond to those issues?
C.
Consistency issues:
•
Is the proposed approach or strategy consistent with the firm’s investment
philosophy?
• Does it cause a re-thinking or broadening of the philosophy or is it simply
performance chasing or response to popular demand?
• What are the foreseeable implementation issues?
• Can the proposed benefits really accrue to clients, or is the idea really “marketing”?
• From a cost/benefit standpoint, do clients benefit enough to justify additional firm
or client-specific implementation costs?
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If a position is justified and clears HH’s A, B, C process, the Investment Committee will
then search for manager(s) and investment vehicle(s) that best fit client needs. HH utilizes
several consulting relationships to help the Investment Committee identify well-researched
investment managers and investment vehicles that are understandable, disciplined, risk
controlled and that have been successful over time.
As stated under Methods of Analysis, HH’s Investment Committee evaluates potential
investments using qualitative and quantitative research. Qualitative evaluations are
judgments about organizational and investment process characteristics such as leadership,
experience, adherence to philosophy, integrity, and information management. Quantitative
research involves analyzing portfolio characteristics and performance, which includes risks
taken, stability of return, sources of relative performance and the effect of costs and
portfolio turnover. HH utilizes published sources, consulting and business relationships,
and internal research to make evaluations.
HH tests its allocation models mathematically and logically to confirm that expected risk
and return changes are consistent and reasonable. Before adding or removing asset classes
or shifting weights, HH analyzes correlations among the different asset classes to determine
how to reduce risk where possible, and to identify additional sources of potential return.
Assets that are included in client portfolios are tracked individually versus appropriate
benchmarks. The Investment Committee considers various factors before deciding to
terminate a position and change vehicles. These decisions are well documented along with
supporting information and reflected in formal committee meeting minutes.
B. HH’s methods of analysis and investment strategies do not present any significant or
unusual risks. However, every method of analysis has its own inherent risks.
HH’s primary investment strategies - Long Term Purchases and Short Term Purchases -
are fundamental investment strategies. However, every investment strategy has its own
inherent risks and limitations. For example, longer term investment strategies require a
longer investment time period to allow for the strategy to potentially develop. Shorter term
investment strategies require a shorter investment time period to potentially develop but,
as a result of more frequent trading, may incur higher transactional costs when compared
to a longer term investment strategy.
Thematic Trends Investing Risks
The objective of this strategy is to achieve maximum long-term capital appreciation.
Considering this objective, in addition to standard investment risks, the strategy may be
more volatile and potentially has more risks than traditional investments. This strategy is
intended as a long-term investment and is not appropriate for short or medium-term
investment goals. The strategy is composed of an allocation to various funds to achieve a
concentrated collection of diverse, industry disruptive themes. Identified themes,
constituent funds, and allocation weightings to those funds are subject to change.
Funds that seek to invest in disruptive growth companies are subject to additional risk.
Companies which seek disruptive innovation and developing technologies to displace older
technologies or create new markets may not in fact do so. Companies that initially develop
a novel technology may not be able to capitalize on the technology. Companies that
develop disruptive technologies may face political or legal attacks from competitors,
industry groups or local and national governments. These companies may also be exposed
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to risks applicable to sectors other than the disruptive innovation theme for which they are
chosen, and the securities issued by these companies may underperform the securities of
other companies that are primarily focused on a particular theme.
Management Through Similarly Managed Accounts
For certain clients, HH may manage portfolios by allocating portfolio assets among various
securities on a discretionary basis using one or more of its proprietary investment strategies
(collectively referred to as “investment strategy”). In so doing, HH buys, sells, exchanges
and/or transfers securities based upon the investment strategy. HH’s management using the
investment strategy complies with the requirements of Rule 3a-4 of the Investment
Company Act of 1940, as amended. Rule 3a-4 provides similarly managed accounts, such
as the investment strategy, with a safe harbor from the definition of an investment
company. Securities in the investment strategy are usually exchanged and/or transferred
with regard to a client’s individual tax consequences. As further discussed in response to
Item 12B (below), HH allocates investment opportunities among its clients on a fair and
equitable basis.
Tender Offer Funds
HH may recommend the investment by certain clients in tender offer funds. Generally,
tender offer funds provide infrequent pricing (e.g., monthly). Similar to interval funds, fund
liquidity is generally only available through periodic tender offers made by the fund, and
the fund is under no legal obligation to conduct any such tender offers, and that any
repurchases of shares will be made at such times and on such terms as may be determined
by the Board of Trustees, of the fund from time-to-time in its sole discretion. There is no
guarantee that an investor will be able to redeem shares on a given repurchase date or in
the desired amount. In addition, to the extent a tender offer fund invests in companies with
smaller market capitalizations, derivatives, or securities that entail significant market or
credit risk, the liquidity risk may be greater. Investors may have to bear the economic risk
of investment in the fund indefinitely and that shares are speculative and illiquid securities
involving substantial risk of loss. Clients should refer to the fund’s prospectus for details.
Borrowing Against Assets/Risks. A client who has a need to borrow money could
determine to do so by using:
• Margin-The account custodian or broker-dealer lends money to the client. The
custodian charges the client interest for the right to borrow money, and uses the assets
in the client’s brokerage account as collateral; and,
• Pledged Assets Loan- In consideration for a lender (i.e., a bank, etc.) to make a loan
to the client, the client pledges investment assets held at the account custodian as
collateral.
These above-described collateralized loans are generally utilized because they
typically provide more favorable interest rates than standard commercial loans. These
types of collateralized loans can assist with a pending home purchase, permit the
retirement of more expensive debt, or enable borrowing in lieu of liquidating existing
account positions and incurring capital gains taxes. However, such loans are not
without potential material risk to the client’s investment assets. The lender (i.e.,
custodian, bank, etc.) will have recourse against the client’s investment assets in the
event of loan default or if the assets fall below a certain level. For this reason, the Firm
does not recommend such borrowing unless it is for specific short-term purposes (i.e.,
a bridge loan to purchase a new residence). The Firm does not recommend such
borrowing for investment purposes (i.e., to invest borrowed funds in the market).
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Regardless, if the client was to determine to utilize margin or a pledged assets loan, the
following economic benefits would inure to the Firm:
• by taking the loan rather than liquidating assets in the client’s account, the Firm
•
•
continues to earn a fee on such Account assets; and,
if the client invests any portion of the loan proceeds in an account to be managed by
the Firm, the Firm will receive an advisory fee on the invested amount; and,
if the Firm’s advisory fee is based upon the higher margined account value, the Firm
will earn a correspondingly higher advisory fee. This could provide the Firm with a
disincentive to encourage the client to discontinue the use of margin.
The Client must accept the above risks and potential corresponding consequences
associated with the use of margin or a pledged assets loan.
Options Strategies.
In limited situations, generally upon client direction and/or consent, the Firm may engage
in options transactions (or engage an independent investment manager to do so) for the
purpose of hedging risk and/or generating portfolio income. The use of options transactions
as an investment strategy can involve a high level of inherent risk. Option transactions
establish a contract between two parties concerning the buying or selling of an asset at a
predetermined price during a specific period of time. During the term of the option contract,
the buyer of the option gains the right to demand fulfillment by the seller. Fulfillment may
take the form of either selling or purchasing a security, depending upon the nature of the
option contract. Generally, the purchase or sale of an option contract shall be with the intent
of “hedging” a potential market risk in a client’s portfolio and/or generating income for a
client’s portfolio. Certain options-related strategies (i.e., straddles, short positions, etc.),
may, in and of themselves, produce principal volatility and/or risk. Thus, a client must be
willing to accept these enhanced volatility and principal risks associated with such
strategies. In light of these enhanced risks, client may direct the Firm, in writing, not to
employ any or all such strategies for his/her/their/its accounts.
Covered Call Writing.
Covered call writing is the sale of in-, at-, or out-of-the-money call options against a long
security position held in a client portfolio. This type of transaction is intended to generate
income. It also serves to create partial downside protection in the event the security position
declines in value. Income is received from the proceeds of the option sale. Such income
may be reduced or lost to the extent it is determined to buy back the option position before
its expiration. There can be no assurance that the security will not be called away by the
option buyer, which will result in the client (option writer) to lose ownership in the security
and incur potential unintended tax consequences. Covered call strategies are generally
better suited for positions with lower price volatility.
Digital Program Risks
As discussed in response to Item 4, the Digital Program utilizes a digital platform provided
by Zoe with assets custodied by Apex. Zoe’s digital platform provides HH with simplified
management, reporting, and service solutions amongst other technological and brokerage
services (i.e., custody, trade execution, clearing and settlement by Apex). HH pays a fee to
Zoe to participate and access the platform. The fee includes two components, a fixed fee
until a certain level of assets are maintained on the platform and a percentage of the assets
on the platform. This arrangement represents a conflict of interest. Additionally, Zoe acts
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as a general solicitor for HH, as discussed in Item 14 (“Client Referrals and Other
Compensation”). For any client referred to HH by Zoe, HH has a financial incentive to
recommend the Digital Program utilizing Zoe’s digital platform. This incentive represents
a conflict of interest.
In addition, the Digital Program provides investment advisory services primarily over the
internet. Clients input information about themselves and their investing goals in Zoe’s
online platform and recommendations are generated based on information provided. There
is a risk that the platform may not perform as intended or as disclosed. Furthermore, the
services through the Digital Program are generally provided without consideration of the
tax consequences for each client. Should the Firm or rebalancing applications determine
that positions should be sold, it could result in tax consequences to the client that may not
have been taken if the services were not provided through the Digital Program.
C. Currently, HH primarily recommends that clients allocate investment assets among various
individual equity (stocks), debt (bonds) and fixed income securities, mutual funds and
ETFs on a discretionary basis in accordance with the client’s designated investment
objective(s).
Item 9
Disciplinary Information
HH has not been the subject of any disciplinary actions.
Item 10
Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
A. Neither HH, nor its representatives, are registered or have an application pending to
register, as a broker-dealer or a registered representative of a broker-dealer.
B. Neither the Firm, nor its representatives, are registered or have an application pending to
register, as a futures commission merchant, commodity pool operator, a commodity trading
advisor, or a representative of the foregoing.
C. Referrals to Related Certified Public Accountants. HH does not render accounting
services to clients. In the event a client requires accounting services, the Firm can
recommend a certified public accountant. At times, the Firm will recommend the services
of the certified public accounting firm of Hooper, Langley & Associates. These services
are rendered independent of HH and pursuant to a separate agreement between the client
and the accounting firm. HH does not receive any portion of the fees paid by the client to
Hooper, Langley & Associates and does not receive a referral fee in connection with the
accounting services that Hooper, Langley & Associates renders to its clients.
However, two of HH’s Supervised Persons, E. William Langley and Ross A. Langley are
also associated with Hooper, Langley & Associates. There exists a conflict of interest to
the extent that the firm recommends the accounting services of Hooper, Langley &
Associates and these Supervised Persons receive compensation, by virtue of their positions
with Hooper, Langley & Associates.
These Supervised Persons may also recommend HH’s services to certain of Hooper,
Langley & Associates’ clients. Although Hooper, Langley & Associates does not receive
20
referral fees from the Firm, these Supervised Persons receive compensation in connection
with their investment advisory activities on behalf of HH. A conflict of interest exists to
the extent that they recommend the services of the Firm and receive compensation, by
virtue of their positions as investment adviser representatives of HH. No client is under any
obligation to purchase any accounting services from Supervised Persons of the Firm.
Clients are reminded that they may purchase accounting services recommended by the
Firm through other, non-affiliated accounting firms.
D. HH does not receive, directly or indirectly, compensation from investment advisors that it
recommends or selects for its clients.
Item 11
Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and
Personal Trading
A. HH maintains an investment policy relative to personal securities transactions. This
investment policy is part of the Firm’s overall Code of Ethics, which serves to establish a
standard of business conduct for all of the Firm’s Representatives that is based upon
fundamental principles of openness, integrity, honesty and trust, a copy of which is
available upon request.
In accordance with Section 204A of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, HH also
maintains and enforces written policies reasonably designed to prevent the misuse of
material non-public information by the Firm or any person associated with the Firm.
B. Neither HH nor any related person of the Firm recommends, buys, or sells for client
accounts, securities in which the Firm or any related person of the Firm has a material
financial interest.
C. HH and/or representatives of the Firm may buy or sell securities that are also recommended
to clients. This practice may create a situation where HH and/or representatives of the Firm
are in a position to materially benefit from the sale or purchase of those securities.
Therefore, this situation creates a conflict of interest. Practices such as “scalping” (i.e., a
practice whereby the owner of shares of a security recommends that security for investment
and then immediately sells it at a profit upon the rise in the market price which follows the
recommendation) could take place if the Firm did not have adequate policies in place to
detect such activities. In addition, this requirement can help detect insider trading, “front-
running” (i.e., personal trades executed prior to those of HH’s clients) and other potentially
abusive practices.
HH has a personal securities transaction policy in place to monitor the personal securities
transactions and securities holdings of each of the Firm’s “Access Persons”. HH’s
securities transaction policy requires that an Access Person of the Firm must provide the
Chief Compliance Officer or his/her designee with a written report of their current
securities holdings within ten (10) days after becoming an Access Person. Additionally,
each Access Person must provide or make available to the Chief Compliance Officer or
his/her designee a list of reportable transactions each calendar quarter as well as a written
annual report of the Access Person’s securities holdings; provided, however that at any
time that HH has only one Access Person, he or she shall not be required to submit any
securities report described above.
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D. HH and/or representatives of the Firm may buy or sell securities, at or around the same
time as those securities are recommended to clients. This practice creates a situation where
HH and/or representatives of the Firm are in a position to materially benefit from the sale
or purchase of those securities. Therefore, this situation creates a conflict of interest. As
indicated above in Item 11 C, HH has a personal securities transaction policy in place to
monitor the personal securities transaction and securities holdings of each of the Firm’s
Access Persons.
Item 12
Brokerage Practices
A. In the event that the client requests that the Firm recommend a broker-dealer/custodian for
execution and/or custodial services (exclusive of those clients that may direct the Firm to
use a specific broker-dealer/custodian), the Firm recommends that investment management
accounts be maintained at NFS or Schwab. Prior to engaging the Firm to provide
investment management services, the client will be required to enter into a formal advisory
agreement with HH setting forth the terms and conditions under which the Firm shall
manage the client's assets, and a separate custodial/clearing agreement with each
designated broker-dealer/custodian.
Factors that the Firm considers in recommending NFS or Schwab (or any other broker-
dealer/custodian to clients) include historical relationship with the Firm, financial strength,
reputation, execution capabilities, pricing, research, and service. Although
the
commissions and/or transaction fees paid by the Firm's clients shall comply with the Firm's
duty to seek best execution, a client may pay a commission that is higher than another
qualified broker-dealer might charge to effect the same transaction where the Firm
determines, in good faith, that the commission/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 the Firm will seek
competitive rates, it 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, the Firm's
investment management fee. The Firm’s best execution responsibility is qualified if
securities that it purchases for client accounts are mutual funds that trade at net asset value
as determined at the daily market close.
1. 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, the Firm receives
from NFS and Schwab (or another broker-dealer/custodian, investment platform,
unaffiliated investment manager, vendor, unaffiliated product/fund sponsor, or
vendor) without cost (and/or at a discount) support services and/or products, certain
of which assist the Firm to better monitor and service client accounts maintained at
such institutions. Included within the support services that may be obtained by the
Firm may be investment-related research, pricing information and market data,
software and other technology that provide access to client account data 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, computer hardware and/or software and/or
22
other products used by the Firm in furtherance of its investment advisory business
operations.
As indicated above, certain of the support services and/or products received may assist
the Firm in managing and administering client accounts. Others do not directly
provide such assistance, but rather assist the Firm to manage and further develop its
business enterprise.
There is no corresponding commitment made by the Firm to NFS or Schwab 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 a result of the above
arrangement.
2. The Firm receives referrals from affiliates of broker-dealers as referenced in Item
14.B below.
3. The Firm does not generally 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 the Firm 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 other accounts
managed by the Firm. As a result, client may 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.
In the event that the client directs the Firm to effect securities transactions for the
client's accounts through a specific broker-dealer, the client correspondingly
acknowledges that such direction may 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 the Firm. Higher transaction costs adversely impact account
performance.
Transactions for directed accounts will generally be executed following the execution
of portfolio transactions for non-directed accounts.
B. To the extent that HH provides investment management services to its clients, the
transactions for each client account generally will be effected independently, unless HH
decides to purchase or sell the same securities for several clients at approximately the same
time. The Firm may (but is not obligated to) combine or “bunch” such orders to seek best
execution, to negotiate more favorable commission rates or to allocate equitably among
HH’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. HH shall
not receive any additional compensation or remuneration as a result of such aggregation.
23
Item 13
Review of Accounts
A. For those clients to whom the Firm provides investment supervisory services, account
reviews are conducted on an ongoing basis by the Firm’s Managing Members and/or
representatives. All investment supervisory clients are advised that it remains their
responsibility to advise HH of any changes in their investment objectives and/or financial
situation. All clients (in person, via telephone, or via virtual meeting) are encouraged to
review financial planning issues (to the extent applicable), investment objectives and
account performance with HH on an annual basis.
B. HH may conduct account reviews on an other than periodic basis upon the occurrence of a
triggering event, such as a change in client investment objectives and/or financial situation,
market corrections and client request.
C. Clients are provided, at least quarterly, with written transaction confirmation notices and
regular written summary account statements directly from the broker-dealer/custodian
and/or program sponsor for the client accounts. The Firm may also provide a written
periodic report summarizing account activity and performance.
Item 14
Client Referrals and Other Compensation
A. As referenced in Item 12.A.1 above, HH receives an economic benefit from broker-dealers.
HH, without cost (and/or at a discount), receives support services and/or products from
broker-dealers.
There is no corresponding commitment made by the Firm to a broker-dealer 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 a result of the above arrangement.
B. If in the event a client is introduced to HH by either an unaffiliated (including Zoe) or an
affiliated solicitor, the Firm may pay that solicitor a referral fee in accordance with the
Investment Advisers Act rules on solicitation. Unless otherwise disclosed, any such referral
fee is paid solely from HH’s investment management fee and does not result in any
additional charge to the client. If the client is introduced to the Firm by an unaffiliated
solicitor, the client will receive a solicitor’s disclosure statement containing the terms and
conditions of the solicitation arrangement and any conflicts of interest. Any affiliated
solicitor of HH is required to disclose the nature of his or her relationship to prospective
clients at the time of the solicitation and will provide all prospective clients with a copy of
the Firm’s written brochure(s) at the time of the solicitation.
Participation in Fidelity Wealth Advisor Solutions®
HH participates in the Fidelity Wealth Advisor Solutions® Program (the “WAS Program”),
through which HH receives referrals from Strategic Advisers LLC (Strategic Advisers), a
registered investment adviser and Fidelity Investments company. HH is independent and
not affiliated with Strategic Advisers or any Fidelity Investments company. Strategic
Advisers does not supervise or control HH, and Strategic Advisers has no responsibility or
oversight for HH’s provision of investment management or other advisory services.
24
Under the WAS Program, Strategic Advisers acts as a solicitor for HH, and HH pays
referral fees to Strategic Advisers for each referral received based on HH’s assets under
management attributable to each client referred by Strategic Advisers or members of each
client’s household. The WAS Program is designed to help investors find an independent
investment advisor, and any referral from Strategic Advisers to HH does not constitute a
recommendation by Strategic Advisers of HH’s particular investment management
services or strategies. More specifically, HH pays the following amounts to Strategic
Advisers for referrals: the sum of (i) an annual percentage of 0.10% of any and all assets
in client accounts where such assets are identified as “fixed income” assets by Strategic
Advisers and (ii) an annual percentage of 0.25% of all other assets held in client accounts.
In addition, HH has agreed to pay Strategic Advisers an annual program fee of $50,000 to
participate in the WAS Program, which is a fee paid by all participating firms. These
referral fees are paid by HH and not the client.
To receive referrals from the WAS Program, HH must meet certain minimum participation
criteria, but HH has been selected for participation in the WAS Program as a result of its
other business relationships with Strategic Advisers and its affiliates, including Fidelity
Brokerage Services, LLC (“FBS”). As a result of its participation in the WAS Program,
HH has a conflict of interest with respect to its decision to use certain affiliates of Strategic
Advisers, including FBS, for execution, custody and clearing for certain client accounts,
and HH could have an incentive to suggest the use of FBS and its affiliates to its advisory
clients, whether or not those clients were referred to HH as part of the WAS Program.
Under an agreement with Strategic Advisers, HH has agreed that it will not charge clients
more than the standard range of advisory fees disclosed in its Form ADV 2A Brochure to
cover solicitation fees paid to Strategic Advisers as part of the WAS Program. Pursuant to
these arrangements, HH has agreed not to solicit clients to transfer their brokerage accounts
from affiliates of Strategic Advisers or establish brokerage accounts at other custodians for
referred clients other than when HH’s fiduciary duties would so require, and HH has agreed
to pay Strategic Advisers a one-time fee equal to 0.75% of the assets in a client account
that is transferred from Strategic Advisers’ affiliates to another custodian; therefore, HH
has an incentive to suggest that referred clients and their household members maintain
custody of their accounts with affiliates of Strategic Advisers. However, participation in
the WAS Program does not limit HH’s duty to select brokers on the basis of best execution.
Schwab Advisor Network
HH receives client referrals from Schwab through its participation in Schwab Advisor
Network® (“the Service”). The Service is designed to help investors find an independent
investment adviser. Schwab is a broker-dealer independent of and unaffiliated with HH.
Schwab does not supervise HH and has no responsibility for the Firm’s management of
clients’ portfolios or the firm’s other advice or services. HH pays Schwab fees to receive
client referrals through the Service. The Firm’s participation in the Service raises the
conflicts of interest described below.
HH pays Schwab a Participation Fee on all referred clients’ accounts that are maintained
in custody at Schwab and a Non-Schwab Custody Fee on all accounts that are maintained
at, or transferred to, another custodian. The Participation Fee paid by HH is a percentage
of the fees the client owes to HH or a percentage of the value of the assets in the client’s
account, subject to a minimum Participation Fee. The Firm pays Schwab the Participation
Fee for so long as the referred client’s account remains in custody at Schwab. The
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Participation Fee is billed to the Firm quarterly and may be increased, decreased or waived
by Schwab from time to time. The Participation Fee is paid by HH and not by the client.
HH will not charge clients referred through the Service fees or costs greater than the fees
or costs HH charges clients with similar portfolios who were not referred through the
Service.
The Firm generally pays Schwab a Non-Schwab Custody Fee if custody of a referred
client’s account is not maintained by, or assets in the account are transferred from Schwab.
This fee does not apply if the client was solely responsible for the decision not to maintain
custody at Schwab. The Non-Schwab Custody Fee is a one-time payment equal to a
percentage of the assets placed with a custodian other than Schwab. The Non-Schwab
Custody Fee is higher than the Participation Fees Advisor generally would pay in a single
year. Thus, HH will have an incentive to recommend that client accounts be held in custody
at Schwab.
The Participation and Non-Schwab Custody Fees will be based on assets in accounts of
HH’s clients who were referred by Schwab and those referred clients’ family members
living in the same household. Thus, the Firm will have incentives to encourage household
members of clients referred through the Service to maintain custody of their accounts and
execute transactions at Schwab and to instruct Schwab to debit HH’s fees directly from the
accounts.
For accounts of HH’s clients maintained in custody at Schwab, Schwab will not charge the
client separately for custody but will receive compensation from the Firm’s clients in the
form of commissions or other transaction-related compensation on securities trades
executed through Schwab. Schwab also will receive a fee (generally lower than the
applicable commission on trades it executes) for clearance and settlement of trades
executed through broker-dealers other than Schwab. Schwab’s fees for trades executed at
other broker-dealers are in addition to the other broker-dealer’s fees. Thus, HH has an
incentive to cause trades to be executed through Schwab rather than another broker-dealer.
The Firm nevertheless, acknowledges its duty to seek best execution of trades for client
accounts. Trades for client accounts held in custody at Schwab may be executed through a
different broker-dealer than trades for HH’s other clients. Thus, trades for accounts
custodied at Schwab may be executed at different times and different prices than trades for
other accounts that are executed at other broker-dealers.
Item 15
Custody
HH shall have the ability to have its advisory fee for each client debited by the custodian
on a quarterly basis. Clients are provided, at least quarterly, with written transaction
confirmation notices and regular written summary account statements directly from the
broker-dealer/custodian and/or program sponsor for the client accounts. HH may also
provide a written periodic report summarizing account activity and performance.
To the extent that the Firm provides clients with periodic account statements or reports, the
client is urged to compare any statement or report provided by the Firm with the account
statements received from the account custodian.
The account custodian does not verify the accuracy of HH’s advisory fee calculation.
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HH engages in other practices and services on behalf of its clients that require disclosure
at ADV Part 1, Item 9. In particular, certain clients have signed asset transfer authorizations
which permit the qualified custodian to rely upon instructions from the Firm to transfer
client funds to “third parties.” These arrangements are reflected at ADV Part 1, Item 9, but
in accordance with the guidance provided in the SEC’s February 21, 2017 Investment
Adviser Association No-Action Letter, the affected accounts are not subjected to an annual
surprise CPA examination.
Item 16
Investment Discretion
The client can determine to engage HH to provide investment advisory services on a
discretionary basis. Prior to the Firm assuming discretionary authority over a client’s
account, the client shall be required to execute an Agreement, naming HH as the client’s
attorney and agent in fact, granting the Firm full authority to buy, sell, or otherwise effect
investment transactions involving the assets in the client’s name found in the discretionary
account.
Clients who engage the Firm on a discretionary basis may, at any time, impose reasonable
restrictions, in writing, on the Firm’s discretionary authority (i.e., limit the types/amounts
of particular securities purchased for their account, exclude the ability to purchase
securities with an inverse relationship to the market, limit or proscribe HH’s use of margin,
etc.). Any restrictions on HH’s discretionary authority must be acknowledged by the
Registration prior to becoming effective.
Item 17
Voting Client Securities
The Firm accepts the authority to vote a client’s securities (i.e., proxies) on their behalf.
The Firm does not accept the authority in the Digital Program. When HH accepts such
responsibility, it will only cast proxy votes in a manner consistent with the best interest of
its clients. HH has engaged a third-party provider, Broadridge Financial Solutions
(“Broadridge”), to replace the Firm’s receipt of paper ballots with electronic ballots in an
effort to ensure timely and organized receipt. Broadridge will also supply HH with an
electronic voting platform to assist it with voting, recordkeeping, and reporting. In
addition to providing these services, HH has contracted with Broadridge to integrate the
recommendations of Glass Lewis & Co. (“Glass Lewis”) with the electronic voting
platform. Glass Lewis is a third-party, independent proxy advisory firm that provides
research, analysis, and recommendations on various proxy proposals with the aim of
maximizing shareholder value and promoting good corporate governance.
HH’s Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures authorize HH to delegate certain proxy voting
functions to service providers. In that capacity, the Firm has contracted with Broadridge
to vote all proxies for advisory clients. Under its arrangement with Broadridge, client
proxies will generally be voted pursuant to the recommendations from Glass Lewis. HH
can instruct Broadridge to abstain from or vote either for or against a particular type of
proposal or HH can instruct Broadridge to seek instruction with respect to that particular
type of proposal from HH on a case- by-case basis (“Voting Instructions”). Proposals for
which a voting decision has been pre- determined are automatically voted by Broadridge
pursuant to the Voting Instructions.
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From time to time, HH may determine not to vote a particular proxy. This may be done
for various reasons, including but not limited to: (1) a proxy is received with respect to
securities that have been sold before the date of the shareholder meeting and are no longer
held in a client account; (2) despite reasonable efforts, HH receives proxy materials
without sufficient time to reach an informed voting decision and vote the proxies; (3) the
terms of the security or any related agreement or applicable law preclude HH from voting;
or (4) the terms of an applicable advisory agreement reserve voting authority to the client
or another party. Additional information on our Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures is
set forth below:
• HH’s policy is to vote client shares primarily in conformity with Glass Lewis’
recommendations. Glass Lewis issues recommendations based upon its own proxy
voting guidelines.
• From time to time, HH may vote client shares inconsistent with Glass Lewis’
recommendations if HH believes it is in the best interest of its clients.
• Clients cannot direct HH’s vote on a particular solicitation but can revoke HH’s
authority to vote proxies.
Item 18
Financial Information
A. HH does not require clients to pay fees of more than $1,200, per client, six months or more
in advance.
B. HH is unaware of any financial condition that is reasonably likely to impair its ability to
meet its contractual commitments relating to its discretionary authority over certain client
accounts.
C. HH has not been the subject of a bankruptcy petition.
HH’s Chief Compliance Officer, Brenden Melrose, remains available to address any
questions that a client or prospective client may have regarding the disclosures in this
Brochure.
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