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Form ADV Part 2A Brochure
NIA IMPACT ADVISORS, LLC
(doing business as Nia Impact Capital)
FIRM CRD # 286587
4900 Shattuck Ave
#3648
Oakland, CA 94609
(510) 319-9221
http://www.niaimpactcapital.com
http://www.niaglobalsolutions.com
http://www.niaimpactadvisors.com
http://www.niaimpactfunds.com
March 31, 2025
This Brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices
of Nia Impact Advisors, LLC, doing business as Nia Impact Capital (also referred
to as “Nia” or the “Adviser”). If you have any questions about the contents of this
Brochure, please contact us at (510) 319-9221 or kristin@niaimpactcapital.com.
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.
Adviser
Public
Disclosure
(“IAPD”)
website
Nia is registered as an investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange
Commission. Registration of an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill
or training. Additional information about the Adviser is available on the
Investment
at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Item 2 – Material Changes
This Brochure dated March 31, 2025, contains non-material changes regarding
Nia and is an Other Than Annual Amendment Filing of Form ADV Part 2A. This
Brochure provides readers with a summary of such changes since the previous
Annual Amendment filed on January 14, 2025.
Nia restated its Assets Under Advisement in Item 4 – Advisory Business Section G.
Client Assets.
Form ADV is the primary disclosure document prepared by registered investment
advisers. In the future, this section will address “material changes” and “non-
material changes” to this Brochure since the Adviser’s previous filing. The Adviser
will deliver to clients at no charge a summary of all material changes to this
Brochure, if any, within 120 days of our fiscal year end or more often if necessary.
information about the Adviser
Clients or prospective clients of the Adviser may request a copy of the current
(510) 319-9221 or
time by contacting us at
Brochure at any
kristin@niaimpactcapital.com. Additional
is
available on the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (“IAPD”) website at
www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
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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 – Fees and Compensation ...................................................................................................... 11
Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management ............................................... 18
Item 7 – Types of Clients ...................................................................................................................... 18
Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies, Risk of Loss .................................................... 18
Item 9 – Disciplinary Information ......................................................................................................... 27
Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities & Affiliations ................................................................. 27
Item 11 – Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client Transactions and Personal
Trading .................................................................................................................................................. 28
Item 12 – Brokerage Practices ............................................................................................................ 30
Item 13 – Review of Accounts ............................................................................................................ 32
Item 14 – Client Referrals and Other Compensation ........................................................................ 33
Item 15 – Custody ................................................................................................................................ 34
Item 16 – Investment Discretion .......................................................................................................... 34
Item 17 – Voting Client Securities ....................................................................................................... 36
Item 18 – Financial Information........................................................................................................... 37
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Item 4 – Advisory Business
A. General Description of Advisory Firm
Nia Impact Advisors, LLC, doing business as Nia Impact Capital (also referred to
as “Nia”, the “Adviser”, “we”, or “us”) is a limited-liability company first organized
in Delaware in February 2017 and 100% owned by Kristin Hull, Founder, and Chief
Executive Officer. Sarah Sutton serves as Nia’s Chief Compliance Officer
(“CCO”).
The Adviser is an investment adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange
Commission. We have prepared this Brochure to comply with regulatory
disclosure requirements and to illustrate the advisory services that we provide to
clients. Additionally, this Brochure discloses the Adviser’s fee schedule, investment
strategy, risks of investment, and other important information about our
operations.
Investment Approach and Objective
Nia Impact Capital invests in forward-thinking, solutions focused companies, all of
which are poised to play a key role in our transition to an inclusive, just, and
sustainable economy. We apply a gender-lens across our investment decision-
making process, advocate for racial equity, and live our values as a women-led
team of activist investors.
At Nia, we go beyond the identification of strong products and services.
Management practices, treatment of employees, and leadership composition
matters. We select companies where the executive team demonstrates a
commitment to diversity, transparency, employee engagement, and ecological
sustainability. All Nia portfolio companies include women in leadership on the
executive management team and/or serving on the board of directors.
A product of Nia Impact Capital, the Nia Global Solutions Equity Portfolio aims to
earn a competitive rate of return while adding value to society by investing in
innovative companies, all of which are addressing large global risks and
contributing to the solutions needed in our transition to the next, just, inclusive,
and sustainable economy.
Nia’s investment objective is to provide investors with long-term total return. Our
advanced investment strategy strives to produce equity-like returns over a market
cycle. This equity portfolio is not constrained to a geographic region or a specific
benchmark and is instead focused on solutions and innovation which have
traditionally been sought by, and limited to, investors in private equity.
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Portfolio turnover is minimal as we keep our focus on the long-term viability and
opportunity that each portfolio company provides, thus offering investors a tax-
advantaged strategy. Our team researches companies that typically embody
the following characteristics:
● Meet Nia’s strict high impact, solutions-focused social and
environmental standards.
● Show strong growth characteristics not fully appreciated by the
market.
● Deliver products or services with unique qualities, positioning them
well for long-term growth.
● Operate in a manner that makes clear the company’s commitment to
people, the planet and corporate social responsibility.
Shareholder Engagement Program
impact
At Nia we invest only in what we believe to be the most positively impactful and
responsible companies, and yet the opportunity for engagement still exists. Our
team engages with our portfolio companies through a variety of approaches,
such as: voting proxies on behalf of investors in a manner consistent with the
highest aspirations of
investors, meeting with portfolio company
representatives whenever possible, engaging through advocacy letters, and
filing shareholder resolutions. In addition to our activism, we are committed to
donating a minimum of 5% of management’s profits to those nonprofit
organizations doing change-making work, solving for our world’s largest inequality
and sustainability issues.
Our engagement strategy includes approaching all companies as allies – after
all, our portfolio companies are selected because they incorporate best-
practices along one or more of Nia’s six solutions themes. We develop carefully
researched ESG recommendations and pair this with educational materials
tailored to each company. Outreach includes letters, phone calls, media
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placement, and when necessary, shareholder resolutions.
Shareholder engagement, when done well and effectively, bridges two worlds;
allowing civil society activists and the C-suite to find points of shared interest and
mutual goals. Nia believes a well-designed shareholder engagement program
considers which environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG)
changes will be most beneficial to long-term stakeholder value.
B. Investment Management, Mutual Fund Management, Portfolio
Management, Sub- Advisory, and Financial Planning Services
Investment Management Services
The word “Nia” is of Swahili origin meaning intention and purpose. We build
actively managed portfolios designed to harness the innovative social purpose of
investment, seeking solutions focused companies whose executive teams
demonstrate a high-level of commitment to diversity, transparency, employee
engagement, and ecological sustainability.
Nia typically manages separate accounts wherein we select equity securities with
full discretionary authority. However, Nia may also accept client accounts on a
non-discretionary basis in its sole discretion. By focusing our investment universe
on publicly traded companies, we seek to build a portfolio of the most creative
and positively impactful companies—those businesses that we believe most
contribute to bettering our planet through real and tangible solutions to some of
the world’s most critical equity and sustainability issues.
We invest primarily in exchange-listed securities. At times the firm will also invest in
issuers whose securities trade in the U.S. in the form of American Depository
Receipts (“ADRs”).
Nia provides investment advisory services to numerous clients – including
separately managed accounts (SMAs), unified managed account (UMA)
programs, Model Delivery programs, and the Fund, that have substantially similar
investment objectives and similar portfolio holdings and characteristics. However,
Nia clients having substantially similar investment objectives will not have identical
investment portfolios. Differing investment portfolios can be expected to result
from several factors, including, without limitation, the following: regulatory
constraints that apply to certain accounts but not to others; investment
constraints imposed by the client; and the amount of cash available for
investment at certain times. As a result, accounts may have a different investment
portfolio and different performance results than other accounts even though the
accounts have identical or substantially similar investment objectives. In addition,
there may be circumstances when one account will sell a security while another
account may purchase the security on the same day primarily due to cash
contributions and/or withdrawals; however, Nia does not engage in cross trades
between client accounts (i.e., when an investment adviser causes a trade to
occur between two or more of its advisory clients' accounts).
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Mutual Fund Management
Nia serves as the investment adviser to Nia Impact Solutions Fund (the “Fund”),
an open-end mutual fund registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Nia continuously manages the Funds’ assets on a discretionary basis based on the
investment goals and objectives as outlined in the Fund’s prospectus.
Nia will at times recommend individual clients invest in the Fund, typically when
such clients have accounts that may be too small to fully invest in the Nia Global
Solutions Equity Portfolio, or as otherwise dictated by the client’s investment goals
and objectives. The Fund consists of investments in certain securities that typically
provide an overall balanced investment approach. Equity securities include
common stocks and American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) of companies of any
capitalization size, including large-cap, mid-cap and small cap companies, that
the Adviser believes present an attractive opportunity for long-term capital
appreciation.
Further details on the Fund, including the risks pertaining to such strategies and
their underlying securities, is outlined below in this brochure under the heading
“Item 8: Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss”. Interested
investors should refer to the Fund’s prospectus and statement of additional
Information (“SAI”) for important information regarding objectives, investment,
time-horizon, risks, fees and additional disclosures before investing. The prospectus
and SAI and other documents are available at https://niaimpactfunds.com/or by
calling (833) 571-2833. Please read the prospectus and SAI carefully before you
invest.
Portfolio Management Services
Nia provides investment advisory services in the form of a model portfolio to be
utilized by a sponsor broker dealer in an overlay program and other “Model
Delivery” programs. Under a unified managed account (“UMA”) program or a
Model Delivery program, Nia has an agreement with the UMA or Model Delivery
“Program Sponsor” and does not have any contact with the end clients
(“Program Clients”). Nia participates in UMA or Model Delivery programs with the
following financial institutions: Morgan Stanley Wealth Management Select UMA,
FolioDynamix, Adhesion, Envestnet, Orion Communities, and Freedom Advisors.
Under these programs, the Program Sponsor receives Nia’s model allocation and,
based upon the model, the Program Sponsor executes the model changes for
each Program Client’s portfolio. A model allocation is an asset allocation in the
form of a weighted list of asset classes (i.e. securities, bonds, etc.) selected for and
with parameters meant to guide the ongoing implementation of the asset
allocation.
Restrictions for client accounts in the programs are monitored entirely by the
Program Sponsors.
Program Clients are responsible for evaluating whether the fee paid to the
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Program Sponsor exceeds the cost for the same services if such services were
provided separately. Program Clients should consider the overall fees and the
services received to determine if the product is appropriate.
Due to the structure of most UMA and Model Delivery programs, Nia does not
provide the same level of client relationship services to Program Clients as it does
to other clients. Each Program Sponsor has their own brochure which contains
detailed information about its program. Copies of each brochure are available
from the Program Sponsor upon request. Each Program Sponsor has retained Nia
through a separate contract. Clients should note that transactions executed
through a Program Sponsor may be less favorable in some respects than Nia’s
clients whose trades are not executed through the Program Sponsor. Nia may be
constrained in obtaining best execution for Program Clients by routing trades to
the Program Sponsor. However, Nia will make every effort to obtain best
execution within any constraints that may be set forth by Program Clients and/or
Sponsor. Clients should also be aware that Nia will not be provided sufficient
information by the Program Sponsor to perform an assessment as to the suitability
of Nia’s services for the client. Nia will rely on the Program Sponsor who, within its
fiduciary duty, must determine not only the suitability of Nia’s services for the
client, but also the suitability of the program for the client.
Financial Planning Services
Nia provides financial planning services, either on a standalone basis or as part of
its provision of investment management services. Nia’s financial planning services
include, in all or part, yet are not limited to, the preparation of a financial plan by
Nia or an associated person of Nia for a client which may include an annual or
periodic review of a financial plan, the monitoring of a client's investments under
a financial plan, and the provision of information and/or advice to a client
regarding the purchase and/or sale of securities.
is under no obligation
transactions
Nia does not receive compensation (e.g., commissions or fees) from the sale of
securities, insurance, real estate or other products or services that will at times be
recommended in a financial plan. However, Nia would receive investment
management fees if the financial plan incorporates a recommended allocation
of the client’s assets to Nia. Such a recommendation, if made, would present a
conflict between the interests of Nia, and the interests of the financial planning
client. Financial planning clients are under no obligation to act upon any
recommendation made by us, including a recommendation to allocate assets
to Nia. If the client elects to act on any of the recommendations we make, the
client
through Nia, our
to effect
representatives, or affiliates.
Fiduciary Responsibility for Retirement Accounts
When we provide investment advice to clients regarding retirement plan account
or individual retirement account, we are fiduciaries within the meaning of Title I of
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the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) and/or the Internal
Revenue Code, as applicable, which are laws governing retirement accounts.
The way Nia makes money creates some conflicts with clients’ interests, so Nia
operates under a special rule that requires us to act in the clients best interest and
not put our interest ahead of our clients.
Under this special rule’s provisions, we must:
Meet a professional standard of care when making investment
recommendations (give prudent advice);
Never put our financial interests ahead of our clients yours when making
recommendations (give loyal advice);
Avoid misleading statements about conflicts of interests, fees and
investments;
Follow policies and procedures designed to ensure that we give advice
that is in your best interest;
Charge no more than is reasonable for our services; and give clients
basic information about conflicts of interest.
Sub-Advisory Services
At times, Adviser will provide services under sub-advisory agreements with other
non-affiliated third party registered investment advisers (“TPA’s”) who have
engaged Adviser to manage the holdings in their clients' portfolios. Both Adviser
and the TPA will be granted dual trading authority in such situations. Adviser
typically has discretionary authority over a portion of a sub advised client’s assets
to buy and sell securities based on such client's individual needs. As discussed in
Item 12 below, at times Adviser will bunch its client trades together with trades for
other clients of those TPA’s for whom Advisor is serving as a sub-adviser, if doing
so is deemed to be in the best interest of the Client. Fees for such services are
negotiable and will be included as part of an agreement entered into by and
between Adviser and the respective TPA.
Written Agreement
Investment management services are governed by a written investment
management agreement (“Investment Management Agreement”) between Nia
and the client which outlines the terms of service and applicable fees. Financial
planning services are governed by a written consulting agreement (“Consulting
Agreement”) between Nia and the client which outlines the terms of service and
applicable fees.
C. Educational Seminars and Workshops
Dr. Hull, as a founder and/or co-founder of social enterprises, is invited to present
at conferences, forums, panels, meetings, and universities to share her expertise
in racial equity investing, starting not for profit businesses, social enterprises, and
in the field of impact and gender lens investing. The content of such presentations
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is general in nature, does not contain securities or sector recommendations, nor
solicit investment advisory business or clients. The Adviser’s Chief Executive Officer
does not charge a fee for speaking at such events, although certain sponsors of
these events may waive any fee due from the Adviser for participating.
D. Use of Third-Party Service Providers
To help manage client accounts, Nia utilizes the technology platform of Orion
Advisor Services, LLC (“Orion”). Additionally, Nia has contracted with HIP Investor,
LLC (“HIP”), an unaffiliated SEC registered investment adviser, to provide
administrative services on behalf of client accounts via Orion’s platform.
Specifically, HIP’s administrative services support Nia in maximizing the benefits of
Orion’s platform to perform functions such as data reconciliation, performance
reporting, client database maintenance, quarterly performance evaluations,
and other functions related to the administrative tasks of managing client
accounts. Due to this arrangement Orion and HIP will have access to client
accounts and information but will not serve as an investment adviser to Nia
clients. Nia pays HIP a flat monthly fee for their services.
E. Availability of Customized Services
Nia does offer the ability to tailor our investment management services to clients.
On a client-by-client basis, we allow clients to impose reasonable restrictions on
investing in certain securities or types of securities. Such restrictions must be
provided to us in writing.
F. Wrap Fee Programs
Nia has not and does not currently participate in any wrap fee programs.
G. Client Assets
Amount of Client Assets Managed
As of December 31, 2024, the following represents the amount of client assets
under management by the Firm on a discretionary and non-discretionary basis:
Type of Account
Assets Under
Management
Discretionary
$446,473,607
Non-Discretionary
$0
Total
$446,473,607
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1. Assets Under Advisement
Nia also provides investment and financial advice for assets that are not directly
managed by the Firm (“Assets Under Advisement” or “AUA”), such as a UMA
(unified manager account), Model Delivery programs, and assets advised by the
firm related to investment decisions or granting and donation plans.
As of December 31, 2024, the following represents the amount of AUA by Nia:
Type of Account
Assets Under Advisement
Total
$ 79,194,913
Item 5 – Fees and Compensation
A. Fees and Compensation
Investment Management Services
Nia charges an investment management fee based on a percentage of assets
under management, including all securities and cash held in the client portfolio
Assets under Management Annual Fee Rate:
♦ Up to $500,000: 1.50%
♦ $500,001 to $1,000,000: 1.25%
♦ $1,000,001 to $5,000,000: 0.95%
♦ 5,000,001 to $10,000,000: 0.85%
♦ Over $10,000,000: 0.75%
Advisory fees are negotiated on a client-by-client basis, depending on such
details as, yet not limited to, type of client/account, account size, service
requirements, and the full extent of the client's relationship with Nia Impact
Advisors. As such, fees may vary from the annual fee schedule set forth above.
Portfolio Management Fees
For clients invested in one of Nia’s portfolios, Nia charges a portfolio management
fee based on a percentage of assets under management, including all securities
and cash held in the client portfolio.
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As stated in Item 4 above, Nia also serves as a portfolio manager in a number of
UMA programs or Model Delivery programs. In these programs, Nia does not
dictate the overall fee schedule, the method of calculating the fee or the timing
for payment of the fee. The fees paid by the Program Client may be higher or
lower than if the client retained Nia directly outside the respective UMA or Model
Delivery program. Nia receives a portion of the fees paid to the UMA or Model
Delivery Program Sponsor subject to an agreement between Nia and the
Program Sponsor.
Nia’s fees typically range between 0.75% and 1.5% per annum, however, there
are relationships where Nia’s fees will be lower than that stated range:
BNY Mellon
Up to $500,000: 1.50%
$500,001 to $1,000,000: 1.25%
$1,000,001 to $5,000,000: 0.95%
$5,000,001 to $10,000,000: 0.85% Over
$10,000,000: 0.75%
Charles
Schwab
CIBC
Up to $500,000: 1.50%
$500,001 to $1,000,000: 1.25%
$1,000,001 to $5,000,000: 0.95%
$5,000,001 to $10,000,000: 0.85% Over
$10,000,000: 0.75%
Up to $500,000: 1.50%
$500,001 to $1,000,000: 1.25%
$1,000,001 to $5,000,000: 0.95%
$5,000,001 to $10,000,000: 0.85% Over
$10,000,000: 0.75%
Fidelity
Folio
Institutional
JP Morgan
Up to $500,000: 1.50%
$500,001 to $1,000,000: 1.25%
$1,000,001 to $5,000,000: 0.95%
$5,000,001 to $10,000,000: 0.85% Over
$10,000,000: 0.75%
Up to $500,000: 1.50%
$500,001 to $1,000,000: 1.25%
$1,000,001 to $5,000,000: 0.95%
$5,000,001 to $10,000,000: 0.85% Over
$10,000,000: 0.75%
Up to $500,000: 1.50%
$500,001 to $1,000,000: 1.25%
$1,000,001 to $5,000,000: 0.95%
$5,000,001 to $10,000,000: 0.85% Over
$10,000,000: 0.75%
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Morgan
Stanley
CES Platform
Up to $500,000: 1.50%
$500,001 to $1,000,000: 1.25%
$1,000,001 to $5,000,000: 0.95%
$5,000,001 to $10,000,000: 0.85% Over
$10,000,000: 0.75%
Northern Trust
UBS
UMA
Platform
0.39%
Up to $500,000: 1.50%
$500,001 to $1,000,000: 1.25%
$1,000,001 to $5,000,000: 0.95%
$5,000,001 to $10,000,000: 0.85% Over
$10,000,000: 0.75%
MAC Platform
Up to $500,000: 1.50%
$500,001 to $1,000,000: 1.25%
$1,000,001 to $5,000,000: 0.95%
$5,000,001 to $10,000,000: 0.85% Over
$10,000,000: 0.75%
Wells Fargo
ACCESS
0.39%
Up to $500,000: 1.50%
$500,001 to $1,000,000: 1.25%
$1,000,001 to $5,000,000: 0.95%
$5,000,001 to $10,000,000: 0.85% Over
$10,000,000: 0.75%
While the billing methodologies will vary and are sometimes dictated by the
specific custodian or Program Sponsor, client fees are typically valued in
accordance with the following:
● Morgan Stanley UMA: client fees are based on the value of client assets as
of the last day of preceding month, and paid monthly in advance;
● Folio: client fees are based on an average daily value, and paid quarterly
in arrears; and
● UBS: client fees are based on the value of client assets as of the last day of
each calendar quarter, and paid quarterly in advance; and
● For other custodians, client’s quarterly advisory fees will be assessed in
arrears by taking one fourth of the annual fee rate and applying this to the
average month-end value of the account.
The UMA and Model Delivery Program Clients are responsible for evaluating
whether the overall fee paid exceeds the cost for the same services if such
services were provided separately. Clients should consider the overall fees and
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the services received to determine if a product is appropriate. Nia or the client
can terminate investment services at any time. A pro-rata portion of any prepaid
fee will be refunded to a UMA Program Client by the Sponsor upon termination
of investment advisory services.
Fees for Mutual Fund Management Services
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy, hold and
sell shares of the Fund. You may pay other fees, such as brokerage commissions
and other fees to financial intermediaries, which are not reflected in the tables
and examples below.
“Other Expenses” are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year. Nia
has contractually agreed, until June 30, 2025, to reduce Management Fees and
reimburse Other Expenses to the extent necessary to limit Total Annual Fund
Operating Expenses (exclusive of brokerage costs, taxes, interest, borrowing
costs such as interest and dividend expenses on securities sold short, costs to
organize the Fund, acquired fund fees and expenses, and extraordinary expenses
such as litigation and merger or reorganization costs and other expenses not
incurred in the ordinary course of the Fund’s business) to an amount not
exceeding 0.99% of the average daily net assets of the Fund. Management Fee
reductions and expense reimbursements by Nia are subject to repayment by the
Fund for a period of 3 years after the date that such fees and expenses were
incurred, provided that the repayments do not cause Total Annual Fund
Operating Expenses to exceed (i) the expense limitation then in effect, if any, and
(ii) the expense limitation in effect at the time the expenses to be repaid were
incurred. Prior to June 30, 2025, this agreement may not be modified or
terminated without the approval of the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”).
This agreement will terminate automatically if the Fund’s investment advisory
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agreement with Nia is terminated.
As mentioned in Item 4 above, when deemed appropriate, Nia will invest on
behalf of its individually and separately managed accounts in shares of the Fund.
As described herein, Nia receives fees from the Fund for providing services. A
client will not be charged an additional management fee by Nia for any
investment in the Fund (i.e., Nia will only receive fees from the Fund directly).
Written disclosure is provided to all clients and separately managed accounts
regarding the relationship between Nia and the Fund. In limited cases, client
accounts may be invested in shares of investment companies not receiving
services from Nia, which will oblige clients to pay both a direct management fee
to Nia, and an indirect management fee to such investment companies. Nia does
not receive commissions, either directly or indirectly, for the purchase or sale of
securities in the Fund. Any commissions and other transaction charges to brokers
are paid by the client for executing orders placed by Nia.
Financial Planning / Consulting Services
Nia charges an hourly fee or flat fee for financial planning and related consulting
services. The hourly fee ranges from $200 - $500 per hour on a sliding scale, while
the flat fee ranges from $1,500 - $10,000. For fixed fee engagements, we require
a retainer with the remainder of the fee directly billed to the client and due within
thirty (30) days of the financial plan being delivered or consultation rendered to
the client.
Fees are negotiable based upon the specific nature of the client’s needs, the
complexity of the client’s investment profile, size of asset pool, service
requirements, and the full extent of the client’s relationship with us.
Minimum fees may apply, at the discretion of Nia and as set forth in the governing
agreement. The exact amount of the retainer will be set forth in the governing
agreement. Should a client choose to engage Nia for investment management
services to implement some or all of the recommendations made as part of a
financial plan, the fees paid for financial planning services will typically be
credited toward the client’s first year’s investment management fees.
Educational Seminars and Workshops
As discussed in Item 4 above, Nia does not assess fees for its Educational Seminars
and Workshops.
B. Payment of Fees
Investment Management Fees
For separately managed accounts, investment management fees are charged
quarterly in arrears pursuant to the annual basis point fee schedule agreed upon
with each client in the Investment Management Agreement. The quarterly fee for
each account is equal to ¼ of the annual fee rate calculated pursuant to each
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account or each client’s Investment Management Agreement. Depending on
that agreement and the custodian selected by the client, the quarterly fee may
be charged by applying the basis point fee schedule to the average daily value,
the average month end value of the account in the billing quarter, the value on
the last day of the prior quarter, or on the last trading day before the Investment
Management Agreement is terminated. Clients should be aware that different
billing methodologies may result in clients paying more or less in fees than would
be the case if a different custodian/billing methodology was employed for the
client’s assets. Clients should work with the firm to be sure they clearly understand
the billing methodology that applies to their respective accounts, and how that
might differ from billing methodologies that may be available at other custodians.
Quarterly fees are generally billed in arrears for each calendar quarter and
payable within 30 days. Earned and unpaid fees are payable immediately upon
termination of the Investment Management Agreement. Quarterly fees are
prorated as appropriate for the initial quarter and upon termination, based upon
the number of days in the period where we managed account assets.
Fees are generally deducted directly from client accounts unless otherwise
agreed to in the Investment Management Agreement. The amount of our fee is
listed on the client's custodial account statement(s). See Item 15 (Custody) for
more information about our billing protocol.
Financial Planning or Consulting Fees
Prior to Nia’s commencement of Financial Planning Services, the client is normally
required to pay up to 50% of the firm’s estimated fee based on the anticipated
costs for preparing the financial plan. Remaining financial planning or consulting
fees are billed in arrears, following the end of the engagement period, due and
payable within 30 days. Fees are charged in accordance with the terms outlined
in the governing Consulting Agreement. Each client receives an invoice that
summarizes the work performed and hours worked. Clients may pay financial
planning or consulting fees by check or wire.
Reasonable Fees
Nia believes that our fees are reasonable in light of the services offered and our
experience and expertise. Lower fees for comparable services may be available
from other sources.
Account Additions and Withdrawals
Clients may make additions to or withdrawals from their separately managed
account at any time, subject to Nia’s right to terminate an account. Additions
may be in cash or securities, recognizing that we reserve the right to liquidate any
transferred securities or decline to accept particular securities into a client’s
account. Clients may withdraw account assets on notice to us, subject to the
usual and customary securities settlement procedures. However, Nia designs its
portfolios as long-term investments, while the withdrawal of assets may impair the
16
achievement of a client’s investment objectives. We may consult with our clients
about the options and implications of transferring securities. Clients are advised
that when transferred securities are liquidated, they may be subject to
transaction fees, contingent deferred sales charges, and/or tax implications.
Termination of the Investment Management Relationship
For managed accounts, the Investment Management Agreement may be
canceled at any time, by either party, for any reason, 15 days following receipt
of written notice. Because Nia generally charges fees in arrears, upon termination
of any account, any earned, unpaid fees will be due and payable by the client
to us. In calculating a client’s fees for partial periods, we will prorate the fee in
accordance with the number of days we managed assets in the billing period.
Termination of the Financial Planning or Consulting Relationship
The Consulting Agreement may be canceled at any time, by either party, for any
reason, immediately upon receipt of written notice. Any earned, unpaid fees for
work performed will be due and payable by the client to us.
C. Additional Fees and Expenses
Nia’s fees are separate from the brokerage commissions, transaction fees, and
other related costs and expenses that will be incurred by the client. Clients may
incur certain charges imposed by custodians and brokers, such as custodial fees,
odd-lot differentials, transfer taxes, wire transfer and electronic fund fees, and
other fees and taxes on brokerage accounts and securities transactions.
recommending broker-dealers
for client
Such charges, fees and commissions are exclusive of and in addition to Nia’s fee,
while Nia does not receive any portion of these commissions, fees, and costs. Item
12 (Brokerage Practices) further describes the factors that Nia considers in
transactions and
selecting or
determining the reasonableness of their compensation (e.g., commissions).
D. Prepayment of Fees
Clients generally do not pay investment management fees in advance to Nia. All
investment management fees received by us are collected in arrears, except for
clients at UBS and Morgan Stanley UMA Program, custodians that automatically
bill clients in advance.
For fixed fee engagements under a Financial Planning or Consulting Agreement,
we require a retainer at the start of the engagement, with the remainder of the
fee directly billed to the client and due within thirty (30) days of the financial plan
being delivered or consultation rendered to the client. The exact amount of the
retainer will be set forth in the Agreement.
17
E. Additional Compensation
Nia’s employees do not accept compensation for the sale of securities or other
investment products. The only form of compensation we receive is asset-based
investment management fees or hourly or flat fees for financial planning/consulting
services.
Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side
Management
Nia does not charge performance-based fees (fees based on a share of capital
gains on or capital appreciation of the assets of a client.
Item 7 – Types of Clients
Nia provides discretionary and non-discretionary investment management
and/or consulting services to many types of investors, including: individuals, high
net worth individuals, trusts, pension and profit-sharing plans, estates, non-profit
organizations, corporations, registered investment companies, and financial
advisors. Nia also serves as a portfolio manager in a number of UMA Programs.
For investment management services, Nia generally imposes a $500,000 minimum
account size, although we do reserve the right to alter minimum account size
requirements to ensure proper diversification and eligibility to participate in
certain managed account platforms. See Item 5 (Fees and Compensation) for
information about minimum fees related to financial planning and consulting
services.
Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies, Risk of Loss
A. Methods of Analysis Used in Formulating Investment Advice
Working within our six Nia solutions themes, our investment team researches
innovative approaches to the technologies, products, services, and business
practices we believe are best positioned to successfully grow and scale while
simultaneously addressing systemic risks by producing and deploying needed
solutions.
We then determine which companies we believe are able to execute effectively,
both in deploying their market solution and being profitable, while also playing a
significant role in the transition to the next fair, just, and sustainable economy. At
this stage we verify that these companies include diversity in leadership.
18
fundamentals and
Once our top-down, solutions theme alignment research is complete, we begin
to look at granular company-level financial data for qualified companies. We
then normally use two different types of analysis depending on company age
and size. For our earlier stage, smaller cap, companies we use analysis similar to
strength of
venture-capital analysis, emphasizing
management team, as well as runway for expenses, product design and
development. For potential mid and larger cap companies, we apply rigorous
quantitative, bottom-up financial analysis to identify which of these potential
companies, we believe, offer the best financial positions with minimized risk.
Within the financial analysis, we focus on growth potential, market liquidity, and
potential bankruptcy risks.
At the company level, we employ fundamental investment research, including
proprietary valuation methods that embed social and environmental criteria
19
within traditional financial analysis. Our research and investment process is multi-
layered to ensure that portfolio companies exhibit sound financial management
and work from business models that address one or more of the Nia solutions
themes. We look for both protection for the planet and environmental efficiencies
in business operations. In this rigorous process, each company is assessed on the
basis of financial, business, social and environmental vectors of performance.
The data that we use for analysis is derived from financial research journals,
financial newspapers and newspapers, investment websites, filings with the
Securities and Exchange Commission and company press releases and other
sources. There are risks to our analysis in that the underlying data may be
incorrect, biased, or incomplete and that the opinions based upon that data may
be wrong.
B. Investment Committee
Nia’s Investment Committee assists in determining the composition of client
portfolios including the Nia Global Solutions Equity Portfolio. The Investment
Committee makes recommendations as to the composition of portfolios including
asset allocation, fund selection, and investment criteria. All final investment
decisions for Nia clients are made by Kristin Hull. The Investment Committee also
monitors the holdings within each portfolio to help ensure that they continue to
meet the selection criteria developed for the portfolio.
C. Investment Strategies
For multiple types of clients, including separately managed accounts, the Fund,
and when serving as a portfolio manager in a number of UMA Programs, Nia
employs an actively managed strategy, within a buy-and hold-philosophy,
designed to achieve long-term capital growth.
Investment holdings are equities that meet the Investment Committee’s strict
high-impact, solution-focused, social, environmental, and financial standards. We
invest in companies that we believe are providing solutions to the most critical
issues confronting our planet, our economies and society. Our strategy is designed
to give clients an innovative opportunity to engage in impactful equity investing,
built upon a thoughtful and rigorous research process.
incorporates both
Our portfolio construction approach
traditional and
innovative, Nia specific management techniques. We combine a top-down and
bottom-up research process in identifying companies for inclusion within our
investment universe. We begin our search for companies with our six solutions
themes as a guide for our top down, venture capital-like search for companies to
fill the Nia universe.
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These themes include:
D. Risk of Loss
Investing in securities involves a significant risk of loss which clients should be
prepared to bear. The primary risks involved with these strategies are the potential
for loss of value related to public equity investing and a moderate level of
transaction costs related to trading of securities.
Clients generally face the following risks when investing in equity securities:
● Manager selection – risks associated with investment manager
selection and their chosen strategy.
● General market risk – risks of participating in the capital markets
● Specific risk – risks associated with asset class, sector, and security
selection.
Nia Impact Capital was established in 2017 and registered as an independent
investment adviser for the first time in 2017. We have a six-year track-record
operating independently as a registered investment adviser. Certain Nia
professionals have worked in other investment advisory enterprises in their
professional careers; however, their expertise and past performance is not a
predictor or guarantee of future success.1
1 Professionals were not required to be registered as Investment Adviser Representatives when working for
prior employers, in accordance with governing federal and state regulations.
21
Participation in the capital markets by investing in securities involves the risk of loss,
which clients should be prepared to bear. Below we highlight some, yet not all,
possible risks of investing in securities recommended and utilized by the firm:
● No guarantee – Performance of any investment is not guaranteed. There is
a risk of loss of the assets we manage that may be out of our control.
● Equity investments – Equities are exposed to general stock market swings
and changes in the business cycle which may alter market opinions about
the short-term or long-term prospects for an issuer of equity securities.
● Smaller companies – Equity investments in smaller companies involve
added risks, such as limited liquidity and greater fluctuations in their
perceived values, which may impact our ability to sell these investments at
a fair and competitive price in a timely manner.
● Opportunity and Strategy Risk – As discussed above, Nia focuses on and
limits recommendations to the types of securities that provide both a
positive social and/or ecological impact in addition to financial gains. This
creates the risk of clients not investing in other investments that may
generate higher returns, but are not deemed to have good social or
environmental objectives by the firm. Therefore, there is a risk that a less
than optimal financial result could be achieved due to the investment
strategy recommended by Nia, even if worthwhile mission-based goals are
being met.
● Non-diversification risk – The risk of focusing investments in a small number
of issuers, industries or foreign currencies, including being more susceptible
to risks associated with a single economic, political or regulatory
occurrence than a more diversified portfolio might be.
● Foreign companies - Investments in foreign equity securities involve risk sets
and special considerations not typically associated with investing in the
more developed and highly regulated U.S. capital markets. These risks may
relate to: (a) currency exchange; (b) differences between the
U.S. and foreign securities markets, including general market volatility,
liquidity, and regulation among other differences; (c) certain economic
and political risks, including potential exchange control regulations and
limits on foreign investment and repatriation of capital, the risk of political,
economic, or social instability, including war and the possibility of
expropriation or confiscatory taxation; (d) the possible imposition of foreign
taxes on income and gains recognized on such securities; (e) dependence
on exports and the corresponding importance of international trade; (f)
higher rates of inflation; (g) governmental involvement in and control over
the economies; (h) longer settlement periods for securities transactions;
and (i) less developed corporate laws regarding fiduciary duties and
related investor protections.
● American Depository Securities & Receipts Risk – In certain instances, rather
than directly holding securities of non-U.S. companies, the Firm may hold
these securities through an American Depository Receipt (an “ADR”). An
ADR is issued by a U.S. bank or trust company to evidence its ownership of
securities of a non-U.S. company. The currency of an ADR may be U.S.
dollars rather than the currency of the non-U.S. company to which it relates.
22
The value of an ADR will not be equal to the value of the underlying non-
U.S. securities to which the ADR relates as a result of a number of factors,
including the fees and expenses associated with holding an ADR; the
currency exchange relating to the conversion of foreign dividends and
other foreign cash distributions into U.S. dollars; and tax considerations such
as withholding tax and different tax rates between the jurisdictions. In
addition, the rights of the Client, as a holder of an ADR, may be different
than the rights of holders of the underlying securities to which the ADR
relates, and the market for an ADR may be less liquid than that of the
underlying securities. The foreign exchange risk will also affect the value of
the ADR and, as a consequence, the performance of the investor holding
the ADR.
● ESG benefits: Clients utilizing
responsible
the client’s
investing strategies and
environment, social responsibility, and corporate governance (ESG) factors
may have differing performance from strategies which do not utilize
responsible investing and ESG considerations. Responsible investing and
ESG strategies may operate by either excluding the investments of certain
issuers or by selecting investments based on their compliance with factors
such as ESG. These strategies may exclude certain sectors or industries from
investment
a client’s portfolio, potentially affecting
performance. Responsible investing and ESG are subjective by nature, and
Nia may rely on analysis and ‘scores’ provided by third parties in
determining whether an issuer meets Nia's standards for inclusion or
exclusion. A client’s perception may differ from Nia’s or a third party’s on
how to judge an issuer's adherence to responsible investing principles.
● Mutual Funds: The risk of owning a mutual fund generally reflects the risks of
owning the underlying securities the mutual fund holds. Each mutual fund
has different risks and rewards. Generally, the higher the potential return,
the higher the risk of loss. Further, when investing in a mutual fund, clients
will bear additional expenses based on their pro rata share of the mutual
including the potential duplication of
fund’s operating expenses,
management fees. Clients will also incur brokerage costs when purchasing
mutual funds and may have to pay taxes on capital gains distributions
received even if the fund goes on to perform poorly after the investor
bought shares. Details of a particular mutual fund are available in the
prospectus available from the issuer.
● Mutual Fund Principal Risks: As with any mutual fund investment, there is a
risk that you could lose money by investing in the Fund. The success of the
Fund’s investment strategy depends largely upon the Adviser’s skill in
selecting securities for purchase and sale by the Fund and there is no
assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. Because of
the investment techniques the Adviser uses, the Fund is designed for
investors who are investing for the long term. The Fund may not be
appropriate for use as a complete investment program. An investment in
the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by
the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government
agency. The principal risks of an investment in the Fund are generally
described below.
● ESG Investing Risk: The Fund’s incorporation of ESG considerations in its
23
investment process may cause it to make different investments than funds
that have a similar investment universe and/or investment style but that do
not incorporate such considerations in their strategy or investment
processes. Under certain economic conditions, this could cause the Fund’s
investment performance to be worse than similar funds that do not
incorporate such considerations in their investment strategies or processes.
In applying ESG criteria to its investment decisions, the Fund may forgo
higher yielding investments that it would invest in absent the application of
its ESG investing criteria. The Fund will seek to identify companies that it
believes meet its ESG criteria based on the data provided by third parties.
The data provided by third parties may be incomplete, inaccurate or
unavailable, which could cause the Adviser to incorrectly assess a
company’s ESG practices. The Fund may invest in companies that do not
reflect the beliefs and values of any particular investor.
● Active Management Risk: Due to the active management of the Fund by
the Adviser, the Fund could underperform its benchmark index and/or
other funds with similar investment objectives and strategies. The ability of
the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the success
of the Adviser’s investment process and there is no guarantee that the
judgment about the attractiveness, value and potential
Adviser’s
appreciation of a particular investment for the Fund will be correct or
produce the desired results.
● Equity Securities Risk: Equity prices are volatile and the prices of equity
securities in which the Fund invests may fluctuate in response to many
factors, including, but not limited to, the activities of the individual
companies whose securities the Fund owns, general market and economic
conditions, interest rates, and specific industry changes.
Such price fluctuations subject the Fund to potential losses
o Large-Capitalization Company Risk. Large-capitalization companies
are generally more mature and may be unable to respond as quickly
as smaller companies to new competitive challenges, such as
changes in technology and consumer tastes, and also may not be
able to attain the high growth rate of successful smaller companies,
especially during extended periods of economic expansion. There
may be times when the returns for large capitalization companies
generally trail returns of smaller companies or the overall stock
market.
o Small-Cap and Mid-Cap Company Risk. Investing in small- and mid
capitalization companies involves greater risk than is customarily
associated with larger, more established companies. Small- and mid-
cap companies frequently have less management depth and
experience, narrower market penetrations, less diverse product lines,
less competitive strengths and fewer resources. Due to these and
other factors, stocks of small and mid-cap companies may be more
susceptible to market downturns and other events, less liquid, and
their prices may be more volatile.
● Foreign Securities Risk: Investments in foreign securities involve risks that may
be different from those of U.S. securities. Foreign securities may not be
24
subject to uniform audit, financial reporting, or disclosure standards,
practices, or requirements comparable to those found in the United States.
Foreign securities are also subject to the risk of adverse changes in
investment or exchange control regulations or currency exchange rates,
expropriation or confiscatory taxation, limitations on the removal of funds
or other assets, political or social instability and nationalization of
companies or industries. In addition, the dividend and interest payable on
certain of the Fund’s foreign securities may be subject to foreign
withholding taxes. Foreign securities also involve currency risk, which is the
risk that the value of a foreign security will decrease due to changes in the
relative value of the U.S. dollar and the security’s underlying foreign
currency.
o American Depository Receipt (“ADR”) Risk. ADRs are subject to risks
similar to those associated with direct investments in foreign
securities. ADRs are securities that evidence ownership interests in a
security or a pool of securities issued by a foreign issuer. The risks of
depositary receipts include many risks associated with investing
directly in foreign securities, such as individual country risk, currency
exchange risk, volatility risk, and liquidity risk. ADRs may be available
through “sponsored” or “unsponsored” facilities. Unsponsored ADRs,
which are issued by a depositary bank without the participation or
consent of the issuer, involve additional risks because U.S. reporting
requirements do not apply and the issuing bank will recover
shareholder distribution costs from movement of share prices and
payment of dividends.
o Currency Risk. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates will
affect the value of the Fund’s foreign securities. Generally, when the
value of the U.S. dollar rises relative to a foreign currency, securities
valued in that foreign currency lose value in terms of U.S. dollars since
that foreign currency is worth fewer U.S. dollars. Currency exchange
rates can fluctuate for a number of reasons, including the economic
stability of a country, changes in interest rates, devaluation of a
currency by a country’s government or central banking authority,
and overall demand for a currency or lack thereof. Exchange rates
can change significantly over short periods.
o Emerging Markets Risk. The Fund may invest in emerging market
equity securities. In addition to the general risk of investing in foreign
securities, investing in emerging markets can involve greater and
more unique risks than those associated with investing in more
developed markets. The securities markets of emerging countries are
generally small, less developed, less liquid, and more volatile than
securities markets of the U.S. and other developed markets. The risks
of investing in emerging markets include greater social, political and
economic uncertainties. Emerging market economics are often
dependent upon a few commodities or natural resources that may
be significantly adversely affected by volatile price movements
against those commodities or natural resources. Emerging market
countries may experience high levels of inflation and currency
devaluation and have fewer potential buyers for investments. The
25
securities markets and legal systems in emerging market countries
may only be in a developmental stage and may provide few, or
none, of the advantages and protections of markets or legal systems
in more developed countries. Some of these countries may have in
the past failed to recognize private property rights and have at times
nationalized or expropriated the assets of private companies.
Additionally, if settlements do not keep pace with the volume of
securities transactions, they may be delayed, potentially causing the
Fund’s assets to be uninvested, the Fund to miss investment
opportunities and potential returns, and the Fund to be unable to sell
an investment. As a result of these various risks, investments in
emerging markets are considered to be speculative and may be
highly volatile.
●
Issuer Risk: Issuer risk is the risk that an issuer in which the Fund invests or to
which it has exposure may perform poorly, and the value of its securities
may therefore decline, which would negatively affect the Fund’s
performance.
(COVID-19) has
resulted
● Stock Market Risk: The return on and value of an investment in the Fund will
fluctuate in response to stock market movements. Stocks are subject to
market risks, such as a rapid increase or decrease in a stock’s value or
liquidity, fluctuations in price due to earnings, economic conditions and
other factors beyond the control of the Adviser. A company’s share price
may decline if a company does not perform as expected, if it is not well
managed, if there is a decreased demand for its products or services, or
during periods of economic uncertainty or stock market turbulence,
among other conditions. In a declining stock market, stock prices for all
companies (including those in the Fund’s portfolio) may decline, regardless
of their long-term prospects. Certain market events could increase volatility
and exacerbate market risk, such as changes in governments’ economic
policies, political turmoil, environmental events, trade disputes, and
epidemics, pandemics or other public health issues. For example, the novel
coronavirus disease
in closing borders,
quarantines, cancellations, disruptions to supply chains and customer
activity, as well as general concern and uncertainty, thus causing
significant disruptions to global business activity and financial markets, and
company closings and product cutbacks, the broad effects of which are
currently difficult to assess. Turbulence in financial markets, and reduced
liquidity in equity, credit and fixed income markets may negatively affect
many issuers domestically and around the world, and can result in trading
halts, any of which could have an adverse impact on the Fund. During
periods of market volatility, security prices (including securities held by the
Fund) could fall drastically and rapidly and therefore adversely affect the
Fund.
● New Fund and Management Risk: The Fund is new and has no operating
history. Accordingly, investors in the Fund bear the risk that the Fund may
not be successful in implementing its investment strategy or growing to an
economically viable size, in which case the Board may determine to
liquidate the Fund. In addition, although the Adviser has experience
26
managing separate accounts using a similar strategy to the Fund, the
Adviser has not previously served as an investment adviser to a registered
investment company prior to the Fund’s inception.
● Certain clients may hold assets in their accounts that are selected by prior
investment advisers such as alternative assets consisting of private
investments or hedge fund securities. Such assets may continue to be held
in accounts although they diverge from the focus of Nia’s recommended
investments. Such investments may or may not be included in an
account’s value for the purpose of calculating fees due to Nia.
Item 9 – Disciplinary Information
In this item, we are required to disclose any legal or disciplinary events that are
material to a client’s or prospective client’s evaluation of our advisory business or
the integrity of our management. Nia has no such events to disclose.
A. No History of Criminal or Civil Actions
Nia, including management persons, has not been involved in any criminal or civil
action in a domestic, foreign, or military court.
B. No History of Administrative Proceeding
Nia, including management persons, has not been subject to any administrative
proceedings before the SEC, or any other federal regulatory agency, any state
regulatory agency, or any foreign financial regulatory authority.
C. No History of Disciplinary Proceedings
Nia, including its management team, have not been subject to any disciplinary
proceedings with a self-regulatory organization.
Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities & Affiliations
A. Broker-Dealer Registration Status
Nia, including its management team, is not registered as, and has no application
pending to be, a broker-dealer or a registered representative of a broker-dealer.
B. Futures
Commission Merchant, Commodity
Pool Operator,
or
Commodity Trading Adviser Registration Status
Nia, including management persons, is not registered as, and has no application
pending to be, a futures commission merchant, commodity pool operator,
commodity trading advisor, or an associated person of the foregoing entities.
27
C. Material Conflicts of Interest Relating to Other Investment Advisers
functions
Administrative Services Provided by Orion Advisor Services, LLC and HIP Investor,
LLC. To help manage client accounts, both HIP and Nia utilize Orion’s technology
platform. These administrative services allow Nia to perform functions like support
data reconciliation, performance reporting, client database maintenance,
quarterly performance evaluations, and other
related to the
administrative tasks of managing client accounts. Due to this arrangement Orion
and HIP will have access to client accounts and information but will not serve as
an investment adviser to Nia clients. HIP pays Orion a fee on a per-account basis
for their services. Nia in turn pays HIP a flat, monthly fee for their services.
D. Material Conflicts of
Interest
Relating
to Registered
Investment
Company
When deemed appropriate, Nia will invest, on behalf of its individual accounts, in
shares of the Fund. There exists a conflict of interest as Nia has an incentive to
place client assets in the Fund since Nia receives management fees from the
Fund for providing investment services on the Fund’s behalf. Nia has adopted
certain procedures designed to mitigate the effects of these conflicts. As part of
our fiduciary duty to clients, Nia and our representatives endeavor at all times to
act in the client’s best interest, and recommendations will only be made to the
extent that they are reasonably believed to be in the best interests of the client.
Additionally, the conflicts presented by these practices are disclosed to clients
through this Brochure, and/or verbally prior to or at the time of entering into an
agreement with Nia. Further, a client will not be charged an additional
management fee at the individually or separately managed account level by
Nia for any investments in the Fund.
Item 11 – Code of Ethics, Participation or Interest in Client
Transactions and Personal Trading
A. Code of Ethics
Nia has adopted a Code of Ethics which establishes standards of business
conduct that all Supervised Persons must follow. Supervised Persons include any
managing member, partner, or employee of Nia and any person who provides
investment advice or support on behalf of Nia and is under our direct or indirect
supervision or control.
The Code of Ethics is predicated on the principle that Nia owes a fiduciary duty
to our clients. Accordingly, the Code of Ethics provides that at all times,
Supervised Persons must: avoid placing the interests of Nia and Supervised Persons
ahead of client interests; assist Nia in identifying and disclosing to clients, when
appropriate, potential and actual conflicts; adhere to the personal investing
standards set forth in the Code of Ethics; avoid taking advantage of their position
to the detriment of clients; maintain the integrity and independence of the
investment advisory process; and maintain full compliance with applicable state
28
and federal securities statutes.
Standards of Conduct
Nia’s standards of conduct are designed to ensure that clients, Supervised
Persons, and the Adviser are protected from unethical and unprofessional
conduct. Policies:
● Govern outside activities of Supervised Persons
● Monitor Supervised Person political activity
● Protect confidential information
● Prohibit dealings with parties sanctioned by the Office of Foreign Assets
Control
● Facilitate compliance with applicable federal and state securities statutes
When deemed appropriate, Nia will invest on behalf of its individual or separately
managed accounts in shares of the Fund. Nia receives management fees from
the Fund for providing investment services on its behalf. A client will not be
charged an additional management fee at the individual or separately
managed account level by Nia for any investments in the Fund.
B. Personal Trading – Participation or Interest in Client Transactions
Supervised Persons are permitted to maintain personal securities accounts with
any provider as long as personal investing practices are consistent with fiduciary
standards and regulatory requirements, and do not conflict with the duty owed
to Nia and our clients. We monitor and control personal trading through:
● Receipt and review of personal securities holdings and transactions reports
● Maintenance of a restricted list of securities in which Supervised Persons may
not trade
initial public offerings,
limited offerings, and private
● Pre-approval of
placements
● Other than investments in the Fund, Nia does not buy or sell securities for client
accounts in which we have a material financial interest.
However, since we are committed to our investment strategies, we may invest in
the same securities that we buy and sell for our client accounts. This represents a
potential conflict of interest. To mitigate this conflict of interest, our Code of Ethics
contains rules and procedures relating to personal trading by Nia in related
accounts or accounts held by officers, directors, employees, and their families.
From a timing perspective, no Supervised Person may buy or sell a security for
himself/herself in an attempt to “front-run” a client transaction if he/she knows
that Nia, is purchasing or selling, or contemplating purchasing or selling, that same
security on behalf of one or more clients. Supervised Persons may not initiate a
personal trade in such securities until after client transactions in the same security
29
have been completed.
We closely monitor trading accounts of Supervised Persons to ensure all personal
securities transactions are conducted in accordance with our Code of Ethics and
in such a manner as to avoid any conflicts of interest, such as frontrunning. In
addition, Supervised Persons are encouraged to assign investment discretion on
their personal accounts to Nia (wherein they become “related person
accounts”), when appropriate. In such cases, client accounts and related person
accounts may trade simultaneously. Under no circumstances will related account
interests come before unrelated client account interests.
The Code of Ethics states that Nia will provide a copy thereof to all Supervised
Persons, with a requirement that they provide to us a written acknowledgment
that they understand and will abide by the Code of Ethics. Clients or prospective
clients may obtain a copy of our Code of Ethics by contacting
operations@niaimpactcapital.com.
Item 12 – Brokerage Practices
A. Factors Considered in Selecting or Recommending Broker-Dealers for Client
Transactions
Nia’s clients retain discretion to select qualified custodians to hold cash and
securities. However, a client’s buy and sell transactions may be executed away
from the client’s custodian with a third-party broker-dealer unaffiliated with the
Adviser. Such practices will occur only when deemed to be consistent with the
Adviser’s fiduciary duty to place client interests first and foremost.
When the Adviser retains discretion to select broker-dealers for client trade
execution, we will consider several key factors, including commissions, abilities of
the broker-dealer, financial wherewithal and strengths of the broker-dealer, and
in connection with particularly difficult transactions, the broker-dealer’s expertise
with respect to such transactions. This means that the Adviser may not execute a
client’s transactions with the respective client’s custodian. This practice of
“trading away” from the custodian could involve additional transaction fees
which would be payable by the client. The Adviser will evaluate all trade away
arrangements and seek to achieve overall quantitative best execution through
such arrangements.
Nia’s brokerage practices are outlined below:
1. Research and Other Soft Dollar Benefits. Nia does not have any soft dollar
agreements in place, yet will receive research or other products or services
in connection with client securities transactions as discussed below.
2. Directed Brokerage. Nia will generally not accept directed brokerage
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instructions from clients. However, expenses associated with trade
execution, particularly those imposed by a client’s custodian, will be
considered when delegating trade management authority to one or more
third-party.
B. Soft Dollar Transactions and Benefits
Nia Impact Advisors has determined that the industry standard of generating soft
dollar benefits to the Company through soft dollar commissions paid by clients to
executing brokers is fraught with potential and actual conflicts of interest;
therefore, it is Nia Impact Advisors’ policy to not engage in soft dollar transactions.
C. Trade Aggregation and Allocation
Nia typically affects transactions for each client account independently, and
therefore is usually unable to aggregate client orders. However, when able to,
the firm may aggregate trades of accounts. Trade aggregation, or “bunching of
orders,” may result in better execution and/or better realized prices. Because
Nia’s investment management services utilize various types of investments and
securities, it may not be possible to bunch orders. Alternatively, even when
possible, Nia may not be able to execute all shares of an aggregated trade
because of prevailing market conditions and other variables, in which case the
firm will allocate the trade among participating accounts in an equitable manner
determined prior to execution of the trade. In certain cases, the firm may not be
able to purchase or sell the same security for all clients that could transact in the
security, which is generally based on various factors such as the type of security,
size of the account, cash availability and account restrictions.
Nia works with third party trading firms at times to execute trades at the discretion
of Kristin Hull. Each trading firm will be expected to follow the written trade
aggregations allocations policies. Nia monitors the trade management of traders
and seeks to ensure that no client account is disadvantaged through the third
party’s trade aggregation and allocation practices, including the consideration
of trade away arrangements.
D. Directed Brokerage
Under certain circumstances, Nia may allow a client to direct the firm to execute
all or a portion of client transactions through a specific broker (“Directed
Brokerage”). If that is the case, the client should understand that: (1) Nia generally
does not negotiate specific brokerage commission rates with the broker on
client’s behalf, or seek better execution services or prices from other
broker/dealers and, as a result, the client may pay higher commissions and/or
receive less favorable net prices on transactions for their account than might
otherwise be the case; and (2) transactions for that account generally will be
affected independently unless Nia is able to purchase or sell the same security for
several clients at approximately the same time (“block trade”), in which case the
firm may include such client’s transaction with that of other clients for execution
by the same broker. If transactions are not able to be traded as a block, the firm
may have to enter the transactions for the client’s account after orders for other
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if,
clients, with the result that market movements may work against the client.
Therefore, prior to directing the firm to use a specific broker- dealer, a client should
consider whether, under that restriction, execution, clearance and settlement
capabilities, commission expenses and whatever amount is allocated to
custodian fees, if applicable, would be comparable to those otherwise
obtainable. Clients should understand that they might not obtain commissions
rates as low as it might otherwise obtain if Nia had discretion to select or
recommend other broker-dealers. Consequently, Directed Brokerage may result
in the client paying more money for brokerage services. Subject to its objective
to achieve best execution, Nia may decline a client’s request to engage in
Directed Brokerage
in Nia’s sole discretion, such Directed Brokerage
arrangements would result in additional operational difficulties or violate
restrictions imposed by other broker dealers.
E. Use of Introducing Brokers
Instructions provided by Nia (this
At times, for certain client accounts (including the Fund) on platforms that do not
have internal trading programs available to Nia, the Firm will utilize Loop Capital
Markets LLC (“LCM”), a registered broker-dealer, for trade order and execution.
LCM books securities transactions to Nia client accounts at custodians against
Standard Settlement
is a RVP/DVP
arrangement). LCM either receives or delivers those instructions to Pershing which
serves as LCM’s clearing broker-dealer. Nia does not receive soft-dollar benefits
or other forms of compensation from utilizing the services of LCM. Clients'
accounts may be assessed trading fees and/or additional fees directly by LCM.
Nia does not share in any such fees.
Item 13 – Review of Accounts
A. Periodic Review of Client Accounts
Nia regularly reviews client accounts to ensure that portfolios comply with the
investment strategy described in the applicable Investment Management
Agreement. Reviews of client accounts take place no less frequently than
annually and include a review of all holdings and any activity during the period,
including dividends, corporate actions, and accuracy of any management fees
and transaction costs. Kristin Hull, Founder and Chief Executive Officer is
responsible for client account reviews. Senior Financial Advisor, Julie Johnson
McVeigh is responsible for client account reviews for accounts for which she is the
designated advisor.
Client Investment Programs May Differ
Nia’s clients may have similar or overlapping investment objectives and
parameters; their investment programs may differ due to, among other reasons,
divergent business models, liquidity needs, tax implications, or varied investment
objectives and restrictions.
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We may give advice with respect to one or more clients that may differ from the
advice given to other clients. For these reasons, performance results may vary
among clients.
B. Other than Periodic Review of Client Accounts
Nia also reviews our client accounts upon client request at any time, at the time
of material cash or security additions or withdrawals, if client investment
objectives change, or when extreme market conditions warrant.
C. Content and Frequency of Client Reports
Nia’s clients receive written statements (electronic or paper) from their chosen
custodian at least quarterly. Custodial quarterly statements of account include a
summary of account activity for the period as well as a detailed listing of holdings,
transactions, changes in market value, and fees. For our asset management
services, clients are also provided with regular reports from Nia generated through
Orion’s technology platform.
D. Review and Issuance of Client Reports – Financial Planning
Under the terms of a Financial Planning Agreement, a client’s accounts and
source information are reviewed as contracted for at the inception of the
engagement. Each financial planning client receives a written financial plan or
written report containing financial planning recommendations in accordance
with the terms outlined in the respective Agreement. Additional reports are not
typically provided unless otherwise contracted for at the time of engagement.
Item 14 – Client Referrals and Other Compensation
A. Economic Benefits for Providing Services to Clients
Nia is not party to any arrangement whereby we or our employees receive any
compensation for client referrals to any third-party entity. We do not receive any
benefit from a third party for providing services to our clients.
As previously mentioned, the Firm provides services to the Fund, and receives
compensation for such services. At times, Nia will invest client’s separately
managed account assets in the Fund. Please see Items 4, 5, and 10 for additional
information and conflicts of interest related to this relationship.
B. Compensation to Non-Supervised Persons for Client Referrals
Nia has no arrangements in place with independent third parties to assist in
identifying potential clients or to refer potential clients to us. Should we choose to
participate in any such arrangement in the future, any agreement providing for
direct or indirect cash payments by Nia to a person that is a ‘solicitor’ will comply
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with applicable regulatory requirements. We will ensure that any such solicitor is
qualified to conduct solicitation activities on our behalf and is properly licensed
or registered in accordance with requirements set forth in the California Code of
Regulations and/or other governing regulations. Furthermore, any arrangement
will be structured subject to a written agreement.
Nia has no arrangements in place to refer our clients to third-party investment
managers. Should we choose to refer clients to a third-party manager or adviser
in the future, Nia will ensure that such third-party manager or adviser is properly
licensed or registered as an investment adviser, in accordance with requirements
set forth in the California Code of Regulations and/or other governing regulations.
Item 15 – Custody
As previously disclosed in Item 5 of this Brochure (Fees and Compensation), we
generally, in most cases, directly debit advisory fees from client accounts. Nia has
custody of the funds and securities held in a client account solely due to our
authority to make withdrawals from client accounts to pay our investment
management fee. We have adopted policies and procedures to safeguard
client assets, including assets maintained in client accounts where Nia’s personnel
have the authority to deduct advisory fees.
We also have custody on accounts with Standing Letters of Authorization
(“SLOA”) signed by clients allowing third party disbursements.
Clients are responsible to select qualified custodians to hold funds and securities
within investment accounts managed on their behalf. For each direct fee debit
arrangement, receives and retains written authorization from the client to deduct
investment management fees from the account held with the qualified
custodian.
As part of this billing process, each time a fee is directly deducted from a client
account, Nia concurrently sends the qualified custodian an invoice or statement
of the amount of the fee to be deducted from the client's account. On at least a
quarterly basis, the custodian is required to send to the client a statement showing
all transactions within the account during the reporting period. Because the
custodian does not calculate the amount of the fee to be deducted, it is
important for clients to carefully review their custodial statements to verify the
accuracy of the calculation, among other things. Clients should contact us
directly if an error in any account statement is identified.
Item 16 – Investment Discretion
Investment Management Services
Unless Clients specifically request in writing that Nia manage all or part of their
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account on a non-discretionary basis, when delivering investment management
services, Nia typically accepts discretionary authority to manage securities
accounts on behalf of our clients. On a case-by-case basis, we may allow
separate account clients to impose reasonable limitations on our investment
authority. Clients assign investment discretion to Nia at the outset of the
investment management relationship by way of the Investment Management
Agreement.
In all cases, we exercise discretion in line with our high standards of fiduciary care.
Before accepting an account under a new
investment management
relationship, we conduct a suitability review to identify client objectives, security
restrictions, allowable cash positions, custodial arrangements and related data
feed capabilities, general risk limits, as well as other relevant factors. Nia or the
client’s financial advisor will perform the client suitability review.
Written client Investment Management Agreements specify the level of discretion
delegated to us. We manage client accounts on a fully discretionary basis where
we retain full decision-making authority for investment decisions within the
guidelines of the governing Agreement. Client investment objectives, policies,
limits, and restrictions must be given to us in writing. Kristin Hull reviews the securities
bought or sold to ensure they fall within established client specific and strategy
guidelines.
When you delegate investment discretion to us, you authorize us to make
decisions in line with your investment objectives without seeking your approval,
including:
● Determining which securities to buy and sell
● Deciding total amount of securities to buy and sell
● Deciding when to buy and sell each security
● Selecting broker-dealers
through whom we buy and sell
securities2
● Setting commission rates paid for securities transactions
● Choosing prices at which we buy and sell securities, which may
include broker-dealer transaction costs
At times, in Nia’s sole discretion, we may accept trading authorization on a non-
discretionary basis, whereby we will be required to contact the Client prior to
implementing changes in the Client’s account. Therefore, the Client will be
contacted and required to accept or reject our investment recommendations
including: the security being recommended, the number of shares or units, and/or
whether to buy or sell. Clients should understand that if their accounts are
_________________________
2 Note that clients retain the discretion to select custodians for purposes of safekeeping of cash and
securities. The Adviser may trade away from the custodian, as described in Item 12 above.
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managed on a non-discretionary basis, and Nia is not able to reach such Clients
or such Clients are slow to respond to our request, it can have an adverse impact
on the timing of trade implementations, and we may not achieve the optimal
trading price or be able to batch trades with other accounts.
Financial Planning / Consulting Services
When delivering financial planning or consulting services, Nia has no discretionary
authority over client accounts.
Item 17 – Voting Client Securities
When providing investment management services, Nia accepts authority and
responsibility for voting client securities. Nia votes in accordance with guidelines
we have developed, and then determines the applicability of those guidelines
on a security-by-security and voting item basis. In all cases proxies are voted in a
manner consistent with the best interest of our clients, and when appropriate, to
advance environmental and social issues.
When Nia votes proxies on behalf of a client, SEC rules require our Firm to keep
certain records relating to proxy voting policies, including a copy of the policy, a
record of all votes cast, and client communications related to proxy voting. In
certain circumstances, and in accordance with the client's specific advisory
agreement and/or custodial account paperwork, Nia will vote proxies related to
securities held by any client in a manner that is in the best interest of the client.
Nia is also authorized to delegate proxy voting authority to sub-advisers, which
requires Nia to monitor voting processes to ensure compliance.
Considering Nia’s fiduciary duties and given the complexity of the issues that may
be raised in connection with proxy votes, the Firm partnered with a third-party
vendor, As You Sow, in partnership with Broadridge to vote on behalf of Nia
Impact Capital.
In exercising its voting discretion, Nia and its employees shall avoid any direct or
indirect conflict of interest raised by such voting decision. We will provide
adequate disclosure to the client if any substantive aspect or foreseeable result
of the subject matter to be voted upon raises an actual or potential conflict of
interest.
If a client is interested in directing our vote in a particular solicitation, we
encourage our clients to contact us so that we can work together to facilitate
such a request. Clients may obtain a copy of our proxy policy and/or a record of
how we voted any proxies on behalf of their account(s) by contacting us at
operations@niaimpactcapital.com.
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Item 18 – Financial Information
A. Prepayment of Fees
As noted above in Item 5 (Fees and Compensation), investment management
fees are paid in arrears on a quarterly basis at the end of the billing period.
Financial planning or consulting fees are paid in arrears following the end of the
engagement period. For fixed fee engagements under a Consulting Agreement,
we require a retainer to be paid at the time of engagement, with the remainder
of the fee directly billed to the client and due within thirty (30) days of the financial
plan being delivered or consultation rendered to the client. The exact amount of
the retainer will be set forth in the Agreement.
Nia does not require or solicit prepayment of more than $1200 in fees six months
or more in advance.
B. Financial Condition
Nia has no financial obligation that impairs its capacity to meet contractual and
fiduciary commitments to clients.
C. Subject of a Bankruptcy Petition
Nia is not now and has never been the subject of a bankruptcy proceeding.
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