View Document Text
Disclosure Brochure
March 25, 2025
WISS PRIVATE CLIENT ADVISORS, LLC
a Registered Investment Adviser
100 Campus Drive, W Suite 400
Florham Park, NJ 07932
973-577-2529
www.wiss.com/services/wealth-management/
This brochure provides information about the qualifications and business practices of Wiss Private Client
Advisors, LLC (hereinafter “Wiss Private Client Advisors” or the “Firm”). If you have any questions about
the contents of this brochure, please contact the Firm at the telephone number listed above. 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. Additional information about the Firm is available on the SEC’s
website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. The Firm is a registered investment adviser. Registration does not
imply any level of skill or training.
Disclosure Brochure
Item 2. Material Changes
In this Item, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC is required to discuss any material changes that have been
made to the brochure since the last annual amendment dated March 14, 2024. The Firm does not have
any material changes to disclose.
Page | 2
Disclosure Brochure
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 ........................................................................................................................................... 7
Item 6. Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management ....................................................................................... 9
Item 7. Types of Clients ...................................................................................................................................................... 9
Item 8. Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss .............................................................................. 10
Item 9. Disciplinary Information ....................................................................................................................................... 14
Item 10. Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations ............................................................................................ 14
Item 11. Code of Ethics ..................................................................................................................................................... 15
Item 12. Brokerage Practices ............................................................................................................................................. 16
Item 13. Review of Accounts ............................................................................................................................................ 19
Item 14. Client Referrals and Other Compensation ........................................................................................................... 19
Item 15. Custody ............................................................................................................................................................... 19
Item 16. Investment Discretion .......................................................................................................................................... 20
Item 17. Voting Client Securities ...................................................................................................................................... 21
Item 18. Financial Information .......................................................................................................................................... 21
Page | 3
Disclosure Brochure
Item 4. Advisory Business
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC which also does business as Wiss Family Office, offers a variety of
advisory services, which include financial planning, consulting, investment management, and wealth
management services. Prior to Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC rendering any of the foregoing
advisory services, clients are required to enter into one or more written agreements with Wiss Private
Client Advisors, LLC setting forth the relevant terms and conditions of the advisory relationship (the
“Advisory Agreement”).
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC has been registered as an investment adviser since September 2017
and is principally owned by Wiss & Co, LLP (“Wiss & Co.”), a certified public accounting firm. As of
December 31, 2024, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC had $809,666,561 of assets under management,
$796,176,074 of which was managed on a discretionary basis and $13,490,487 of which was managed on
a non-discretionary basis.
While this brochure generally describes the business of Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC, certain
sections also discuss the activities of its Supervised Persons, which refer to the Firm’s officers, partners,
directors (or other persons occupying a similar status or performing similar functions), employees or other
persons who provide investment advice on Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC’ behalf and are subject to
the Firm’s supervision or control.
Financial Planning and Consulting Services
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC offers clients a broad range of financial planning and consulting
services, which include any or all of the following functions:
Goals-Based Planning
•
• Retirement Planning
Financial Reporting
•
• Risk Management
Investment Consulting
•
• Charitable Giving
Cash Flow Forecasting
•
• Distribution Planning
These services are rendered in conjunction with investment portfolio management as part of a
comprehensive wealth management engagement (described in more detail below).
In performing these services, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC is not required to verify any information
received from the client or from the client’s other professionals (e.g., attorneys, accountants, etc.,) and is
expressly authorized to rely on such information. Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC recommends certain
clients engage the Firm for additional related services and/or other professionals to implement its
recommendations. Clients are advised that a conflict of interest exists for the Firm to recommend that
Page | 4
Disclosure Brochure
clients engage Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC or its affiliates to provide (or continue to provide)
additional services for compensation, including investment management services. Clients retain absolute
discretion over all decisions regarding implementation and are under no obligation to act upon any of the
recommendations made by Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC as part of a wealth management
engagement.
Clients are advised that it remains their responsibility to promptly notify the Firm of any change in their
financial situation or investment objectives for the purpose of reviewing, evaluating or revising Wiss
Private Client Advisors, LLC’ recommendations and/or services.
Investment and Wealth Management Services
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC manages client investment portfolios on a discretionary or non-
discretionary basis. In addition, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC provides certain clients with wealth
management services which include both a broad range of financial planning and consulting services and
discretionary and/or non-discretionary management of investment portfolios.
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC primarily allocates client assets among various mutual funds,
exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”), individual debt and equity securities, and independent investment
managers (“Independent Managers”) in accordance with their stated investment objectives. In addition,
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC also recommends that certain eligible clients invest in privately placed
securities, which may include debt, equity and/or interests in collective investment vehicles (e.g., hedge
funds, private equity funds, etc.).
Where appropriate, the Firm also provides advice about any type of legacy position or other investment
held in client portfolios, however, clients should not assume that these assets are being continuously
monitored or otherwise advised on by the Firm unless specifically agreed upon. Clients can engage Wiss
Private Client Advisors, LLC to manage and/or advise on certain investment products that are not
maintained at their primary custodian, such as variable life insurance and annuity contracts and assets
held in employer sponsored retirement plans and qualified tuition plans (i.e., 529 plans). In these
situations, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC directs or recommends the allocation of client assets among
the various investment options available with the product. These assets are generally maintained at the
underwriting insurance company or the custodian designated by the product’s provider.
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC tailors its advisory services to meet the needs of its individual clients
and seeks to ensure, on a continuous basis, that client portfolios are managed in a manner consistent with
those needs and objectives. Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC consults with clients on an initial and
ongoing basis to assess their specific risk tolerance, time horizon, liquidity constraints and other related
factors relevant to the management of their portfolios. Clients are advised to promptly notify Wiss
Private Client Advisors, LLC if there are changes in their financial situation or if they wish to place any
Page | 5
Disclosure Brochure
limitations on the management of their portfolios. Clients can impose reasonable restrictions or mandates
on the management of their accounts if Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC determines, in its sole
discretion, the conditions would not materially impact the performance of a management strategy or
prove overly burdensome to the Firm’s management efforts.
Use of Independent Managers
As mentioned above, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC selects certain Independent Managers to actively
manage a portion of its clients’ assets. The specific terms and conditions under which a client engages an
Independent Manager may be set forth in a separate written agreement with the designated Independent
Manager. In addition to this brochure, clients may also receive the written disclosure documents of the
respective Independent Managers engaged to manage their assets.
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC evaluates a variety of information about Independent Managers,
which includes the Independent Managers’ public disclosure documents, materials supplied by the
Independent Managers themselves and other third-party analyses it believes are reputable. To the extent
possible, the Firm seeks to assess the Independent Managers’ investment strategies, past performance and
risk results in relation to its clients’ individual portfolio allocations and risk exposure. Wiss Private
Client Advisors, LLC also takes into consideration each Independent Manager’s management style,
returns, reputation, financial strength, reporting, pricing and research capabilities, among other factors.
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC continues to provide services relative to the discretionary or non-
discretionary selection of the Independent Managers. On an ongoing basis, the Firm monitors the
performance of those accounts being managed by Independent Managers. Wiss Private Client Advisors,
LLC seeks to ensure the Independent Managers’ strategies and target allocations remain aligned with its
clients’ investment objectives and overall best interests.
As mentioned above, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC selects certain Independent Managers to actively
manage a portion of its clients’ assets. The specific terms and conditions under which a client engages an
Independent Manager may be set forth in a separate written agreement with the designated Independent
Manager. In addition to this brochure, clients may also receive the written disclosure documents of the
respective Independent Managers engaged to manage their assets.
Service from Affiliates
Wiss & Co. LLP may provide certain services directly to clients of the Firm. Generally, each company
will only provide services where directly engaged by a client. At times, however, it may be difficult for
the client to know whether services are provided by Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC or Wiss & Co.
LLP. Both companies have clients sign a consent to share information in order to ensure that clients
Page | 6
Disclosure Brochure
understand that both companies can provide services. Below is just an example of services provided to
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC clients by Wiss & Co.:
• Tax Preparation Services, Compliance and Consulting
• Outsourced accounting and administration
• Assurance
• Transaction Advisory
• Trust and Estate Services
• CFO Advisory
Item 5. Fees and Compensation
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC offers services on a fee basis, specifically, fees based upon assets
under management. Additionally, certain of the Firm’s Supervised Persons, in their individual capacities,
offer insurance products under a separate commission-based arrangement.
Investment and Wealth Management Fees
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC offers investment management services for an annual fee based on the
amount of assets under the Firm’s management.
This annual fee varies between 65 and 150 basis points (0.65% – 1.50%) in accordance with the following
fee schedule:
PORTFOLIO VALUE
BASE FEE
Up to $500,000.00
1.50%
$500,000.01 - $1,000,000.00
1.25%
$1,000,000.01 - $4,000,000.00
1.10%
$4,000,000.01 - $10,000,000.00
0.90%
$10,000,000.01 - $20,000,000.00
0.85%
Above $20,000,000.00
0.65%
The annual fee is prorated and charged quarterly, in advance, based upon the market value of the assets
being managed by Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC on the last day of the previous billing period.
Page | 7
Disclosure Brochure
If assets in excess of $2,000,000 are deposited into or withdrawn after the inception of a billing period,
the fee payable with respect to such assets is adjusted to reflect the interim change in portfolio value. For
the initial period of an engagement, the fee is calculated on a pro rata basis. In the event the advisory
agreement is terminated, the fee for the final billing period is prorated through the effective date of the
termination and the outstanding or unearned portion of the fee is charged or refunded to the client, as
appropriate.
The Firm includes cash in a client’s account in determining the valuation for billing purposes. The Firm
may, in its sole discretion, not include cash in determining the fee, especially where a client has a high
percentage of cash for reasons other than the Firm's investment management decision. Additionally, for
asset management services the Firm provides with respect to certain client holdings (e.g., held-away
assets, accommodation accounts, alternative investments, etc.), Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC may
negotiate a fee rate that differs from the range set forth above.
Clients are advised that a conflict of interest exists for the Firm to recommend that clients engage Wiss
Private Client Advisors, LLC for additional services for compensation, including rolling over retirement
accounts or moving other assets to the Firm’s management. Clients retain absolute discretion over all
decisions regarding engaging the Firm and are under no obligation to act upon any of the
recommendations.
Fee Discretion
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC may, in its sole discretion, negotiate to charge a lesser fee based upon
certain criteria, such as anticipated future earning capacity, anticipated future additional assets, dollar
amount of assets to be managed, related accounts, account composition, pre-existing/legacy client
relationship, account retention and pro bono activities.
Additional Fees and Expenses
In addition to the advisory fees paid to Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC, clients also incur certain
charges imposed by other third parties, such as broker-dealers, custodians, trust companies, banks and
other financial institutions (collectively “Financial Institutions”). These additional charges include
securities brokerage commissions, transaction fees, custodial fees, fees attributable to alternative assets,
reporting charges, fees charged by the Independent Managers, margin costs, charges imposed directly by
a mutual fund or ETF in a client’s account, as disclosed in the fund’s prospectus (e.g., fund management
fees and other fund expenses), deferred sales charges, odd-lot differentials, transfer taxes, wire transfer
and electronic fund fees, and other fees and taxes on brokerage accounts and securities transactions. The
Firm’s brokerage practices are described at length in Item 12, below.
Page | 8
Disclosure Brochure
Direct Fee Debit
Clients provide Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC and/or certain Independent Managers with the
authority to directly debit their accounts for payment of the investment advisory fees. The Financial
Institutions that act as the qualified custodian for client accounts, from which the Firm retains the
authority to directly deduct fees, have agreed to send statements to clients not less than quarterly detailing
all account transactions, including any amounts paid to Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC.
Alternatively, clients may elect to have Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC send a separate invoice for
direct payment.
Use of Margin
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC can recommend that certain clients utilize margin in the client’s
investment portfolio or other borrowing. Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC only recommends such
borrowing for non-investment needs, such as bridge loans and other financing needs. The Firm’s fees are
determined based upon the value of the assets being managed gross of any margin or borrowing.
Account Additions and Withdrawals
Clients can make additions to and withdrawals from their account at any time, subject to Wiss Private
Client Advisors, LLC’ right to terminate an account. Additions can be in cash or securities provided that
the Firm reserves the right to liquidate any transferred securities or declines to accept particular securities
into a client’s account. Clients can withdraw account assets on notice to Wiss Private Client Advisors,
LLC, subject to the usual and customary securities settlement procedures. However, the Firm designs its
portfolios as long-term investments and the withdrawal of assets may impair the achievement of a client’s
investment objectives. Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC may consult with its 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, short-term redemption fees, fees assessed at the mutual
fund level (e.g., contingent deferred sales charges) and/or tax ramifications.
Item 6. Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC does not provide any services for a performance-based fee (i.e., a fee
based on a share of capital gains or capital appreciation of a client’s assets).
Item 7. Types of Clients
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC offers services to individuals, trusts, estates, charitable organizations,
corporations and business entities, and pension and profit sharing plans.
Page | 9
Disclosure Brochure
Minimum Account Value
As a condition for starting and maintaining an investment management relationship, Wiss Private Client
Advisors, LLC imposes a minimum portfolio value of $1,000,000 Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC
may, in its sole discretion, accept clients with smaller portfolios based upon certain criteria, including
anticipated future earning capacity, anticipated future additional assets, dollar amount of assets to be
managed, related accounts, account composition, pre-existing client, account retention, and pro bono
activities. Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC only accepts clients with less than the minimum portfolio
size if the Firm determines the smaller portfolio size will not cause a substantial increase of investment
risk beyond the client’s identified risk tolerance. Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC may aggregate the
portfolios of family members to meet the minimum portfolio size.
Item 8. Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies and Risk of Loss
Methods of Analysis and Investment Strategies
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC utilizes a combination of fundamental and technical analysis.
Fundamental analysis involves an evaluation of the fundamental financial condition and competitive
position of a particular fund or issuer. For Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC, this process typically
involves an analysis of an issuer’s management team, investment strategies, style drift, past performance,
reputation and financial strength in relation to the asset class concentrations and risk exposures of the
Firm’s model asset allocations. A substantial risk in relying upon fundamental analysis is that while the
overall health and position of a company may be good, evolving market conditions may negatively impact
the security.
Technical analysis involves the examination of past market data rather than specific issuer information in
determining the recommendations made to clients. Technical analysis may involve the use of
mathematical based indicators and charts, such as moving averages and price correlations, to identify
market patterns and trends which may be based on investor sentiment rather than the fundamentals of the
company. A substantial risk in relying upon technical analysis is that spotting historical trends may not
help to predict such trends in the future. Even if the trend will eventually reoccur, there is no guarantee
that Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC will be able to accurately predict such a reoccurrence.
When implementing investment advice, the Firm may utilize both long term purchases (securities held at
least a year) and short term purchases (securities sold within a year).
The Firm note that it uses a third-party platform to assist with due diligence of privately-placed collective
investment vehicles (e.g., hedge funds, private equity funds, etc.). The platform will be used to identify
potential investments for qualified clients of the Firm. Any investment made by a client will require the
client’s completion of subscription documents prior to investing.
Page | 10
Disclosure Brochure
Risk of Loss
The Firm’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. To perform an accurate market analysis,
the Firm must have access to current/new market information. The Firm has no control over the
dissemination rate of market information; therefore, unbeknownst to the Firm, certain analyses may be
compiled with outdated market information, severely limiting the value of the Firm’s analysis.
Furthermore, an accurate market analysis can only produce a forecast of the direction of market values.
There can be no assurances that a forecasted change in market value will materialize into actionable
and/or profitable investment opportunities.
The Firm’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. All investments present the risk
of loss of principal – the risk that the value of securities (mutual funds, ETFs and individual bonds), when
sold or otherwise disposed of, may be less than the price paid for the securities. Even when the value of
the securities when sold is greater than the price paid, there is the risk that the appreciation will be less
than inflation. In other words, the purchasing power of the proceeds may be less than the purchasing
power of the original investment.
Certain mutual funds utilized by Wiss may contain international securities. Investing outside the United
States involves additional risks, such as currency fluctuations, periods of illiquidity and price volatility.
These risks may be greater with investments in developing countries.
The following list of risk factors does not purport to be a complete enumeration or explanation of the risks
involved with respect to the Firm’s investment management activities. Clients should consult with their
legal, tax, and other advisors before engaging the Firm to provide investment management services on
their behalf.
Investment Risk
Investing in securities involves risk of loss that clients should be prepared to bear. Different types of
investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any
specific investment or investment strategy (including the investments and/or investment strategies
recommended or undertaken by the Firm) will be profitable or equal any specific performance level(s).
Market Risks
Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal, and all investors should be guided
accordingly. The profitability of a significant portion of Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC’s
Page | 11
Disclosure Brochure
recommendations and/or investment decisions may depend to a great extent upon correctly assessing the
future course of price movements of stocks, bonds and other asset classes. In addition, investments may
be adversely affected by financial markets and economic conditions throughout the world. There can be
no assurance that Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC will be able to predict these price movements
accurately or capitalize on any such assumptions.
Volatility Risks
The prices and values of investments can be highly volatile, and are influenced by, among other things,
interest rates, general economic conditions, the condition of the financial markets, the financial condition
of the issuers of such assets, changing supply and demand relationships, and programs and policies of
governments.
Cash Management Risks
The Firm may invest some of a client’s assets temporarily in money market funds or other similar types
of investments, during which time an advisory account may be prevented from achieving its investment
objective.
Currency Risks
An advisory account that holds investments denominated in currencies other than the currency in which
the advisory account is denominated may be adversely affected by the volatility of currency exchange
rates.
Interest Rate Risks
Interest rates may fluctuate significantly, causing price volatility with respect to securities or instruments
held by clients.
Equity-Related Securities and Instruments
The Firm may take long and short positions in common stocks of U.S. and non-U.S. issuers traded on
national securities exchanges and over-the-counter markets. The value of equity securities varies in
response to many factors. These factors include, without limitation, factors specific to an issuer and
factors specific to the industry in which the issuer participates. Individual companies may report poor
results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments, and the stock
prices of such companies may suffer a decline in response. In addition, equity securities are subject to
stock risk, which is the risk that stock prices historically rise and fall in periodic cycles. U.S. and non-
U.S. stock markets have experienced periods of substantial price volatility in the past and may do so again
in the future. In addition, investments in small-capitalization, mid-capitalization and financially distressed
Page | 12
Disclosure Brochure
companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements and may lack sufficient market
liquidity, and these issuers often face greater business risks.
Mutual Funds and ETFs
An investment in a mutual fund or ETF involves risk, including the loss of principal. Mutual fund and
ETF shareholders are necessarily subject to the risks stemming from the individual issuers of the fund’s
underlying portfolio securities. Such shareholders are also liable for taxes on any fund-level capital gains,
as mutual funds and ETFs are required by law to distribute capital gains in the event they sell securities
for a profit that cannot be offset by a corresponding loss.
Shares of mutual funds are generally distributed and redeemed on an ongoing basis by the fund itself or a
broker acting on its behalf. The trading price at which a share is transacted is equal to a fund’s stated
daily per share net asset value (“NAV”), plus any shareholders fees (e.g., sales loads, purchase fees,
redemption fees). The per share NAV of a mutual fund is calculated at the end of each business day,
although the actual NAV fluctuates with intraday changes to the market value of the fund’s holdings. The
trading prices of a mutual fund’s shares may differ significantly from the NAV during periods of market
volatility, which may, among other factors, lead to the mutual fund’s shares trading at a premium or
discount to actual NAV.
Shares of ETFs are listed on securities exchanges and transacted at negotiated prices in the secondary
market. Generally, ETF shares trade at or near their most recent NAV, which is generally calculated at
least once daily for indexed based ETFs and potentially more frequently for actively managed ETFs.
However, certain inefficiencies may cause the shares to trade at a premium or discount to their pro rata
NAV. There is also no guarantee that an active secondary market for such shares will develop or
continue to exist. Generally, an ETF only redeems shares when aggregated as creation units (usually
20,000 shares or more). Therefore, if a liquid secondary market ceases to exist for shares of a particular
ETF, a shareholder may have no way to dispose of such shares.
Fixed-Income Securities Risk
Fixed-income securities are subject to interest rate risk and credit quality risk. The market value of fixed-
income securities generally declines when interest rates rise, and an issuer of fixed-income securities
could default on its payment obligations.
Foreign Securities Risk
The risks of foreign securities include loss of value as a result of political or economic instability;
nationalization, expropriation or confiscatory taxation; changes in foreign exchange rates and foreign
exchange restrictions; settlement delays; and limited government regulation (including less stringent
reporting, accounting, and disclosure standards than are required of U.S. companies). Certain of these
risks are greater for investments in emerging markets.
Page | 13
Disclosure Brochure
Use of Privately-Placed Collective Investment Vehicles
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC recommends that certain clients invest in privately placed collective
investment vehicles (e.g., hedge funds, private equity funds, etc.). The managers of these vehicles have
broad discretion in selecting the investments. There are few limitations on the types of securities or other
financial instruments which may be traded and no requirement to diversify. Hedge funds may trade on
margin or otherwise leverage positions, thereby potentially increasing the risk to the vehicle. In addition,
because the vehicles are not registered as investment companies, there is an absence of regulation. There
are numerous other risks in investing in these securities. Clients should consult each fund’s private
placement memorandum and/or other documents explaining such risks prior to investing.
Use of Independent Managers
As stated above, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC selects certain Independent Managers to manage a
portion of its clients’ assets. In these situations, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC continues to conduct
ongoing due diligence of such managers, but such recommendations rely to a great extent on the
Independent Managers’ ability to successfully implement their investment strategies. In addition, Wiss
Private Client Advisors, LLC does not have the ability to supervise the Independent Managers on a day-
to-day basis.
Item 9. Disciplinary Information
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC has not been involved in any legal or disciplinary events that are
material to a client’s evaluation of its advisory business or the integrity of its management.
Item 10. Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
This item requires investment advisers to disclose certain financial industry activities and affiliations.
Related Licensed Insurance Agency
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC’ affiliate, Wiss Private Client Group, LLC (“WPCG”), is a duly
licensed insurance agency. Additionally, a number of the Firm’s Supervised Persons are licensed
insurance agents and offer certain insurance products on a fully disclosed commissionable basis. A
conflict of interest exists to the extent that Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC recommends the purchase
of insurance products where WPCG and/or its Supervised Persons are entitled to insurance commissions
or other additional compensation. The Firm has procedures in place whereby it seeks to ensure that all
recommendations are made in its clients’ best interest regardless of any such affiliations.
Page | 14
Disclosure Brochure
Related Certified Public Accounting Firm
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC does not render accounting services to clients. In the event a client
requires accounting services, the Firm will sometimes recommend the services of its affiliated certified
public accounting firm, Wiss & Co., and/or the services of certain of Wiss & Co.’s subsidiaries, Wiss &
Co., LLC and Wiss Enterprise Group, LLC (together, “the Wiss Accounting Affiliates”). The Wiss
Accounting Affiliates’ services are rendered independently of Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC’
advisory services pursuant to a separate agreement between the client and the accounting firm. Wiss
Private Client Advisors, LLC does not receive referral fees for recommending its advisory clients engage
the Wiss Accounting Affiliates for accounting services. However, one or more of Wiss Private Client
Advisors, LLC’ Supervised Persons are owners of Wiss & Co and are entitled to receive distributions
relative to their ownership in the same. There exists a conflict of interest to the extent that Wiss Private
Client Advisors, LLC recommends the accounting services of the Wiss Accounting Affiliates and Wiss
Private Client Advisors, LLC’ Supervised Persons receive compensation by virtue of their ownership in
Wiss & Co. The Firm seeks to ensure that all such recommendations are made in its clients’ best interest
regardless of this affiliation. Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC does not pay referral fees to the Wiss
Accounting Affiliates for recommending their accounting clients engage Wiss Private Client Advisors,
LLC for advisory services. Notwithstanding the foregoing, because Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC is
principally owned by Wiss & Co., it is indirectly owned by the principals of Wiss & Co. who are entitled
to receive distributions relative to their ownership in the same. As such, there exists a conflict of interest
to the extent that principals of Wiss & Co. recommend the advisory services of Wiss Private Client
Advisors, LLC’ and they receive additional compensation by virtue of their ownership in Wiss & Co.
Shared Staff
Certain Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC staff, including the Firm’s CEO/CCO, serve in similar
capacities with other affiliates. While the Firm does not think this is an additional conflict other than
addressed above, clients should be aware that shared staff will result in the sharing of client information
amongst Wiss companies simply due to common staff. As discussed above, the companies provide
clients with disclosures about the sharing of information.
Item 11. Code of Ethics
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC has adopted a code of ethics in compliance with applicable securities
laws (“Code of Ethics”) that sets forth the standards of conduct expected of its Supervised Persons. Wiss
Private Client Advisors, LLC’ Code of Ethics contains written policies reasonably designed to prevent
certain unlawful practices such as the use of material non-public information by the Firm or any of its
Supervised Persons and the trading by the same of securities ahead of clients in order to take advantage of
pending orders.
Page | 15
Disclosure Brochure
The Code of Ethics also requires certain of Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC’ personnel to report their
personal securities holdings and transactions and obtain pre-approval of certain investments (e.g., initial
public offerings, limited offerings). However, the Firm’s Supervised Persons are permitted to buy or sell
securities that it also recommends to clients if done in a fair and equitable manner that is consistent with
the Firm’s policies and procedures. This Code of Ethics has been established recognizing that some
securities trade in sufficiently broad markets to permit transactions by certain personnel to be completed
without any appreciable impact on the markets of such securities. Therefore, under limited
circumstances, exceptions may be made to the policies stated below.
When the Firm is engaging in or considering a transaction in any security on behalf of a client, no
Supervised Person with access to this information may knowingly effect for themselves or for their
immediate family (i.e., spouse, minor children and adults living in the same household) a transaction in
that security unless:
• The transaction has been completed;
• The transaction for the Supervised Person is completed as part of a batch trade with clients;
or
• A decision has been made not to engage in the transaction for the client.
These requirements are not applicable to: (i) direct obligations of the Government of the United States;
(ii) money market instruments, bankers’ acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper,
repurchase agreements and other high quality short-term debt instruments, including repurchase
agreements; (iii) shares issued by money market funds; and iv) shares issued by other unaffiliated open-
end mutual funds.
Clients and prospective clients may contact Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC to request a copy of its
Code of Ethics.
Item 12. Brokerage Practices
Recommendation of Broker-Dealers for Client Transactions
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC recommends that clients utilize the custody, brokerage and clearing
services of National Financial Services LLC and Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC (together with
affiliates, “Fidelity”) for investment management accounts. The final decision to custody assets with
Fidelity is at the discretion of the client, including those accounts under ERISA or IRA rules and
regulations, in which case the client is acting as either the plan sponsor or IRA accountholder. Wiss
Private Client Advisors, LLC is independently owned and operated and not affiliated with Fidelity.
Fidelity provides Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC with access to its institutional trading and custody
services, which are typically not available to retail investors.
Page | 16
Disclosure Brochure
Factors which Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC considers in recommending Fidelity or any other
broker-dealer to clients include their respective financial strength, reputation, execution, pricing, research
and service. Fidelity enables the Firm to obtain many mutual funds without transaction charges and other
securities at nominal transaction charges. The commissions and/or transaction fees charged by Fidelity
may be higher or lower than those charged by other Financial Institutions. To the extent the Firm
custodies less than $25,000,000 of client assets at Fidelity the end of a quarter, the Firm may incur an
additional platform fee. This arrangement poses a conflict of interest because the Firm has an incentive to
recommend the custody, brokerage and clearing services of Fidelity in order to avoid incurring this fee.
The commissions paid by Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC’ clients to Fidelity comply with the Firm’s
duty to obtain “best execution.” Clients may pay commissions that are higher than another qualified
Financial Institution might charge to effect the same transaction where Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC
determines that the commissions are reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research
services received. 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 Financial Institution’s services, including among others, the value of research provided, execution
capability, commission rates and responsiveness. Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC seeks competitive
rates but may not necessarily obtain the lowest possible commission rates for client transactions.
Consistent with obtaining best execution, brokerage transactions are directed to certain broker-dealers in
return for investment research products and/or services which assist Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC in
its investment decision-making process. Such research will be used to service all of the Firm’s clients,
but brokerage commissions paid by one client may be used to pay for research that is not used in
managing that client’s portfolio. The receipt of investment research products and/or services as well as
the allocation of the benefit of such investment research products and/or services poses a conflict of
interest because Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC does not have to produce or pay for the products or
services.
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC periodically and systematically reviews its policies and procedures
regarding its recommendation of Financial Institutions in light of its duty to obtain best execution.
Software and Support Provided by Financial Institutions
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC receives without cost from Fidelity administrative support, computer
software, related systems support, as well as other third party support as further described below (together
"Support") which allow Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC to better monitor client accounts maintained
at Fidelity and otherwise conduct its business. Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC receives the Support
without cost because the Firm renders investment management services to clients that maintain assets at
Fidelity. The Support is not provided in connection with securities transactions of clients (i.e., not “soft
dollars”). The Support benefits Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC, but not its clients directly. Clients
Page | 17
Disclosure Brochure
should be aware that Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC’ receipt of economic benefits such as the Support
from a broker-dealer creates a conflict of interest since these benefits will influence the Firm’s choice of
broker-dealer over another that does not furnish similar software, systems support or services. In
fulfilling its duties to its clients, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC endeavors at all times to put the
interests of its clients first and has determined that the recommendation of Fidelity is in the best interest of
clients and satisfies the Firm's duty to seek best execution.
Specifically, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC receives the following benefits from Fidelity: i) receipt
of duplicate client confirmations and bundled duplicate statements; ii) access to a trading desk that
exclusively services its institutional traders; iii) access to block trading which provides the ability to
aggregate securities transactions and then allocate the appropriate shares to client accounts; and iv) access
to an electronic communication network for client order entry and account information.
Fidelity also makes available to the Firm, at no additional charge, certain research and brokerage services,
including research services obtained by Fidelity directly from independent research companies, as
selected by Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC (within specified parameters). These research and
brokerage services presently include services such as investment-related research, assistance with creating
model portfolios, access to risk management systems, pricing information and market data, software and
other technology that provide access to client account data and are used by the Firm to manage accounts
for which it has investment discretion. Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC also receives additional
services including compliance and/or practice management-related publications, discounted or gratis
consulting services, discounted and/or gratis attendance at conferences (including travel costs), meetings,
and other educational and/or social events, marketing support, account transition support, computer
hardware and/or software and/or other products used by the Firm in furtherance of its investment advisory
business operations. Without this arrangement, the Firm might be compelled to purchase the same or
similar services at its own expense.
Brokerage for Client Referrals
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC does not consider, in selecting or recommending broker-dealers,
whether the Firm receives client referrals from the Financial Institutions or other third party.
Directed Brokerage
The Firm does not accept direct brokerage arrangements, whereby a client may direct Wiss Private Client
Advisors, LLC in writing to use a particular Financial Institution to execute some or all transactions for
the client.
Page | 18
Disclosure Brochure
Item 13. Review of Accounts
Account Reviews
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC monitors client portfolios on a continuous and ongoing basis while
regular account reviews are conducted on at least a quarterly basis. Such reviews are conducted by the
Firm’s investment adviser representatives. All investment advisory clients are encouraged to discuss their
needs, goals and objectives with Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC and to keep the Firm informed of any
changes thereto. The Firm contacts ongoing investment advisory clients at least annually to review its
previous services and/or recommendations and quarterly to discuss the impact resulting from any changes
in the client’s financial situation and/or investment objectives.
Account Statements and Reports
Clients are provided with transaction confirmation notices and regular summary account statements
directly from the Financial Institutions where their assets are custodied. From time-to-time or as
otherwise requested, clients may also receive written or electronic reports from Wiss Private Client
Advisors, LLC and/or an outside service provider, which contain certain account and/or market-related
information, such as an inventory of account holdings or account performance. Clients should compare
the account statements they receive from their custodian with any documents or reports they receive from
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC or an outside service provider.
Item 14. Client Referrals and Other Compensation
Client Referrals
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC does not currently provide compensation to any third-party solicitors
for client referrals. Partners of Wiss & Co., Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC’ related certified public
accounting firm, may refer clients to the Firm. Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC affiliation with Wiss &
Co. is described at length in Item 10, above.
Other Compensation
The Firm receives economic benefits from Fidelity. The benefits, conflicts of interest and how they are
addressed are discussed above in response to Item 12.
Item 15. Custody
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC is deemed to have custody of client funds and securities because the
Page | 19
Disclosure Brochure
Firm is given the ability to debit client accounts for payment of the Firm’s fees. As such, client funds and
securities are maintained at one or more Financial Institutions that serve as the qualified custodian with
respect to such assets. Such qualified custodians will send account statements to clients at least once per
calendar quarter that typically detail any transactions in such account for the relevant period.
In addition, as discussed in Item 13, Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC will also send, or otherwise make
available, periodic supplemental reports to clients. Clients should carefully review the statements sent
directly by the Financial Institutions and compare them to those received from Wiss Private Client
Advisors, LLC.
Surprise Independent Examination
As Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC is deemed to have custody over clients’ cash, bank accounts or
securities (for reasons other than those discussed above), the Firm is required to engage an independent
accounting Firm to perform a surprise annual examination of those assets and accounts over which it
maintains custody. Any related opinions issued by an independent accounting Firm are filed with the
SEC and are publicly available on the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website. Wiss Private
Client Advisors, LLC does not have direct access to client funds as they are maintained with an
independent qualified custodian.
Standing Letters of Authorization
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC also has custody due to clients giving the Firm limited power of
attorney in a standing letter of authorization (“SLOA”) to disburse funds to one or more third parties as
specifically designated by the client. In such circumstances, the Firm will implement the steps in the
SEC’s no-action letter on February 21, 2017 which includes (in summary): i) client will provide
instruction for the SLOA to the custodian; ii) client will authorize the Firm to direct transfers to the
specific third party; iii) the custodian will perform appropriate verification of the instruction and provide a
transfer of funds notice to the client promptly after each transfer; iv) the client will have the ability to
terminate or change the instruction; v) the Firm will have no authority or ability to designate or change
the identity or any information about the third party; vi) the Firm will keep records showing that the third
party is not a related party of the Firm or located at the same address as the Firm; and vii) the custodian
will send the client an initial and annual notice confirming the SLOA instructions.
Item 16. Investment Discretion
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC is given the authority to exercise discretion on behalf of clients. Wiss
Private Client Advisors, LLC is considered to exercise investment discretion over a client’s account if it
can effect and/or direct transactions in client accounts without first seeking their consent. Wiss Private
Client Advisors, LLC is given this authority through a power-of-attorney included in the agreement
between Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC and the client. Clients may request a limitation on this
authority (such as certain securities not to be bought or sold).
Page | 20
Disclosure Brochure
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC takes discretion over the following activities:
• The securities to be purchased or sold;
• The amount of securities to be purchased or sold;
• When transactions are made; and
• The Independent Managers to be hired or fired.
Item 17. Voting Client Securities
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC does not accept the authority to vote a client’s securities (i.e., proxies) on
their behalf. Clients receive proxies directly from the Financial Institutions where their assets are custodied
and may contact the Firm at the contact information on the cover of this brochure with questions about any
such issuer solicitations.
Item 18. Financial Information
Wiss Private Client Advisors, LLC is not required to disclose any financial information due to the following:
• The Firm does not require or solicit the prepayment of more than $1,200 in fees six months or
more in advance of services rendered;
• The Firm does not have a financial condition that is reasonably likely to impair its ability to
meet contractual commitments to clients; and
• The Firm has not been the subject of a bankruptcy petition at any time during the past ten
years.
Page | 21