Vedanta Sentinel Investment Advisors (VSIA): Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA)?

A Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) is a firm registered with either the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or a state regulator to offer investment advice. As an RIA, I am legally obligated to act as a fiduciary, which means putting your best interests above all else. This standard of care is designed to ensure that the advice I give is always in your best interest.

What is an Investment Advisor Representative (IAR), and how is it different from a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA)?

An Investment Advisor Representative (IAR) is an individual who works for a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firm and provides investment advice or recommendations to clients. While an RIA is the firm or entity that is legally registered and regulated to offer investment advice, an IAR is the professional who interacts directly with clients and provides those services on behalf of the firm.

Why should I choose an RIA over a broker?

Choosing an RIA over a broker offers several advantages. Unlike brokers, who are often paid on commission and may have conflicts of interest, RIAs operate under a fiduciary duty and provide fee-only services, ensuring that you receive unbiased advice. As an RIA, I am legally and ethically bound to act in your best interest, offering more transparency and fewer conflicts of interest.

What is a fiduciary duty, and why is it important? 

A fiduciary duty means that I am legally obligated to act in your best interest at all times, putting your needs ahead of my own. This standard sets me apart from brokers who may have conflicts of interest or be incentivized to recommend certain products for commissions. As a fiduciary, I ensure that my recommendations are always objective and focused on your long-term financial success.

What is a Fee-Only Fiduciary Investment Advisor? How are you different from a Broker?

As a Fee-Only Fiduciary Advisor, my focus is on you. I provide investment advice for a fee that is solely based on the services I deliver—there are no hidden commissions or incentives. Unlike brokers, who earn commissions for selling financial products, I do not sell products for profit. Instead, I give unbiased recommendations tailored to your unique needs. I am passionate about educating clients, on investing and helping them take control of their financial futures. In my practice, profit is not my motive—your financial well-being is.

How does Vedanta Sentinel Investment Advisors (VSIA) make money on investment services?

VSIA’s business is based on a fee-only model. Our investment management fees are typically a  fractional % of the assets we manage for you. The beauty of this model is that my interests are aligned with yours—if your investments grow, so does my fee. Conversely, if your investments decrease in value, the fee also decreases.

Is it only for rich people?

No! Whether you're a retiree, a busy professional, single, newly married, starting a family, divorced, or widowed, there are important investment and portfolio decisions that need to be made. VSIA is here to help clients at all stages of life, no matter their wealth level.

Who is NOT a good fit for Vedanta Sentinel Investment Advisors?

We focus on providing low-fee Investment Management solutions and hourly investment consulting. If you have less than $100,000 in investable assets, we may not be the best fit for comprehensive Investment Management. However, we can still offer hourly Investment Consulting. Additionally, if you are in a difficult financial situation with overwhelming debt, you may need credit counseling rather than a financial planner. Organizations like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling or Debtors Anonymous might be better suited for your needs.

Will I be pressured to buy products?

No! As a fee-only advisor, I have no products to sell, and I do not receive commissions for recommending any specific products. My only focus is to give you the best advice, free from any conflict of interest.

How does VSIA invest in the stock market?

We primarily use low-expense Index ETFs and Index Funds to gain exposure to various asset classes such as stocks, bonds, currencies, and commodities. We believe in a diversified, cost-effective approach to investing that can help you achieve long-term financial success. Please review our website for more details on the investment solutions we offer.

Where are my assets held?

Your investments are held with trusted independent custodians: 1) Altruist and/or 2) Charles Schwab. These firms provide you with trade confirmations, monthly statements, and tax documents like 1099s. Additionally, they offer online access to your accounts, so you can check on your investments at any time. While we provide ongoing portfolio management, we cannot withdraw funds from your accounts except for collecting advisory fees outlined in the Investment Advisory Agreement.

Who can I talk to when I have questions?

You should reach out to VSIA for any questions regarding your portfolio, investments, or any administrative tasks. We're here to assist you every step of the way. You can also contact the Custodian’s Customer Service Department. 

What about my other advisors?

We’re happy to collaborate with your other professionals, such as accountants, attorneys, and tax advisors, to ensure that all aspects of your financial life are well-managed and aligned with your goals.

What happens if I decide to discontinue Vedanta Sentinel Investment Advisors’ services?

If you decide to end our services, you may cancel at any time by providing written notice. Upon termination, any fees due will be prorated based on the number of days services were rendered in the month of cancellation.

How do I get started?

To begin, schedule a complimentary consultation. During our meeting, we’ll discuss your goals, answer your questions, and determine how we can best assist you in achieving your financial objectives. If i

Who is watching over you if you are a solo advisor? 

As an investment advisor, I am fully regulated by the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) and the FINRA. Additionally, I am a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and CFA Charterholder, which means I am held to the highest fiduciary standards set by the CFP Board and the CFA Institute. You can rest assured that I’m committed to ethical practices and safeguarding your financial interests.

What licenses and certifications do you have?

VSIA a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) licensed through the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS). I am registered with the state of Michigan as an IAR (Investment Advisory Representative) for my RIA, Vedanta Sentinel Investment Advisors.  

Additionally, I am a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), both of which require rigorous education, experience, and ethical standards.

How often will I hear from you?

I believe in proactive communication. We will schedule regular annual reviews to assess your portfolio and discuss any changes in your financial life. You can also reach out to me anytime with questions or concerns, and I’ll always respond promptly to ensure that you are well-informed and supported. Additionally, we will offer semi-annual market updates and quarterly market commentaries via email and on our website. 

Can I access my accounts online?

Yes, your accounts will be held with Charles Schwab and Altruist, both of which provide secure online access. You can track your investment performance, view your portfolio, and access statements at any time.

What happens if I want to make changes to my investment strategy?

If your financial goals or situation changes, we’ll review your current strategy and make adjustments accordingly. I’m here to guide you through any updates to ensure that your investments remain aligned with your evolving needs.

Are my investments safe with you?

Yes, your investments are held by trusted custodians like Charles Schwab and Altruist, who are regulated by the SEC and other industry standards. Though your investments do have the market risk. 

How can I be sure you’re the right advisor for me?

The best way to determine if we’re the right fit is through an initial consultation. During this meeting, we’ll discuss your goals, concerns, and priorities to ensure we’re aligned in terms of approach and values. 

Schedule a No-Obligation Virtual Meeting: 🗓️. Or, 📲: 567-VEDANTA

How do I contact you if I have questions or need assistance?

You can contact me by phone, email, or through the website’s contact form. I’m always here to help with any questions you have or assistance you need with your financial situation.

What makes Vedanta Sentinel Investment Advisors different?

Unlike larger firms, I provide personalized attention and a variety of portfolio management solutions, which are usually not available to Institutional Investors. Plus unlike most smaller financial planning firms, our focus is geared towards low-cost portfolio management solutions. With my fee-only structure and commitment to acting as a fiduciary, you can trust that I always have your best interests at heart. 

🗓️Take the 1st step: Schedule your complimentary no obligation Virtual Meeting.