Investopedia Advisor Insights

My name is Carlos Dias Jr. I'm the founder and CEO of Excel Tax and Wealth Group. What inspired me to become a financial advisor is not to give the same common advice. In my 20s, I was approached by a financial services company with an opportunity. Their company, unfortunately, was very cookie-cutter, and they were giving the same advice to every client. Ultimately, I started working with an insurance company, and that turned out to be an even worse decision. I went off on my own and have been independent ever since. A little bit about my company: yes, we are a financial planning firm, but we really focus on an overall financial picture. A lot of other firms, they're gonna put you in a lot of pre-made products, financial plans, and things that just don't work. My typical client is 15 years away from or already in retirement, is established, and is not looking for conventional advice but more of a unique approach to their financial situation. My investing values, unlike traditional firms, I have your best interests at heart. Typically, you'll be locked into one strategy. I like to give my clients different approaches because every person's situation is different. The most important advice I routinely give to clients is that you don't know how long your career will last. Be prepared for what might happen. I'm here to listen to you and to give you the best advice possible. A lot of times advisors will have these pre-made solutions that are just not in your best interest. Find someone that has an open ear and is able to put something together that fits your needs.