• Your investments are important. Advisory Services can help them receive the care they deserve.
• Your investments can be professionally managed or a Financial Advisor can help you manage them yourself.
• Wells Fargo Advisors programs allow flexibility to help you reach your goals. 

Managing investments 

A lot may be riding on your investments: retirement, children’s or grandchildren’s education, your financial legacy. Your investment plan should get the attention it deserves. 

Some investors enjoy managing their own plan. They are confident in their abilities and have the time to research and monitor their investments’ performance. 

You’re not alone if you don’t fall into that category. Like many others, you may want to work with a professional by taking advantage of an advisory program.

 

Using an advisory program 

You can save time and have a professional manage your investments when you use the services of an advisory program. 

Advisory programs generally fall into two categories. One gives another party the power to make decisions for your account’s day-to-day management. This means you can allow a portfolio manager — in some cases your Financial Advisor — to decide when to buy, sell, and hold investments without consulting you. 

Your portfolio manager will make decisions based on a variety of factors: 

• Your long-term objectives
• The time you have to reach your objectives
• Your risk tolerance 

In the other program, you collaborate with your Financial Advisor. We will provide you with objective advice and guidance based on your needs, goals, and today’s investment environment, to help you make your own buy, sell, and hold decisions. 

Fee replaces commissions 

So how can an advisory account differ from a traditional brokerage account? One difference is how you pay for the services you receive. In an advisory account program, you generally pay a fee. This is often charged on a quarterly basis based on a percentage of your account’s value. In a traditional brokerage account you would pay a commission for each transaction. 

Flexible range of alternatives 

You can choose which advisory services program you implement. Wells Fargo Advisors offers an array of programs. You can decide what products you would like to have managed, such as mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), stocks, bonds, and commodity-based investments. 

We can discuss the programs with you and see what fits your situation – and what makes you feel more confident in helping you reach your goals. 

Next steps

Decide if you would like some extra help with making your investment decisions.

Make an appointment to talk with us about advisory accounts.



The fees for advisory programs are asset-based and assessed quarterly in advance. There may be a minimum fee to maintain this type of account. Fees include advisory services, performance measurement, transaction costs, custody services, and trading. These fees do not cover the fees and expenses of any underlying exchange traded fund (ETF), closed-end funds, or mutual funds in the portfolio. Advisory accounts are not designed for excessively traded or inactive accounts and are not appropriate for all investors. Please carefully review the Wells Fargo Advisors advisory disclosure document for a full description of our services, including fees and expenses. The minimum account size for these programs is between $10,000 and $2,000,000.

Mutual funds, bonds and individual stocks have their places in most portfolios. But if you are open to other avenues for growth potential, alternative investments such as hedge funds and private debt might provide these benefits for your investment plan:

• Historically lower market correlation compared to traditional investments
• Less-extreme market cycle peaks and troughs
• Access to more investment opportunities

If this interests you, we can create a plan with alternative investment allocations as part of your overall investment strategy to unlock potentially significant opportunities.

Alternative Investments: Upside That Can Limit Downside Exposure

From 1990 through the end of 2022, hedge funds have helped investors navigate difficult markets by experiencing significantly fewer negative months than equities.

Equities have experienced a much bumpier ride than hedge funds:



<sub>Source: MPI Stylus. Numbers indicate months with returns of less than -3%. Data based on historical performance from January 1, 1990, through December 31, 2022. Hedge funds are represented by the HFRI Fund Weighted Composite Index. Developed market equities are represented by the MSCI World Index.For illustrative purposes only. Index returns do not represent fund performance or the results of actual trading. Index returns reflect general market results; assume the reinvestment of dividends and other distributions; and do not reflect deduction of fees, expenses, or taxes applicable to an actual investment. Unlike most asset class indexes, HFR Index returns reflect deduction for fees. Because the HFR Indexes are calculated based on information that is voluntarily provided, actual returns may be lower than those reported. An index is unmanaged and not available for direct investment. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Alternative investments, such as hedge funds, funds of hedge funds, managed futures, private capital, real assets and real estate funds, are not appropriate for all investors. They are speculative, highly illiquid, and are designed for long-term investment, and not as trading vehicle. These funds carry specific investor qualifications which can include high income and net-worth requirements as well as relatively high investment minimums. The high expenses associated with alternative investments must be offset by trading profits and other income which may not be realized. Unlike mutual funds, alternative investments are not subject to some of the regulations designed to protect investors and are not required to provide the same level of disclosure as would be received from a mutual fund. They trade in diverse complex strategies that are affected in different ways and at different times by changing market conditions. Strategies may, at times, be out of market favor for considerable periods with adverse consequences for the fund and the investor. An investment in these funds involve the risks inherent in an investment in securities and can include losses associated with speculative investment practices, including hedging and leveraging through derivatives, such as futures, options, swaps, short selling, investments in non-U.S. securities, “junk” bonds and illiquid investments. The use of leverage in a portfolio varies by strategy. Leverage can significantly increase return potential but create greater risk of loss. At times, a fund may be unable to sell certain of its illiquid investments without a substantial drop in price, if at all. Other risks can include those associated with potential lack of diversification, restrictions on transferring interests, no available secondary market, complex tax structures, delays in tax reporting, valuation of securities and pricing. An investment in a fund of funds carries additional risks including asset-based fees and expenses at the fund level and indirect fees, expenses and asset-based compensation of investment funds in which these funds invest. An investor should review the private placement memorandum, subscription agreement and other related offering materials for complete information regarding terms, including all applicable fees, as well as the specific risks associated with a fund before investing.</sub>

• Insurance is valuable for employees and owners.
• Owners get to retire, too.
• You can begin planning now for retirement, selling your company, or the event of your death. 

Wells Fargo Advisors provides products and services, available through your Financial Advisor, that help you manage your assets and plan for the future. 

Customized products and services for business owners 

We are committed to helping you maximize the success and profitability of your business. Our specialized products and services can help give your business the cash flow and support it needs to thrive. 

Some of the services we offer and can assist with include: 

Employee benefit plans and packages

A competitive employee benefit package helps you attract and keep employees, regardless of the size of your company.  

Business owner life insurance

As a business owner, it’s important to consider both replacing the income your family depends on, and also providing funds to pay off business-related liabilities.  

Funding a buy-sell agreement

If your business has more than one owner, you need to understand the risks you may face if one of you dies unexpectedly. A buy-sell agreement sets up how ownership of the business may be transferred if one owner dies.

Key person life insurance

Proceeds from this type of business insurance can help offset the loss of sales your business would experience or expenses it may incur if a key person dies. 

Succession planning and business exit strategies

It can be helpful to start the succession planning and exit strategy process many years in advance. 

• Selling a business: There are many options to consider in both the sale and how you will generate income after the sale.
• Transferring the business to a family member: There are a variety of succession planning strategies you can use to transfer the business to a family member 

Next steps 

• Make an appointment with us to talk about your business needs.
• Talk with your family or partners about insurance or succession planning.
• Check the beneficiary designations on your financial and investment accounts.

Insurance products are offered through nonbank insurance agency affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company and are underwritten by unaffiliated insurance companies. 

Formally documenting your wishes for your estate may seem daunting, as it involves grappling with your mortality. But it is crucial part of a comprehensive wealth plan, one that goes beyond finances and cash flow.

Formal estate plans can help:

• Lead to timely, efficient estate settlement and distributions to beneficiaries
• Reduce potential family dynamics issues
• Prevent unwanted tax liability
• Provide comfort and continuity that your wishes will be followed as you age and after you’re gone
• Align your wealth transfer with your charitable vision.

It’s important to remember that your estate plan isn’t set in stone. You should revisit it at least annually to account for changes to your goals or life. We can refer you to  Wells Fargo affiliates  or work with your existing estate plan provider to provide crucial guidance for this pillar of effective wealth management.

Essential Estate Planning Documents

The number of documents in your estate plan will depend entirely on your circumstances, but these five can be considered must-haves for most people.

Will – This legal document expresses your wishes for distributing your property after you die. Establishing a will is important, especially if you have minor children or significant assets.

Durable Power of Attorney - This gives someone else authority to make financial decisions on your behalf if you become unable. This is highly recommended as it ensures your finances will be handled properly if you cannot do so yourself.

Healthcare Power of Attorney - If you can’t communicate your wishes regarding your care, this document ensures they will be honored in the event of your incapacitation.

Living Will - This outlines your wishes for end-of-life care, including life support or other medical treatments.

Revocable Living Trust - With this document, you can avoid probate court and distribute your property according to your wishes after you die. This can save time and money while adding an additional layer of privacy.

<sub>Trust services available through banking and trust affiliates in addition to nonaffiliated companies of Wells Fargo and its affiliates.
Wells Fargo and Company and its Affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Be sure to consult with  your tax and legal advisors before taking any action that could have tax consequences. Any estate plan  should be reviewed by an attorney who specializes in estate planning and is licensed to practice law in your state.

Wealth & Investment Management offers financial products and services through bank and brokerage affiliates of Wells Fargo &  Company. Bank products and services are available through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC.</sub>

• If you were sick, injured or died, would your family have the resources to achieve their goals?
• Help cover unpredictable financial risks through insurance.
• Life, disability, and long-term care insurance help cover risks that could disrupt your investment plan.

Insurance helps protect assets 

You can’t avoid all risks in life. Insurance can play a key role in helping preserve your assets and achieve your financial goals. 

It’s all about keeping an eye on both assets and liabilities. Insurance allows you to transfer a risk from your balance sheet to an insurer’s.  Find out why we recommend insurance as part of your investment plan.

A different kind of risk 

When it comes to your financial goals, there are more risks to consider than just market volatility.  Insurance can help protect against life-changing events. It can help ensure the financial goals you have made can continue on.  

We offer life, disability and long-term care insurance to help protect what matters most to you.  Each type of coverage can help protect the key areas of your financial life: family, business, retirement, and legacy.  

• Life Insurance - Life insurance helps protect the financial security of your family. Each type of life insurance is designed for a specific purpose. There is no “one size fits all”.  We offer a wide selection of life insurance products, all from highly rated insurance companies, to help meet your specific protection needs.

• Long-Term Care Insurance - This type of insurance can help pay for the costs of long-term care should you need it. It is important to know that Medicare does not pay the largest part of long-term care services or personal care—such as help with bathing, or for supervision often called custodial care. 

• Disability Insurance - Disability insurance is designed to replace a portion of your income if you're unable to work because of a sickness or injury. Even if you could weather a temporary gap in earnings, an extended disability can be financially devastating and put your other goals, such as retirement and college planning, at risk.

How much should I have? 

When it comes to the amount of coverage needed to help protect your financial goals, the “right” answer is unique to you. Factors such as your age, who depends on you, and your income and assets, should be carefully reviewed.  


It’s important to understand the amount may change over time and when major life events occur, making a regular review is critical. 

Next Steps

• Research the costs associated with skilled nursing care, adult day care, and other services.
• Understand your annual expenses to help ensure you have the proper disability and life insurance coverage.
• Evaluate how your needs may change over time.
• Call us to see how insurance can play a role in your retirement planning.

Insurance products are offered through non-bank insurance agency affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company and are underwritten by unaffiliated insurance companies.

Guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.

Developing your retirement income strategy is part of the eMoney® process. Utilizing our resources, we can help you analyze possible expenses and sources of income. Checking on your strategy annually can help you maintain course.

It starts with a plan

Creating a plan can help you stay focused, plan for challenges ahead, and make choices that work for you. Our eMoney® process is the foundation we use to develop your retirement income plan. It can help you make choices and tackle the following topics: When and how can I retire with confidence? How can I help make my money last as long as I’m retired? Where will my income come from? How do I prepare for and respond to events throughout retirement? When and how should I address my legacy goals?

7 common retirement planning moves

Will the money in your investment accounts last through retirement? Here are some steps that go beyond the basics of using tax-advantaged funds and making regular contributions. Review your portfolio - Conduct regular investment checkups on your own and with us. Maintain emergency savings - Wells Fargo Advisors recommends keeping an emergency fund with enough money to cover living expenses for three to six months. Keep emergency funds in a liquid account you can easily access if needed. Set an appropriate asset allocation - Investments are fluid. Some are more volatile, but all can be affected by market fluctuations. Adjust your assets to align with your current goals and tolerance for risk. Itemize your income plan - Understand where your retirement funds will come from. List out all sources, such as Social Security and pensions. For each item, list how it might generate income for your portfolio. Clean up your accounts - Consider consolidating accounts. You’ll not only have less paperwork, you can help keep an eye on your asset allocation and overall investment strategy. We can talk about your choices and what might make the most sense for you. Before taking any action, speak with your current retirement plan administrator and tax professional. Sell assets strategically - Selling assets can have tax implications. Proceeds could nudge you into a higher tax bracket. Balance the concern of minimizing taxes when you’re selling assets with your portfolio’s allocation strategy. Talk with us about the choices you have in this situation. Talk with family - Partners and spouses should be on the same page regarding your financial portfolio. Cover some key financial details:

Current total assets How much you have saved right now How much is in each account Where the funds are located Your budget Part of your plan is how you spend your money – now and when you retire. Talk about it.

Common risks to address

While we develop your retirement plan, you’ll want to look at risks such as inflation, market events, health needs, withdrawal strategy, and how long you’re likely to live. Understanding the impact these challenges may have on your savings and planning for them can help you stay the course.

Have an ongoing process

Planning for retirement is not a “one and done” kind of activity. A good plan should be checked regularly and adjusted, as necessary. Keep an eye on your portfolio, talk about your expectations, and prepare for the unexpected. Schedule an annual checkup with us to review your plans, your current circumstances, and your portfolio. We’ll work together to discuss your choices and what works for you.

Next steps

Think about what you hope your retirement will be. Write down all your possible sources of income and expenses in retirement. Take a look at your portfolio and call us if you have any questions about changing your asset allocation. Call us to start on your personalized retirement income plan.