Gray Daus was born and raised in Frederick, Maryland where he developed a strong work ethic at an early age while working on family farms.   He grew up in a mostly middle-class family. At times he experienced financial scarcity in childhood that fueled a desire to succeed in business and pursue a path of financial independence. 

In high school, his accounting teacher described the miracle of compounding and the power of the financial markets. For the first time, he saw a graph showing the tremendous growth of the US stock market over the past 100 years.  

Gray’s grandfather was a local businessman and entrepreneur who lived frugally and began investing at an early age.  He invested over a long-term period and sought advice from professional advisors. Gray observed that shrewd management could provide financial freedom and a positive impact on family and the community. 

He entered college majoring in accounting and then gravitated toward finance after completing a summer job at Merrill Lynch during his junior year of college that solidified his desire to become a financial advisor.

Gray earned his B.S.B.A. degree in Finance from Shippensburg University of PA. While there, he ranked in Who’s Who among American Colleges and Universities and was the President and a founder of the Omicron Chapter of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity.  He also played club Water Polo and was active in student government.

Upon graduation, Gray started his career as a financial advisor at Merrill Lynch. He then spent eight years at BB&T Investment Services, Inc. before moving to Wells Fargo Advisors in 2010.

While at Wells Fargo Advisors, Gray achieved recognition as a member of the Platinum Council for the years 2013-2024. He was also named a Five Star Wealth Manager every year from 2012-2024. Gray believes in lifelong learning and growth. He was named among Forbes® Best-In-State Advisors for both 2021-2024.

Committed to professional excellence, Gray earned Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA®), Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®), and Accredited Wealth Management AdvisorSM (AWMA®) certifications.  According to the Investment & Wealth Institute in 2022, there are 271,700 U.S. Financial Advisors.  Less than 3% of financial advisors hold these designations with only 8,250 holding the CIMA® and 2,148 holding the CPWA® certification.

Gray and his wife Jennifer have been married since 2003 and have four children-- Blake, Carter, Sadie, and Emma. They are members of New City Church in Matthews, NC. Gray supports environmental sustainability and renewable resources through ownership and management of pine timber forests in the Carolinas. Gray served on the advisory board of Wingate University’s Porter B. Byrum School of Business through 2022. For recreation, he enjoys reading, hiking, traveling, and riding ATVs.

Gray and friend at Macchu Picchu

Don't Wait 'Til Retirement...

I met a man a few years ago who told me that he and his friends has recently retired, and they made a pact to start taking epic adventure trips every other year and had done so for almost a decade.  I remember thinking, this is a great idea, but it’s unfortunate that they only started taking the trips at age 65. Sometimes life circumstances and health challenges suggest that we shouldn’t wait.

Many financially successful people that I work with struggle to prioritize personal fulfillment and recreation.  They think these are things you do after your done working.  I most admire our clients who work hard AND make time for their relationships, health, and pursuits they are passionate about.  They appear to remain more vibrant and satisfied than people who are waiting for some future time to do this.

I’ve made a pact of my own that started with a trip to the Grand Canyon in 2019.  I recently hiked to Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, in 2022. I did it because it was challenging, awe inspiring, and it requires me to get out of my comfort zone.  We’ve already begun planning our next trip soon, likely to Kilimanjaro in 2024.

When will you make time for something you’re passionate about and what will it be?
Gray and son Carter at Berkshire Hathaway Conference

Berkshire Hathaway Outing



I’m in Omaha, Nebraska for the #BerkshireHathaway Shareholders meeting with my son, Blake, who has taken an interest in finance and investing. It’s never too early to teach your children about investing, and it serves them well later in life. I plan to gain some great insights of the market from the Oracle himself!
Gray skydiving

Leave it to the Professionals!

Around 2011, a chance opportunity led me to jump out of a small plane for the first time. The experience was transformational!

After a few jumps, I decided that I wanted to become a licensed skydiver and enrolled in Accelerated FreeFall (AFF) training! I learned some key lessons in this experience worth sharing:

On my first solo jump, I had trouble locating the rip cord. Keep in mind that the positioning is different for solo versus tandem jumpers. This was potentially very concerning, but my in-air coaches helped me locate it, & I deployed my chute and landed safely.

On my second solo jump, I located the rip cord and threw the "birdie" away from my body, but failed to let go of it to deploy my drone chute. Again, my in-air coaches quickly corrected this in the air, & I deployed my chute and landed safely.

On my third and final solo jump, I completed all of the in-air maneuvers successfully to meet the jump requirements. I navigated my own flight plan for landing, missed the targeted landing area somewhat, and ended up in some tall grass nearby!

None of these hiccups themselves proved to be fatal, but it did get me thinking about whether I should try to be the professional, or stick to relying on the true professionals who do this day in and day out to provide me with a safe and fun recreational experience that allows me to return to my family each night. It got me thinking about whether, in a pressure situation, I would be able to calmly execute the emergency procedures needed to stay safe in the event of an equipment malfunction. It also became clear quickly that to be a safe skydiver and keep your skills sharp, you must jump regularly without large gaps in between jumps….otherwise, jumping can be unsafe.

I arrived at the conclusion that it would be wiser and more enjoyable to have the benefits of jumping while resting in the expertise of well-trained professionals who love what they do & do it well. They keep me safe & protect me from myself! To this day, I still enjoy the occasional tandem jump aided by a professional skydiver, who are among the best in the world. I get that much more from the experience knowing that I am not jeopardizing my own safety or the safety of my family in the process.

I believe investing is similar. Sometimes market conditions become harsh, & intense emotions and fear roil the stock market. This involves chaos, confusion, & misinformation. How many investors have the training, experience & perspective to safely navigate storms while keeping a steady hand and remaining steadfast to the task at hand?

In this way, my team & I have the unique privilege of providing safety and protection to our clients during the financial storms. We answer the call, so that our clients can experience confidence, clarity, & comfort knowing that are doing what we do every day as investment professionals. Thank you to everyone who bestows this trust in us. It is a high calling, and one that we are truly passionate about!

Dan Sperow was born and raised in Lexington, KY.  Growing up, Dan learned to set goals and work hard to achieve them through attentive parents and involvement in Boy Scouts.  He then applied these values to the wrestling team, which recognized him with the 110% and Most Dedicated awards.    

Seeking a strong business program, Dan ventured to Miami University in Ohio.  While pursuing two majors, he joined the club boxing team and was eventually named team captain. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and is very grateful for the well-rounded education that he received from Miami University.   

Dan became a Financial Advisor at Paine Webber (now UBS) in 1996 and went through their celebrated training program. Seeing an opportunity to provide comprehensive wealth management, he moved to Wells Fargo Advisors in 1998. Always striving for improvement, he is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation as well as a CRPC® (Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™).  These designations set the stage for creating a truly comprehensive financial advisory practice.

In 2012, Dan met his business partner, Gray Daus.  They shared a common vision for serving clients and operating a best-in-class wealth management team.  Soon after this meeting, the Sperow Daus Private Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors was formed.

As Dan and Gray worked to build a top-notch client experience, Dan continued to pursue additional education.  Through the Wharton School of Management, he earned the CIMA® (Certified Investment Management Analyst™) designation.  This program focused on portfolio construction and risk management.  He then went on to earn the CPWA® (Certified Private Wealth Advisor) certification through the Yale School of Management.  This rigorous program covered the specific needs of high net-worth clients.    

While at Wells Fargo Advisors, Dan has been honored as a member of the Wells Fargo Platinum Council from 2013-2024.  From 2012 through 2024, he earned the ranking of Five Star Wealth Manager. Dan was also named among Forbes® Best-In-State Wealth Advisors for 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. We feel his continued commitment to his clients is exemplified through these awards.

Dan has a passion for providing individuals and communities with financial education. In this pursuit, he joined the Association of Financial Educators. This nonprofit organization seeks to promote widespread and comprehensive financial literacy.

Dan lives in Charlotte, NC with his wife of over 25 years, Lisa. They have two amazing daughters, Emily and Nicole.

Dan has always enjoyed outdoor adventure sports.  On weekends, you might find him hiking, skiing, rafting, kayaking, or mountain biking.  He is also an active member of his church and loves spending time with family.

Dan Sperow' daughter Emily getting married

In Sickness and In Health

I spend a lot of time helping other prepare for life’s big events like sending kids off to college, retiring, or caring for loved ones who need support.

This summer, we experiences one of life’s big moments firsthand when our daughter, Emily, married her true love! We couldn’t be more happy for her.

Today, I’d like to say thanks to the people who allow me the privilege of experiencing the joy of their successes and enduring alongside them during the challenges.
Dan Sperow sitting at table teaching parents how to teach their kids finances

Raising Money-Smart Kids

Being financially literate is one of the most beneficial skills one can teach a child. Many parents desire this for their kids, but are not sure where to even start.

In an effort to combat this confusion, Pete Mirandi and I recently taught a class on how exactly to go about raising money-smart kids. Thank you to Mecklenburg Community Church for allowing us to talk about the importance of financial wellness for the next generation!
DDan Sperow in front of Forbes banner

Commitment to Success

It was an honor to attend the Forbes Top Teams Summit in Miami this past week! I am proud of our team for being named among the most successful in the industry for 2023 and 2024 by Forbes. This was an incredible opportunity to share best practices and strategies with people dedicated to the common purpose of bettering the lives of our clients!

2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams: Awarded January 2024; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 3/31/22-3/31/23 (Source: Forbes.com). 2023 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams: Awarded January 2023; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 3/31/21-3/31/22 (Source: Forbes.com). The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC, which does not receive compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a rating. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.

Our Commitment to You

We work hard to serve our clients’ best interests through careful planning and transparent actions. When working with us, you’ll know the reasons for our recommendations and any fees associated with them. You’ll receive timely attention when you have a concern or question. And we can work together in person, by phone, or via email – whichever works best for you.
1 The Platinum Council (Previously known as Premier Advisor) distinction is held by a select group of Financial Advisors within Wells Fargo Advisors as measured by completion of educational components, business production based on the past year, and professionalism. Additional criteria, including best practices and team structure, may also be used to determine recipients.


2 The Five Star Wealth Manager award was issued on 8/1/24 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/10/23 through 4/30/24. Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Five Star Wealth Managers. The award is based on 10 objective criteria. Eligibility criteria – required: 1. Credentialed as a registered investment adviser or a registered investment adviser representative; 2. Actively licensed as a registered investment adviser or as a principal of a registered investment adviser firm for a minimum of 5 years; 3. Favorable regulatory and complaint history review (As defined by FSP, the wealth manager has not; A. Been subject to a regulatory action that resulted in a license being suspended or revoked, or payment of a fine; B. Had more than a total of three settled or pending complaints filed against them and/or a total of five settled, pending, dismissed or denied complaints with any regulatory authority or FSP’s consumer complaint process. Unfavorable feedback may have been discovered through a check of complaints registered with a regulatory authority or complaints registered through FSP’s consumer complaint process; feedback may not be representative of any one client’s experience; C. Individually contributed to a financial settlement of a customer complaint; D. Filed for personal bankruptcy within the past 11 years; E. Been terminated from a financial services firm within the past 11 years; F. Been convicted of a felony); 4. Fulfilled their firm review based on internal standards; 5. Accepting new clients. Evaluation criteria – considered: 6. One-year client retention rate; 7. Five-year client retention rate; 8. Non-institutional discretionary and/or non-discretionary client assets administered; 9. Number of client households served; 10. Education and professional designations. FSP does not evaluate quality of services provided to clients. The award is not indicative of the wealth manager’s future performance. Wealth managers may or may not use discretion in their practice and therefore may not manage their clients’ assets. The inclusion of a wealth manager on the Five Star Wealth Manager list should not be construed as an endorsement of the wealth manager by FSP or this publication. Working with a Five Star Wealth Manager or any wealth manager is no guarantee as to future investment success, nor is there any guarantee that the selected wealth managers will be awarded this accomplishment by FSP in the future.1690 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 99 (6% of candidates) were named 2024 Five Star Wealth Managers. Visit www.fivestarprofessional.com.

Award issued on 8/1/23 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/10/22 through 5/05/23. 1,677 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 105 (6% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers.

Award issued on 08/1/2022 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/11/2021 through 04/22/2022. 1519 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 101 (7% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers. 

Award issued on 08/01/2021 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/11/2020 through 04/22/2021. 1514 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 106 (7% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers.

Award issued on 08/01/2020 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/11/2019 through 04/22/2020. 1488 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 103 (7% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers.

Award issued on 08/01/2019 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/11/2018 through 04/22/2019. 1346 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 129 (10% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers.

Award issued on 08/01/2018 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/11/2017 through 04/22/2018. 1342 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 104 (8% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers.

Award issued on 08/01/2017 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/11/2016 through 04/22/2017. 949 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 132 (14% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers.

Award issued on 08/01/2016 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/11/2015 through 04/22/2016. 873 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 227 (26% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers.

Award issued on 08/01/2015 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/11/2014 through 04/22/2015. 1822 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 277 (15% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers.

Award issued on 08/01/2014 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/11/2013 through 04/22/2014. 6776 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 409 (6% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers.

Award issued on 08/01/2013 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/11/2012 through 04/22/2013. 1694 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 280 (17% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers.

Award issued on 08/01/2012 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 10/11/2011 through 04/22/2012. 1083 Charlotte-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 267 (25% of candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers.

 

3 2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2024; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/22-6/30/23 (Forbes.com). 2023 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2023; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/21 - 6/30/22 (Source: Forbes.com). 2022 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2022; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/20 - 6/30/21 (Source: Forbes.com). 2021 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded February 2021; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/19 - 6/30/20 (Source: Forbes.com). The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.