Wealth management expert Jeffrey Fratarcangeli, founder of Fratarcangeli Wealth Management, shares four critical strategies for protecting and growing assets in a changing financial world.
As the wealth management industry adapts to rapid technological advances, shifting regulations and more financially savvy clients, Jeffrey Fratarcangeli, founder & CEO of Fratarcangeli Wealth Management, says the fundamentals of long-term success remain rooted in broader strategy, not just portfolio performance.
“The common perception is that we’re just buying and selling,” Fratarcangeli says. “But investing is just one part of the job. True wealth management means seeing the entire financial picture and preparing for what people haven’t thought about yet.”
Here are four ways that Jeffrey Fratarcangeli sees the wealth management landscape evolving, and how forward-looking advisors like him are helping their clients adapt while staying rooted in relationships and enduring principles of the industry.
Asset protection is no longer optional
While strong returns on investments will always be a goal, Fratarcangeli emphasizes that protecting wealth is just as critical as growing it. That means helping clients insulate assets against lawsuits, accidents or other unexpected events.
“It’s not a matter of if something happens,” Fratarcangeli explains. “It’s when. Whether it’s an accident involving your company or a lawsuit you didn’t see coming, you have to be prepared.”
This kind of risk mitigation includes reviewing umbrella insurance policies, restructuring ownership of assets through LLCs, and ensuring that titling and documentation are aligned with advisors’ protection strategies. Fratarcangeli notes that many clients aren’t even aware of how exposed they are until it’s too late.
“I tell everyone: get the umbrella policy, cover what you can and do it before you need it.”
Estate planning requires a proactive strategy now more than ever
Current estate tax laws allow individuals to pass up to $14 million tax-free to heirs, but that window may be closing soon.
“That number is historically high and could be cut in half as early as the end of this year,” Fratarcangeli warns. “People need to act now.”
One strategy that Jeffrey and the Fratarcangeli Wealth Management team use involves gifting portions of early-stage business interests into dynasty trusts using discount valuations. By transferring these assets before they appreciate significantly in value, clients can maximize the current exemption and reduce potential estate tax burdens.
“You can grow your business five or ten times in value over the next decade,” Fratarcangeli says. “But if you wait to pass it on, you’re handing your heirs a 40% tax bill. A good investment return won’t fix poor estate planning.”
Technology is transforming the industry, but it can’t replace humans
Digital tools and AI have changed how advisors gather information, monitor markets and execute their plans. But they haven’t replaced the need for human insight.
“There’s less secrecy now that information is everywhere,” explains Fratarcangeli. “But information isn’t the same as wisdom. What people really need is someone sitting across the table saying, ‘Yes, that makes sense for you, or no, don’t go down that road.’”
He likens the role of an advisor to a doctor or attorney – someone who uses tools and technology to support the client, but never lets the tools take over the strategic thinking or conversation.
“Apps are helpful,” he adds, “but they won’t walk you through a crisis, or help you see around corners.”
Clients expect (and deserve) holistic financial guidance
As client expectations evolve, so too must the scope of wealth management services. That means taking into account business liabilities, borrowing strategies, benefit costs and privacy concerns, not just stocks and bonds.
Fratarcangeli Wealth Management calls it a “360-degree” approach.
“We meet with clients whether they’re just building a business or preparing to sell one,” Fratarcangeli says. “And the conversation is always the same: how do we align every part of their financial life to support their long-term goals?”
He emphasizes that even high-net-worth clients have blind spots that call for more structured financial plans. For instance, owning a residence through an LLC can help safeguard a person’s privacy, and insuring against future income loss – especially for athletes or business owners – can provide critical protection.
“You can’t run a high-performance financial engine using only three cylinders,” he says. “We’re here to make sure every part of the machine is running.”
The bottom line: Experience and perspective still make the most impact
As technology and regulation continue to reshape the financial industry, one thing remains consistent: clients need advisors who can connect the dots, anticipate challenges and offer guidance rooted in both experience and integrity.
Fratarcangeli sums it up simply: “Ask yourself what you would want if you were sitting on the other side of the table? Then do that. That’s how we operate. That’s what makes the difference.”
For more insight from Jeffrey Fratarcangeli, visit www.fratarcangeliwealth.com.
Securities offered through Thurston Springer Financial, a registered Broker-Dealer (Member FINRA & SIPC). Investment advisory services offered through Thurston Springer Advisors, a SEC-Registered Investment Advisor. Insurance products offered through Thurston Springer Financial, an Indiana Insurance Agency.
The information contained herein constitutes general information and is not directed to, designed for, or individually tailored to, any particular investor or potential investor. This is not intended to be a client-specific suitability or best interest analysis or recommendation, an offer to participate in any investment, or a recommendation to buy, hold or sell securities.
