Bel-Air Wealth Management, a team within UBS Wealth Management, is led by senior members John Acker, David Selig, Mark Tunney, Todd Feiereisen, and John Buchanan, based in Los Angeles, CA. With custodied assets totaling $2.1 billion, the team was formed in 2009 by John Acker, who has a background in accounting and finance. The team consists of nine members and services approximately 320 clients, with a focus on athletes, entertainers, and celebrities.
The team at Bel-Air Wealth Management takes a conservative approach to managing client assets, focusing on dividend and value-oriented equities rather than growth. They have transitioned from using mutual funds to separately managed accounts and ETFs in the last five years, as well as emphasizing the use of all-in-one accounts from internal UBS managers with no fees. On the fixed income side, the team has been lengthening duration to lock in higher rates for clients and the majority of clients are also invested in alternative assets such as private equity, private credit, and real estate.
Despite being a long-term optimist when it comes to markets, John Acker remains cautious about current market valuations, suggesting clients hedge their portfolios with more fixed income investments. He believes there is currently more value in bonds than equities and predicts that the Federal Reserve will continue to reduce interest rates in the near future. Acker also raises concerns regarding inflation due to trade policies and the federal debt, leading him to believe that long-term rates may continue to rise even as the Fed cuts rates.
When it comes to advising clients, Acker emphasizes the importance of maintaining a high touch approach and being readily available to meet or speak with clients. He believes that personal relationships and communication are key in client relationships. Overall, Bel-Air Wealth Management focuses on delivering personalized financial advice and investment strategies tailored to the individual needs and goals of their clients, with a focus on protecting assets and generating long-term growth.
As the team at Bel-Air Wealth Management continues to navigate current market conditions, they remain committed to their conservative investment approach and focus on providing excellent service to their clients. With a strong emphasis on communication, personalized advice, and risk management, the team is well-positioned to help clients achieve their financial goals and navigate the uncertainties of the market. Their dedication to building long-lasting relationships with clients and staying informed on market trends underscores their commitment to excellence in wealth management.
