John L'Abbate, CFP®

John is the firm’s in-house tax advisor, bringing more than 35 years of expertise when he meets with clients.   His proficiency in both tax and investment planning offers clients an important edge.  “I help clients who are in a high tax bracket avoid what we call a tax drag.   Certain investment strategies have tax triggers, and navigating the combined strategies of taxes and investment management can help avoid that.” 

To begin the careful planning process, John works hard to understand his client’s financial goals.  “My first step is to review their portfolio, their lifestyle and their circumstances and focus on what I would do if I was in their situation.  This way my recommendations are the same as if I was creating a financial plan for myself.”

Of course the specific strategies John implements are impacted by the age of the investor.  “My retired clients tend to be conservative and focus more on principal preservation and income.  A younger couple obviously has a longer timeframe and different expectations because their careers are still progressing.  In those cases we focus on insurance and disability, college accounts and long term growth.  But regardless of age, proper asset allocation is vital.”

When asked if market volatility alters his investment philosophy, John replies with his conviction to keep your focus on your long term goals.  “I don’t try to beat the market on any given day, week or month.   Our clients are typically not speculators, they’re investors.”

Of course John urges clients to remember that a portfolio is always a work in progress.  “As a client’s needs change, or as their portfolio grows or they receive an inheritance or settlement, I continually monitor their asset allocations.  I also consider dollar cost averaging to make sure that we are maximizing their investments while minimizing their overall tax burden.”

John’s client meetings are always met with a smile.   “I really enjoy what I do and nothing makes me happier than when a client comes in, shakes my hand and says thanks John for all you do for me and my family.”

Outside of the office, John loves spending time with his growing crew of grandchildren.  He is an avid traveler and a big car enthusiast who never misses an auto show.