It’s the day before Thanksgiving and we couldn’t help wondering what our readers are thankful for in 2018—a year highlighted by massive tax reform, a remarkable influx of new clients and an interesting, if turbulent stock market.

So just what are advisors thankful for on the eve of this American tradition celebrating friendship, family and food?

To find out, we asked them in an informal survey. We’re pleasantly surprised that no one mentioned profits, despite the soaring growth in the advisor assets and clients. Instead, advisors told us they are most grateful for change, challenge and, especially, their clients.

Here in their own words are advisors’ tales of gratitude:

Marguerita M. Cheng, CEO, Blue Ocean Global Wealth, Potomac, MD


I’m thankful and blessed for discovering the financial planning profession. The work we do transforms lives. We develop long-lasting meaningful relationships. The work is emotionally gratifying and intellectually stimulating. Financial planning positively impacts families, communities and society at large. As a mom and CFP professional, I’m thankful for the mentors and advocates who encouraged me and supported me.

Leon C. LaBrecque, Managing Partner and CEO, LJPR Financial Advisors,Troy, MI


This Thanksgiving, I am grateful to live in this wonderful, exciting (sometimes risky) and complex world. This environment is the kind that fosters change, that fosters growth and, of course, breaks some eggs. But think of the Pilgrims coming to this new world of complexity, risk, and opportunity. We get the waves, the risky voyage, but we can arrive in a new world. What a wonderful time to be an advisor, or a manufacturer of acid reflux medication.

Dennis R. Nolte, Vice President, Seacoast Investment Services, Oviedo, FL


Grateful first for the freedoms we have in our markets and our country; to pursue passions and purpose with confidence (thank you, rule of law) and precision. I'm thankful for the clients who believe I make a difference in their lives and allow me to maintain and grow my business. I'm thankful for the current low tax rates that I'll probably never see again in my lifetime.


Kayse A. Kress, Financial Advisor, Physician Wealth Services, San Diego, CA


I'm thankful that the financial services industry is changing from product-driven sales to advice-based guidance. Fee-only financial planning is changing the industry to provide financial education to so many people that never had access to objective financial advice before. I'm very lucky to be able to work with physicians transitioning from their medical training into their first attending contract. I help them sort through all areas of concern from paying off their student loan debt to starting their family. Everyone, regardless of accumulated asset size, should be able to work with a financial professional.

Benjamin C. Simiskey, Director of Wealth Management, Stegent Equity Advisors, Houston, TX

From a business perspective this year, I'm grateful for clients who keep me feeling energetic and inspired, a partner and staff who encourage and support my growth, and income that sustains me in my most important role as a single dad.


Thomas F. Scanlon, Financial Advisor, Raymond James, Manchester, CT


I hit the lottery out of the gate by being born in the USA. I was grateful to have two parents, although my father passed away too young at age 50. I am grateful to have the same spouse for over 30 years,,have two children who are great kids (sorry, young adults) and we are all (mostly) healthy. I am grateful for our awesome clients that allow us to service them. We hope we have made a difference in their lives, we know they have made a difference in ours. I could go on but you get the idea. Don't wait for Thanksgiving to be grateful. Be grateful every day.



Paul K. Fain, President, Asset Planning Corp., Knoxville, TN


I am thankful to be the steward of a 43-year old financial planning firm. I am thankful for long-term client relationships and clients who hug us when they enter the door. I am thankful for a dedicated staff that gets it. And I am thankful that I have a servant's heart.

David R. Silversmith, Financial Advisor, Fulvio & Associates LLP, Plainview, NY


From a business perspective, I'm glad that I have job skills that are recession proof. My specialty is tax planning and compliance, and customers must file a tax return whether they have a job or not.

 

Darin R. Shebesta, Vice President, Jackson/Roskelley Wealth Advisors Inc., Scottsdale, AZ


I’m thankful for my clients. Without them, we don’t exist.