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Frequently Asked Questions - Individuals

A Question for One Client, May be a Question for Another

What Is A Fiduciary Investment Advisor?

A fiduciary investment advisor is legally required to act in the client’s best interest when providing advice, including avoiding or disclosing conflicts of interest and making recommendations based on the client’s goals, risk tolerance, and financial situation, and Oakmont Capital Management operates as a fee-only fiduciary that does not receive commissions or sell financial products but is compensated directly by clients for advice and portfolio management.


How Is Oakmont Capital Different From A Brokerage Firm Or Private Bank?

Oakmont Capital Management is an independent, fee-only registered investment advisor that does not sell proprietary products or earn commissions, which allows the firm to provide objective advice focused on portfolio construction, manager selection, and long-term investment strategy rather than product distribution.


How Does Oakmont Capital Invest Client Portfolios?

Oakmont Capital constructs portfolios using a disciplined, institutional-style investment process centered on asset allocation, manager selection, and risk management, building portfolios from the top down based on long-term objectives, liquidity needs, and risk tolerance, with implementation across asset classes through a due diligence-driven manager selection process that emphasizes diversification, cost efficiency, and maintaining discipline through changing market environments.


What Types Of Investments Are Used In Client Portfolios?

Client portfolios may include a combination of investment vehicles depending on objectives, such as mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and other investment strategies, and in certain cases alternative investments may be considered as part of a diversified portfolio subject to suitability, liquidity needs, and risk considerations.


How Do I Choose A Wealth Manager For My Family?

Selecting a wealth manager involves evaluating factors such as fiduciary status, fee structure, investment philosophy, experience, and alignment with long-term goals, and many families prioritize working with independent advisors who provide objective advice and a disciplined, long-term approach to investing.


How Do I choose an investment advisor in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?

A qualified investment advisor in Pittsburgh should provide fiduciary advice with transparent fees and a highly credentialed team. They should deliver investment management and financial planning services to individuals and families, aligned with both short and long-term financial goals.

A comprehensive financial plan typically includes: cash flow analysis, debt management, savings strategies, and estate planning, and begins with an assessment of an investor’s risk tolerance, current investments, and overall financial situation.

While many firms serve clients nationally, investors in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas such as Oakmont, Fox Chapel, and Shadyside may benefit from working with a local advisor who understands the regional landscape and can provide ongoing, personalized guidance.


How Does Oakmont Capital Get Paid?

Oakmont Capital is compensated through fees paid directly by clients for advisory services and does not receive commissions, revenue sharing, or compensation from investment products, with this fee-only structure designed to reduce conflicts of interest and align the firm’s incentives with client outcomes.


Who Is A Good Fit For Oakmont Capital?

Oakmont typically works with individuals, families, and institutions seeking a long-term investment partner and a fiduciary approach to managing wealth, particularly those who value transparency, independence, and a disciplined investment process aligned with long-term objectives.


Do I Need A Minimum Amount To Work With Oakmont Capital?

Minimums may vary depending on the scope and complexity of the engagement, and prospective clients are encouraged to contact the firm to discuss their specific situation and determine fit.


What type of formal training due to the Oakmont Team members have?

Oakmont Capital is committed to formal training in investment analysis and financial planning. In addition to graduate level degrees, some Team members hold and maintain industry designations1 such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®), Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®), Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA®), Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist (CRPS®) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).  

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1For more information regarding the stated designations and how they are earned, please refer to this supplemental. Furthermore, the CFA® and Chartered Financial Analyst® designations are registered trademarks owned by the CFA Institute. The other designations are the property of their respective organizations.
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