FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Scientific Financial just for Dow employees and scientists and engineers?
No, we can work with any curious investor who wants to better understand finance. Scientific Financial chose to focus on Dow employees and scientific professionals for two reasons:
- I was a Dow scientist, PhD in chemical engineering (aka nerd). Scientific Financial was not built to maximize revenue. It was designed to maximize enjoyment. I love working with curious people who ask questions so tailoring my business to this group was a no brainer.
- Scientific Financial hosts monthly Q/A sessions and Seminars. Content and discussion revolves around our idealized avatar – a Dow scientist. This focus provides individual value despite the group design.
What is your investment philosophy?
As a scientist I have to consider data. The data are overwhelmingly clear that investors are best served by low-cost, broad-based index funds rather than actively managed funds. Almost every financial advisor without a conflict of interest will agree.
We prefer to buy the whole market rather than trying to find the winners. We provide low-cost, highly diversified, risk appropriate portfolios for our clients. One benefit of this investment strategy is that it’s very easy to implement. Managing investments should take about 1 hr/yr.
Do you earn any sales fees, commissions, or referral fees?
No, No and No! These are avoidable conflicts of interest and Scientific Financial prides itself on transparency and objectivity. We are Fee-Only, meaning we only accept payments directly from the client. Our loyalty is 100% to you.
Do I need to pay upfront, or can I spread costs over time?
Services below $1000 are charged upfront.
Financial Planning engagements are charged over 4 equal monthly payments.
Are there taxes or fees on services?
The price you see on the website is the final price.
Can we work together if I don’t live near Pearland, TX?
Of course. Scientific Financial serves families in the Pearland, Lake Jackson, and Houston areas, as well as across the United States. We use Zoom video software to communicate with those who can’t or choose not to meet in person.
Do I have to move accounts to work with Scientific Financial?
No. In fact, you cannot move your investment accounts to us. Scientific Financial is Advice-Only (no investment management). If you can use a computer, you can manage your own investments. Scientific Financial is here to guide you, as little or as much as needed.
Why doesn’t Scientific Financial offer investment management?
Investment management adds significant legal/compliance complexity, can introduce conflicts of interest, and increases costs substantially. Most importantly, you can easily do it yourself with just a little guidance from Scientific Financial. We believe most families are best served by our Advice-Only model. Managing your accounts should take about 1 hr/yr.
You’re never on your own. Scientific Financial helps as much as needed. The only difference is that you press the buttons rather than us.
I’m married. Can you meet just with me?
Generally, no. It’s critical that the needs and desires of both spouses are considered in a family’s financial planning. Therefore, our first meeting focused on getting to know you must include both spouses. After this initial meeting, it’s OK if one spouse chooses to step back.
I’m not sure Scientific Financial is a good fit. Can you help me find an advisor who is a better fit?
Absolutely. The financial advising industry can be very confusing and there are lots of subtle, but important considerations. We’re happy to help you understand the landscape so you can make the best choice.
We do not charge for this guidance. It’s simply the right thing to do. Schedule a free 30 minute meeting.
What happens if I need to cancel?
Just send an email stating your request to cancel. We will stop work immediately and only charge for the work already completed.
