Advisory versus brokerage account
Confirm whether you are opening an advisory account, a brokerage account, or both. Each agreement should identify the responsible entity, services, and compensation.
Quick answer
How is an RIA relationship different from a broker-dealer relationship?
A Registered Investment Adviser provides investment advice under an advisory relationship and typically charges an advisory or planning fee. A broker-dealer effects securities transactions and may provide recommendations in a brokerage relationship. Some professionals and firms operate in both capacities.
The important question is which entity and capacity apply to your account, what services are included, how the professional is paid, which conflicts exist, and where assets are custodied. GK Wealth Management is an SEC-registered, fee-only RIA and does not hold itself out as a broker-dealer.
This page is for general informational purposes only and is not individualized investment, tax, or legal advice. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Review Form ADV, Form CRS, services, fees, conflicts, and fit before engaging any advisor.
Decision framework
Compare the relationship—not the title on a business card
Ongoing advice versus transactions
An advisory engagement often includes ongoing portfolio management or planning. A brokerage relationship may center on transactions or recommendations. Actual services vary, so read the agreement.
Custody and account access
Ask which qualified custodian holds assets, what authority the advisor has, how money can move, and where statements and trade confirmations originate.
Compensation and product universe
Compare advisory fees, commissions, markups, product compensation, revenue sharing, and whether product or platform limitations affect the recommendations available.
Practical review
Use public records to verify what you are being told
Investment Adviser Public Disclosure
IAPD provides registration information, Form ADV filings, firm brochures, and adviser representative records for investment advisers.
BrokerCheck
FINRA BrokerCheck provides registration and disclosure information for brokerage firms and registered representatives.
Form CRS
Relationship summaries describe services, fees, conflicts, disciplinary history, and standards for retail relationships in a concise comparison format.
Written engagement terms
The contract should identify the legal entity, service scope, billing, termination, discretion, custody, and any separate brokerage or insurance relationship.
Common questions
Questions about advisory relationship
Is an RIA the same as a financial advisor?
RIA is a regulated firm classification, while “financial advisor” is a broad title. Verify the firm, the individual, and the capacity in which each service is provided.
Can one professional be both an adviser and a broker?
Yes. Some professionals are dually registered or affiliated with both types of firms. Ask which capacity applies to each recommendation and account.
How can I verify GK Wealth Management?
Review GK Wealth Management’s SEC/IAPD record, Form ADV, and Form CRS, then compare the written services and fee agreement with your needs.
Talk with GK Wealth Management
Meet with the Reno-based GK Wealth Management team to determine whether its fee-only fiduciary planning and wealth-management model fits your needs.