Britton Nowell, Arvest Asset Management
College: Stanford University ›› Years in the Industry: 18
500 Broadway Place ›› 501.379.7630 ›› bnowell@arvest.com
››Why did you choose to get into financial advising?
At Stanford, I studied economics. After serving three years on active duty in the Army, a career involving financial markets and economic behavior was a natural fit. I have combined my passion for learning about financial markets with a desire to serve people. Through the past 18 years, I have acquired first-hand knowledge of markets and an understanding of how clients respond to market swings.
››What sets yours apart from other firms?
Arvest Asset Management (AAM) works within an integrated financial delivery system. Many firms talk about an integrated delivery platform, and Arvest delivers. As an advisor, I have a full-service trust department that can assist my clients with fee-based investment management, trust services, and estate planning. Moreover, the Arvest Insurance group provides additional assistance if the client has life, estate or business planning needs. I’m able to better serve my clients because their financial needs can be met through Arvest’s complete line of banking products.
››What do you like best about your job?
Providing innovative and creative investment solutions in an area that I’m passionate about is the best part of my job. Every financial roadmap presented to a client is different, based on a unique set of personal considerations. In addition, with a systematic meeting and review process in place, the client and I can measure progress toward goals, and I can reassure clients in downward markets.
››Do you have a niche clientele?
In this economic environment, people are open to discussing risk and how to achieve risk-adjusted returns. With the AAM philosophy of providing multiple investment platforms, I work with many types of clients. Several of my clients are business owners who may need estate and trust services, but the majority of my prospects are baby-boomers who are at or near retirement.
››What makes your customer service outstanding?
Establishing trust is the most important element in a client relationship. Trust has to be earned over a long period of time and requires two key elements: fully disclosing all fees and details of the platform as well as having an extensive knowledge of investment vehicles, gained through years in the industry.
››What’s your investment philosophy?
My philosophy is to equip clients to achieve their objective with the least amount of risk. Listening to clients is vital in establishing and continuing the investment relationship. Listening means letting clients describe in detail what they want to achieve and what they fear about investing. From this, I can gain an understanding of their tolerance for risk, and then we can create a risk-adjusted strategy.
Best financial advice you’ve ever been given?
“There are no free lunches.” If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is, or if a rate of return is advertised outside the norm then you should take a second look before investing.