Avadim: Financial, Limited Liability Company

Although registered in the investment-manager category, the firm primarily offers holistic financial planning and investment advisory services to individuals, families, and small-to-medium‑sized businesses rather than operating as a traditional pooled-vehicle manager. It frames its client focus around working‑class households and employers with 1–2,500 employees, rather than institutional or large pooled‑asset clients.

The firm requires clients to complete a three‑phase planning process (analysis, education, counseling) and a formal risk assessment before investment advice is provided, and it delivers both non‑discretionary and discretionary portfolio management when appropriate. It does not act as a qualified custodian and directs clients to third‑party custodians for account custody and trade execution.

Noteworthy features for a firm in this category include a very small, founder‑led structure with no reported assets under management at the time of the filing and a planning‑first gatekeeping model that conditions advisory services on completion of the planning process. The firm also makes financial planning available at no charge, emphasizes a mission‑driven orientation toward the working class informed by the owner’s prior retail-sector experience and stated values, and will not accept authorization to deduct its fees directly from client accounts.