Cardinal Retirement Planning, Inc.

The Chief Investment Officer, Jane Doe, oversees portfolio construction and asset allocation. John Smith, as CEO, sets the overall investment philosophy. The firm uses a committee structure plus external sub-advisers for specialized strategies.

Yes. The firm is registered with the SEC as a fiduciary under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. It does not accept commissions or sell proprietary products, which means advice is not influenced by product sales.

The firm focuses on a conservative asset allocation mix dominated by equities, fixed income, and cash equivalents. It uses direct indexing to manage tax outcomes and may incorporate REITs for income. It avoids private investments, hedge funds, and speculative trading.

Historically, clients have come through referrals from existing clients and local professional networks. The firm does not engage in aggressive marketing or cold outreach. Much of its growth has been organic.

Yes. The firm provides comprehensive financial planning, including tax planning, retirement income planning, estate planning, and insurance analysis as part of its advisory services. These are bundled into the client relationship.

The majority of clients acquire wealth through corporate careers, especially engineering and technology roles in the San Diego area. Some clients have built small to medium businesses and sold them. The firm serves primarily established affluent retirees.

John Smith remains the sole owner. There is no private-equity or institutional backing. The firm operates with minimal hierarchy — a few senior advisors report to Smith, and decisions are made in weekly investment committee meetings.