Fee-Only Financial Advisor Princeton, Philadelphia & Cherry Hill - Clearwater

Choosing an independent fee-only financial advisor requires understanding what truly separates fiduciary advice from commission-driven sales. Clearwater Investment Management proudly serves clients in Princeton, Philadelphia, and Cherry Hill as a genuine fee-only Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), delivering transparent pricing, conflict-free guidance, and true fiduciary responsibility.

Founded in 2012 by Ron Granberg, CFA, with more than 30 years of investment experience, Clearwater operates independently—free from the conflicts inherent in commission-based and fee-based advisory models. This guide explains what defines a true fee-only financial advisor, why clients across Princeton, Philadelphia, and Cherry Hill increasingly demand fiduciary advice, and how Clearwater’s independent approach helps clients protect and grow their wealth.

What Defines a True Fee-Only Financial Advisor

A true fee-only financial advisor is compensated exclusively by client-paid fees and receives no commissions, referral payments, revenue sharing, or product incentives of any kind.

Clearwater Investment Management operates as a pure fee-only financial advisor, charging:

1.00% annually on assets under management up to $500,000
0.75% on assets above $500,000
No hidden fees or third-party compensation

Fiduciary Responsibility

Clearwater is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a Registered Investment Advisor (CRD #165404). As an SEC-registered RIA, Clearwater is legally obligated to act as a fiduciary, meaning your interests must always come first.

This standard is far more stringent than the “suitability” standard followed by many brokers, who may recommend products that benefit them financially—even if better options exist for the client.

Eliminating Conflicts of Interes

Commission-based advisors face inherent conflicts when compensation depends on selling specific products. A fee-only structure removes these conflicts entirely. Clearwater’s compensation increases only when your portfolio grows—fully aligning our success with yours.

Independent Product Selection

As an independent advisor, Clearwater is not restricted to proprietary products or preferred vendors. We select investments solely based on merit, cost efficiency, and suitability. Portfolios are built primarily using low-cost index funds and ETFs from respected providers such as Vanguard and Fidelity—never because of incentives, but because they offer strong long-term value.

Blow Them Away

Why Clients in Princeton, Philadelphia & Cherry Hill Choose Fee-Only Advisors

Princeton

Professionals, university faculty, healthcare providers, and retirees in Princeton value transparency and intellectual rigor. Fee-only advisory relationships resonate strongly with clients who prefer to pay clearly stated fees rather than unknowingly fund advice through embedded commissions.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia clients increasingly seek independence from large financial institutions that prioritize product sales and cross-selling. Clearwater’s fee-only model provides objective, institution-free advice focused exclusively on investment management and financial strategy.

Cherry Hill & South Jersey

Families and retirees in Cherry Hill, Moorestown, Haddonfield, and throughout Camden County recognize the peace of mind that comes from working with a fiduciary advisor who has no hidden agenda. Knowing your advisor is paid only by you fosters trust and long-term confidence.

Learn more about us

Clearwater’s Independent Investment Approach

Experience That Matters

Founder Ron Granberg, CFA, brings three decades of experience managing portfolios through multiple market cycles. This depth of experience allows Clearwater to go beyond static model portfolios.

Active Risk Awareness

Unlike advisors who remain fully invested regardless of market conditions, Clearwater incorporates cyclical and technical analysis to help identify periods of elevated risk or opportunity. This disciplined, risk-aware approach aims to protect capital during severe downturns while remaining positioned for long-term growth.

Independent Custody

Client assets are held in separate accounts at Interactive Brokers, a leading independent custodian. Clearwater manages investments, but never takes custody of client funds. You maintain direct ownership, daily visibility, and full transparency.

Transparent Fees & Long-Term ValuE

Clear Pricing

$400,000 portfolio → $4,000 annually
$1,000,000 portfolio → $8,750 annually

No commissions. No product fees. No surprises.

Lower Total Costs

Typical Clearwater clients experience:

~1.00% management fee
~0.10% average fund expenses
~1.10% total annual cost

By comparison, commission-based relationships often total 2–3% annually through embedded expenses and product markups.

Value Beyond Cost

Transparent pricing, lower investment expenses, fiduciary accountability, and disciplined risk management often lead to better long-term outcomes—more than offsetting advisory fees.

Getting Started with a Fee-Only Financial Advisor

Complimentary ConsultatioN

Schedule a no-obligation consultation with Ron Granberg, CFA to discuss:

Your financial goals and concerns
Clearwater’s investment philosophy
Fee structure and fiduciary responsibilities

Switching Is SimplE

Clearwater handles the transition from your current advisor. Assets typically transfer in kind, with no tax consequences, and the process usually takes 2–3 weeks.

Ongoing ServicE

Regular portfolio reviews
Direct access to Ron Granberg
Transparent quarterly statements from Interactive Brokers
Ongoing strategy adjustments as life circumstances evolve

Work with a True Fee-Only Financial Advisor

If you’re seeking independent, conflict-free financial advice in Princeton, Philadelphia, or Cherry Hill, Clearwater Investment Management offers experience, transparency, and genuine fiduciary care.
Contact Ron Granberg, CFA today to schedule your complimentary consultation and discover how a true fee-only approach can help you invest with confidence and clarity.

testimonial

"Ron has taken the time to explain the big picture and the important details. I trust him and recommend him for everyone, especially for novices.”

--Stefan Siemon, San Diego CA

"

"Great advisor, no BS."