The Sterling Group is an investment advisory firm established in 1990 and based in Pasadena, California. Owned by C. Hunt Salembier, the firm oversees hundreds of millions in client assets. The Sterling Group offers a wide range of services including fee-based investment management (both discretionary and non-discretionary), written financial planning, and hourly financial consulting. Investment strategies are customized based on individual goals, risk tolerance, and tax considerations, utilizing stocks, bonds, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, real estate investment trusts, and alternative investments. The Sterling Group also provides access to third-party portfolio managers and handles certain 529 college savings plan portfolios. Written financial plans cover areas such as retirement, estate, charitable, tax, and insurance planning. The firm maintains custodial relationships with major financial institutions including LPL Financial, Charles Schwab, and American Funds.
Fee Structure
Portfolio-Based Fees (Tiered)
| Portfolio Value | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Up to $500K | 1.25% |
| $500K - $1.0M | 0.95% |
| $1.0M - $2.5M | 0.80% |
| $2.5M - $5.0M | 0.65% |
| $5.0M - $10.0M | 0.50% |
| $10M+ | 0.40% |
Maximum annual advisory fee is 1.75% and fees are negotiable. Household accounts may be grouped together for tiered pricing.