Collins & Company Wealth Managers, winner of the this year’s Best Of award for wealth management companies, was founded in 1962 by John P. Collins. “John founded the company with a very simple and straightforward vision: to provide individuals, families and private foundations with a unique investment proposition based on trust, integrity, professionalism, discipline and partnership,” says Managing Member Bruce Raabe of the Larkspur-based company. “We’ve been able to carry on John’s vision by providing our clients the best possible advice and counsel. We can only succeed in providing proper asset and wealth management if we completely understand our clients’ specific circumstances.
“We’re thrilled to be recognized by the readers of NorthBay biz. The award is especially significant considering the low-profile, boutique nature of our firm.”
According to Raabe, the firm uses a very disciplined process in the area of asset management. “The first step in building a client profile is our discovery meeting, in which we carefully gather information regarding the client’s history and their current investments, short and long term objectives, and whatever constraints they may be facing in achieving their financial goals.” This would include assessments of risk tolerance, time horizon, tax implications, liquidity needs, legal issues and other unique circumstances.
Next, Raabe and his associates discuss with the client the nature of the desired relationship, which, when settled, leads to a discussion of asset allocation. “We follow a conservative investment strategy for our clients,” says Raabe. “We’re not looking for high performance in an investment necessarily, or for maximum return. We’re in business to sustain assets and build wealth over time. At this point in our history, we manage about $600 million within approximately 40 client relationships.”
To be able to offer such high-caliber service, Collins also prioritizes careful study and analysis of all relevant financial markets and specific securities. “I’m especially proud of our research,” says Raabe. “The trend is toward outsourcing research, but we prefer a hands-on approach, which gives us better information and a higher level of confidence in recommending the best investment strategies for our clients.
“Aside from providing the best service, we also recognize it’s our responsibility to contribute to solutions that address the urgent needs in the communities in which we live and work.” Toward that end, Collins & Company is an active “investor” in several organizations, among them Alta Bates Summit Foundation for Telecare Program, California Trout, Hospice by the Bay, Marin Education Fund, Marin Services for Women, North Bay Children’s Center; Ritter Center; Sunny Hills Services; and Whistlestop.
