How we work
A steady, planning-first approach to investing and financial decisions
Potomac Wealth Strategies was founded on a simple belief: clients are best served when advice is independent, accountable, and aligned with their interests. Everything about how we operate is designed to support advice and action that is in the best interests of each client.
Independent by design
Potomac Wealth Strategies is an independent Registered Investment Advisor. The firm does not serve as a broker-dealer, or custodian. This independence allows your advisor to recommend strategies and solutions based solely on what’s best for you, without pressure from commission-based compensation structures, corporate management, outside interests like product providers.
Accountable to clients
Potomac Wealth Strategies is owned by its advisor Gary Partoyan, not a large institution. That means accountability is direct and personal, to clients and to regulators. You work with someone who is fully invested in the quality of the advice you receive and the relationship you build together.
Learn more about Gary →
Aligned interests
Potomac Wealth Strategies is compensated by clients through advisory fees based on assets under management. There are no commissions, referral fees, or revenue-sharing arrangements. Your assets are held securely and separately at established custodians (such as Charles Schwab & Co. or your 401k plan’s account platform), and Potomac Wealth Strategies never takes possession of your assets. And Gary and his family use the same services and pay the same fees as clients.
A planning-first philosophy
Financial decisions are rarely one-dimensional. Potomac Wealth Strategies begins with planning to help you understand the opportunities and tradeoffs that come about from your financial decisions. Investment advice and portfolio management are important tools, but they are best guided by a broader strategy designed to support your goals over time.
Collaborative decision-making
Some clients want to be closely involved in every decision. Others prefer to rely more fully on their advisor’s guidance. Most fall somewhere in between. Gary’s approach is flexible and collaborative, built around what works best for you.