Our Growth Has Been Driven by a Desire to Give Clients an Exceptionally Personal Service Experience, and Access to New Investment Opportunities: Tom Orecchio of Modera Wealth Management

Modera Wealth Management is a leading wealth management firm that offers personalized financial planning, investment management, retirement strategies, tax planning, and estate planning. Catering to high-net-worth individuals and families, Modera prioritizes building long-lasting relationships rooted in trust and transparency. With a client-centric approach, the firm employs a holistic methodology to help clients achieve financial security and long-term stability.

SME Business Review reached out to Tom Orecchio CFA®, CFP®, ChFC®, AIF®, CEO, Wealth Manager & Principal of Modera Wealth Management, for an interview, and explored the firm’s personalized approach, investment strategies, and dedication to helping clients achieve long-term financial security. Here’s what Mr. Orecchio had to say. 

Interview Excerpts

What is the primary focus of Modera Wealth Management's services?

Our primary focus at Modera Wealth Management is to offer comprehensive financial services that go beyond simple investment advice. We provide a holistic approach, incorporating everything from retirement planning and tax strategies to estate planning and wealth preservation. We ensure that every client’s unique financial goals are met through personalized solutions. By taking the time to understand your entire financial picture, we help you achieve a sustainable path toward wealth management, allowing you to focus on what truly matters in life.

How does Modera approach financial planning for clients?

At Modera, our approach to financial planning is deeply rooted in understanding each client’s complete financial situation. We take into account your unique goals, whether it’s retirement planning, protecting your wealth, or passing it on to future generations. By carefully analyzing your risk tolerance and financial objectives, we create a custom strategy that integrates all aspects of financial planning, ensuring a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach. Our goal is to not just manage your assets but to provide a clear, tailored plan that evolves as your life changes, ensuring long-term financial security.

How does Modera ensure open communication with clients?

We emphasize transparency and consistent communication. We believe that you should always feel informed and confident about the financial strategies we implement. By providing regular updates, detailed reviews, and open channels for discussion, we make sure you stay involved in every step of the financial planning process. We also encourage clients to reach out with any questions or concerns at any time. Communication is the cornerstone of trust, and by maintaining an open dialogue, we ensure that you are always in control and comfortable with the financial decisions being made on your behalf.

What sets Modera apart in terms of investment strategy?

Our investment strategy is always tailored to your specific needs. We build diversified portfolios designed to minimize unnecessary risk while aligning with your financial goals. Our regular portfolio reviews ensure that we continuously adjust to both current market conditions and your evolving circumstances, ensuring that we are always working in your best interest. We believe that every client deserves an investment plan that not only fits their current situation but also anticipates future needs. Our disciplined approach to portfolio management reflects our commitment to long-term growth, with a sharp focus on risk management and market opportunities.

What role does Modera play as a fiduciary firm?

As a fiduciary firm, we are committed to making decisions that are always in your best interest. This means our advice is free from any conflicts of interest, and we remain independent in our recommendations. Our fiduciary role ensures that we prioritize your financial well-being above all else, offering unbiased advice that is aligned with your goals. We work solely for you, with no hidden agendas or commissions. This level of trust is what distinguishes us in the industry, as our only objective is to help you make the best financial decisions possible, with full transparency and accountability.

How does Modera help clients with retirement planning?

We understand that retirement planning involves more than just saving for the future. At Modera, we create detailed retirement plans that factor in income strategies, tax implications, healthcare costs, and lifestyle goals. We ensure you can retire with the confidence that your financial future is secure, and that your standard of living is maintained. Our approach is not just about accumulating wealth but about sustaining it throughout your retirement years. Whether you're nearing retirement or have just begun planning, we provide you with a comprehensive roadmap to ensure financial stability and peace of mind as you transition into this important phase of life.

What is Modera’s approach to tax planning?

We take a proactive approach to tax planning, ensuring you can retain as much of your wealth as possible. By integrating tax efficiency into all aspects of your financial plan, we help minimize the tax burden through strategic investments, charitable giving, or trust and estate planning. Our aim is to optimize your wealth while keeping your long-term goals in focus. Tax planning is not a one-size-fits-all strategy. It requires close attention to detail, continuous monitoring of tax law changes, and an understanding of how tax liabilities intersect with your overall financial goals. We work to ensure that your wealth is managed with the utmost care, always seeking ways to maximize your assets.

How does Modera contribute to estate planning for clients?

Estate planning can often be complex, but we make it simpler for you. Our advisors work closely with you to protect your wealth and ensure it is transferred in accordance with your wishes. Whether you are setting up trusts, organizing charitable contributions, or planning for business asset transfers, we provide clear, actionable guidance to navigate the process smoothly. We know that estate planning is a sensitive and personal matter. By taking the time to listen to your concerns and goals, we ensure that your wealth and legacy are preserved for future generations. Our estate planning services offer peace of mind, knowing that your financial legacy is in trusted hands.

Tom Orecchio CFA®, CFP®, ChFC®, AIF® | CEO, Wealth Manager & Principal

With over 25 years of experience in wealth management, Tom Orecchio has always believed that the best way to serve clients and provide objective advice is through the independent, fee-only approach. During that time, he has had the privilege of serving individuals, families, nonprofit organizations, foundations, trusts and others in all areas of their investment and wealth management needs.

“Our fiduciary role ensures that we prioritize your financial well-being above all else, offering unbiased advice that is aligned with your goals.”