THE CLEARSTEAD Research Process
THE ENGINE OF OUR ORGANIZATION

Our research team is the foundation of ensuring the success of our clients’ investment portfolios. This function is not outsourced; it’s the engine of our organization. With weekly meetings, deep fundamental and quantitative research, and disciplined committee structures, our professionals excel in a culture of internal debate and checks and balances. We’re nimble enough to make swift portfolio changes to adapt to changing markets, but steadfast in ensuring we’re not driven by emotions.

This team takes pride in the ability to work for a firm that is independent, giving them the freedom to match discipline with creativity. By bringing new investment ideas to the table that challenge the status quo, we are able to introduce and integrate new opportunities to both institutional and private client portfolios.

WHAT DEFINES OUR TEAM IS THEIR ATTENTION TO THE SCIENCE – THE NUMBERS – AND ARTTHE QUALITATIVE FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE MANAGER SELECTION AND RETENTION AND, ULTIMATELY, PORTFOLIO PERFORMANCE.

Economic Research

Our analysts examine economic and market conditions to assess the attractiveness of markets

Asset Allocation Research

This highly analytical, market-driven process researches asset classes:  US equities, international equities, fixed income, and alternative investments.  We develop portfolios using both quantitative and qualitative inputs.

Manager Research and Selection

We’re relentless in our research of investment strategies – meeting and vetting managers. We use the Clearstead Research Principles to guide us. 

 

Defining and documenting client objectives

Before we can create a roadmap, we need to know where we’re going. We thoroughly examine our clients’ spending needs, legal constraints, beliefs, culture, and time horizon. We then set goals that factor in inflation and fees with an emphasis on assessing and controlling risk. Then we create relevant, peer-based benchmarks to assess performance.

Investment Strategy Development

Once we have a clear set of objectives and benchmarks, we begin careful construction of the portfolio using two basic inputs: one that is quantitative, based on the Black-Litterman model, and one that is qualitative, based on the input of the professionals on our Investment Research Committee. We synthesize these two streams of thought to optimize asset allocation, including a clear rationale for how each asset will help the client achieve its objectives.

Tactical Asset Allocation

Once the portfolio is built, the real work begins. We monitor and adjust asset allocations based on input from the Clearstead Investment Committee and Asset Allocation Committee, which meet regularly to discuss positioning of portfolios, capturing short-to-medium-term opportunities while maintaining a long-term viewpoint.

Investment Manager Research

Our due diligence process for investment managers considers both statistical data and intangibles that contribute to sustainable success. We factor in their investment philosophy and methodology and check to see whether they practice what they preach. In addition to in-person assessments and on-site visits, we also vet investment managers and strategies through the CIC and only select those who earn its stamp of approval. Our independence ensures our objective analysis. Through our experience, we have created the Clearstead Research Principles” to guide us.

Clearstead’s Research Principles

Parent

The beliefs, values, and behaviors that differentiate one organization from another that will produce the results that are best for our clients.

People

Successful firms create an environment where talented professionals can achieve results that are good for the client, the firm and themselves.

Process

A disciplined, enduring investment process that can be repeated by successive generations and raises confidence in the expected returns.

Portfolio

Strong portfolios are constructed, managed, and reviewed in a manner that is consistent with the highest fiduciary standards.

Principles

Incorporating the principles of responsible investing into portfolio decisions may better align the clientwith the broader objectives of society.

Performance

Investment results reflect a firm’s ability to help its clients meet their long-term objectives.
YOUR FUTURE IN FOCUS

At Clearstead, we create integrated, prudent, and custom strategies that bring clarity to you or your organization’s financial future.

Clearstead is an independent financial advisory firm serving wealthy families and leading institutions across the country. As a fiduciary, it provides wealth management services and investment consulting to help clients meet their financial objectives, achieve their aspirations, and build stronger futures.

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1100 Superior Avenue East
Suite 700 | Cleveland, Ohio 44114
216-621-1090

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