Charlie Clapp, co-chair of Howland Capital Management, attributes the firm's rise to the top of CNBC's Financial Advisor 100 list to a combination of hard work, discipline, and strong client relationships. The firm, which manages $4 billion and serves over 400 clients, emphasizes a family-office approach, maintaining close ties with clients through significant life events.
With about 65% of client assets in trusts, Howland focuses on long-term financial planning, often looking 10 to 30 years ahead, and adapts to current tax laws rather than speculating on future changes.
Clapp notes that the firm has a steady investment strategy, avoiding highly leveraged companies and favoring those with reliable cash flows, such as TJX Companies, Inc., which has provided consistent dividends. This disciplined approach has allowed clients to benefit from significant returns, including charitable contributions that minimize tax liabilities.
Clapp stresses the importance of having a solid plan to navigate market volatility, as evidenced by the S&P 500's fluctuations in recent years, and encourages investors to remain proactive rather than reactive to market changes