The one most striking event that stands out since we added wealth management to our services is the discovery of and our access to Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA), a firm I revere most in the investment management field. I respect them so much that virtually all of my own life savings is invested in their funds.
DFA is a class in itself; a unique brand that they passionately guard; an exceptional quality boutique. Its principled and responsible leadership has navigated the firm from inception to today, through ups and downs, through nerve wrenching economic cycles, on a value driven path, always mindful of its mission to offer best possible, purest asset class exposure at a least cost. It skillfully identifies the dimensions of risks that have been historically rewarded and allows the investors to choose the level appropriate to their individual circumstances, as there is no free lunch: risks and returns are intrinsically linked.
DFA endeavors to add value through purest asset class index construction; through trading strategies and security lending, but not through futile search for alpha by market timing and security selection. It appears to know quite well the distinction between a legitimate but futile hunt for alpha (at least in the long-run) and impressive returns harnessed through insider trading. Its asset class reach is across all global markets.
I offer my unreservedly praise and most since respect to DFA’s leadership, its unique culture, and its team so passionately committed to the firm values and mission, day in day out. It is a great combination of talent and value, mission driven long-term journey.