Why I Became A Financial Advisor

People often ask me why I entered this industry and became a financial advisor. Like many people, my background influenced my decision. I come from a blue-collar, immigrant family, and I learned early on that while making money is important, it’s what you do with your money that matters. I chose to pursue a career as a financial advisor so I could help others manage their finances in a way that creates freedom and confidence, not stress and fear.

The Early Years

My first career was as an elementary school teacher. With my passion for teaching, I quickly realized that matching my understanding of finance with my ability to educate people would provide incredible value to their lives. I wanted to have a career where I could help others make their money work for them, and with that in mind, I dove into making that goal a reality.

I became a financial advisor in 2000, starting out at Smith Barney, where I gained hands-on experience and the knowledge necessary to assist my clients with their financial matters. I worked at a couple of other firms through the years, also obtaining an executive MBA from Saunders College of Business and the Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS®) credential. In 2011, with 11 years of experience under my belt, I made the switch and started working at Blackbridge Financial, an independent financial services firm focused on guiding clients from point A to point B.

My Role Today

Today, I am an independent wealth manager who specializes in helping people create, distribute, and preserve their wealth. I currently manage investment portfolios in several states across the country and am devoted to helping local families grow their wealth and make their money last. My goal is to offer a high level of personal service, communication, and attention that is typically reserved only for the ultra-wealthy. I am committed to carefully listening to each and every client I work with in order to construct unique and effective strategies tailored especially for them.

Ups And Downs

As with any career, there are challenges and victories that go along with the job. Finances usually bring up a plethora of anxieties and concerns that can lead to emotionally charged decision-making. My role as an advisor is to help my clients see the big picture and stay true to their financial plan. This is no easy task since it’s difficult for all of us to separate our emotions from our investment decisions.

But despite the challenges, I wouldn’t choose any other career. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see families live a comfortable, stress-free life because we have planned thoroughly and executed their financial plan correctly. I love getting to know my clients on a personal level. In my nearly 20 years of being an advisor, I have had the honor of walking with my clients through the births of their children, marital changes, health challenges, and even death. I appreciate that my clients let me into their lives, and I don’t take their trust lightly.

I am driven by the idea of stewarding my clients’ finances well. I believe that helping others is a powerful thing, and as a leader, it’s my duty to continually improve so that my clients can be confident in my abilities.

Working Together

I always enjoy meeting new people and seeing if we would be a good fit for one another. Whether you have questions about investing or your financial dreams, I’d be happy to speak with you and review your concerns and goals. To get started, email me at [email protected] or call 704.960.9646.

About Antonio

Antonio Porretta is an independent wealth manager at Blackbridge Financial with 18 years of experience. He specializes in helping people create, distribute, and preserve their wealth. Antonio received an executive MBA from Saunders College of Business at Rochester Institute of Technology in 2007 and also holds the Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS®) designation. Originally from Rochester, NY, Antonio has been a resident of Harrisburg, NC, since 2007. Outside of work, he enjoys playing soccer and tennis, coaching, and spending time with his wife, Laura, and their children, Cristiano, Victoria, and Matteo. To learn more about Antonio and how he can make a difference in your financial life, visit www.blackbridgefinancial.com.

Check the background of investment professionals associated with this site on FINRA’s BrokerCheck.