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Financial Services Veteran Claims Independence with Launch of RIA Firm 994 GroupKristen LeClair, a veteran of the independent broker-dealer business, today announces the formation of 994 Group in partnership with her husband Ted LeClair. While both spouses have worked on the business-to-business side of the financial services business, this endeavor signifies their transition to directly serving the financial and investment needs of individuals and families. During a successful 20-year career in the financial services industry, Kristen has closely observed the strengths and weaknesses of how firms both large and small deliver financial advice. Her departure from independent broker-dealer home office executive to registered investment adviser (RIA) entrepreneur may be unconventional, but both LeClairs see that perspective as a unique advantage informing how they approach the business of delivering financial advice. "I'm proud to count myself among the small minority of women in the financial services profession," says Kristen. "I'm passionate about educating my clients on the tenets of wealth management, but more importantly empowering them to enjoy richer relationships and live fuller lives. Our philosophy is to 'Experience the Richness of Life' because it's not about the money - it's about what brings you joy." Ted envisioned 994 Group years before helping to make it a reality with Kristen. As the former director of a leadership consulting team for a top-15 gobal asset manager, his work has emphasized enhanced communication, synthesizing goals and missions, as well as strategies to effect change in business and life. Teams and relationships are foundational to Ted, providing deep meaning to his partnership with Kristen and their clients. He brings a global perspective and strong leadership skills to 994 Group as a captain with more than 25 years of service in the U.S. Navy. Ted has commanded forces five times, completing three tours of duty to the Middle East in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Southern Watch. He has also traveled to over 40 countries and served in the Pentagon on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations. Additionally, his career includes building and running a multimillion-dollar family cranberry business. Based in Austin, TX, 994 Group will serve clients nationally with an emphasis on the Austin area, as well as the Charlotte region of Kristen's native North Carolina. The firm has selected TD Ameritrade as its primary custodian and will utilize eMoney for its financial-planning software. About 994 Group: The 994 Group was founded by Kristen and Ted LeClair in Austin, TX. Collectively, this happily married team offers more than 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. Their inspiration to start 994 Group was sparked by several factors, primarily a deep desire to work directly with clients and make a difference in their lives. This mission has been further motivated by the lack of access to quality financial advice in today's economy, due to an insufficient number of new financial advisers entering the field to replace retiring professionals. From a family perspective, 994 Group provides an opportunity for Kristen and Ted to spend more time together after successful yet travel-heavy careers. The company name derives from the first ship Ted served on, USS Callaghan, which bore the number 994 on its hull. This experience would transform his life. Services offered through 994 Group, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser. This press release is for educational purposes and does not constitute an investment recommendation. No advice may be rendered without a signed client service agreement. Investing involves risk and may result in loss of principal capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
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