Frequently Asked Questions

What is CCM?
Cephus is an SEC registered Investment Advisory firm located in the San Francisco Bay Area. The company assists investors in establishing, implementing and managing customized investment portfolios. Clients include individuals, families, corporate pension plans, trusts, and foundations.

What is CCM's investment approach?
We strongly believe that a sound investment plan revolves around clearly defined goals, designing and implementing a plan based on those goals, and maintaining a disciplined approach. We are not in the business of selling products, nor do we depend on transaction commissions to be compensated. As an asset-based-fee advisor, our goals are consistent with those of the investor: to grow the portfolio.

Where are my assets held?
A custodial bank or brokerage firm authorized by the client holds all cash and portfolio securities. Cephus has no possession of, nor access to withdraw assets from your account. We maintain limited power to execute transactions in your account based upon your objectives.

What size accounts do you manage and what are your fees?
While the minimum account size is generally $500,000, the majority of accounts range from $500,000 to $5,000,000. Fees are asset based, starting at 1.25% per year on the first Million and scale down.

Does Cephus receive any commission compensation on investments?
Cephus receives no commission from any source. Our compensation is based solely on a percentage of assets under management. We do not charge for planning or consultations, nor do we sell insurance products. Consequently, as your assets grow with us, and your portfolio increases, so will our management fee. This aligns us directly with our clients.

Who is responsible for the supervision of my portfolio?
Both a senior portfolio manager and a backup manager directly oversee each client relationship. Both managers are cognizant of client objectives and capable of implementing strategy.

Is my portfolio under constant supervision?
Yes, we review portfolios and investment strategy on a daily basis.

How does Cephus communicate with me?
Comprehensive client reports are sent quarterly, along with an overview of the capital markets and strategy. Personal client meetings are set according to client preferences (eg. quarterly or semi-annually). At a minimum, we engage our clients via phone or in person each quarter.

How does Cephus facilitate preparation of my tax statements?
Cephus provides a complete summary of short and long-term gains/losses at year end, which can be forwarded to your CPA upon request. Cephus encourages interaction between our portfolio managers and your accountant to ensure accurate assessment of capital gains activity. If needed, we can refer you to reputable accountancy firm.

Can you help me with Estate Planning?
Yes, we work closely with your advisors (CPA's, attorneys) to ensure that your investment portfolio reflects prudent estate and tax planning. Where appropriate, we will refer you to legal or accountancy expertise.

How much experience do you have?
At Cephus, the average investment experience of our professionals is over 20 years.

Do you do financial planning?
Yes, we conduct a thorough evaluation of a client's financial situation to identify objectives, issues and opportunities. We strive to use the process to create meaningful action items, which can then be implemented.

What happens to the stocks and bonds I already own if I hire Cephus?
We thoroughly review your current holdings to determine if they are consistent with your investment goals. We normally replace inappropriate securities gradually in order to reposition the portfolio. We will often continue to hold certain securities based upon your explicit instruction or other considerations.

Can I leave Cephus?
Our advisory agreement with clients provides for termination at any time, for whatever reason. There are no penalties or deferred charges.

Cephus is not and does not represent that it or any of its associated persons are experts in legal or taxation issues and only consider out of necessity how such issues affect the client's situation when rendering investment advice. The client should consult their tax or legal professionals regarding such advice.