Areas served: Palo Alto, CA and surrounding Santa Clara County
Palo Alto's financial advisory landscape reflects the unique needs of tech executives, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals concentrated in Silicon Valley. The city hosts a diverse mix of independent Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs), boutique wealth management firms, and branches of national advisory practices. Local advisors frequently specialize in equity compensation planning, pre-IPO stock strategies, tax-efficient investing, and philanthropic advising—services tailored to the region's startup ecosystem and established technology companies.
Monroe Wealth Management is a San Francisco fiduciary advisory firm founded by Garrett Monroe, CFP®, specializing in comprehensive financial planning for tech industry professionals and entrepreneurs. As a fee-only advisor, Monroe provides conflict-free guidance on equity compensation, tax optimization, retirement planning, and investment management. With a 5.0-star rating from 39 Google reviews, the firm serves clients throughout the Bay Area with a personalized, technology-forward approach to wealth management.
“I’ve been working with Glen as my financial advisor, and he’s been an incredible resource, especially as a business owner. He’s extremely knowledgeable, proactive, and has helped me optimize my finances in a way that’s both strategic and easy to understand. Most importantly, he’s been very effective at keeping my tax rates as low as possible while making sure everything is done correctly. Glen is responsive, thoughtful, and clearly has his clients’ best interests in mind. I’d highly recommend him to anyone looking for a solid, trustworthy financial advisor.”
— Robin Shapiro, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 39 reviewsWealth Cairn, LLC is an investor coaching company in Campbell, CA led by Certified Financial Planner (CFP) coaches who help families make thoughtful decisions across investing, taxes, and long-term planning. Their approach focuses on disciplined wealth building, intelligent tax planning, and aligning financial strategy with personal purpose. They serve clients throughout the San Jose area through workshops and individual consultations, helping people gain clarity and control over their financial future.
“I can’t recommend Peter Mu highly enough! He provided outstanding financial guidance both before and after my recent promotion, helping me prepare for the transition and make smart decisions afterwards. Peter takes the time to really understand your goals and gives clear, practical advice that makes a big difference. His professionalism, expertise, and approachable style made the entire process seamless. I feel much more confident about my financial future thanks to his guidance.”
— Justin Montgomery, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 31 reviewsFinancial Zen is a fee-only fiduciary financial planning firm in San Francisco founded by Rick Valenzi, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ with over 14 years of experience who transitioned from Wall Street and tech sales to help high earners achieve financial independence early. Specializing in tech salespeople and young professionals, they offer proprietary programs (Foundations and Mastery) designed to accelerate the path to financial freedom without sacrificing quality of life. With a 5-star rating from 30 reviews, they serve clients throughout the U.S. and focus on making financial planning engaging and action-oriented.
“Working with Rick's team at Financial Zen has far exceeded my expectations in every way! Before selecting Rick, I talked with 10+ financial advisors, and no one came close to the quality and value he offers. I just finished Financial Zen's six-month onboarding program, in which Rick and his team helped me transform my finances from sorta disorganized to 100% streamlined. As an operations and UX professional, I am a harsh judge of customer experience, but I have only effusively positive things to say about Rick's approach to working with clients. He visibly cares about creating a top-quality, high-ROI client experience — and it shows in every aspect of his work. In the time I've worked with Rick, he's also been building out his team and has ensured that every member of Financial Zen delivers the same level of excellence. Beyond getting clear on my cash flow and streamlining my financial accounts, Rick's program includes tasks that other advisors considered out of scope (or would charge extra for), like auditing my insurance, reviewing tax returns, and jointly working with an estate lawyer. He has thoroughly and thoughtfully designed every aspect of his program, like having comprehensive to-dos managed through a Monday dashboard, plus weekly modules complete with helpful videos and a workbook. In addition to the program's standard curriculum, Rick has enthusiastically worked with me to address bespoke topics and to-do's for embarking on creating a solopreneur business. To me, this is the ultimate testament to Rick's commitment to helping people with all aspects of their financial health. Other advisors had zero interest in helping me with my new venture because it fell outside of their usual offerings, whereas Rick was super pumped about the opportunity. His expertise, support, and excitement surpass anything I could have hoped for. This brings me to my last point: Rick and his team are a joy to work with. He's passionate about helping people through his business, and his enthusiasm is infectious. Rick clearly believes that helping people attain financial zen is the work he's meant to be doing, and it shows. I am grateful to Rick and his entire team at Financial Zen for being my personal CFO, and I wholeheartedly recommend them!”
— Jessica Schwartz, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 30 reviewsTraveka Wealth, LLC is a fee-only fiduciary financial advisory firm in Los Altos, CA, founded by Tara Unverzagt, CFP®, ChFC®, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional with over 15 years of experience. The firm specializes in comprehensive financial planning for Silicon Valley tech professionals, executives, and families, with particular expertise in equity compensation planning, tax-efficient investing, and retirement strategy. As a fiduciary, Traveka Wealth is legally obligated to act in clients' best interests and provides transparent, conflict-free advice without commissions or product sales.
“We have worked with Traveka Wealth for years and find them to be trustworthy, reliable, and very knowledgeable investment advisors. I do not like to manage investments, so knowing that our assets are professionally managed gives me great peace of mine. Especially in these uncertain times, I rely heavily on Traveka to keep me focussed on the truly important things and not worry about insignificant events. Traveka lets me sleep well every night! I trust them completely.”
— Moopzombie, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 26 reviewsModern Family Finance is a fee-only, fiduciary financial planning firm in Oakland, CA serving Bay Area tech professionals, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and self-employed families. The team specializes in equity compensation optimization (RSUs, ESPPs, stock options), proactive tax strategies, and life-centered financial planning designed to help clients achieve work-optional lifestyles. With a 5-star Google rating and deep expertise in the unique financial challenges facing diverse families, they provide personalized advice that feels like talking to a trusted friend.
“Writing a review for my financial planner was not on my Bingo card for my life. But when Jenni, Lisa, and Cathy at Modern Family Finance are as fantastic as they are, it has to be done. To set the scene: I don’t know anything about money, or the market, or really budgeting, if we’re being honest. My working class family didn’t know anything to teach me, and I was resistant to learning because I was sure it would mean discomfort at best and shame at worst. Luckily, opposites attract, and my spouse is a Responsible Adult who wanted to manage some inheritance in addition to our weirdly/ unnecessarily complicated financial situation. Enter: Modern Family Finance, referred to us by a friend. In my mind, they are fantastic for three main reasons. 1.) Based on what I just described, you will not be surprised to learn that I truly have no clue as to the wizardry they do with investing, but I love this. As far as I’m concerned, my accounts are like little Tamagotchis that I get to occasionally login to check and see how they’re thriving. Our money is doing great, our finances are tidy, and our goals are being met! My Responsible Adult spouse DOES want to know, and Modern Family is an open book and wants to teach. Everyone wins! 2) The whole process of working together centers around YOUR particular and specific needs, goals, and personal priorities. They keep in mind both short term needs and long term visions to help you get and stay on track. I really appreciated the emotional intelligence and care Jenni brings, especially to our early meetings, and I still think about the questions she asked to help us understand our own relationships to money, and what needs to heal to move forward. They truly work with you where you are. Their approach is clearly not just about managing money, but building quality of life and empowerment. 3) They are truly the kindest people you could hope to work with. Getting me to respond to an email about life insurance or the 401K from ten years ago is like trying to put a cat in a bathtub, but somehow, miraculously, they don’t judge. The team is thoroughly patient, kind, ridiculously detail oriented, and in general the most delightful people you’d hope to meet. As a queer couple navigating major life transitions, they give us clarity, patience, and structure without overwhelm. We’ll be clients for life.”
— Jolee del Mazo, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 22 reviewsTrue Root Financial is a San Francisco-based financial planning and investment management firm founded by Roshani Pandey, who brings 16 years of Wall Street experience from Goldman Sachs and BlackRock. The firm specializes in helping tech professionals maximize equity compensation (RSUs, stock options, ESPP), minimize taxes, and achieve financial independence through comprehensive fiduciary planning. With a perfect 5-star rating from 22 Google reviews, True Root serves busy professionals across the country who want clarity around company exits, concentrated stock positions, and retirement planning.
“Finding a financial advisor who not only understands the markets but genuinely cares about your personal journey is rare. I am incredibly fortunate to work with Roshani. She specializes in the tech sector, which is crucial for my portfolio, and her expertise has been invaluable in navigating its unique opportunities and volatility. What truly sets her apart is her commitment to clarity and accessibility. She is always available for a quick call to answer questions, and she ensures I have a full, crystal-clear understanding of every investment we make. I never feel lost or pressured; I feel educated and confident. Furthermore, her strategic planning is exceptional. She takes the time to deeply understand my short and long-term goals and builds her strategy accordingly. This was most evident recently when we experienced the unexpected events of a major family move and the arrival of a new child. Without skipping a beat, she quickly pivoted our entire plan to accommodate these significant life changes. Beyond her direct financial planning, she is a phenomenal resource. She immediately introduced me to key contacts in her network to assist with other opportunities and services related to our expanding portfolio. She doesn't just manage money; she helps build holistic financial success. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking for expert, personalized, and proactive financial guidance.”
— MC Winton, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 22 reviewsMA Private Wealth is a boutique fiduciary wealth advisory firm in San Carlos, CA, led by Marty and his team with 30 years of experience. They specialize in sophisticated, customized investment management and financial planning for tech professionals and high-net-worth clients with $500,000+ in investments. Known for their white-glove service, institutional-level expertise, and personal touch, they serve clients across the Bay Area with offices in San Carlos and Campbell.
“I have been a client of Marty forever, and he and his team have always delivered top tier bespoke financial planning services. Whether it’s his full transparency about how he and his team tap extensive expert resources to build and adjust their customized plan for my specific situation, shifting over the years to reflect the various shifts and slews of my career here in Silicon Valley, to their instant reaction to popup needs or changes, to their ongoing efforts behind the scenes to make sure those back end expert market research resources are in fact the best available, nothing has made me question my choice to entrust my finances to MA Private Wealth. I highly and unreservedly recommend MA Private Wealth to anyone seeking expert financial planning services.”
— Mike Brogley, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 11 reviewsBabylon Wealth Management is a boutique fiduciary financial advisory firm serving San Francisco and the Bay Area, specializing in comprehensive wealth management for tech professionals, pre-retirees, and tax-smart investors. Led by experienced advisors legally bound to act in clients' best interests, the firm offers personalized financial planning, investment management, stock options planning, and tax-efficient strategies tailored to each client's unique situation. With offices in San Francisco's Financial District and Walnut Creek, Babylon focuses on strategic planning, wealth preservation, and building long-term client relationships.
“I first contacted Stoyan to get advice on the timing of converting a traditional IRA to Roth. His answer was so thoughtful that I realized I'd benefit from his guidance in all aspects of my financial planning. In addition to doing a great job managing my portfolio, he researches and advises on ideas I come up with on my own—the latest being opening a donor-advised fund. I view him as a valued partner as I prepare for retirement in three years, and it give me peace of mind knowing I have a top-notch professional taking care of my financial health.”
— Karen Weiss, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 11 reviewsInsight Wealth Strategies is a fiduciary financial planning firm serving San Ramon and the greater Bay Area. Led by CEO Michael Andersen and a team of CFP® professionals, they specialize in retirement planning, tax-efficient investing, and estate planning for families and business owners. As a fee-only firm, they're legally required to put client interests first, with no commissions or hidden fees.
“We’ve been with Insight Wealth Strategies since the days when David Chazin was with Lincoln Financial. As people who aren’t investment strategists ourselves, we truly appreciated the time David spent walking us through the different strategies and options available. He always made sure we understood the “why” behind every decision, and that built a strong foundation of trust. Over the years, we’ve seen David transition to building the excellent team that now includes Brian, Michael, and Chad. The handoff was smooth, and we continue to feel confident knowing we’re in great hands. Brian, Michael, and Chad are all incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and friendly. They take the time to understand our goals and communicate clearly, which gives us peace of mind. We’re very impressed with how they manage our portfolio and how proactive they are in keeping us informed and aligned with our long-term financial objectives. We highly recommend Insight Wealth Strategies to anyone looking for a thoughtful, client-focused financial advisory team.”
— S Ramsey, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 23 reviewsPesta & Pesta Wealth Management is a fee-only fiduciary advisory firm in Cupertino, CA, founded by Paul Pesta, CFP®, ChFC®, and his wife Lynda Pesta. They specialize in comprehensive financial planning for high-net-worth individuals, tech employees navigating stock compensation and equity events, and retirees seeking income strategies. With a 5.0-star Google rating and a client-first philosophy, they serve Silicon Valley professionals and families seeking personalized, conflict-free financial guidance.
“Pesta and Pesta have been our wealth advisors since 2007, who’ve guided us to remain steady and balanced in our financial plan through changes in our professional, family, and health status, as well as the inevitable and sometimes volatile fluctuations in the financial market. Since Jeff made the decision to retire and Derek took the helm, the transition has been smooth. When we’re nervous, Derek is calm and focused, talking us through the various scenarios we might be contemplating and helping us to choose wisely. When we have a question or need, Derek always finds the time to listen and provides wise and thoughtful feedback and service. We stay with Pesta and Pesta because they’ve earned our trust. We highly recommend Pesta and Pesta.”
— Doug Werden, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 9 reviewsDiversiFi Capital is a financial planning firm in Los Altos, CA serving 500+ tech and biotech families with over $500M in assets under management. Founded by CFP fiduciaries, they specialize in helping employees at companies like Palantir, Meta, Google, Apple, and Anduril navigate RSUs, stock options (ISOs/NSOs), AMT, QSBS, and IPO decisions. Their event-driven approach tracks vesting schedules, tax thresholds, and liquidity opportunities to help clients make informed decisions about when to exercise, sell, and diversify concentrated stock positions.
“We’ve been with Alfred for quite some time now and he’s been a game changer throughout our financial journey. A+ customer service and he’s always there for any finance related speed bumps. Thank you so much Alfred!”
— Archie Acosta, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 6 reviewsFocus Partners Wealth is a registered investment advisor in Menlo Park, CA serving Silicon Valley tech professionals, business owners, and high-net-worth families. Their team of 15+ credentialed advisors (CFPs, CFAs, CPAs) provides comprehensive wealth management, tax planning, family office services, and specialized solutions for equity compensation and business exits. As part of a nationwide network, they combine local Silicon Valley expertise with institutional-grade resources.
“Bordeaux Wealth Advisors is an exceptional group! Team members collaborate effectively to deliver holistic, best-in-class service to clients.”
— Amy Ellisor, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 5 reviewsAlison Wealth Management is a fee-only fiduciary financial planning firm in Palo Alto, CA, founded by Alison Alonso-Mulder, CFP®. The firm specializes in comprehensive financial planning for tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and families in Silicon Valley, offering personalized advice on equity compensation, tax-efficient investing, estate planning, and retirement strategies. As a fiduciary, Alison Wealth Management is legally bound to act in clients' best interests with no commissions or conflicts of interest.
“I decided to work with Alison Wealth Management after meeting with several other financial advisors seeking someone to help me plan my retirement, and have been so happy with my decision. Dave Alison and his team are professional and flexible. They provide excellent research and advice, including weighing the pros and cons of various options. My favorite parts of the partnership are having tax implications considered in each scenario, having a long-term view, and Dave’s focus on sharing his knowledge by training financial advisors. I am happy to recommend Alison Wealth Management to investors looking for next level financial advising.”
— Marie Oamek, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 8 reviewsSierra Pacific Private Wealth, LLC in Pleasanton, CA is led by experienced financial advisors who specialize in comprehensive wealth management, retirement planning, and investment advisory services. The firm takes a fiduciary approach, prioritizing client interests through customized financial strategies tailored to individual goals. With a 4.8-star Google rating and expertise in serving individuals, families, and business owners throughout the Tri-Valley area, they provide holistic financial planning and personalized portfolio management.
“After being long-term clients of other financial advisors, large and small, my husband and I sought out a local NAPFA firm to gain more personal attention in financial planning as well as portfolio management. When we met with Sierra Pacific Financial Advisors we immediately noticed a difference from other firms we'd worked with and interviewed. They were very thorough and attentive to our particular financial situation and offered plans and strategies that suited our near-term and future needs. As Sierra Pacific Financial Advisors clients we feel confident of our financial future and look forward to their continued guidance during up and down market conditions, through upcoming life changes, and future retirement.”
— Carolyn Chan, Google Review · 4.8 ★ avg from 6 reviewsKB Financial Advisors in San Francisco specializes in equity compensation planning, tax strategy, and wealth management for tech professionals and founders. With over 30 years of experience navigating stock options, RSUs, and IPOs, they create personalized financial roadmaps that address the unique challenges of tech industry compensation. They combine investment management with active tax planning to help clients maximize equity value while minimizing surprise tax bills.
“We’ve been with Jackie and her team at KB FINANCIAL ADVISORS for over a decade, and they’ve been absolutely incredible every step of the way. We first chose them because they were the top-rated firm for tech professionals, highly recommended by several major SF Tech companies — and that recommendation couldn’t have been more accurate. Jackie has helped us navigate everything from equity comp, RSUs, and IPOs to retirement planning, insurance, and estate strategy. Her advice is always thoughtful, clear, and tailored to our goals — she truly understands the tech world and the financial challenges that come with it. And when it comes to taxes, Chelsea is an absolute gem. Her depth of knowledge, attention to detail, and ability to make complicated tax situations feel manageable is unmatched. Having both our financial planning and tax strategy handled under one roof has been a game changer — seamless, smart, and stress-free. Jackie and Chelsea are not only incredibly sharp — they’re warm, responsive, and genuinely care. We’ve relied on them through career changes, market ups and downs, and major life moments, and they’ve always had our back. If you’re in tech and looking for a trustworthy, full-service financial team in the Bay Area, we can’t recommend Jackie, Chelsea, and the entire team at KB Financial Advisors, highly enough.”
— Diana Borghino, Google Review · 4.7 ★ avg from 15 reviewsSchneider Wealth Management is led by Meredith H. Schneider, CFP, who has spent 27+ years advising technology professionals in Silicon Valley, Palo Alto, and the greater Bay Area. The firm specializes in serving engineers and tech executives with $5-20M+ in assets, providing data-driven financial planning focused on equity compensation, tax optimization, and long-term wealth structuring. Meredith acts as a thinking partner for clients navigating complex, high-stakes financial decisions.
“I've been fortunate to work with Schneider Wealth Management for over 15 years. Meredith and her team provide top-notch financial advice and long-term strategic planning. I particularly appreciate their clear reporting and the smart systems they use to model the likelihood of achieving your financial goals across different life events. They truly listen and get to know what you and your family want in your life and help you get there. Having worked with other financial “advisors” in the past, and having been approached others since, I can say the difference with SWM is clear. Many are focused on selling products or funds, often driven by commissions. I much prefer their fee-based model, which ensures the advice is genuinely in your best interest. Meredith takes a disciplined, thoughtful approach to investing that captures upside opportunities while managing downside risk. I've learned a lot from her over the years. I can't recommend Schneider Wealth Management highly enough.”
— Carolyn Battin, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 4 reviewsAspiriant is a leading independent wealth management firm serving high-net-worth families in Mountain View, CA and nationwide. Founded by CPAs with accounting roots, they specialize in tax-conscious investment strategies, multi-generational financial planning, and concentrated stock diversification for tech professionals. With approximately one-third of their team holding ownership stakes, they're structured for long-term sustainability and client alignment. Their process integrates financial planning, globally diversified value-oriented investment management, and ongoing execution through life's transitions.
Edward Jones Financial Advisor Shane Jacksteit, CFP®|CEPA®|CAP®|AAMS®|CRPC™, serves clients with $2M+ in Sunnyvale, CA. With five advanced financial planning designations, Shane specializes in charitable giving, employee stock options, estate planning, and values-based investing for tech professionals and philanthropic families. His office on South Murphy Avenue provides personalized financial strategies backed by Edward Jones' national resources and research.
“Shane is a financial advisor you can trust to look out for your best interests.”
— David Cross, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 2 reviewsParallel Advisors is a fee-only wealth management firm in Los Altos, CA, founded in 2006, managing over $10 billion for high-net-worth clients. As a fiduciary with 50+ investment advisors, they provide comprehensive financial planning, tax-efficient investment portfolios, private market access, family office services, and estate planning. They specialize in complex wealth scenarios including pre-transaction planning, divorce services, and philanthropic strategies, serving clients across the San Francisco Bay Area.
Orchid Wealth Management is a fee-only, fiduciary registered investment advisor in Palo Alto, CA, led by Seth Swenson. The firm specializes in values-based investing, creating custom-tailored portfolios aligned with clients' personal values and conscience. As an independent fiduciary, Orchid is legally obligated to put client interests first, charging transparent negotiated fees with no commissions or third-party compensation.
Modern Wealth Management's Campbell, CA office is led by Annrose Isaac, CPA, CFP®, MBA, a managing director with over 25 years of financial services experience who specializes in tax planning and wealth management for high-net-worth clients. The team provides holistic financial planning, strategic tax planning for stock options and liquidity events, and investment management with a comprehensive approach that integrates advice across all areas of a client's financial life. Serving the Silicon Valley community from their South Bascom Avenue office, they combine deep tax expertise with modern portfolio management.
California Financial Advisors is a registered investment advisory (RIA) firm in San Ramon, CA, founded in 1998, managing over $2 billion in assets for clients across 40+ states. The firm operates as a fiduciary, legally obligated to act in clients' best interests, and specializes in personalized portfolio management and asset allocation strategies. With a 99.45% average annual client retention rate (2022-2024) and recognition as one of America's Top RIAs by national publications, CFA serves clients seeking long-term wealth management relationships built on trust and consistent support.
“This is a great office. I love their friendly front desk staff. Every single time I'm here i feel like I'm being warmly greeted and sincerely welcomed. They have a large parking lot and there's a nice, clean restroom outside of the office. Ive been very happy with all of the staff here and their services and highly recommend!”
— Amy Schroll, Google Review · 5 ★ avg from 1 reviewsMonroe Wealth Management is the top-ranked financial advisor in the Palo Alto area with a Lantern Score of 82.92/100 and a 5★ rating based on 39 reviews. They specialize in wealth management for tech employees and business owners, with particular expertise serving high-income professionals with equity compensation and those planning business succession.
Financial Zen (Lantern Score: 82.15/100) specializes in helping tech professionals and high earners achieve financial independence decades earlier than traditional timelines, making them ideal for those pursuing early retirement. True Root Financial (81.04/100) and Modern Family Finance (81.04/100) also excel with tech professionals, offering tax optimization and equity compensation planning specifically designed for early financial independence goals.
Modern Family Finance (Lantern Score: 81.04/100, 5★, 22 reviews) is a fee-only firm in Oakland and San Francisco specifically listing LGBTQ+ couples and families as a core focus area, alongside their expertise with tech professionals and self-employed individuals. They provide tax-smart financial planning tailored to the unique needs of LGBTQ+ households.
Monroe Wealth Management (Lantern Score: 82.92/100) excels with business owners and executives managing equity compensation, while DiversiFi Capital (73.97/100) specializes specifically in tech and biotech professionals with complex equity compensation and concentrated stock positions, managing over $500 million in assets. Both firms offer comprehensive wealth management tailored to executive-level financial complexity.
Orchid Wealth Management (Lantern Score: 64.03/100) is a fee-only fiduciary advisor in Palo Alto founded by Seth Swenson that specializes in values-based investing, helping clients build custom-tailored portfolios aligned with their principles. They're particularly suited for socially conscious investors frustrated with traditional commission-based advisory approaches.
None of the 22 financial advisors in the Palo Alto area have weekend availability. All firms operate during standard business hours, so you'll need to schedule appointments during weekday hours.