About Us
About Rutherford Asset Planning
Rutherford Asset Planning (RAP), a distinguished fee-only wealth management firm located in Tampa, Florida, has been a trusted partner for high net-worth families seeking independent and client-centric financial guidance since 1986. In a region where such fiduciary-focused firms are uncommon, RAP stands out for its commitment to providing holistic financial planning and highly customized financial solutions.
As a premier fee-only financial advisor, RAP distinguishes itself by accepting no commissions, rebates, or soft money, ensuring their advice is always in the best interest of their clients. This transparent approach means clients understand exactly what they are paying for: expert, unbiased financial counsel.
30+ Years Experience
Fee-Only Structure
Featured in Worth Magazine
No Commissions
CFP® Certified
Worth Magazine "Top Advisors"
Comprehensive Services Beyond Investment Advice
RAP’s comprehensive suite of services goes beyond simple investment advice. Their in-house expertise encompasses balanced portfolio design, strategic asset allocation, and sophisticated estate planning strategies and charitable giving planning. Recognizing the interconnectedness of financial well-being, RAP also collaborates with partner firms to offer seamless access to tax preparation services and insurance advice. For added security and convenience, client accounts are held with independent, third-party custodians and are accessible 24/7 through RAP’s secure online portal.
The principals at Rutherford Asset Planning bring a wealth of knowledge and experience from both the financial and legal sectors. Their client-friendly investment philosophy is a hallmark of the firm, contributing to their repeated recognition as one of the nation’s top wealth advisors by Worth magazine.
Why choose a fee-only financial planner like Rutherford Asset Planning?
All fees are fully disclosed and easy to understand, fostering trust and clarity.
The financial interests of RAP and their clients are directly aligned, eliminating potential conflicts of interest.
For the typical client, comprehensive financial planning services are included in their asset management fee.
As a fee-only firm, RAP has the freedom to provide objective advice without any incentive for excessive trading or self-serving actions.
Straightforward Fee Structure
RAP’s straightforward fee structure for investment management is 1% for the first $1,000,000 in assets under management and 0.5% for amounts exceeding that. New clients typically have a minimum of $2,000,000 in transferable investment assets. While comprehensive financial planning is usually included, unique situations requiring services beyond the standard scope will have fees clearly disclosed in advance.
Meet the Rutherford Asset Planning Team
Keith Amburgey – CEO
Experienced Financial Planning and Risk Management Leader
As CEO of Rutherford Asset Planning (RAP), Keith brings over 10 years of dedicated service in providing comprehensive financial guidance to our clients. His extensive 18-year Wall Street career at Morgan Stanley, culminating in the role of Managing Director within the Fixed Income Division, showcases his deep expertise in derivative products, risk management, and advising large institutions. Keith holds an MBA from Rutgers, a summa cum laude BA in Physics and Psychology from Rutgers College, and is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®). His leadership ensures sophisticated and knowledgeable wealth management for our clients.
Ron Rutherford – Founder
Pioneer of the Fee-Only Financial Planning Model
A visionary in the fee-only financial planning space, Ron founded Rutherford Asset Planning in 1986 with his wife Suzzette, championing this client-centric model from the outset. With Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Engineering from the University of Oklahoma and an MBA from New York University, Ron’s analytical background underpins his strategic approach to investment management. As an early member of NAPFA, he is a strong advocate for fiduciary responsibility and is the author of “The Complete Guide to Managing a Portfolio of Mutual Funds.” Ron is also a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). His pioneering spirit continues to shape RAP’s commitment to independent financial advice.
Suzzette Rutherford – Founder
Expertise in Estate and Trust Law
Co-founder of Rutherford Asset Planning, Suzzette combines her technical acumen from her time at IBM with her legal expertise in estate and trust law, practicing since 1997. A graduate of Brooklyn School of Law, she has served on prestigious Estate Planning Councils in New York City and Naples, Florida. Her strong academic foundation includes a Magna Cum Laude undergraduate degree in Physics from the College of the Holy Spirit in the Philippines and an MBA from New York University. Suzzette is also a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). Her unique blend of skills ensures comprehensive financial planning services, including crucial estate planning strategies, for our clients.
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