About Black Swan Financial

Black Swan Financial, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor in the state of Georgia, is owned and operated by Jeff Howard. We provide fee-only investment management services, comprehensive financial planning, and small business financial consulting services.

Jeff got his Bachelor's Degree in Management from Georgia Tech. He also has a Master's Degree in Personal Financial Planning from Georgia State University and was honored to receive the "2007 Outstanding Personal Financial Planning Student of the Year Award" (see Press Release). Jeff is also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.

Prior to starting Black Swan Financial, Jeff started and ran a successful internet marketing business. During that time Jeff realized that the most challenging aspects of running a small business were the personal financial planning issues that accompany owning a small business. As a "do-it-yourselfer" Jeff immersed himself in learning all of the various financial issues related to personal finance. From the best business structures to use for a given circumstance, to the most tax efficient ways to get money out of the business, Jeff sought as much information as possible to better help him develop his business. He has done all of his own filings and taxes for all of his businesses.

As a small business owner one is faced with many challenges not typically faced by those employed by others. How does one provide health care for his family? What is the best small business retirement plan to maximize contributions and minimize taxes? How much personal and business insurance does one need to protect his assets? What is the best way to leave assets to family members? How does one manage his investments to meet retirement goals? How does one manage small business investments? These are but a few of the many questions Jeff sought the answers to.

After some introspection Jeff realized that his true calling in life was to help others cope with the complicated world of finance by providing truly objective advice based on each individual client's needs and feelings about money. He decided to pursue financial advice as a business for the long term and Black Swan Financial, Inc. is the realization of that dream.

As an avid reader Jeff has read more than 200 books related to personal finance, investing, and many different related topics. Chances are, if there is a financial theory or philosophy you would like some insight on, he can provide some ideas and opinions on it. Coming Soon - Jeff's Financial Book Reviews!

For more information about Jeff's investment philosophy and business relationship philosophy please see the Philosophy page.