When this makes sense
Registered Investment Adviser (RIA)
An RIA is the right fit when you want an ongoing advice relationship with a continuous fiduciary duty — someone obligated to act in your best interest not just at the point of sale, but at every decision over time.
When this makes sense
Broker-Dealer
A broker-dealer can be appropriate for executing specific trades or buying specific products, where you primarily need transaction execution rather than ongoing, holistic advice.
The bottom line
Up Capital Management is an independent RIA and a fiduciary. We're obligated to act in your best interest continuously — across planning, investments, tax, and estate work.
See how we’re paidCommon questions
Is an RIA always fee-only?
Not always, but RIAs can be fee-only, and many are. Up Capital Management is a fee-only RIA — paid only by clients, never through commissions.
What is Regulation Best Interest?
Reg BI is a rule requiring broker-dealers to act in a retail customer's best interest at the time they make a recommendation. It's higher than the old 'suitability' standard but narrower than an RIA's continuous fiduciary duty.