Building on three decades of industry experience, Gregory Ricks has led a team of wealth advisors since 2011 as he has helped families make the financial decisions that come with every stage of life. Formerly known as Gregory Ricks & Associates, the firm has become a respected name in financial services on the Gulf Coast with offices in Metairie, Mandeville and Gulfport.
Now operating as Gregory Ricks Total Wealth, the firm’s updated name reflects the breadth of services it offers and its holistic financial planning process. Although the name has evolved, the company’s vision remains unchanged. Gregory Ricks Total Wealth is driven to help individuals and families build, manage and protect their financial well-being.
“We wanted the community to have clarity about what we do and what high-level financial services we provide,” said Gregory Ricks, founder, CEO and wealth advisor at Gregory Ricks Total Wealth. “The term ‘total wealth’ reflects our complete planning process – including income planning, investment planning, tax-efficient strategies, estate planning and health care planning.”
total wealth approach
Financial health, like physical health, requires consistent attention and a big-picture mindset supported by small, intentional steps along the way. At Gregory Ricks Total Wealth, each family is paired with a certified advisor who develops a personalized financial strategy based on information gathered during the initial consultation.
Each plan is tailored to the family’s unique goals and circumstances, including retirement timeline, marital status, investments, income needs and long-term objectives. Once drafted, plans are reviewed by the entire Gregory Ricks Total Wealth team during dedicated Friday strategy sessions, where advisors work together to identify any gaps, concerns or opportunities before presenting recommendations to the family.
“Our team-based approach ensures a cohesive, informed approach to every financial plan,” Ricks said. “All of our advisors are highly experienced, and we constantly learn from each other while working under the same investment philosophy.”
After families are presented with their customized plans, those who choose to proceed begin the implementation phase. During this phase, advisors can reallocate assets across accounts and holdings consistent with Gregory Ricks Total Wealth’s philosophy of balancing growth opportunities with appropriate risk management. Retirement savings spread across multiple accounts can also be consolidated to make access easier. Once assets are properly located, clients receive a comprehensive binder detailing their financial plan – a living document designed to grow with their needs and goals.
“An important part of our process is to hold annual strategy meetings with each client,” Ricks said. “Looking at account performance is easy – most people can open a banking or investing app and see how their money performed over the past year. What’s more important is to take a proactive approach and discuss what adjustments should be made for the year ahead.”
A sounding board backed by experience
Financial decisions can often feel isolating, especially during major life changes, such as losing a spouse or parent. One of the biggest benefits of working with a financial advisor is gaining an experienced perspective that can help families deal with difficult transitions, as well as identify blind spots and uncover overlooked opportunities.
“If you need someone to discuss money, financial decisions, or you’re unsure about your next step, we’re here,” Ricks said. “As soon as the thought of a big financial decision arises — whether it’s selling a business, choosing a retirement date or starting Social Security benefits — contact a professional to talk it over.”
Gregory Ricks Total Wealth’s offerings include investment and retirement guidance as well as advanced tax and income planning, estate and legacy strategies, business succession and exit planning and charitable giving strategies.
Qualified investors can also access select private markets opportunities through the firm’s high-net-worth offerings. Learn more about the firm’s high net worth services https://gregoryricks.com/high-net-worth/.
next chapter together
“We call that money ‘forever money’ that will last through someone’s later years,” Ricks said. “We are looking for that money today and working to make sure it is suitable for doing the work it needs to do so it can last them well into the next chapter of their lives.”
Looking to the future, Gregory Ricks Total Wealth hopes to continue building sustainable financial structures for families along the Gulf Coast. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit www.gregoryricks.com.
This article is general in nature and does not constitute investment or financial advice or a recommendation of any kind. Please consult your financial advisor before making financial decisions. For more detailed information, contact Gregory Ricks, a financial advisor at Total Wealth. Insurance products are offered through insurance business Gregory Ricks Total Wealth. Gregory Ricks Total Wealth is also an investment advisory practice that offers products and services through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM), a registered investment advisor. AEWM does not offer insurance products. Insurance products offered by Gregory Ricks Total Wealth are not subject to investment advisor requirements. Neither the Firm nor its agents or representatives can provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult a qualified professional for guidance before making any purchasing decisions. 4060553 – 5/26