facebook twitter instagram linkedin google youtube vimeo tumblr yelp rss email podcast phone blog search brokercheck brokercheck Play Pause

We’re an open book

Our most frequently asked questions from BWL employees

Q: WHAT MAKES FSG DIFFERENT FROM NATIONWIDE?

  • No hold times- you have a team of over 20 people ready and willing to assist whenever needed.
  • You'll meet with the same advisor year after year, both before and after retirement.
  • Specialized plan and asset allocation specifically designed for you and your goals.
  • We have beer in the fridge

Q: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE IN FEES BETWEEN BWL AND NATIONWIDE?

If you have FSG manage your assets, then you DO NOT pay Nationwide and FSG both.

HOW IS FSG COMPENSATED?
Transparency is part of our DNA and we strive to be open with our clients and prospects at all times.  We believe you should not be left wondering how much and in what ways your financial advisor is compensated. After discussing your preferences, we will work together to determine which payment method best fits your specific plan. Depending on your needs, we may be compensated in one or more of the following ways.

Investment Advisory Accounts: If you choose to have FSG manage an investment account, we can deduct an agreed upon amount from your account each month. This fee for service is typically done as a percentage of assets and varies based on the amount of assets you have with us and the complexity of your situation.  We will not start deducting fees from your account(s) until we have prior written approval from you. These fees show up on your statements each month.

Invoicing or debiting from your bank account: Much like how you work with your accountant or attorney, you can choose to hire us based on an hourly rate, financial planning project, or on a retainer basis. You have the choice to pay for our services by writing a check or authorizing us to deduct a bank account. We can also work on a retainer basis where we debit your bank account automatically each month. These fees vary based on which advisor you are working with and how complex your situation is. You will not receive a bill from us nor will your bank account be debited without prior written approval from you.

Commissions: Financial Strategies Group Inc. does not receive commissions but it’s advisors may hold insurance licenses and receive commissions from the sale of insurance and annuity products.

Q: What are your options for your 401a & 457?

Option 1: Nationwide
34 Fund Options

Option 2: Charles Schwab
1,000s of Funds
1,000s of ETFs
1,000s of Stocks and Bonds

FSG can manage these plans for you and create a customized plan that meets your goals. 

Q: How do I know FSG is not going to take my money?

FSG does not custody assets; a third party custodian does this.  These third party custodians are chosen after a rigorous vetting of a number of providers. This means the advisors at Financial Strategies are not incentivized to place your investments in certain places, nor does Financial Strategies house your account money.  

Q: Are you a fiduciary?

Yes, this means we are bound ethically, by the highest legal standard, to act in your best interest.

Q: can fsg manage my spouse's assets as well?

Absolutely!  As long as their plan is eligible.  If your spouse has a retirement plan that does not allow for a similar brokerage option, then our advisors are still able to provide advice and guidance.

Q: Can you invest your personal money? (Money in savings or in outside accounts)

Yes!  Financial Strategies Group and our advisors are able to manage assets that are part of your BWL retirement plan and assets you have accumulated in a variety of other ways. 


It is important that you know Financial Strategies Group is not affiliated in any way with Lansing Board of Water and Light, Nationwide, or ICMA. We are simply an independent, fiduciary team, made up of individuals who are ready and excited to serve you.
Financial Strategies Group, INC is a Registered Investment Advisor. This brochure is solely for informational purposes. Advisory services are only offered to clients and prospective clients where Financial Strategies Group, INC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principle capital. No advice may be rendered by Financial Strategies Group, INC unless a client services agreement is in place.

Client Login  |  Get Our Newsletter

 800-804-0420      Mon-Thus 8am-5pm and Fri 8am-4pm
Click Here //