Diocesan Trustees Announce Investment Advisor

Following an in-depth process of more than a year, the Trustees of the Diocese of Fond du Lac are pleased to announce the selection of The Martzahl Group at Graystone Consulting - Morgan Stanley as its Investment Advisor for the Diocesan Common Trust (DCT).
 
The DCT, established in 1956, is a pooled investment fund designed to provide regular income and maintain value versus inflation. It is especially useful for those without expertise in investments. Any congregation or affiliated entity may participate. Pooling assets allows for more effective and efficient investing from economies of scale, discounted administrative fees and increased ‘purchasing power’ with access to the institutional share class level. This results in reduced expense and improved performance versus solo entity investing.
 
An Investment Committee conducted a request for proposal process with thirteen vendors, considering each in terms of investment performance, customer service, and fees. In-person interviews were conducted with four candidates.
 
“We were impressed by Martzahl’s ability to cater to specific needs, both in investment strategy as well as customer service,” noted Anne Peterson, Investment Committee Chair. “The Committee believes their investment philosophy, values and customer service will be an excellent match for the diocese.”
 
The Martzahl Group focuses on addressing the fiduciary responsibilities and investment needs of institutional investors and the private wealth management of high net worth individuals. It has assisted clients in northeast Wisconsin for over 20 years.
 
Participant Impact
Significant behind-the-scenes work to transfer assets to Graystone has begun, but participants should experience no disruption. Pension, Inc. has been engaged as third party administrator to perform recordkeeping and ministerial services on behalf of the fund and its participants.
 
“Our new arrangement reduces the administrative burden on the Diocesan Office,” Administrator Matthew Payne noted. “The new arrangement frees up many hours each month so we can better serve congregations more in other areas.”
 
A complete transition to the new Investment Advisor will be complete by 1 January 2018.

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