Q: What is an ETF?

ETF is short for Exchange Traded Fund. An ETF is like a mutual fund, except it has lower fees, and buying and selling is easier.

Q: What is your approach?

Our solution uses a computer model called Wealth Vision™ to find the best performing funds at any given time. The Compass Investment Solution applies some common sense trading rules to that model to give you annual returns that out perform the major indexes. Compass can be applied to either ETFs or mutual funds, and it works in an IRA, 401k, or regular brokerage account.

Q: How frequently does the system trade?

Compass averages a trade every 2 weeks or so when applied to ETFs, but trades only 6 to 12 times per year when applied to mutual funds.

Q: What is the minimum dollar amount you work with?

Compass requires a minimum investment of $5,000 dollars.

Q: How much does it cost?

Compass costs a modest $149-$249 per year, depending on the beginning account balance and account type (401k, IRA, regular) and where it is held (Fidelity, Scottrade, eTrade, or elsewhere).

Q: How do I sign up?

Fill out the information on the Contact Us page, and one of our advisors will assist you.

Q: What on-line brokers do you use?

We prefer a Fidelity account, but work with others brokerage companies when the necessary.

Q: Will too many members dilute the profits?

Compass includes a series of checks and balances to ensure that not too many of our customers make the same trade during a given time period. This protects our client's profits, and ensures adequate diversity of the assets under management.

Q: How do I cancel my subscription?

Simply call your Spinnaker advisor, and we will refund any unused portion of the annual fee.

Q: What advantage do you offer over other investment companies?

Given the recent market downturn, our investment style is a 'back to the basics' approach. Our strategies are easy to understand, and we match these to each of our client's individualized needs.

Q: How do I see my account?

Transparency is a key feature with any of Spinnaker's investment products: You can track your account balance and holdings at any time by logging in to your existing IRA, 401k, or brokerage account.

Q: What kind of notification will I receive?

You will regularly receive emails with links to monthly summary reports. Also, you'll receive an email each time a trade is made in your account.

Q: How do I know my money will be safe?

You are always in control of your money. It stays in a brokerage account in your name, and you can access it at any time. Also, you may discontinue our investment services at any time, and receive a refund of any unused portion of the annual fee.

Q: How do I withdraw my money?

Your funds are kept in your brokerage, 401k, or IRA account. You can withdraw at any time from a regular brokerage account, but there are federal government regulations that limit or tax early withdrawals from an IRA or 401k account. Please contact your brokerage company to learn about your withdrawal options.