Why I Became a Financial Advisor

By Nicholas Efthemis, CFP®, CRPS®

Sometimes it is the most challenging moments in life that are the most formative. At least that was the case for me. I grew up in a family environment where financial worry was the norm. I watched as my mother struggled to navigate our family’s finances and make ends meet. As a result, I learned that if you have money problems, you have life problems, and a lack of resources often leads to a lack of choices.

I didn’t want that to be my future. In financial advising, I saw an opportunity to not only change the course of my life, but also help and teach others to manage their money well so they don’t have to live with the effects of financial stress.

The Journey

After attending State University of New York at Buffalo, I entered the financial industry, becoming a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a Chartered Retirement Plans SpecialistSM professional. I spent many years gaining knowledge and experience before founding Emergent Wealth Advisors, a fiduciary financial advisory firm serving retirees and pre-retirees who want to grow and protect their wealth so they can live comfortably. 

With over two decades of experience as a wealth advisor, I design comprehensive financial plans that help my clients align their money with their goals and values. I assist them as they prepare for the challenges they face and take advantage of the opportunities that come their way, allowing them to get the most out of their wealth and make the best decisions for their lives. Our personalized planning process coupled with my care and understanding of my clients’ lives helps those I serve take a deep breath and look to the future with excitement instead of concern. 

The Best Part

While my career decision came out of difficult circumstances, it has brought so much fulfillment to my life. Not only do I get to develop long-lasting relationships with incredible clients, hearing their stories. I also get to see the relief on people’s faces when they realize that finances don’t have to be a cause of stress in their life. I have the ultimate privilege of helping others go from a place of anxiety and limited choices to thriving in financial security. That’s why I come to work every day, motivated to make a difference, benefit others, and build something valuable. 

Are You Ready for a Different Financial Future?

Whether your goal is to retire early, pay for your children’s college education, or create a legacy that will last for generations, I’d love to get to know you and show you how I can help. If you’re ready to see what wealth planning can do for you, reach out to me at (716) 828-8390 or email nick@emergentwa.com to schedule a no-obligation conversation. 

About Nicholas

Nicholas Efthemis is wealth advisor and chief compliance officer at Emergent Wealth Advisors, a fiduciary financial advisory firm serving retirees and pre-retirees with customized financial planning solutions. Having worked in the financial industry since 1997, Nicholas has deep knowledge and experience in retirement, investment, and comprehensive planning strategies, coupled with an understanding of the hopes, needs, and goals his clients have for their future. He is dedicated to helping his clients find confidence in their financial situation through personalized advice and support that empowers them to make the best decisions for their lives. 

Nick is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a Chartered Retirement Plans SpecialistSM professional. Outside of the office, Nicholas is an active member of his community, working with the SPCA and the Humane Society. In his free time, you can find him hiking or fishing with his family. If you want to learn more about Nicholas, connect with him on LinkedIn.