About Us
About Us
Insightful Recommendations and Knowledgeable Execution
Ken Nelson is an analytical, value-driven financial advisor. He has achieved success both through his impressive academic and professional career. He is a former chess champion with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Tufts University and an MBA from Duke University. He got his start in Manhattan’s commercial real estate market before beginning a career in financial advising two months after the crash of 1987. Ken has worked with industry leaders such as Wachovia Securities since beginning his career.
Ken’s passions are evident in his current project, where he is completing a book on the history of financial markets. Through his research, Ken recognized the possible threat a pandemic might have on financial markets. In 2022, Ken also recognized the risk that rising interest rates may have on growth stocks and bonds. Contact us today and see what’s made Nelson a trusted name in financial advising.
Helpful Articles Ken Recommends:
- The relationship between Education and Investment Returns by Yale Professor Judith Chevallier and MIT Professor Glenn Ellison
- The relationship between IQ and investment return by Univ of Chicago Professor Juhani Linnainmaa, UCLA Professor Mark Grinblatt, and Helsinki School of Economic Professor Matti Keloharju.
- Putting a value on your value: Quantifying Vanguard Advisor’s Alpha® by Francis M. Kinniry Jr., CFA; Colleen M. Jaconetti, CPA, CFP ®; Michael A. DiJoseph, CFA; Yan Zilbering; and Donald G. Bennyhoff, CFA

Anticipating Tomorrow's Real World Outlook
Our clients deserve more than a generic, one-size-fits-all portfolio. We create customized solutions tailored to each client that take into account the current economic landscape and anticipate future market trends. By carefully considering the unique circumstances and goals of each client, we are able to build financial strategies that are tailored to your specific needs and deliver real results.

Our Long-Range Viewpoint
Our commitment to education is reflected in our long-standing dedication to Duke University. We have strong ties with Duke alumni, many of whom have become our clients. We also have an ongoing internship program with Duke students so we can help nuture the next generation of financial professionals. Furthermore, we actively support Duke University's community outreach initiatives and prioritize our commitment to giving back to the university and the wider community.

Cognizant of Today's Economic Realities
Ken Nelson has provided guest lectures at Duke University as well as numerous guest speaking spots on radio and television. These speaking segments have been for the service of individuals to better understand the financial market and make smarter decisions about their finances. Nelson Wealth Advisors is dedicated to knowledge and providing our experience wherever we go.
Our Core Values: A Foundation of Integrity
Applied Experience
We won't do cookie-cutter portfolios for our clients. We build personalized solutions cognizant of today’s economic realities and in studied anticipation of tomorrow’s real-world outlook.
Proactive Management
Contrary to many in the industry, we take an active approach to portfolio management. We’re not afraid to restructure when markets change to mitigate risk and seize new opportunities.
Long-Range Viewpoint
As a family-owned business, we’re thinking about the continuity of relationships that spans generations. We’re committed to earning and nurturing that kind of deep trust.
Expense-Averse
We’ll avoid fees anywhere we can. Through rigorous product selection and in-house construction and management of portfolios, our clients can invest more of what they earn while paying less in fees.
Want to Know Your Risk Number?
A 5-minute questionnaire covers topics such as portfolio size and top financial goals, while showing real dollar amounts of how much you are willing to risk for potential gains. Once complete, you will have a personalized Risk Number®. It's fast, free and displays your number instantly.
How We Address Your Unique Situation
Proactive management for each and every stage of your life to see you to and through retirement.

Early Career Work
We guide individuals early in their careers with employee benefits, retirement, insurance, debt reduction, home purchasing planning, and more by evaluating investment options while maximizing resources.

Established Professionals
We help those established in their profession seek help with financial planning by prioritizing and evaluating employee benefits, retirement, college funding, and risk management, including life and disability insurance.

Retirement Preparation
We assist individuals retiring and nearing retirement prioritize coordinated income plans, nest egg protection, and long-term care planning. Aiming to insulate assets from potential market pullbacks, care costs, and more.
Download "Retire Happy," Our Free Ebook!
Are you looking forward to retirement? Are you really prepared for what lies ahead? Our free ebook can help you find out. Register today to receive your copy of "Retire Happy: A Simple Guide to Your Next Big Adventure."
Our Financial Partners
Parent: Cetera Financial Group
Our Custodian: Pershing
Our Services
Our services are customized to your needs so you can pursue your financial goals with confidence.
Our Team
As a family business, we get to know our clients on a personal level. Meet our team and see how we can help you today.
Contact Us
Contact us to get started with planning your financial future and securing your assets.