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About This Course

The Unique & Hard-to-Value Assets course introduces the complex world of managing and valuing assets that fall outside the realm of traditional investments. This course offers valuable insights into the key aspects of these special assets, focusing on the importance of taking them seriously and managing them skillfully.

Throughout the course, you will explore the fundamentals of unique and hard-to-value assets, gaining a foundational understanding of their characteristics and the challenges they present. Learn the essential strategies and best practices for effectively managing and maximizing the value of these assets within your portfolio.

Course Outline

Material is divided into 2 content modules with knowledge checks.

  • Section 1: Unique Assets 101
  • Section 2: Keys to Success: Take Them Seriously and Manage Them Skillfully

Course Instructor

Brad Davidson, Adjunct Instructor

Brad Davidson, a recognized "unique assets" expert, is actively involved with Maryland charitable organizations. In 1990, he founded the valuation firm Spardata and currently manages its consulting subsidiary, Unique Asset Partners. Through this venture, Brad helps fiduciaries effectively manage a wide range of unique assets, including real estate partnerships, privately-owned businesses, mineral interests, insurance policies, loans and notes, and collectibles.

Brad began his career in the financial services industry in 1980 when he joined Merrill Lynch as a financial advisor. His exceptional performance earned him the title of "rookie of the year" in 1981. In 1984, he transitioned to Prudential-Bache Investments, where he served as a vice president until 1986. Following this role, Brad went on to manage an investment fund focused on buying and selling real estate limited partnership interests in the secondary market. This experience laid the foundation for him to establish Spardata in 1990, which has since grown to become a leading valuation firm in the industry.

Who Should Enroll and Why

Trust Officers and Administrators will provide you with the essential knowledge and best practices necessary to effectively manage these assets within trust portfolios. By exploring the characteristics, challenges, and strategies associated with these assets you will be better equipped to make informed decisions, ensure proper valuation, and fulfill your fiduciary responsibilities.

Trust Compliance and Risk Management Officers will gain insights into the characteristics and challenges of these assets, you will be better positioned to identify potential risks, ensure adherence to relevant regulations, and develop appropriate policies and procedures for managing these assets. This course will provide you with the fundamental knowledge necessary to effectively oversee the compliance aspects of unique and hard-to-value assets within trust portfolios.

Financial Advisors and Wealth Managers who work with clients holding unique and hard-to-value assets will gain a basic understanding of the characteristics and challenges associated with these assets. You will be better positioned to help your clients make sound investment decisions and manage their portfolios effectively. This course will equip you with the fundamental knowledge necessary to take these assets seriously and provide appropriate recommendations.

Portfolio Managers and Investment Professionals will gain a foundational understanding of unique and hard-to-value assets. By exploring the characteristics and challenges associated with these assets, you will be better equipped to identify and manage them effectively within your portfolios. This course will provide you with the essential knowledge and best practices necessary to take these assets seriously and maximize their value.

Education Credits

This course qualifies for Continuing Education credits for:

  • Certified Wealth Strategist® (CWS®) 2.5 hours
  • Certified Trust Operations Professional® (CTOP®) 2.5 hours
  • Certified Corporate Trust Professional® (CCTP®) 2.5 hours
  • Certified Retirement Plan Professional (CRPP®) 2.5 hours
  • Certified Fiduciary and Investment Risk Specialist® (CFIRS®) 2.5 hours
  • Accredited Fiduciary Investment Manager® (AFIM®) 2.5 hours

Don’t see your credentials? Contact us for more information.

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