The Smart Nest Egg blog is devoted to providing clear insights and strategies on protecting your wealth. We aim to be straightforward, honest and articulate, while having a little fun.
Authors
Steve Merrell (smerrell@willowridgecapital.com)
Steve is the founder and Chief Investment Officer of Willow Ridge Capital Advisors based in Monterey, California. Prior to forming Willow Ridge, Steve was Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager at American Express Financial Advisors where he managed several mutual funds and other portfolios for institutions and well-known individuals. He was also the leader of American Express' fixed income emerging markets and institutional asset allocation teams.
Steve was educated at Brigham Young University where he graduated with an MBA in 1986 and a BA in Economics in 1984.
Steve and his wife Jeanne have five children. They enjoy family activities, serving in their church and pursuing adventure while backpacking, cycling, scuba diving, or just having fun together. Steve is based in Monterey California and currently serves as a board member and treasurer of the Hospice Foundation, and on the investment committee for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Monterey County and the Community Foundation for San Benito County. He is active in Boy Scouts and Rotary.
Gary Alt (galt@willowridgecapital.com)
LinkedIn
Gary is the co-founder of Willow Ridge Capital Advisors based in Pleasanton, California. After earning a Bachelors Degree in Finance from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he held numerous management and executive positions in several public companies. Among other responsibilities he evaluated companies for potential acquisition, eventually leading to the $339 million acquisition of a technology company traded on the NASDAQ and Tel Aviv Stock Exchanges.
Wealth can be used to make a real difference in people's lives, but it requires discipline, focus and hard work. Most people believe wealth will make their lives simpler, when in fact it often makes life more complex. By sticking to fundamental principles reinforced over time, people can protect their own nest egg
Gary and his wife Sheila have four children and reside in Pleasanton, California. Their love for their community finds the volunteering at schools, in Scouting, in the Rotary Club, and in other organizations. Beyond the financial world, you're likely to see Gary outdoors with his family, enjoying hiking, running, cycling, and trap shooting among other things.