Our Story

Our Story begins with founder and President Richard Fichter Jr., where in 1983 Rick began in the investment banking industry with Empire of America. It quickly became apparent that the interest rates banks charge customers (e.g., bank loans and credit cards) are much higher than those they payout (e.g., savings accounts and CD's).  This difference is known as “the spread”, creating conflicted interests that have perpetuated throughout the financial realm, even to this day. Rick then joined Morgan Stanley Dean Witter where he rose to Vice President of Investments. However, it was not long before Rick noticed a new set of issues that hindered clients’ success. The implied mandate to push proprietary products and meet sales quotas countered Rick's efforts to provide unbiased advice.

Desiring uncompromised service, Rick founded Fichter Wealth Management in 1991, choosing to use a fully independent broker/dealer, Securities America, Inc. To directly align the firm’s interests with that of our clients, we are fee-based (non-commission), employee-owned, and fiercely independent. In order to cultivate ongoing client relationships, we are a small, family firm by design.

Already having an established background in investments, Rick sought to enhance the financial planning aspect of the firm. He has since brought on two of his sons, Richard Fichter III MBA, CFP^®, AIF^® and Jonathan Fichter MBA. Rick Jr.’s youngest son, Jonathan, graduated from Canisius College with an MBA in finance in 2014. Having passed the series 66 and 7 examinations, he serves as a Financial Paraplanner. In addition, Jonathan is an insurance specialist with licenses in Life, Long-term Care, Health, and Disability. He regularly assists in preparing research analysis, insurance proposals, income distribution strategies, and financial plans. Jonathan has been diligently prepping for the challenging CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ exam. 

Rick III, Executive Wealth Advisor, joined the firm in 2004 after graduating from Canisius College with an MBA in accounting. Rick holds his series 66, 7, and 24 securities licenses along with his insurance certification. In 2007, He earned his Certified Financial Planner™ designation and enjoys building financial blueprints. Most recently, Rick III became an Accredited Investment Fiduciary AIF^® to further display our firm's unbiased, trustworthy advice that’s difficult to find in our conflicted industry.

In addition to our expert support staff, the firm is also comprised of three other Securities America advisors. Their specialties & backgrounds include insurance protection, estate and trust planning, commodities trading, and stock options, rounding out our comprehensive approach to wealth management. Our firm is also well-equipped to work closely with our client’s existing team of affiliated professionals if already in place.

Our firm is the choice for individuals who desire a practical plan and the security of knowing that their finances are in highly credentialed and experienced hands. We strive to earn the status of trusted advisor and would welcome an opportunity to provide you with same.

Photos provided by Edge Imaging of WNY dave@edgewny.com