Gudorf Financial Group Launches Independent RIA With Charles Schwab as Custodian

Dayton-area firm expands multi-family client office model as Gudorf Financial Group advances retirement planning as a financial advisor.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Gudorf Financial Group has launched its independent Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), selecting Charles Schwab as its primary custodian and signaling a decisive shift in how retirement planning is delivered in the Dayton metropolitan area. By moving to an independent, fee-only fiduciary model, the firm removes third-party constraints and gains full control over planning, investment strategy, and client outcomes.

Why it matters

This transition reflects a broader industry shift toward advisor-owned RIAs as financial advisors seek greater autonomy over portfolio construction, planning methodology, and client experience. Independence allows Gudorf Financial Group to align planning, investment management, and long-term strategy without product-driven conflicts.

The details

After eight years operating under Cambridge Investment Research, Gudorf Financial Group elected to pursue independence to gain full control over its advisory platform and operate exclusively as a fee-only fiduciary. As an independent RIA, the firm now exercises complete discretion across retirement planning and investment decisions, aligning tax strategy, Social Security and Medicare guidance, and estate coordination within a single advisory framework.

  • Gudorf Financial Group launched its independent RIA in February 2026.

The players

Gudorf Financial Group

Gudorf Financial Group specializes in retirement planning for individuals and families age 50 and older. The firm serves clients across Dayton, Centerville, and Troy and manages over $100 million in client assets under management.

Charles Schwab

Charles Schwab provides the custodial infrastructure supporting Gudorf Financial Group's advisory operations. With nearly $12 trillion in client assets and approximately 38 million accounts, Schwab offers institutional-grade technology, reporting tools, and asset custody while preserving Gudorf Financial Group's independence as a financial planner.

Danny Gudorf

Danny Gudorf is the founder of Gudorf Financial Group.

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What they’re saying

“This transition has been a long-term objective for our organization. Operating as an independent RIA allows us to build solutions around client goals rather than platform restrictions. We now answer to our clients alone.”

— Danny Gudorf, Founder, Gudorf Financial Group (statenews.net)

“Our partnership with Charles Schwab enhances how we serve clients. Combined with our multi-family client office model, independence allows us to deliver retirement planning, tax strategy, and estate coordination in a fully integrated way.”

— Danny Gudorf, Founder, Gudorf Financial Group (statenews.net)

What’s next

The firm's independence also supports its multi-family client office model, which integrates financial planning, tax strategy, and estate coordination within a single advisory structure. Gudorf Financial Group works alongside certified financial planners, CPAs, and estate planning attorneys to deliver coordinated guidance across all stages of retirement.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing trend of financial advisors seeking greater autonomy and control over their advisory platforms by transitioning to independent RIA models. Gudorf Financial Group's move to independence allows the firm to better align its planning, investment, and client service approach with the unique needs of its retirement-focused clientele.