Just as Walmart revolutionized retail with its commitment to “Everyday Low Prices,” our Northwest Arkansas financial planning team is bringing the same transparency revolution to financial services with Everyday Transparent Pricing.
Located minutes from Walmart’s Bentonville headquarters, we understand the unique financial landscape that Walmart executives navigate daily. Your career offers exceptional opportunities and distinct challenges that require specialized financial expertise—delivered with the same clarity and value that Walmart customers have come to expect.
The Problem: Hidden Costs in Financial Advice
Many financial advisor compensation structures create a maze of hidden costs and potential conflicts. For Walmart leaders managing complex compensation packages—including stock options, RSUs, and performance bonuses—these hidden costs can significantly impact long-term financial outcomes.
Understanding Different Advisor Fee Structures
Commission-Based Advisors
These advisors earn compensation through product sales, potentially creating inherent conflicts when recommendations align with higher commissions rather than your best interests. Many costs remain invisible to clients, embedded within product structures.
Fee-Based Advisors (Hybrid Model)
While charging some direct fees, these advisors also collect commissions, creating a confusing structure where it’s difficult to identify when advice is truly objective versus product-driven. Disclosure requirements exist but often appear in dense fine print.
Fee-Only Isn’t Always Conflict-Free
Many firms advertise as fee-only, signaling that they don’t accept commissions from financial products. While this is a step in the right direction, it’s important to understand that not all fee-only models are created equal. The most common structure is the Assets Under Management (AUM) model, where clients are charged a percentage of their investment portfolio. While more transparent than commission-based models, AUM still creates subtle conflicts—namely, an incentive for the advisor to keep as much money under management as possible. This can discourage strategies like debt reduction, private real estate investments, or holding cash outside the firm.
In addition, AUM advisors often require clients to move assets into their custody to begin working together, which can create friction and limit flexibility.
Flat-Fee Advisors
These advisors charge a consistent fee based on financial complexity rather than asset size. This approach ensures clients with significant company stock holdings or complex compensation structures aren’t penalized with percentage-based fees that grow regardless of service level. The flat-fee structure eliminates conflicts related to asset allocation decisions.
At Pathway by Willow, our flat-fee model eliminates these issues. We charge based on the complexity of your financial life—not how much money you’ve invested. This means you always know exactly what you’re paying, and you’re never required to move your assets just to get advice. Our structure offers true transparency, flexibility, and alignment—exactly what today’s clients deserve.
Our “Everyday Transparent Pricing” Philosophy
Our pricing model features a straightforward flat-fee structure based on financial complexity rather than asset size. This approach doesn’t necessarily mean “discount” services, but rather a more consistent and transparent pricing schedule compared to traditional AUM models.
Like Walmart’s commitment to removing pricing surprises, we provide clear, upfront pricing with no hidden markups. Just as Walmart revolutionized retail by putting customers first, our transparent pricing puts your financial success—not product sales or asset accumulation—at the center of our relationship.
The Value Proposition: What Fee-Only Planning Delivers
Beyond investment management, our approach provides comprehensive financial planning that addresses the nuances of Walmart’s compensation structure and benefits. Our objective advice comes without product sales pressure, ensuring recommendations truly align with your goals.
For Walmart leadership, this means specialized expertise in optimizing stock option strategies, RSU planning, and executive benefit packages from advisors who understand both your company culture and your financial aspirations.
The Pathway by Willow Difference
Our team combines decades of experience working specifically with Walmart executives. With advanced credentials in executive compensation planning and deep roots in Northwest Arkansas, we understand both the technical aspects of your financial situation and the unique Walmart culture that shapes your career journey.Just as Walmart transformed retail through price transparency, we’re bringing that same revolutionary approach to financial planning for its leadership team. Experience the difference that truly transparent pricing can make in your financial future by scheduling a complimentary consultation today.
Disclosure: This blog post is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as financial, investment, or tax advice. Please consult a financial advisor, accountant, or attorney before making any decisions based on this content.
