Michael A. Halvorsen

Wealth Advisor & Managing Partner

CFP®, CEBS

MRK Wealth Advisors

My Approach

Financial planning isn't one-size-fits-all. I specialize in helping individuals and families navigate the complex financial crossroads of life, focusing heavily on these unique groups and the major moments that define their journeys.

The Clients I Serve

Executives

Most advisors focus on investments. We focus on where pharma executives build wealth: executive compensation, tax strategy, and the decisions most people get wrong without ever knowing it.

Physicians & Healthcare

We focus on where pharma executives build wealth: executive compensation, tax strategy, and the decisions most people get wrong without ever knowing it.

Also: Pre-Retiree

Major Milestones I Specialize In

Compensation Changes

We help clients navigate the complexities of promotions and job changes as it relates to their executive compensation, including LTI, pensions and other corporate benefits.

Also: Career Changes or Job Loss, Retirement Planning

Our 7 Steps to Financial Planning

Certified Financial Planners have a proven blueprint for success—but your planner builds it entirely around you.

Summarized from the CFP® Board's Practice Standards. cfp.net

My Process

If you're a Merck or other pharmaceutical executive, you're earning well, but there's a good chance your benefits, deferred comp, and LTI elections are quietly costing you more than you realize. Most advisors focus on investments. We focus on where pharma executives build wealth: executive compensation, tax strategy, and the decisions most people get wrong without ever knowing it. What we typically help with: — 401(k) elections that are costing you thousands in missed company match — Deferred compensation decisions that could reduce your lifetime tax burden significantly — LTI strategy (RSUs, PSUs, stock options) — Retirement readiness — Career transitions — negotiating a new package without leaving money on the table Our team includes CFP®️s, CPAs, investment professionals, insurance advisors, and estate planning specialists all working together on your specific situation.

Disclosures

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, tax, or legal advice. It is not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any security, insurance product, or investment strategy. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Tax and legal matters are outside the scope of this engagement; consult your attorney, accountant, and other qualified professionals before making financial decisions. Additional information about this financial professional, including registration status and disciplinary history, is available through FINRA BrokerCheck and the SEC Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website.