Matt Rupert, Age 37
Advisor and Director of Research, PalomarWealth
In his current role, Rupert creates comprehensive financial plans for clients, conducts client reviews and needs analysis, supervises investment strategy and implementation, leads the Investment Committee, and produces monthly market commentary, publishing bi-weekly podcast, and other community engagement/educational content.
Rupert “is a CPA, Chartered Financial Consultant, and recently attained his Certified Student Loan Specialist designation. Matt treats every client with respect and purposeful analysis to help them achieve their financial goals,” said his nominator. “Matt works both client-facing as well as behind the scenes, constantly learning as well as investigating market day-to-day and long-term trends.”
Rupert is a past Toastmasters president and member of the Peoria County Farm Bureau. He has volunteered with Corn Stock Theatre and Sophia’s Kitchen. He also is a small business owner in the tax preparation and advisement industry.
Rupert is married to wife Megan and they are the parents of two children.
Childhood ambition: “If I had an old yearbook, my best guess would be it says I wanted to be a park ranger. Our family has been steadfast campers and enjoying our summer vacation in a tent left an impression. Later in grade school, it shifted to being a historian.”
Advice to 20-year-old self: “Work on creating a budget, set short- and long-term financial goals, and start adding to a Roth IRA each year to capitalize on the power of compound interest.”
Unknown to colleagues: “I am a past participant in Peoria’s sister city exchange to Germany.”
Best advice: “My barber said I should reach out to the daughter of one of her other clients. I sat on it for a few months, but finally did. Now we are married for over seven years and have a beautiful son and daughter.”
Biggest challenge: “In a previous career field, I hit a point of near debilitating stress due to workload, staffing issues, and leadership. It was incredibly difficult to ask for help, not wanting to feel embarrassed and incapable. Making changes myself and working with a life coach helped dig out of the rut and eventually move on.”
Recommended book: “The Lord of the Rings.”
Local inspiration: “(Former Congressman and U.S. Transportation Secretary) Ray LaHood.”
Peoria needs: “A Duluth Trading Co. store, great line of clothing!”
