Brian Chang

Brian Chang, senior wealth advisor with Kayne Anderson Rudnick, came to the United States. from Taiwan at age 16 to pursue the American dream. His success has compelled him to pay it forward.

Chang’s background and ability to speak Mandarin foster trust among other immigrants. “They feel understood and more willing to share their aspirations,” he said. “Money is a very cultural thing. Having the same culture builds trust and a comfort level.”

About 50% of Chang’s clients speak Chinese, and he helps them navigate the differences between Asian and American approaches to investing. For example, many tend to embrace real estate. “Over the last three decades, they’ve seen real estate in China go up from 10 to 100 times. They come to the U.S. with the expectation of — that’s where you make money,” he said.

In addition, these clients aren’t accustomed to financial planning and have less understanding about the need for diversification and estate planning, Chang said.

He volunteers with the Los Angeles-area Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce, giving frequent presentations on financial topics to teenagers and pre-retirees. “I want to help the next generations of working people reach their retirement and investment goals,” he said.

— Deborah Nason