By 6:30 a.m. on any given weekday—and most Saturdays—you’ll find Milford native Jim Betzig, CEO of Coastal Bridge Advisors (formerly Trinity Point Wealth), already deep into his routine. His morning starts with multiple newspapers, a review of overnight stock reports and online trades, and a strategic meeting with his Chief Institutional Investment Officer, Eric Passeri. Then, it’s on to what he values most: his clients.
One afternoon, Jim and Kevin Burns, Founding Partner of Coastal Bridge Advisors, joined forces with Focus Financial Partners and connected on a call to discuss the potential for a merger. As soon as the call ended, Kevin drove to Jim and they swiftly made plans to ensure the merger would move forward. This past January, their vision came to fruition.
Over the past few months, Trinity Point Wealth entered into a new chapter with a deeper sense of purpose and strategy to their work. Wealth management is more than just growing assets — it’s about strategy, personalization, and trust. At Coastal Bridge Advisors, this philosophy is at the heart of their approach, shaping the way they guide clients through financial decisions that impact not only their investments but their lives. With a deep commitment to customization and risk management, the firm ensures that each client’s financial future is built on a foundation of insight, experience, and purpose.
Wealth management starts with discovering what drives each client – whether it’s their ambitions, lifestyle, family dynamics, or the unique circumstances that shape their financial world. Using a comprehensive approach, the team at Coastal Bridge Advisors takes the time to craft personalized investment and financial planning strategies that align with the goals and visions conveyed by their clients.
“We see ourselves as partners in our clients’ financial journeys,” explains Dana Mascalo, Partner/Senior Wealth Advisor. “Our approach isn’t just about investments; it’s about helping people achieve their life goals, whether that means securing a comfortable retirement, leaving a legacy to their family, or supporting philanthropic endeavors.”
Coastal Bridge Advisors’ impact extends beyond financial services. The firm actively supports local organizations and charitable initiatives, strengthening ties with the communities they serve. Each year, Coastal Bridge Advisors supports more than a dozen local communities and non-profits, reflected by their award of “Charitable Business of the Year” from the Milford Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Jim Betzig explains, “As a co-chair of this year's Boys and Girls Club Gala, I am proud to be part of an event that celebrates the incredible impact the club has on the Milford community. The funds raised will go directly to supporting programs that have a lasting impact, empowering our youth and providing them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive.”
What really makes Coastal Bridge Advisors stand out is their approach to customization. They don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions. Instead, they kick off every relationship with an in-depth fact-finding mission--- understanding how they can make things simpler for their clients. The firm’s team of financial experts carefully constructs investment portfolios geared towards achieving each client’s short and long term objectives while maintaining the flexibility to adapt as circumstances evolve.
“We recognize that financial needs change over time,” Lise Robinson, Partner/Senior Wealth Advisor emphasizes. “That’s why our approach is dynamic—continuous monitoring and open communication allows us to make adjustments that keep our clients on track toward their objectives.” This ongoing engagement ensures that clients feel supported every step of the way, with the confidence that their wealth is being managed proactively rather than reactively.
Managing risk is an essential element of any sound investment strategy, and at Coastal Bridge Advisors, they recognize the importance of understanding the level of risk versus reward when constructing portfolios. Every investment will have some degree of risk, which they take great care in assessing in order to mitigate it effectively.
Their approach begins with diversification, a fundamental principle that spreads investments across various asset classes to reduce exposure to volatility. This strategy helps reduce the impact of a poorly performing security or asset class. Having your investments grow in a bull market is of course great, but any wealth management team can help with that – protecting your assets and wealth in a market downturn is where true investment acumen is able to shine.
But risk management doesn’t stop at diversification. Coastal Bridge Advisors employs rigorous research methodologies, back-testing their strategies to evaluate downside risk and exploring private equity and alternative investments where appropriate. For high-net-worth and institutional clients, these sophisticated strategies offer opportunities to enhance portfolio resilience while pursuing meaningful returns.
“Our network of institutional managers and research providers supply us with critical insights into the broader economic landscape,” Brett St. John, Senior Portfolio Strategist explains. “This allows us to anticipate market shifts and proactively adjust portfolios, rather than simply reacting to change.”
While investment management and retirement planning are a core focus, Coastal Bridge Advisors offers a suite of additional services. From tax optimization strategies and estate planning to retirement planning and insurance solutions, the firm takes a comprehensive view of wealth management. This approach allows them to help clients navigate the complexities of financial planning with confidence, ensuring that every piece of the puzzle is considered.
“True wealth management means looking at the big picture,” JR Romano, Partner/Wealth Advisor discusses. “It’s not just about managing investments — it’s about helping our clients secure their future, protect their assets, and create a legacy.”
This dedication has earned the firm a reputation for excellence with their clients. Their clients value their ability to provide not just financial solutions but a true sense of partnership. By focusing on long-term success and prioritizing each client’s unique needs, Coastal Bridge Advisors continues to redefine what it means to be a trusted wealth management firm.
When asked their thoughts to help guide our younger readership on investing and building wealth, Matt Marini, Wealth Advisor, explained, “Starting early, staying consistent, and focusing on the long term are key to building wealth. Leverage tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s or IRAs and diversify your investments to balance risk.” Matt Coutcher, Partner/Wealth Advisor added, “Time in the market beats trying to time the market as one of the greatest drivers of financial success, so don’t delay."
Coastal Bridge Advisors, LLC (dba "Coastal Bridge Advisors") (hereinafter "Coastal Bridge" or "the Firm") is a registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Connecticut. Coastal Bridge may only transact business in those states in which it is registered or notice filed, or qualifies for an exemption or exclusion from such requirements. This memorandum is limited to the dissemination of general information regarding its investment advisory services to United States residents residing in states where providing such information is not prohibited by applicable law. For information pertaining to the registration status of Coastal Bridge, please refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about Coastal Bridge, including fees and services, send for the Firm's Disclosure Brochure. Please read the Disclosure Brochure carefully before you invest.
Coastal Bridge Advisors is located at 612 Wheelers Farm Road. They offer services such as financial planning, retirement services, institutional consulting, and more. Visit coastalbridgeadvisors.com for more information.
"With a deep commitment to customization and risk management, the firm ensures that each client’s financial future is built on a foundation of insight, experience, and purpose."
"It’s not just about managing investments — it’s about helping our clients secure their future, protect their assets, and create a legacy."