Stephen Peterson started his career in the stock brokerage business, but he was soon not satisfied dealing solely with transactions. He wanted to focus on building relationships and becoming a trusted advisor. With 30 years’ experience in wealth management and financial planning, Steve still strives every day towards this same goal in his work with his Sand Hill clients.

As a Senior Wealth Manager, Steve considers himself a “financial physician” who helps people live longer, financially healthy lives. He is passionate about getting to know his clients personally and helping them take care of not only their money, but everything else that comes up along the way—from kids and education planning, to buying or building homes, to philanthropic considerations. Steve specializes in assisting high net worth individuals navigate the complexities of multi-generational wealth planning and transfer, with a special focus on residential real estate assets. He understands the importance of both financial calculations and intrinsic personal valuations in the overall planning process, and applies his depth and breadth of experience and expertise to making sure clients consider their options when it comes to cash flow management and estate planning. He works closely with his clients’ other professionals too, from attorneys to accountants, to coordinate proper planning for things like optimal tax benefits and insurance coverage. Steve also serves on our firm’s Investment Committee.

Outside of work, Steve is an active, hands-on father who loves spending time with his family and being involved with his kids’ schools and the community at large. He has served on the Investment Committee for the Endowment of the Menlo Park Atherton Education Foundation (MPAEF), as well as the Board of Directors and as President of the Menlo Circus Club where he’s an active member and dedicated swimmer. Steve enjoys getting out in nature as often as he can, to hike, backpack, or play a round of golf whenever he can find the time. As his kids begin to head off to college, Steve is looking forward to the next phase of life—and we can bet he’s got a solid plan.