Disclosure

Important Disclosures about Third-Party Rankings

Third-party rankings are provided for informational purposes only and are not indicative of any client’s experience or investment outcome. Working with a highly ranked advisor does not ensure that a client will experience a higher level of performance or results. Such rankings are not a guarantee of future investment success or performance and should not be construed as an endorsement of Zhang Financial or its services, nor are they representative of any single client's evaluation.

Third-party rankings are generally based on information prepared and submitted by the advisor, as well as data obtained from other sources. The methodologies used by ranking agencies vary and may consider factors such as assets under management, revenue, industry experience, regulatory record, and other qualitative and quantitative criteria. Rankings may not reflect all advisors in the industry. No fee was paid to be considered for these rankings unless otherwise disclosed below. See below for the specific criteria and methodology for each third-party ranking.

Barron’s Ranking Methodology and Criteria

The Barron’s List of “Top 100 Independent Advisors” is an annual ranking that is released in September of each year. The Barron’s List of “Top Advisors in Michigan”, also known as “Top 1500 Advisors”, is an annual ranking that is released in March of each year. Advisors who wish to be considered are subject to a prequalification process designed to identify experienced and established advisors. Those who meet the criteria then fill out a detailed survey regarding their practices. Barron’s verifies the data from the survey with the advisors’ firms and through regulatory databases, such as the SEC and FINRA. Barron’s applies a proprietary methodology to this data to generate the final rankings. The formula features three primary categories of calculations: assets under management, revenue produced, and quality of practice (which includes the advisor’s experience, advanced degrees and industry designations, size and diversity of staff, charitable and philanthropic work, and regulatory and compliance records). Portfolio performance and investment returns are not a component of the rankings. They are excluded because audited performance results are not available for all advisors and returns are often more a reflection of a client’s specific risk tolerance than an advisor's skill. This methodology and criteria apply to the “Top 100 Independent Advisors” and “Top Advisors in Michigan” rankings for the current year. While the general approach has remained consistent, methodologies may vary for prior years.

Barron’s is a registered trademark of Dow Jones & Company. Zhang Financial is not affiliated with Barron’s or Dow Jones & Company. Barron’s does not publish the number of nominees considered for the “Top 100 Independent Advisors” and “Top Advisors in Michigan” rankings. Barron’s does not require membership or payment for participants and/or applicants to be considered for rankings. Zhang Financial does not pay a fee to be eligible for the “Top 100 Independent Advisors” and “Top Advisors in Michigan” rankings. However, Zhang Financial pays an annual licensing fee in exchange for the right to use Barron’s rankings and logos in marketing materials and related promotional features. This fee may also include items such as plaques, logo usage rights, web links, or article reprints commemorating the designation. Zhang Financial pays the annual fee independently of the election process and is not a condition for being considered for or receiving any current or future ranking. Prospective and current clients should consider this arrangement when evaluating the ranking.

Barron's List of 2025 Top Independent Advisors

Barron's List of 2026 Top Advisors by State

Barron's Methodology

Forbes Ranking Methodology and Criteria

The Forbes List of “America’s Top Wealth Advisors” and “Best-In-State Wealth Advisors” are annual rankings that are released in April of each year. The Forbes List of “Top RIA Firms” is an annual ranking that is released in October of each year. These rankings are developed by SHOOK Research and are based on a combination of 1) qualitative criteria obtained through telephone, virtual, and in-person due diligence interviews, and 2) quantitative data, such as revenue trends and assets under management. The methodology additionally weighs factors, such as service models, compliance records, and industry experience, focusing on those candidates that encompass best practices in their approach to working with clients. Portfolio performance is not a criterion due to varying client objectives and lack of audited performance data. Advisors and RIA firms are generally required to apply for consideration and meet eligibility requirements. This methodology applies to “America’s Top Wealth Advisors”, “Best-In-State Wealth Advisors”, and “Top RIA Firms” rankings for the current year. While the general approach has remained consistent, methodologies may vary for prior years.

Forbes is a registered trademark of Forbes LLC. SHOOK Research is an organization independent of Forbes that conducts the research and creates the rankings in partnership with Forbes. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research is affiliated with Zhang Financial. Forbes and SHOOK do not receive a fee or require membership in exchange for rankings. Accordingly, Zhang Financial and Charles Zhang do not pay a fee to be eligible for the rankings. However, Zhang Financial pays an annual licensing fee in exchange for the right to use Forbes rankings and logos in marketing materials and related promotional features. This fee may also include items such as plaques, logo usage rights, web links, or article reprints commemorating the designation. Zhang Financial pays the annual fee independent of the election process and is not a condition for being considered for or receiving any current or future ranking. Prospective and current clients should consider this arrangement when evaluating the ranking.

Forbes List of 2026 America’s Top Wealth Advisors

Forbes List of 2026 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors

Forbes List of 2025 Top RIA Firms

SHOOK Research Methodology (Advisors)

SHOOK Research Methodology (RIA Firms)

Important Disclosures about Leadership Awards

Third-party business, ethics, and leadership awards are provided for informational purposes only. They generally evaluate the firm or its principals based on corporate culture, entrepreneurial achievement, community involvement, and ethical business practices. Because these awards do not evaluate wealth management services, they are not indicative of any specific client’s experience, nor are they a guarantee of future investment success. These recognitions should not be construed as an endorsement of Zhang Financial’s investment advisory services by any evaluating organization or judging panel.

Unlike financial industry rankings, these awards are not based on quantitative metrics such as assets under management, revenue, or portfolio performance. Methodologies vary by sponsoring organization but typically involve qualitative assessments, community nominations, and independent judging panels. Awards may not reflect all recipients or candidates considered. Please review the specific criteria for each award below.

Ellis Island Honors Society - Ellis Island Medal of Honor (2026)

Ellis Island Honors Society - Ellis Island Medal of Honor (2026)

The Ellis Island Medal of Honor is an annual recognition presented by the Ellis Island Honors Society (EIHS), an independent non-profit organization. Charles Zhang and Lynn Chen-Zhang were named recipients in 2026. This national award recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to business, public service, culture, and philanthropy, and whose accomplishments foster a spirit of unity and diversity within the United States. Honorees are officially recognized and entered into the Congressional Record. Recipients were selected based on their philanthropic contributions, community leadership, and public service. It is not based on client investment performance, portfolio returns, or the quality of wealth management services provided to any specific client. The Ellis Island Honors Society is not affiliated with Zhang Financial. Zhang Financial did not pay a fee to be nominated for or to receive this award. Zhang Financial provided financial support to the Ellis Island Honors Society in connection with the award event by purchasing a table at the award ceremony and paying for advertising space in the event's program. Such financial support was not a condition for nomination or receipt of the award. The award is not indicative of future performance or client experience and should not be construed as an endorsement.

China Institute in America - Blue Cloud Award (2025)

China Institute in America - Blue Cloud Award (2025)

The Blue Cloud Award is an annual recognition presented by the China Institute in America, an independent, non-profit, bi-cultural organization. Charles Zhang and Lynn Chen-Zhang were named recipients in 2025. This award honors visionaries and leaders who strengthen cultural and intellectual exchange between the U.S. and China in the areas of arts, business, and philanthropy. Charles and Lynn were selected based on their philanthropic contributions and commitment to global cultural exchange. It is not based on client investment performance, portfolio returns, or the quality of wealth management services provided to any specific client. The China Institute in America is not affiliated with Zhang Financial. Zhang Financial did not pay a fee to be considered for or to receive this award. Zhang Financial provided financial support to the China Institute in America in connection with the award by purchasing a table at the award gala and making other event-related charitable purchases, including auction items. Such financial support was not a condition for nomination or receipt of the award. The award is not indicative of future performance or client experience and should not be construed as an endorsement.

Ernst & Young - Entrepreneur of the Year® Award (2024)

Ernst & Young - Entrepreneur Of The Year® Award (2024)

The Entrepreneur Of The Year® Award is an annual recognition sponsored and administered by Ernst & Young (EY). Charles Zhang and Lynn Chen-Zhang were named recipients for the Michigan and Northwest Ohio region in June 2024. Recipients are evaluated and selected by an independent panel of judges based on a variety of criteria that include entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to purpose, growth, impact, and financial performance. The award recognizes founders, transformational CEOs, and business leaders who have driven their companies’ success and made a positive impact on their employees and communities. Charles and Lynn were selected based on their corporate leadership, innovation, and business growth as executives of Zhang Financial. It is not based on client investment performance, portfolio returns, or the quality of wealth management services provided to any specific client. EY and its independent judging panel are not affiliated with Zhang Financial. There is no fee required to be nominated, to apply for, or to receive the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® award. Zhang Financial did not provide compensation in connection with this award. The award is not indicative of future performance or client experience and should not be construed as an endorsement.

Better Business Bureau - Torch Award for Ethics (2022)

Better Business Bureau - Torch Award for Ethics (2022)

The Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics is an annual, regional recognition presented by the Better Business Bureau Serving Western Michigan to organizations demonstrating a commitment to ethical business practices. The award is based on qualitative criteria, including leadership, integrity, customer relationships, and community involvement, and is determined through an application and review process. Multiple recipients may be recognized, and not all organizations are considered. This recognition was awarded in 2022. It is not based on client investment performance, portfolio returns, or the quality of wealth management services provided to any specific client. The Better Business Bureau is not affiliated with Zhang Financial. Zhang Financial did not pay a fee to be considered for or to receive this award. However, Zhang Financial pays annual membership dues to the Better Business Bureau, which are not a condition for consideration or receipt of the award. The award is not indicative of future performance or client experience and should not be construed as an endorsement.

Western Michigan University - Distinguished Alumni Award (2021)

Western Michigan University - Distinguished Alumni Award (2021)

The Distinguished Alumni Award is an annual recognition presented by the Western Michigan University (WMU) Alumni Association. Charles Zhang was named a recipient in 2021. This award recognizes alumni who have achieved a high level of success in their professions and demonstrated a strong commitment to their communities. Charles was selected based on his career achievements, leadership, and philanthropic efforts. It is not based on client investment performance, portfolio returns, or the quality of wealth management services provided to any specific client. Zhang Financial is not affiliated with Western Michigan University. Charles Zhang did not pay a fee to be nominated for or to receive this award. However, Charles and Lynn Zhang, as well as Zhang Financial, are philanthropic contributors to Western Michigan University. Zhang Financial did not provide compensation in connection with this award. The award is not indicative of future performance or client experience and should not be construed as an endorsement.

Invest In Others Charitable Foundation - Lifetime Achievement Award (2020)

Invest In Others Charitable Foundation - Lifetime Achievement Award (2020)

The Lifetime Achievement Award is an annual recognition presented by the Invest in Others Charitable Foundation, an independent non-profit organization. Lynn Chen-Zhang was named the sole recipient in 2020. This award recognizes one individual annually within the financial services industry for their profound philanthropic contributions, community leadership, and lasting charitable impact. Lynn was selected based entirely on her philanthropic achievements and charitable work. It is not based on client investment performance, portfolio returns, or the quality of wealth management services provided to any specific client. The Invest in Others Charitable Foundation is not affiliated with Zhang Financial. Zhang Financial did not pay a fee to be nominated for or to receive this award. Zhang Financial donated to the organization in a subsequent year (2021); however, this donation was not a condition for nomination or receipt of the award. The award is not indicative of future performance or client experience and should not be construed as an endorsement.

Grand Rapids Business Journal - 50 Most Influencial Women in West Michigan (2020)

Grand Rapids Business Journal - 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan (2020)

The 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan is a recognition program previously sponsored and administered by the Grand Rapids Business Journal (GRBJ). Lynn Chen-Zhang was named a recipient in 2020. This recognition evaluates honorees based on their corporate leadership, professional success, and impactful contributions to the West Michigan business community. It is not based on client investment performance, portfolio returns, or the quality of wealth management services provided to any specific client. The GRBJ is not affiliated with Zhang Financial. Zhang Financial did not pay a fee to be considered for or to receive this recognition. The recognition is not indicative of future performance or client experience and should not be construed as an endorsement.

Michigan Women Forward - Women of Achievement and Courage Award (2019)

Michigan Women Forward - Women of Achievement and Courage Award (2019)

The Women of Achievement and Courage Award is a recognition presented by Michigan Women Forward (MWF), a community empowerment organization. Lynn Chen-Zhang was named a recipient in 2019. This award recognizes women who have demonstrated professional achievements, community leadership, and a commitment to empowering others. Lynn was selected based on her philanthropic efforts, community impact, and corporate leadership. It is not based on client investment performance, portfolio returns, or the quality of wealth management services provided to any specific client. Michigan Women Forward is not affiliated with Zhang Financial. Zhang Financial did not pay a fee to be considered for or to receive this award. The award is not indicative of future performance or client experience and should not be construed as an endorsement.

Zhang Financial Website Disclosure

Form ADV Part 2: Firm Brochure
ADV Appendix 1: Wrap Fee Program Brochure

See Form CRS Relationship Summary

Zhang Financial

5931 Oakland Drive Portage, MI 49024
List of office locations
Email: clientservice@zhangfinancial.com | Toll-Free: 888-777-0126

Minimum investment requirement: $1,000,000 in Michigan, $2,000,000 outside of Michigan.
Investment Advice offered through Zhang Financial, a Fee-Only Wealth Management Group.