First Command Financial Services stands as the parent company to a suite of financial service providers, each specializing in distinct areas to cater to a wide range of client needs. These entities include First Command Brokerage Services, Inc., a member of both SIPC (SIPC) and FINRA (FINRA), First Command Advisory Services, Inc., First Command Insurance Services, Inc., and First Command Bank (Member FDIC). This structure allows First Command to offer comprehensive financial solutions, integrating various aspects of financial planning and wealth management.
The services provided under the First Command umbrella are diverse. First Command Brokerage Services, Inc. delivers securities products and brokerage services, facilitating investment activities for clients. Financial planning and investment advisory services are the domain of First Command Advisory Services, Inc., an investment adviser focused on guiding clients towards their financial goals. For insurance needs, First Command Insurance Services, Inc. offers a range of products and services to protect clients and their assets. Banking products and services are offered through First Command Bank, a member of the FDIC, ensuring secure and reliable banking solutions.
It is crucial to understand the nature of investment and insurance products offered by First Command. These are not bank deposits, are not insured by the FDIC, and carry the risk of losing value. Furthermore, it’s important to note that while a financial plan is a valuable tool, it cannot guarantee the achievement of retirement or other financial objectives. Financial planning is a dynamic process that requires ongoing adjustments and is subject to market fluctuations and personal circumstances.
First Command Financial Services, Inc. and its related entities operate independently and are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or authorized to represent any federal employee benefit program, the U.S. government, the U.S. Armed Forces, or any other third party mentioned in their communications. This independence ensures that the advice and services provided are solely in the best interest of their clients.
In the United Kingdom, First Command extends its services through First Command Europe Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Command Financial Services, Inc. First Command Europe Ltd. is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, ensuring adherence to UK financial regulations. It is important to note that certain products and services available in the United States might not be accessible through First Command Europe Ltd., reflecting regulatory and market differences.
The First Command Educational Foundation operates as a separate 501(c)(3) public charity, distinct from First Command Financial Services, Inc., and its affiliated entities. This foundation focuses on financial literacy and education initiatives, further demonstrating First Command’s commitment to broader financial well-being beyond its direct client services.
The First Command Financial Behaviors Index®
To provide deeper insights into financial trends and behaviors, First Command commissions the First Command Financial Behaviors Index®. This index, compiled by Sentient Decision Science, Inc., is a monthly survey that assesses the financial behaviors, attitudes, and intentions of the American public. It surveys approximately 530 U.S. consumers aged 25 to 70 with annual household incomes of at least $50,000. The results are reported quarterly, offering valuable data on consumer financial sentiment. The index operates with a margin of error of +/- 4.3 percent at a 95 percent confidence level, ensuring statistical reliability.
About Sentient Decision Science, Inc.
Sentient Decision Science, Inc. (SDS), the compiler of the Financial Behaviors Index®, is a specialized behavioral science and consumer psychology consulting firm. With expertise in the financial services industry, SDS utilizes advanced research methods and statistical analysis to interpret behavioral and attitudinal data, providing robust and insightful analysis for First Command.
