How do high-net-worth investors reduce concentrated stock risk and taxes—without blowing up their long-term plan?In this episode of Sterling Insights, Roger sits down with Gary Pattengale, CFP®, CPA, Senior Vice President and Advanced Planning Specialist at Mesirow Wealth Management.

Together, they explore tax-efficient strategies for managing concentrated stock positions, Roth conversions, and holistic wealth planning for high-net-worth families. Gary draws from over 25 years of experience to discuss concentration risk, tax-aware diversification strategies, and advanced planning techniques, offering actionable advice for investors, executives, and advisors navigating complex financial decisions. This episode is a must-listen for high-net-worth individuals and financial professionals seeking smarter, more integrated planning strategies.

Key Takeaways:

● Concentration Risk Starts Around 10%: While 10% in a single stock is a common rule of thumb, true risk tolerance depends on age, goals, income sources, and overall net worth.

● Create a Rules-Based Liquidation Strategy: Removing emotion from selling appreciated stock by setting pre-defined triggers can help investors diversify systematically and tax-efficiently.

● Roth Conversions Require Careful Modeling: Conversions can increase lifetime wealth—but hidden “tax torpedoes” like Social Security taxation, capital gains brackets, and Medicare premiums must be considered.

● Integrate Tax, Estate, and Investment Planning: The most effective strategies align tax efficiency, legacy intent, and portfolio design into one coordinated plan.

● Advanced Tools Improve Planning Outcomes: Modern tax and financial planning software allows advisors to model “what-if” scenarios efficiently, enabling dynamic, data-driven decisions.

Quotes from Gary Pattengale:

● “Taxes are important—but first we assess the concentration risk. What happens if that stock drops 40 to 60%?”

● “Once the rule is triggered, we execute. It takes the emotion out of it.”

● “Roth conversions aren’t for everybody. You really have to analyze the full tax impact before you act.”True wealth management isn’t about chasing returns—it’s about integrating tax strategy, risk management, and long-term planning into one cohesive approach that protects and grows wealth across generations.

Connect with Gary:

Website: https://www.mesirow.com/home

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-pattengale-cfp%C2%AE-3806b822/

Connect with Roger:

Website: https://www.sterlingfoundations.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sterlingfoundations/

Twitter: https://x.com/SterlingFndMgt?mx=2

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sterling-foundation-management-llc/

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