Who We Are
Why
Merited Wealth
Many capable people feel anxious about money—even with significant wealth. We replace avoidance with clarity, and give you a calm, step-by-step plan you can live with.
Stephen A. Taylor, JD, CFP®
Founder, Senior Advisor
After nearly two decades in the legal and financial services industry, I took the true step towards independence and made Merited Wealth, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, in 2019. My passion is to help the busy entrepreneurs and executives simplify and coordinate their financial lives to allow them to most effectively move forward with their growth with all aspects being addressed. I made the conscious decision for my business to be my own and not affiliated with a large bank, brokerage firm or insurance company to truly be able to “walk the walk and talk the talk” which sets me apart from the employees of those large institutions who are told exactly what they can and cannot do and the limited scope of investment solutions they can offer. “I am married to my fabulous, tremendous star of my life, Susie." If you don’t agree, check her out here, www.SusieKTaylor.com. I am blessed with two wonderful kids, Jaedon and Mason.
EXPERIENCE
Merited Wealth, LLC, Miami, Florida,
6/2019 – Present
State of Florida Registered Investment Advisor committed to guiding our clients towards long-term financial success. Our goal is help simplify our client’s lives through the power of financial planning and investment management.
Stephen A. Taylor, Esq. Attorney at Law, Miami, Florida
Attorney, 1/2001 – Present
Current Practice:
Limited to Estate Planning and Wealth Counsel. Preparation of Powers of Attorney, Wills, Trusts and such ancillary documents needed to effectuate a comprehensive Estate Plan. Wealth Counsel consists of advice and recommendations regarding accumulation and preservation of wealth.
Past Practice:
Elder Law and Corporate Law. Elder Law practice was focused with working with disabled individuals currently receiving public assistance and with elderly individuals planning for long term care. Corporate Law practice surrounded the creation, maintenance and sale of small business of varying sizes.
Cambridge Investment Research, Miami, Florida
Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative, 2/2015 – 12/31/2019
Transamerica Financial Advisors, Miami, Florida
Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative, 4/2014 – 1/31/2015
Full Registered Representative Experience
Deloitte & Touche, LLP, Miami, Florida
Tax Consultant, 1/2000 – 12/2000
EDUCATION
University of Florida, Levin College of Law, Gainesville, Florida
J.D., Honors Multiple Semesters
Oglethorpe University, Atlanta, Georgia
B.B.A. Accounting,
Christopher Columbus High School, Miami, FL
High School Diploma, Varsity Letterman in Basketball and Golf
ACTIVITIES
Certified Financial Planner®
2020 President of the Financial Planning Association of Miami
Formerly Florida Bar Board Certified in Elder Law
Member of the Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce
Director of Miami Shores Chapter of Prime Time Business Network
Sean Pendray, CSSC, ChFC®, RSP
Senior Advisor
Born in Miami, Florida, Sean graduated from Florida State University with a B.S. in political science and a minor in psychology. He continued his educational journey at the University of Miami's business school, earning a master's degree in public administration.
With a career spanning over 25 years, Sean has etched a lasting legacy in financial advising and asset protection strategies. He refined his expertise at esteemed institutions such as Bear Stearns, Paine Webber, First Union, and Citibank. Sean's proficiency encompasses income creation, asset management, trust, insurance, lending, and settlement planning. Sean is a Certified Structured Settlement Consultant, a Chartered Financial Consultant and a Registered Settlement Planner.
As a fifth-generation Floridian, Sean resides in Miami with his wife Melanie and their two children, Sophia and Luke. Beyond his professional pursuits, he actively engages in community service, serving as a board member of Kiwanis International. Sean is also a dedicated advocate for cancer research, participating in marathons in honor of his father and mother, a cancer survivor.
Giancarlo Lamourtte, CFP®
Senior Advisor
From a young age, Giancarlo was drawn to helping others. He often served as a counselor to his friends and sought a career that would allow him to continue in this role. His journey led him to a high school alumni mentorship program, where he met Stephen, a mentor who shared his values and vision. This connection paved the way for Giancarlo to join the team at Merited Wealth, LLC, where he channels his passion for assisting entrepreneurs, executives, and other driven individuals in achieving their financial goals. Giancarlo holds a B.S. in Finance from Florida State University and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing tennis, and attending live events.
EXPERIENCE
Merited Wealth, LLC, Miami, Florida
6/2019 – Present
State of Florida Registered Investment Advisor committed to guiding our clients towards long-term financial success. Our goal is to help simplify our client’s lives through the power of financial planning and investment management.
Raymond James, Miami, Florida
Wealth Management Intern, 6/2018 – 8/2018
Amerant Bank FKA Mercantil Bank, Miami, Florida
Corporate Banking Latin America Intern, 6/2015 – 8/2015
Amerant Bank FKA Mercantil Bank, Miami, Florida
Commercial Real Estate Intern, 6/2014 – 8/2014
EDUCATION
Florida State University, College of Business, Tallahassee, Florida
B.S., Finance
Christopher Columbus High School, Miami, Florida
ACTIVITIES
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional
2023 and 2024 Board Member of the Financial Planning Association of Miami
Jesus Arteaga, CFP®
Senior Benefits Advisor
For 20 years, I have been an independent Financial Advisor. Early on in my career, I decided my business would be my own and not affiliated with any insurance company, bank, or large brokerage firm. This was an important factor for me as I believe that my advice should be tailor-made to the specific needs of my clients, and not the “one size fits all” approach typically found in large institutions where employees are limited to their company’s interests. My focus area and passion are Employee Benefits Services.
On a personal level, I am a husband to my long-time sweetheart of 16 years, and a proud father of two wonderful boys. Florida is the ideal place to enjoy my hobbies which are music, golf, the beach, and nature!
EXPERIENCE:
HFG Benefits & Risk Management, Miami Florida
3/2004 – Present
Founder & Principal
8/2000 – 3/2004
Financial Advisor
Full Registered Representative Experience
EDUCATION:
Florida International University
Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration
ACTIVITES:
Former Board Member of the Argentinian American Chamber of Commerce
Member of the Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce
Maria Ponce
Client Relationship Director
With over 10 years of experience in customer care within the financial industry, specializing in broker dealers and Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs), Maria brings a proven track record of leadership and dedication to every client relationship. Fluent in both English and Spanish, She leverages her bilingual skills to connect seamlessly with diverse groups and individuals.
Outside of the professional sphere, Maria is passionate about leading an active lifestyle. You can often find her enjoying hobbies such as spinning, exploring the beach, kayaking, hiking, and cherishing moments with her family and friends. This commitment to balance extends to her personal life, where she is deeply committed to her family.
Maria’s outgoing and goal-oriented personality, combined with solid communication skills, allows her to effectively support the growth and success of organizations she works with. Maria thrives on building meaningful relationships and driving results, making her a valuable asset in any client-focused role.
Natalie Bruce
Client Service Associate
With over ten years of experience in real estate and finance, Natalie brings a wealth of knowledge and precision to every client relationship. Her strong attention to detail and commitment to excellence ensure that every client’s goals are met with care and precision.
As a proud military wife and mom of two energetic boys, Natalie understands the importance of flexibility, commitment, and long-term planning—both at home and in her professional life. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling with her family, and discovering new places.
Alicia Velez
Benefits Account Manager
With a background in administrative, HR, and legal support, Alicia brings three years of diverse experience to the Merited team. She thrives in fast-paced environments and approaches every new project and challenge with enthusiasm and collaboration. Known for her attention to detail and curiosity, Alicia enjoys digging deeper into processes to enhance efficiency and create a better experience for both her colleagues and clients.
Outside of work, Alicia channels her creativity and discipline through dance, drawing on her extensive background in competitive dance. She loves spending quality time with her large family and enjoys reading fantasy books in her downtime.
Goal-oriented and driven, Alicia is passionate about delivering an exceptional client experience. She takes pride in building meaningful relationships to better understand each client’s unique needs and ensure their expectations are not only met but exceeded.