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Recognition

Excellence in ActionNEFN Financial Professionals Leading The Way

Northeast Financial Network (NEFN) proudly recognizes James DeMatteo, Joseph Fitzgerald, Michael Schwartz, and Marc Smith for their inclusion in the 2025 Forbes Best-in-State Financial Security Professionals list. This recognition celebrates their commitment to helping clients achieve financial security through dedication, innovation, and a client-first approach.

The Forbes Best-in-State Financial Security Professionals list, developed in partnership with SHOOK Research, honors top advisors who excel in guiding clients toward financial success. The rigorous selection process evaluates professionals on factors such as client retention, industry experience, compliance records, firm nominations, assets under management, and revenue generation.

At NEFN, we are proud to work alongside these exceptional individuals who embody the highest standards of excellence in financial services. Their accomplishments reflect our mission to help clients build confidence in their financial futures.

This award is not issued by Guardian or its subsidiaries. The annual Forbes ranking of Top Financial Security Professionals List 2025 is based on criteria developed and obtained by SHOOK Research, LLC.  No compensation was provided in connection with obtaining this rating; however, advisors may choose to pay fees to Forbes and Shook for premium listing features; including, usage rights of the ranking logo. Past performance is not an indication of future results.


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JAMES DEMATTEO

NEW JERSEY

Founder of WealthWise Private Client, James combines his Wall Street experience and a passion for empowering clients to outthink the ordinary. Leading wealth management offices across the Northeast, he has been recognized multiple times by Forbes for his contributions to the industry. When he’s not advising clients, James enjoys golfing, pickleball, and spending time with his family.

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Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. CA Insurance License Number - 0G21238.


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JOSEPH FITZGERALD

NEW JERSEY

Founder and President of the Fitzgerald Group, Joseph is a passionate advocate for financial education and empowerment. With nearly two decades of experience, he combines personal relationships with data-driven strategies to help clients achieve financial freedom. A Centurion Club Lifetime Member and dedicated family man, Joseph brings integrity and innovation to every client interaction.

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Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. The Fitzgerald Group is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License Number - 0H01236.


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MICHAEL SCHWARTZ

NEW JERSEY

Founder and President of Schwartz Planning Group, Michael Schwartz is a dedicated financial professional with nearly two decades of experience. Since joining Northeast Financial Network in 2011, he has expanded his team and earned top firm and national accolades—including back-to-back recognition on the Forbes Best-in-State Financial Security Professionals list. A Duke University graduate, Michael is a sought-after speaker and active mentor who brings passion, insight, and integrity to every client relationship.

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Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS).  Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. Schwartz Planning Group is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License Number - 0G92396, AR Insurance License Number - 9747941.


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MARC SMITH

NEW YORK

President of IM Financial, Marc builds trust with clients through integrity, clear communication, and non-traditional portfolio strategies. He emphasizes customized solutions that prioritize client goals, preparing them for a secure financial future. Marc’s disciplined approach helps clients achieve optimal outcomes while mitigating risks.

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Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS).  Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. I.M. FINANCIAL is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License Number - 2040340, AR Insurance License Number - 9538128.

To view the full list, visit, https://www.forbes.com/lists/best-in-state-financial-security-professionals/

This award is not issued by Guardian or its subsidiaries. The annual Forbes ranking of Best-In-State Financial Securities List 2025 is based on criteria developed and obtained by SHOOK Research, LLC. No compensation was provided in connection with obtaining this rating; however, advisors may choose to pay fees to Forbes and Shook for premium listing features; including, usage rights of the ranking logo. Past performance is not an indication of future results.