A tactical, rules-based approach to long-term investment performance

Thomas Campbell is managing partner and co-CEO of STF Management LP in Frisco, Texas. He has 30 years of experience guiding clients in addressing their financial-planning and investment objectives.

Mr. Campbell says he sees no reason why sophisticated, risk-managed strategies should be accessible only to major institutions or the wealthiest investors. “The average investor deserves similar tools to support their financial-planning and investment objectives,” he says. “We offer clients an open-architecture approach framework that provides flexibility across strategies, products, money managers, and fiduciary relationships.”

He adds that this approach centers on using tactical strategies within a well-diversified portfolio built on five core principles:

1. The ability to adapt to changing market conditions
2. Consistent equity exposure with less volatility
3. Rules-based risk management
4. Tactical navigation of short-term market environments in pursuit of long-term performance
5. An approach that helps investors set aside emotion and better adhere to their overall investment plan

Mr. Campbell summarizes the philosophy with an analogy he often shares with clients: “We have built an America’s Cup–caliber boat, employ the best crew in the world, and are on a beautiful ocean. When the wind blows—and we don’t care which way it blows—we think we can do some terrific sailing. That does not mean we will not encounter some rough water, but we have full confidence we will successfully reach the finish line.”