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About Us

We’re a team of financial advisors who understand the unique challenges faced by professionals and families.

Our Story

Phases Financial Group was founded with a simple purpose: to provide financial guidance that adapts as life evolves. We believe planning should be supportive, and aligned with your values.

Our name reflects this commitment. Just as life moves through stages, financial planning should progress alongside it—helping you move forward with confidence.

Michael Lipkins, Juan Rojas and the Phases Financial Group team post in the foyer of their Palo Alto office

Our History

The path to Phases Financial Group began over two decades ago, shaped by milestones that continue to guide our approach to client care:

1992-2007: Establishing Foundations

  • Michael started working in financial services in 1992.
  • Michael became an advisor in 2000.
  • Juan entered the financial services industry in 2001.
  • A chance meeting at a regional bank brings our founders together.
  • Our founders join forces at Addison Avenue Investment Services.
  • Gains experience serving technology professionals at HP HQ campus.
  • Juan earned his AAMS (Accredited Asset Management Specialist) designation in 2004, a credential that demonstrates experience in investment planning and portfolio management.

2007-2024: Driving Experience

  • Established relationship with our Broker/Dealer Raymond James in 2012.
  • Both founders earned their Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) designations in 2019, a rigorous certification that demonstrates their commitment to upholding the highest standards when managing client investments.
  • Transitioned to a fiduciary model for advisory fee based relationships*, which legally requires us to put your interests first—always. This means transparent fees, no hidden commissions, and investment advice focused solely on what’s best for your financial future.

2024: Growth and Development

  • Juan’s completion of Wharton’s portfolio management program strengthens his ability to apply cutting-edge portfolio theory and risk management principles to help clients achieve their financial objectives.
  • Launch of Phases Financial Group, bringing our vision of personalized financial guidance to life.

Today, that foundation continues to thrive as Phases supports families from our Palo Alto base — locally, across the country, and around the world — serving clients with global investment needs.

*We primarily offer fee-based advisory services charging a flat fee based on a client’s total assets under advisement. However, if deemed appropriate and in our client’s best interest, we also provide commissioned brokerage services. Though our financial advisors provide clients with great care and recommendations, advisors only have a legal fiduciary obligation to advisory clients. In a fee-based account, clients pay a quarterly fee, based on the level of assets in the account, for the services of a financial advisor as part of an advisory relationship. In deciding to pay a fee rather than commissions, clients should understand that the fee may be higher than a commission alternative during periods of lower trading. Advisory fees are in addition to the internal expenses charged by mutual funds and other investment company securities. To the extent that clients intend to hold these securities, the internal expenses should be included when evaluating the costs of a fee-based account. Clients should periodically re-evaluate whether the use of an asset-based fee continues to be appropriate in servicing their needs. A list of additional considerations, as well as the fee schedule, is available in the firm’s Form ADV Part 2 as well as the client agreement. Services rendered will be dependent on applicable agreements.

Meet the Advisors

Michael and Juan lead Phases Financial Group with a focus on personal connection and clear communication. Clients know them for their steady guidance, practical advice, and ability to make complex decisions feel manageable.

Meet the team
Michael Lipkins, Managing Partner & Private Wealth Advisor for Phases Financial Group in Palo Alto, CA

Michael Lipkins, AIF®

Managing Partner

Private Wealth Advisor, RJFS

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Juan Rojas, Managing Partner & Financial Advisor for Phases Financial Group in the Bay Area

Juan Rojas, AIF®, AAMSTM

Managing Partner

Financial Advisor, RJFS

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Private Wealth Advisor is a designation awarded by Raymond James to financial advisors who have demonstrated mastery in anticipating and managing the expansive financial needs of high‐net‐worth individuals, families and organizations.

Images from the office of Phases Financial Group, financial advisors serving Palo Alto and the Bay Area

Trusted partners through every step.

We partner with clients to help them navigate financial decisions with clarity and confidence, from early planning to retirement income and ultimately legacy preservation.

Client Focus

We operate as a boutique practice, working with a close-knit group of families so we can stay responsive and fully present in each relationship.

Personalized Approach

We shape our recommendations around your priorities and explain choices in plain language, so decisions feel manageable.

Long-Term Partnerships

We build relationships meant to last across generations, helping families stay connected and supported for years to come.

Forward-Thinking Solutions

We balance time-tested strategies with new opportunities, designed to keep your plan aligned with a changing world.

Let’s Discuss Your Next Financial Phase.

Every phase brings new opportunities. Let’s explore how we can help you plan for what’s ahead.

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