About

• As an unaffiliated company, CFM is truly in it for your best interest – foundational duty of any fiduciary.
• Think independently and act strategically.
• All CFP® professionals are committed to the high standards of competency and ethics and must adhere to the Board’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct.
• A CFP® professional must meet continuing education requirements to stay well-versed in comprehensive financial planning.

• Wide array of recognized global money managers for sophisticated portfolio management.
• Automatic and controlled timing on rebalancing to satisfy any cash-flow needs or drift in allocation due to market volatility.
• Hundreds of different professionally managed models allowing for customization across accounts and blending models for a true personalized approach, whether you’re seeking a current income stream or growth for the future we have solutions for you.
• Competitive fee schedule starting at below industry average – we grow with our clients.

• Investment portfolios designed to streamline the process and create more efficiencies.
• Besides access to the custodian’s client site, Schwab Alliance, CFM offers an interactive client portal to help deepen the engagement with best-in-class tech.
• Fully Digital and Mobile Friendly for a one-stop shop experience – wherever you are.
• Email and Video communications to keep you current on market and economic related news.
• Tailored client reviews to fit your preference and comfortability.

• College/Higher Education Costs – According to 2023 data from the College Board, the projected average cost for your newborn’s four-year degree at a public college could total over $300,000. A private college is more than double that figure. CFM’s education planning tools will help us determine a strategy that is appropriate for you.
• Saving for a milestone event such as the purchase of a home, a new vehicle, growing the family — whatever it might be we will model a savings plan.
• Tax Optimization – CFM’s investment portfolios include solutions such as exchange-traded and indexing funds, municipal bonds (when appropriate) and other efficient securities. This is implemented along with strategies including tax-loss harvesting and asset location because we know taxes can quickly diminish your investment returns.
• Retirement Forecasting – Whenever that day might come, let’s ensure you have what you need to live the life you’ve reasonably dreamed about during the golden years.
• Legacy Planning – Whether it’s a bequeath of your nest egg for loved ones, gifting while alive, or ensuring your charitable goals are met after death we must discuss your succession plan and have it regularly reviewed, possibly even created, by a trusted professional contact of CFM’s, if needed.
• Risk Management – We must identify, evaluate, and reduce any potential risks that could impact your financial security in the event an unplanned or untimely event were to occur.

Sam began his career in the financial services industry in 2001 and, shortly after, graduated from New Mexico State University with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He earned his Certified Financial Planner™ designation in 2011. During his final year in high school, Sam had the opportunity to participate in a program designed to help place candidates in a professional work environment and earn college credits by attending local university courses focused on finance. Ultimately, Sam worked for and was mentored at a local community bank to see firsthand the different areas of banking. He immediately took interest in the investments side of the business and, with the financial support of his parents, made his first investment into a mutual fund. He was intrigued by the ability to watch his money grow and just a short time after made the jump to the investments world to do the same for others.

Prior to starting Castañeda Financial Management, Sam held the position of Wealth Advisor and Director of Client Services at ARQ Wealth Advisors, which was preceded by his tenure at NB|AZ Wealth Management as Vice President and Wealth Advisor. Sam’s experience includes developing and managing portfolio solutions for a vast array of clients to meet their objectives towards accumulating wealth, as well as creating income during retirement years. Sam previously conducted the annual wealth management rookie seminar for the Phoenix Suns to share best tips on financial literacy. He has also volunteered for local charitable events conducted by United Way – Valley of the Sun and helped prepare income tax returns for low to moderate income households.

Sam is originally from Las Cruces, NM (Go Aggies!). He relocated to Arizona in 2006 and currently spends his free time with his lovely wife, Kylee, and daughter, Chloe. He enjoys hitting the hiking trails, 5k runs and, of course, traveling with his family. He also enjoys rooting on his favorite sports teams, including the Phoenix Suns.