Headshot of John Brand, Bitcoin-aware financial advisor in Elmira, NY

John Brand — Bitcoin & Digital Asset Financial Advisor

Last updated November 3, 2025

Financial Advisor

CFA®CFP®CBDA℠
Elmira, NY

About John Brand

John Brand works as a financial advisor in Elmira, NY, helping clients navigate both conventional investments and Bitcoin related strategies.

It is common for investors to ask how Bitcoin should be integrated into long term financial and retirement planning.

John Brand is a dedicated Financial Advisor at The Brand Schweizer Group / Raymond James, bringing over two decades of experience in the financial industry to his clients. A graduate of Hamilton College with a degree in economics, John began his career in New York City, where he honed his expertise as an investment advisor at Credit Suisse First Boston Direct and later as an equity syndication analyst at Dealogic, Inc. His strong foundation in finance led him back to Elmira, where he spent nine years as a portfolio manager in the Investment Department at Chemung Canal Trust Company.

In January 2016, John co-founded The Brand Schweizer Group, where he applies his extensive knowledge and rigorous skillset to help clients navigate their financial journeys. He has achieved the prestigious Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, underscoring his commitment to excellence in financial advisory services. John also holds several securities licenses, including Series 7 and Series 63, as well as Life Insurance and Variable Annuity licenses. His commitment to professional development is further demonstrated by his graduation from the NYS Banker Trust Investment School and his active membership in the New York Society of Security Analysts (NYSSA).

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John is deeply engaged in his community. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Board at Arnot Realty Corporation and holds a position on the Board of Trustees at Elmira College, where he chairs the Investment Committee. His previous roles include serving as a Board Trustee at the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, where he also chaired their Investment Committee. John’s commitment to leadership extends to his past directorships at the Clemens Center, Elmira City Club, and Elmira Country Club.

In his free time, John enjoys spending quality moments with his family, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance and community involvement.

Areas of Focus

Advisors listed on Bitcoin Wealth Platform commonly work at the intersection of traditional financial planning and Bitcoin or other digital assets. Common areas include portfolio integration, tax coordination, risk assessment, wealth preservation, and Bitcoin custody education.

How a Bitcoin Aware Advisor Can Help

A Bitcoin aware financial advisor can help you think through how digital assets interact with the rest of your financial life. This includes conversations about volatility, tax treatment, retirement planning, and how Bitcoin fits alongside traditional investments.

Credentials & Licenses

CFA®CFP®CBDA℠

Why You Can Trust John

Verified credentials and professional qualifications

Professional Credentials
CFA®CFP®CBDA℠

Licensed and certified to provide financial advisory services

Years of Experience

11+ Years Experience in financial advisory and wealth management

Fiduciary Duty

Acts as a fiduciary, legally obligated to put your interests first

Service Area

Serving clients in Elmira, NY and surrounding areas

Firm Affiliation

The Brand Schweizer Group / Raymond James

Important: Always verify advisor credentials and registrations through official sources such as FINRA BrokerCheck or the SEC Investment Adviser Public Disclosure database.

Verify John's Credentials

Independently verify registration and licensing through official regulatory databases

SEC/FINRA CRD Number

4221381

Important: Always independently verify an advisor's credentials, registration status, and disciplinary history before engaging their services. The link above connects directly to the official SEC Investment Adviser Public Disclosure database.

Questions to Ask This Advisor

Before engaging John Brand, consider asking questions such as: Consider questions about their Bitcoin philosophy, experience, services, fees, and how they coordinate with tax and legal professionals.

Related Advisor Directories

Explore other Bitcoin financial advisors and professionals in your area or with similar credentials:

Frequently Asked Questions About Bitcoin Wealth Platform

Bitcoin Wealth Platform is an independent directory, not an advisory firm. We help connect you with Bitcoin aware advisors but do not provide investment advice.

Planning Tools

If you'd like to explore future-value or retirement scenarios before speaking with an advisor, you can use our Bitcoin planning calculators.

Important Disclaimer: John Brand is solely responsible for any advice they provide. Bitcoin Wealth Platform (BWP) is an independent directory and does not provide individualized investment, tax, or legal advice. Digital assets, including Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, involve risk of loss. Always confirm licensing and registrations (FINRA/SEC/state) before engaging any advisor. For more information, please review our full disclaimer.