Neela Hummel

Hi! I'm an early 40's mom, money nerd, and CEO of Abacus Wealth Partners (a 100% employee-owned, fee-only, SEC-registered investment adviser and Certified B Corporation that manages $3.5+ billion based in Santa Monica, CA). I started as an unpaid intern at Abacus back in 2009, and have worn a lot of hats since then. I've aimed to grow a values-aligned firm that seeks to expand what is possible in our client's lives through strong financial planning and thoughtful investing while also empowering all employees to bring their best selves to work. Capital drives the world, and I believe businesses do better when they are used as a force for good. Putting all stakeholders (employees, communities, and the environment) and not just shareholders first is not only better for the world, but better for business outcomes. I'm a longtime financial planner who can spreadsheet with the best of them (yes, I just used spreadsheet as a verb). I'm also a mom so can deftly juggle and delegate, all while covered in ketchup with a book in my hand. I believe in the power of financial empowerment and aim to make financial planning more impactful and more accessible (less jargon, more mom jokes). I love writing and speaking to groups large and small, about financial planning topics all the way to running a scaled RIA. I've been honored to receive a few amazing awards, including Investment News Hot List and “40 Under 40” for financial advisors, LA Business Journal’s “Women of Influence: Finance” in 2023 and 2024, and Top Impact CEO by Big Bath Capital. I'm also a graduate of and former rower for UC Berkeley (Go Bears!) In my free time (LOL), I love reading (Malcolm Gladwell/Adam Grant/Michael Lewis are some faves), kickboxing, and traveling. I love playing board games with my kids and a hot cup of coffee on a rainy morning. I'm a sucker for cherry pie, vanilla lattes, and big dogs.