Waverly Advisors
Partner, Wealth Advisor

Carl “Brandt” McDonald

Carl “Brandt” McDonald joined Waverly Advisors in July of 2026 following the acquisition of InVista Advisors by Waverly Advisors, LLC.

Brandt serves as a Partner and Wealth Advisor, bringing 35+ years of experience in the securities industry. He works with ultra-high-net-worth families, institutions, and nonprofit organizations, providing comprehensive financial planning and customized investment strategies.

Brandt is particularly passionate about portfolio management and economic research. He evaluates U.S. domestic policy within the context of global economic conditions and geopolitical events to develop proprietary, risk-based portfolio models for clients and institutions. His approach begins with an in-depth understanding of each clientโ€™s financial circumstances, goals, and objectives. From there, he develops comprehensive financial plans that integrate balance sheet management, cash flow planning, and portfolio strategy.

With a strong foundation in capital markets, Brandt brings extensive experience in institutional-level portfolio construction. He uses sophisticated, data-driven methodologies to create customized investment solutions designed to address the complex needs of his clients.

Brandt and his wife, Hayden, are active members of First Baptist Church of Montgomery. He enjoys coaching youth sports and participating in community-focused organizations. Throughout his career, he has also served on numerous boards and advisory councils.

Areas of Expertise

The framework is organized intoย six primary pillars, each with detailed sub-specialties that advisors can select as self-identified areas of expertise.ย 

Investment strategy & portfolio management

Comprehensive investment oversight across public and private markets.

Wealth Planning & Strategy

Holistic financial planning and multi-generational wealth stewardship.

Private Markets & Alternative Investments

Access to private equity, private credit, real estate, and real assets.

Family Enterprise & Business Advisory

Business transition, succession planning, and family governance.

Tax, Estate & Legacy Planning

Tax optimization, estate structuring, and multigenerational legacy design.

Specialized Clients Needs

Customized solutions for unique life events and complex situations

Serving with Purpose

A Culture of Connection

Waverly takes its name from a meadow of quaking aspen trees, an ecosystem where individual trees are connected by a shared root system. Since 1999, that idea has inspired our firm: strong relationships, shared values, and the belief that we are better together.

Comprehensive Wealth Management, Connected by Design

Like an aspen grove, every part of a clientโ€™s financial life is interconnected. As an independent Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), we bring together investment management, financial planning, tax strategy, trust and estate planning, and family office services to create coordinated solutions that simplify complexity and support long-term success.

A Culture Rooted in Service

Our culture of stewardship is guided by Integrity, Family, Grace, Team, Drive, Empathy, and Community. These values shape every client relationship, every decision, and every interaction. They are the foundation that keeps our people connected and ensures a consistent, high-touch experience across the firm.

The Difference Is Our People

While many firms offer financial advice, our greatest differentiator is our people. Waverlyโ€™s advisors, planners, investment professionals, tax specialists, and support teams work together to deliver thoughtful guidance and personalized solutions. It is this collaborative approach, and our commitment to serving clients with excellence and care, that transforms financial advice into lasting relationships.

Awards & Rankings

  • 2024 Top 50 Growers Across America
  • 2018 Barron’s Top Advisor

Education

  • Bachelor of Science in Finance
  • Auburn University, Auburn, AL, Class of 1989

Community Involvement

  • A faithful member at First Baptist Church of Montgomery
  • Youth sports
  • Community groups and projects
  • The Pearl Family Foundation, Board Member

Ask Me About

  • How triangulating U.S. domestic policy, global economics, and geopolitics informs the development of proprietary, risk-based portfolio models
  • Constructing institutional-quality portfolios tailored to ultra-high net worth families, institutions, and nonprofits
  • The importance of deep fact-finding and integrated financial planning that aligns balance sheet, cash flow, and investments with clear client objectives
  • Perspectives gained from 37 years in capital markets and navigating evolving economic and geopolitical landscapes
  • Leadership and decision-making principles drawn from industry management positions and regulatory oversight.

Related Services

  • Private Client Services
  • Institutional Consulting
  • Portfolio Management & Custom Model Construction
  • Comprehensive Wealth Planning for Ultra-High-Net-Worth Families and Nonprofit Organizations
  • Integrated Financial Planning, including Balance Sheet, Cash Flow, and Investment Strategies