DUNHAM
About DUNHAM
DUNHAM holds a Trust Score of 76/100 — an Established rating based on their regulatory filings and business history. They are not a fiduciary, meaning they aren't legally required to act in your best interest. This doesn't make them dishonest, but it means they may recommend products that earn them commissions.
In 41 years of operation, DUNHAM has zero complaints or disciplinary actions — a spotless regulatory record. They earn commissions on product sales, creating a potential conflict of interest — always ask what they make from any recommendation.
One thing to watch: they're affiliated with a broker-dealer, which means they can earn commissions beyond their stated fees. Ask them to disclose all compensation in writing. Bottom line: We recommend interviewing at least 2-3 other advisors in SAN DIEGO before committing to DUNHAM. Their risk profile suggests extra caution.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring DUNHAM
“What is your all-in fee, including fund expenses?”
Their disclosed model is commission. Ask for the total cost including underlying fund fees, trading costs, and any platform charges.
“Are you a fiduciary at all times — not just sometimes?”
DUNHAM is not registered as a fiduciary. This means they can legally recommend products that benefit them more than you. Ask them to sign a fiduciary pledge in writing.
“How are you compensated when you recommend a specific product?”
This firm earns commissions on product sales. Ask exactly how much they make on each recommendation and whether a no-commission alternative exists.
“Can I see your Form ADV Part 2A brochure before our next meeting?”
This is the legal disclosure document that details fees, conflicts, and disciplinary history. Every SEC-registered advisor must provide it. Read it before signing anything.
Compensation Model
Compensation type disclosed on SEC Form ADV Item 5C. Filed 46128. Specific fee percentages are available in this firm's Form ADV Part 2A brochure at adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Conflict of Interest Analysis
Broker-Dealer Affiliated: Yes
This firm is affiliated with a broker-dealer, which means they may earn commissions on product sales — creating a potential conflict between their revenue and your best interest.
Insurance Licensed: No
Not insurance licensed. Cannot sell you annuity or insurance products directly.
Custody per Form ADV Item 9: No
Form ADV Item 9 does not report custody. Client assets are held at an independent qualified custodian and the adviser doesn't have withdrawal or fee-deduction authority beyond what triggers the SEC's custody rule.
Proprietary Products: No
Uses only third-party investment products. No proprietary product conflicts.
Regulatory & Disciplinary History
Clean Record
No disciplinary events, regulatory actions, or customer complaints on file with the SEC or FINRA. This firm has maintained a spotless regulatory record for 41 years.
Firm Details
| Legal Name | DUNHAM |
| CRD Number | #13162 |
| SEC Registered | Yes |
| Registration Date | 1985-11-29 |
| States Registered | CA |
| Assets Under Management | $5.6B |
| Number of Clients | 9 |
| Employees | 43 |
| Compensation Type | commission |
| Last ADV Filing | 46128 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is DUNHAM a fiduciary?
No. DUNHAM is not registered as an RIA and is not legally bound by the fiduciary standard.
How does DUNHAM charge clients?
DUNHAM uses a commission compensation model. They also earn commissions on product sales, which may create conflicts of interest. Full fee details are in their Form ADV Part 2A brochure at adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Does DUNHAM have any complaints?
No. DUNHAM has zero complaints or disciplinary actions on file with the SEC or FINRA across 41 years of operation.
How does DUNHAM compare to other advisors in SAN DIEGO?
DUNHAM has a Trust Score of 76/100. There are 99 registered advisory firms in SAN DIEGO. Use our city page to compare firms side by side.
Where does this data come from?
All information is sourced from SEC Form ADV public filings (mandatory regulatory disclosures) and FINRA BrokerCheck records. Last updated: 2026-06-24. We do not accept payment from financial advisors.
Data source: SEC Form ADV (Parts 1 and 2A) filed with the Investment Adviser Registration Depository (IARD). Filing date: 46128. Last data refresh: 2026-06-24. AdvisorRanked does not verify the accuracy of SEC filings. This is not financial advice.