Louis Abel, CFA, CAIA

Lou helps clients define their personal vision and achieve their life goals through a combination of wealth planning and strategic investing, including asset allocation, portfolio design and ongoing investment management. His expertise encompasses international investments, alternative investments, and investing for social impact, also known as ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance).

A 30-year veteran of the investment industry, Lou joined Covington in 2020. Previously, he served as Chief Investment Officer at First Foundation Advisors. He has also held positions as senior portfolio manager at U.S. Trust, Wells Fargo Private Bank, Husic Capital Management and Engemann Asset Management. Lou began his career as an analyst at the investment consulting firm, Wilshire Associates. He is currently a member of the BlackRock RIA Advisory Council.

Education and accreditations

• BA in Economics, University of California, San Diego
• MBA in International Finance, with Honors, The Anderson School, University of California, Los Angeles
• Executive Program in Investment Management, Stanford University
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
• Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA)

Professional associations

• CFA Society of Los Angeles, Member
• CFA Institute, Member
• CAIA Association, Member

Community service

• Professional Child Development Associates, Ambassador
• Pacific Asia Museum, former Finance Chair
• Southwest Chamber Music, former Board Member

Passions

Cycling, martial arts, travel, food and wine, spending time with family