A boots-on-the-ground global approach

At Naples Global Advisors, an RIA based in Florida, investment strategy is as much about exploration as it is about numbers. John Suddeth, chief investment officer and founding principal, is proud of the firm’s unique blend of institutional rigor, personal client focus – and, crucially, geographical open-mindedness.

“Some of that’s been my experience at trust companies like Northern Trust, and then, on the institutional side, working for the Alfred DuPont trust,” he says, adding that their approach integrates global insights into portfolios tailored for high-net-worth clients. 

This commitment to a global perspective is not superficial. Since its founding, Naples Global Advisors has conducted on-the-ground research in over 30 countries.

“Ultimately, if you don’t go [to the country], you don’t [understand] the type of compelling opportunity set,” Suddeth explains. “Australia is two-thirds the size of the US, with a population the size of Florida – about 25 million people. They’re market-savvy, and the opportunity when we go to visit companies there … opens your eyes to its physical size, the pace of activity, and the wealth.”

This international outlook is not a departure from US investments but a complement. While about 75 percent of the firm’s exposure remains in the US, global exploration uncovers gems that can enhance portfolios.

“You just have a lot more discovery,” Suddeth adds, emphasizing how these insights often provide access to undervalued or overlooked opportunities abroad. 

Yet investing internationally comes with challenges. Suddeth is acutely aware of the risks tied to emerging markets, particularly regions like China and Taiwan.

“Emerging markets come with political risks,” he says, pointing to China’s dominance in emerging market indices, which, combined with Taiwan, accounts for over 40 percent of the sector. For Naples Global Advisors, engagement in these areas is limited unless the opportunity is compelling and aligns with clients’ risk tolerances.

“We don’t have to be in the emerging markets unless it makes sense,” he explains.

Suddeth acknowledges that today’s economic climate has engendered skepticism toward global investments, particularly regarding emerging markets. But for Naples Global Advisors, it’s not about chasing trends – it’s about informed decision-making.

“Is it compelling? Does it make sense to be there?” he asks, reinforcing the firm’s deliberate approach to portfolio construction. 

The hands-on philosophy also helps foster trust with clients. By marrying institutional insights with personalized strategies, Naples Global Advisors sets itself apart in the wealth management landscape.

“It’s about discovery,” Suddeth says.