Michael J. Branthover, CFP® Ext. 219

Michael grew up right here in Dayton, Maryland, a proud Howard County native. Sports were a big part of his life from an early age. They taught him discipline, preparation and the value of being part of something bigger than yourself. That foundation ultimately carried him to Virginia Tech, where Michael had the privilege of playing football under legendary coach Frank Beamer. The lessons he learned as a Hokie — accountability, resilience and servant leadership — continue to shape the way he serve his clients today.

He has always had a knack for numbers, but what truly drew him to financial planning was seeing firsthand the gap in financial literacy in today’s world. Too many hardworking families approach retirement with uncertainty around Social Security decisions, pension versus lump sum options, tax exposure and protecting what they’ve spent decades building. Michael knew he wanted to build a career helping people navigate those moments with clarity and confidence.

He began his career in wealth management in 2015 with a local firm, focusing on comprehensive financial planning and investment management. In 2020, he joined DAY Financial Group, where he continues to work primarily with mass-affluent baby boomers who are within one to five years of retirement. For many of them, retirement isn’t just about investments — it’s about timing income streams properly, reducing unnecessary taxes, protecting assets and creating a plan that supports the lifestyle they’ve worked so hard to achieve.

As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, Michael is committed to delivering fiduciary advice in advisory relationships and always acting in my clients’ best interests. Michael holds the FINRA Series 7 and Series 66 registrations with LPL Financial, as well as a Maryland Life and Health insurance license. He is also a member of the Financial Planning Association of Maryland. He's been honored to be recognized as a Five Star Professional Award winner in 2022, 2024 and 2026 — a reflection of the relationships and trust Michael works to build with every client.

Faith, family and community remain central to who Michael is. He serves on the board of Neighbor Ride, a Howard County organization dedicated to helping seniors maintain independence by providing affordable transportation, and he is proud to contribute on its Finance Committee.

Today, his wife and high school sweetheart, Alex, and Michael are raising our two sons, Austin and Mason, here in the same community that shaped him. When Michael's not working with clients, you can usually find him exercising, watching football or simply enjoying quality time with his family. 

Award based on 10 objective criteria associated with providing quality services to clients such as credentials, experience, and assets under management among other factors.  Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of 2022, 2024, 2026 Five Star Wealth Managers.