Fruth Investment Management

Fruth Investment Management is a fee-only, independent firm specializing in professional portfolio management for individuals and institutions. Established in May 1992 by Richard J. Fruth, the firm tailors investment portfolios to clients' unique needs, reflecting objectives, risk tolerances, and market conditions. Portfolios primarily consist of individual stocks, with bonds and cash used as appropriate. AUM as of 12/31/2022 was $362,014,416 on a discretionary basis. Fees are charged based on a percentage of AUM, with rates ranging from 1.25% to 0.50%, and a minimum account size of $500,000. Fruth Investment Management does not engage in performance-based fees or side-by-side management. The firm manages accounts for approximately 172 clients, including individual/joint, IRA, foundations, corporate, and trusts. Investment strategies involve fundamental and technical analysis, specializing in individual stock selection. The firm aims for long-term growth with reduced risk, diversifying portfolios to mitigate various risks. Fruth Investment Management acts as a fiduciary, receiving compensation solely from client-paid management fees and not from sales commissions. Clients have the option of granting discretionary trading authority, with limits available upon request. Proxy voting authority is accepted only with specific client agreements, and the firm maintains strict ethical standards and compliance with securities laws.