Our Founding Story

After serving as Director of Investment Research in the Trust Division of the National Bank of Detroit, James L. Bashaw founded JLB & Associates, Inc. in 1983.

Today, JLB & Associates is a Registered Investment Adviser regulated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. What began with five client relationships has grown to more than 310, driven primarily by client referrals and a reputation for thoughtful guidance, disciplined investment management, and exceptional service.

At JLB & Associates, our mission is to build and preserve generational wealth through high-touch guidance, disciplined investment strategies, and unwavering integrity. Founded by James L. Bashaw, now led by his son Jim and mentoring the third generation of leadership, our firm is built on a simple promise: Three generations. One standard of excellence.

We combine innovative thinking, a commitment to low fees, and a steadfast dedication to doing what is right for our clients. Families entrust us not only with their assets, but with the responsibility of helping safeguard and grow their legacies for generations to come.

Key Milestones

Foundation

Established with a commitment to providing personalized portfolio management for high-net-worth individuals.

Expansion

Expanded services nationwide while maintaining our Michigan roots and commitment to personalized client relationships.

Three Generations

Now serving multiple generations of families with the same standard of excellence that defined our founding.

Our Legacy, Your Future

At JLB & Associates, we understand that wealth management is about more than numbers—it's about securing your family's future, achieving your goals, and building a lasting legacy. Our three-generation history of excellence is your assurance of stability, expertise, and unwavering commitment to your financial success.

SINCE 1985

Our History

Three generations. One standard of excellence.


After serving as Director of Investment Research in the Trust Division of the National Bank of Detroit, James L. Bashaw founded JLB & Associates, Inc. in 1983.

Today, JLB & Associates is a Registered Investment Adviser regulated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. What began with five client relationships has grown to more than 310, driven primarily by client referrals and a reputation for thoughtful guidance, disciplined investment management, and exceptional service.

At JLB & Associates, our mission is to build and preserve generational wealth through high-touch guidance, disciplined investment strategies, and unwavering integrity. Founded by James L. Bashaw, now led by his son Jim and mentoring the third generation of leadership, our firm is built on a simple promise: Three generations. One standard of excellence.

We combine innovative thinking, a commitment to low fees, and a steadfast dedication to doing what is right for our clients. Families entrust us not only with their assets, but with the responsibility of helping safeguard and grow their legacies for generations to come.

James L. Bashaw, Founder

Our Journey

Key milestones that shaped JLB & Associates into the trusted wealth management firm we are today.

1985

Foundation

James L. Bashaw founded JLB & Associates, Inc. after serving as Director of Investment Research in the Trust Division of the National Bank of Detroit. What began with five client relationships was built on a foundation of thoughtful guidance and disciplined investment management.

1987

Nationwide Expansion

JLB & Associates became a Registered Investment Adviser regulated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, expanding our commitment to transparency and fiduciary responsibility to our growing client base.

2026

Three Generations Strong

Now led by Jim Bashaw and mentoring the third generation of leadership, we serve more than 310 client relationships. Our growth has been driven primarily by client referrals and a reputation for exceptional service, innovative thinking, and unwavering integrity.

Your Legacy, Our Commitment

At JLB & Associates, our mission is to build and preserve generational wealth through high-touch guidance, disciplined investment strategies, and unwavering integrity. Families entrust us not only with their assets, but with the responsibility of helping safeguard and grow their legacies for generations to come.

OUR CORE PRINCIPLES

Our Core Values


Built on trust, grit, and generational perspective. We manage wealth with professional stewardship and an unwavering commitment to the families we serve.

Integrity Above All

We honor our word, act with transparency, and make decisions rooted in what is right—not what is easy. Trust is our most valuable currency.

Family Legacy & Work Ethic

We are a family business shaped by grit, humility, and pride in our craft. Our multigenerational leadership ensures continuity, stability, and a long-term perspective that benefits every client.

Relationship Driven Service

We believe wealth management is deeply personal. Clients receive attentive, boutique level service reflecting our belief that relationships build lasting success.

Performance With Purpose

We pursue exceptional results through disciplined strategies, thoughtful risk management, and a commitment to long term financial health. Performance is not just a goal, it's a responsibility.

Innovation With Intention

We embrace new ideas, technologies, and strategies that elevate outcomes. Innovation is not about chasing performance; it’s about staying ahead for the families we serve.

Stewardship & Accountability

We treat every dollar as if it were our own. As a fiduciary, our role is to protect, grow, and guide wealth with care, precision, and unwavering accountability.

Low Fees, High Value

We believe exceptional service and performance should be accessible and fair. Our fee structure reflects our commitment to transparency, value, and long term partnership.