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.