Ironclad Financial is dedicated to serving clients who value a technology-driven, digital-first approach to financial planning and investment management. We understand the needs of tech-savvy individuals who prefer to manage their financial portfolios online and seek a collaborative, transparent relationship with their advisors.Our firm specializes in providing a seamless, efficient experience by integrating advanced financial planning tools and innovative technology. This allows clients to have direct, real-time access to their investment accounts and financial plans, ensuring they are always informed and in control.As a Crypto Sub-Advisor for Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs), Ironclad Financial offers the expertise and digital tools necessary for RIAs to support clients who self-custody their digital assets. We empower these clients with the resources they need to navigate the complexities of the digital asset landscape confidently.Ironclad Financial’s commitment to transparency and ethical practices is reflected in our flexible compensation models, including flat-fee structures and assets under management/advisement options. Our collaborative approach ensures that our services are tailored to align with each client's unique financial objectives and risk tolerance. As fiduciaries, we prioritize our clients' best interests, providing them with strategic, technology-driven investment solutions that are both innovative and aligned with their long-term goals.

Nick Rygiel serves as an Advisor, Angel Investor, and active user of L1.co (formerly L1 Advisors), offering strategic guidance while maintaining full transparency about his role within the company. His involvement with L1.co is rooted in a commitment to providing impartial advice and upholding the highest ethical standards in financial planning and investment management.L1.co provided the solution Nick had been searching for—a way to collaborate with clients who self-custody their digital assets without taking custody or discretion over their holdings. By enabling on-chain work that preserves the core ethos of self-custody and the principles of public blockchain technology, L1.co aligns perfectly with Nick’s dedication to empowering clients through innovative, technology-driven solutions. This partnership allows Nick to continue offering his clients cutting-edge financial strategies while ensuring their assets remain securely within their control.

During his time at Merrill Lynch from October 2011 to July 2022, Nick Rygiel focused on delivering practical and effective investment management and financial planning services tailored to each client's unique financial situation. He participated in industry events like those hosted by the Options Industry Council and Nasdaq, where he shared insights on risk management and investment strategies.Nick's approach at Merrill Lynch was centered on providing informed, personalized advice. He engaged clients in thoughtful discussions about market and investment analysis, ensuring that their specific financial goals, risk tolerance, risk capacity, and investment personality were all carefully considered. He emphasized transparency and was committed to helping clients navigate market uncertainties with strategies that aligned with their objectives. His work also involved exploring alternative investments and staying current with financial technologies to offer clients the best possible insights.

During his time at Deloitte Consulting in Arlington, VA, Nick Rygiel worked on projects within the public sector, where he helped support and refine systems and processes. His role was largely about lending a hand in optimizing operations, making sure things operated smoothly. The work was detailed and involved navigating some intricate environments, but Nick approached it with a practical, straightforward mindset. His contributions were part of broader efforts to keep these projects on track, applying his skills when needed to help things move forward efficiently.

Business AnalystJuly 2008 – July 2010Center for Surface Combat Systems Technical Support Directorate (CSCS N9) – Dahlgren, VAAnalyzed training simulation systems for the Littoral Combat Ship, identifying critical deficiencies and proposing solutions that could result in $163 million in cost savings for the U.S. Navy.Gathered and synthesized feedback from six learning centers regarding the Littoral Combat Ship Front End Assessment, providing actionable recommendations that guided Navy training strategies and informed Flag-level briefings.Training and Readiness OfficerJune 2006 - July 2008USS Porter (DDG-78), AEGIS Guided Missile Destroyer - Norfolk, VADeveloped and managed a comprehensive training program for 300 personnel, ensuring alignment with the ship’s operational schedule.Created a tracking system for training requirements, leading to the identification and resolution of over 700 discrepancies—a 90% reduction.Ranked as the top division officer among 25 peers in the Commanding Officer’s annual performance evaluation.Gunnery and Ordnance OfficerJune 2005 - June 2006USS Porter (DDG-78), AEGIS Guided Missile Destroyer - Norfolk, VASupervised a team of 50 personnel in the operation and maintenance of the ship’s gunnery and missile systems.Provided training to Romanian and Ukrainian Naval forces during NATO coalition exercises in the Black Sea.Main Propulsion and Electrical OfficerMay 2004 – June 2005USS Porter (DDG-78), AEGIS Guided Missile Destroyer - Norfolk, VALed 40 personnel responsible for the operation and maintenance of the ship’s main engines, generators, and electrical systems.Streamlined the procurement process for repair parts, reducing average routing time by 50%.Successfully coordinated 10 high-profile public affairs events as the Philadelphia ship visit coordinator.