Rules-Based Investing for Disciplined
Long-Term Growth
A systematic, research-driven investment process that combines fundamentals, technicals,
sentiment analysis, and risk management into one coherent strategy.
Astute Consulting LLC is an investment advisory firm focused on helping clients grow and preserve their wealth through a structured, rules-based approach to the markets. Our process is designed to remove noise and emotion from decision-making and replace them with clear, repeatable criteria.
Who we are
Astute Consulting LLC is a Dallas Metroplex, USA-based investment advisory firm built around a simple idea:
Disciplined process leads to better decisions.
Founded by Murtaza K. Shahbazker, CFA, CMT, the firm integrates institutional-grade research with practical portfolio implementation. Clients benefit from a transparent, disciplined approach focused on risk management, consistency, and long-term outcomes. The firm’s initial focus is on Texas-based clients.
Emphasis on rules, discipline,
and risk control
Independent, process-driven
advisory firm
Led by a charterholder with
global markets experience
Our Investment Philosophy – Five Core Pillars
Fundamental Analysis:
We start by understanding the underlying businesses. We look for quality companies with resilient business models, healthy balance sheets, and sustainable cash flows. Valuation and business quality drive our universe of potential investments.
Technical Analysis:
Timing matters. We use technical analysis to identify trends, momentum, and attractive
entry and exit zones. This helps us avoid chasing short-term noise and instead positions portfolios at points that align with our risk-reward criteria.
Sentiment Analysis:
Markets are driven not only by data, but also
by investor behavior. We incorporate
sentiment indicators and positioning data
to understand how optimistic or fearful the
market is, and we adjust our stance accordingly.
Money Management Rules:
• How much capital to allocate to each idea.
• How to scale in or out of positions.
• Maximum exposure limits by name, sector,
and theme.
The objective is simple: protect capital while allowing winners to compound.
Systematic Execution:
Our process is codified into a systematic framework that ensures decisions are consistent, documented, and repeatable. This reduces emotional decision-making and keeps the focus on data, process, and probabilities rather than short-term noise.
From Idea to Implementation – How We Work
Step 1
Universe
Definition:
We screen a broad universe of securities using fundamental criteria to identify candidates
that meet our quality and liquidity requirements.
Step 2
Research & Due Diligence:
We conduct deeper fundamental and quantitative analysis on shortlisted ideas, evaluating business strength, financial metrics, and potential catalysts.
Step 3
Timing &
Structure:
Technical and sentiment tools are used to determine whether conditions are favorable for
entry, how to structure the position, and where to define risk limits.
Step 4
Portfolio Construction:
Ideas that pass our filters are incorporated into client portfolios following predefined money management rules, diversification guidelines, and exposure limits.
Step 5
Ongoing
Monitoring:
Positions and portfolios are monitored continuously. We update views based on new
data, market conditions, and risk metrics, and
we rebalance or exit positions when our rules
signal a change.
Interested in learning more about how this process could apply to your portfolio?
Risk Management at the Core
Every decision in our process is evaluated through a risk-first lens. We focus on:
Defining downside risk before entering a position
Using position sizing to control exposure
Diversifying across names, sectors, and themes
Avoiding concentration
in single ideas
or narratives
Reviewing portfolios regularly against risk metrics
The goal is not to avoid volatility entirely, but to ensure that risk is intentional, measured,
and aligned with client objectives.
Who We Work With
We work with clients who value a disciplined, rules-based approach and are seeking a structured framework
rather than ad-hoc decision-making.
Our services may be appropriate for individuals, families, and entities who are
comfortable with market risk and a long-term orientation.
Astute Consulting LLC is an investment adviser registered or seeking registration with the appropriate U.S. state regulator. Nothing on this website constitutes an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any security. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
For more information about our services, process, and regulatory status
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Astute Consulting different?
We combine advanced analytics with a structured, rules-based investment framework.
How quickly can I start investing?
You can be fully set up from onboarding to live trading through your own Interactive Brokers account.
Is my money secure?
Yes. Your funds stay in your own Interactive Brokers account, protected by SIPC insurance, and you have full visibility and control at all times.
What are the fees?
Standard fees for retail clients: 2% annual management fee | Standard fees for qualified clients: 20% performance fee
Who can join Astute Consulting?
We serve professionals, families, and long-term investors seeking disciplined portfolio management.
