URBANDALE, IA, September 08, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Westin Smith has been recognized for achievement in financial amenities and military service.

Mr. Smith's professional journey of more than a decade and counting is distinguished by his role as the owner of Fortis Fortuna Holdings LLC, a private access and advisory firm he established in 2020. In his capacity, he utilizes advanced technologies to educate his clients on alternative investment opportunities and strategies, demystifying the approaches traditionally reserved for high-net-worth investors and making them accessible to a broader audience.

Mr. Smith's professional journey of more than a decade and counting is distinguished by his role as the owner of Fortis Fortuna Holdings LLC, a private access and advisory firm he established in 2020. In his capacity, he utilizes advanced technologies to educate his clients on alternative investment opportunities and strategies, demystifying the approaches traditionally reserved for high-net-worth investors and making them accessible to a broader audience.

Mr. Smith guides people through the complexities of alternative investments, providing insight into potential benefits, risks and structures while building relationships through ongoing consultations and communication, all while charging $0.00 to his clientele. His responsibilities include evaluating investment and passive income opportunities, conducting due diligence on deals and associated individuals, vetting business partners to assess credibility and risk, and aligning his clients with investment options that best suit their financial objectives.

Under Mr. Smith's leadership, Fortis Fortuna Holdings has also catered to high-net-worth clientele by offering exclusive access to invite-only events. The firm recently partnered with Franck Muller Watches to host a supercar show at the Geneva factory and is actively involved in raising capital for select startups. Through his network, he provides access to invite-only trade desks through institutions such as Lloyd's of London and JPMorgan, delivering high returns for family offices, pension funds and ultra-high-net-worth individuals.

Additionally, Fortis Fortuna specializes in acquiring trophy assets, including prestigious trophy asset properties like 5-star hotels, off-market Swiss skiing chalets and rare collectible items. The firm's mission is encapsulated in its logo, "Making Wealth Common," reflecting Mr. Smith's commitment to bridging the gap between alternative investments and traditional financial products.

Mr. Smith's work has enabled him to attend exclusive international events, travel extensively each month and cultivate relationships with influential figures including royalty. He considers himself a treasure hunter who excels at getting people into coveted spaces such as the World Economic Forum and Paris Fashion Week or facilitating once-in-a-lifetime deals.

Prior to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Mr. Smith served as a soldier in the United States Army National Guard from 2014 to 2022 and was recognized with the Army Commendation Medal. Beginning his military career as an 88M Transport Operator before transitioning to air assault operations, his service was marked by unwavering dedication and adaptability — qualities that have continued to influence his approach in business. After completing his military tenure, he entered the life insurance industry, selling policies over the phone under challenging circumstances that included periods of homelessness. Even homeless, while using the free wi-fi at the local library to sell life insurance over the phone, to showering at the gym, he knew where he was and that he wasn't going to stay there long.

Throughout his post-military career, Mr. Smith has maintained an active presence in the life insurance sector as a licensed broker working with multiple companies across 20 states. He continues to expand his focus into private equity and venture capital opportunities on a larger scale while remaining committed to educating clients about their financial options.

Though his journey counts many milestones, Mr. Smith is especially of going from graduating in a small town with around 100 classmates to being featured in Newsweek and addressing the World Economic Forum. His career has included engagements with princes and princesses, underscoring a remarkable trajectory defined by versatility and perseverance rather than any single event.

Academically, Mr. Smith earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in kinesiology and exercise science from Iowa State University in 2019. Reflecting on his storied journey thus far, he credits much of his success to the guiding principle inspired by Bruce Lee's wisdom: "Be like water." This philosophy of balancing persistence with adaptability has allowed him to navigate challenges effectively across different industries.

In addition to his business pursuits, Mr. Smith is known for his civic engagement as the host of a weekly virtual meeting on alternative assets and investing, where he shares insights and fosters camaraderie among participants seeking to expand their financial knowledge. As a balance to his professional responsibilities, he enjoys spending time with loved ones, cherishing peaceful moments at home, going to the movies, trying new restaurants, and staying active.

Looking toward the future, Mr. Smith aims to expand his impact in the Iowa community by helping more families achieve early retirement while continuing to educate individuals about their financial choices through increased outreach and publications. He is also focused on launching a charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families who face adversity similar to what he once experienced. By positioning himself as a resource for those seeking guidance on where to begin their financial journeys, he strives not only to help others but also to further his own growth through problem-solving and community engagement.

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