Jake Karstens – Founder, Karstens Financial

Jake Karstens is the founder of Karstens Financial, an independent insurance brokerage established in 2014, with professional roots dating back to 2009 through his prior practice. Karstens Financial works with individuals and business owners to evaluate risk, coverage options, and long-term planning considerations.

Jake began his career in financial services in 1998 as an intern and entered the industry full-time in 2002 as a Regional Sales Representative with Deutsche Bank. During this time, he obtained industry licenses and developed experience with a range of financial products, including mutual funds, managed accounts, annuities, and retirement plans.

In 2006, Jake joined Managers Investment Group, where he progressed from Regional Sales Representative to Regional Sales Director, overseeing a multi-state territory across the central United States. Following the market events of 2008, Jake transitioned from institutional sales to working directly with individuals and business clients, leading to the establishment of his own practice in 2009 and the subsequent formation of Karstens Financial in 2014.

Since its founding, Karstens Financial has expanded to serve clients in more than 35 states, offering insurance placement and risk-management services where licensed and authorized. The firm operates as an independent brokerage with access to a broad range of insurance carriers, allowing for objective evaluation of coverage options based on client needs.

In 2022, Jake launched Karstens Wealth to provide investment advisory and financial-planning services through appropriately registered entities, where offered. In 2025, he founded Karstens Draper Accounting Solutions, which provides tax preparation and accounting services in accordance with applicable state and federal regulations.

Jake’s approach is consultative and education-focused. Client engagements typically begin with a review of personal, business, and financial considerations to help clients better understand their existing arrangements and available options. Services are offered without obligation and may vary based on licensing, registration, and regulatory requirements.

Services are offered through affiliated and non-affiliated entities and are provided only in states where the firm and its representatives are properly licensed or registered. Insurance services, investment advisory services, and tax or accounting services are offered through separate legal entities. Not all services are available in all states.