Richard II L. Fernandez, AFP®, is a financial professional and CEO-Marketing Director at International Marketing Group (IMG). His financial mindset began with a simple childhood memory of saving in a piggy bank, which helped introduce the value of setting money aside and building discipline. Over time, his perspective evolved from spending to understanding the importance of saving, investing, and creating stronger cash flow for long-term financial security.
Fernandez’s journey with IMG shaped his approach to money, helping him recognize that active income is temporary and should be used as a tool to save, invest, and prepare for the future. Through his AFP® journey, he applies the principles of a strong financial foundation, proper guidance, and disciplined investing to strengthen his own financial life and help others become more prepared for their future.
AFP® Certification Story
Early Lesson from Saving in a Piggy Bank
“Saving in my piggy bank.”
Learning to Increase Cash Flow and Invest Early
“Growing up, I learned to increase my cash flow, and of course I wish I had learned earlier the importance of investing.”
Financial Turning Point About Active Income
“Active income is temporary, and it is just a tool to save and invest so my future self will be happy and successful.”
Transformation from Spender to Saver and Investor
“I was a spender, but because I became part of the IMG community with our mission, I learned the importance of saving and investing for the future.”
Best Financial Advice on Increasing Cash Flow
“Increase your cash flow as much as you can, and while you can.”
Financial Planning Through a Strong Financial Foundation
“I go with the flow but together with my financial blueprint, which is the strong financial foundation I learned here in AFP.”
Investment Lesson from Mutual Funds
“Mutual funds. I learned to create a habit in investing.”
Balancing Risk and Reward Through Needs and Wants
“By knowing my needs and wants.”
Current Goal of Building More Liquid Investments
“More liquid investments.”
Motivation for Joining the AFP® Program
“IMG community has a big part for me. All of these are because of them.”
Better Wealth-Building Decisions Through Proper Guidance
“With proper guidance.”
Most Valuable Lesson from the AFP® Program
“Invest what you can afford to lose.”
Certified AFP® Status
“Yes.”