Darcy Smoot began her career in finance in 2006 at Bloomberg LP in New York City, where she gained experience across multiple asset classes and markets before specializing in equity derivatives. She later worked as an equity derivatives sales trader at Susquehanna International Group, assisting institutional clients with their derivative needs. In 2014, she joined Nelson Capital, earned her CFA designation in 2016, and was appointed Chief Investment Officer in 2019. At EliteX, we are proud to have Darcy Smoot as part of the edition: Prominent Women in Finance, 2025.
Darcy Smoot | Partner and CIO | Nelson Capital Management, LLC
Coming from a family with a 50-year legacy in finance, she always knew she wanted to pursue a career in this field. Watching her grandfather and father guide clients through major financial decisions and life events, she saw the deep impact they had on people’s lives. This sense of purpose and responsibility inspired her to follow in their footsteps. As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, she faced challenges early in her career. Often, she was the only woman in the room and had to work harder to prove her expertise. Instead of feeling discouraged, she focused on delivering results, building strong relationships, and continuously expanding her knowledge. Mentorship played a significant role in her journey, as she sought guidance from both male and female mentors who provided valuable support and insight.
“Start saving early and be consistent—compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world.”
One of her biggest achievements has been the growth and success of Nelson Capital. The firm has expanded significantly under her leadership, and the strong culture they have built is reflected in their employee retention. Most of their team members have been with the firm for over five years, a testament to the positive work environment they have fostered. On a personal level, she considers her greatest achievement to be her role as a mother to her two daughters. She hopes to set an example for them, demonstrating that it is possible to be both a dedicated professional and a loving parent. Balancing work and family life in a demanding industry requires strong support systems. She credits her partner, a busy attorney, for sharing responsibilities at home, and she is grateful for her close-knit family and supportive community of friends and neighbors. Having this strong network makes it possible to manage both her career and personal life effectively.
Throughout her career, she has been fortunate to have several mentors. Her father and grandfather were her earliest role models, and she also worked closely with a partner at Susquehanna International Group who became a trusted friend and confidant. His unwavering support helped her navigate challenges and build confidence in her abilities. For young women looking to enter finance, she advises them to believe in themselves and push beyond their comfort zones. She encourages perseverance, even in the face of obstacles, and emphasizes the importance of surrounding themselves with supportive women. The finance industry has evolved significantly over the past decade, with more women in leadership positions and stronger mentorship networks. However, there is still progress to be made in achieving full equality at the highest levels.
Succeeding in finance requires a strong drive, effective communication skills, and the ability to build meaningful relationships. The industry is not just about numbers but also about people. A commitment to continuous learning and staying ahead of market trends is also essential for long-term success.
Gender bias has been a challenge at times, whether in the form of unsolicited comments or having to work harder to gain recognition. She has learned to stay focused, adapt, and assert herself when necessary. She has also relied on a network of mentors and peers who advocate for women in finance, helping to create opportunities and break barriers.
Women are playing an increasingly important role in shaping the future of finance. Over the next two generations, women are expected to receive 70% of wealth transfers, signifying a major shift in financial dynamics. As women gain more control over assets, financial firms must adapt to better serve their needs and ensure they are properly represented in the industry. Staying updated on industry trends is crucial, and she does this by attending conferences and participating in educational sessions through the CFA Society of San Francisco. She believes that ongoing learning is essential to staying ahead in a constantly evolving industry.
One fundamental financial lesson she believes everyone should understand is the power of compound interest. She stresses the importance of starting to save early and being consistent, as these habits can have a significant long-term impact on financial stability. Looking ahead, her goals include hiring and promoting more women within the firm to ensure a diverse and inclusive team. She is also focused on driving organic growth by strengthening client relationships and demonstrating the firm’s value. She believes that fostering an inclusive environment benefits not only individuals but also leads to better decision-making and outcomes for clients.
If she could change one thing about the finance industry, it would be to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women and underrepresented groups. While progress has been made, more work is needed to ensure equal opportunities, representation, and support at all levels. A diverse and inclusive industry enhances decision-making and ultimately leads to better results for firms and clients alike.
“Watching my grandfather and father guide clients through major financial decisions, I saw the deep impact they had.”
