WHO WE ARE
Our story
Kālā Capital was founded on the island of Oʻahu after Ethan Ho, CEO and Founder, recognized that outdated financial frameworks no longer serve the next generation of high earners—and that a more modern, approachable way to deliver fiduciary financial advice was urgently needed. Rooted in the spirit of Hawai‘i, Kālā (pronounced kah-lā) means “to release” and symbolizes abundance, peace, and the belief that with the right guidance, anything is possible. Our team is committed to helping ambitious individuals achieve financial clarity, confidence, and success through personalized planning, education, and high-touch support.
April Nakayama
Chief Compliance Officer
April Nakayama has been a critical member of our team from day one, ensuring our financial planning operations run smoothly for clients across Hawaii and the mainland. Born and raised on Oʻahu, April graduated from Castle High School before earning her degree in finance from the Shidler College of Business at the University of Hawaiʻi. Her professional journey spans banking and financial planning, and she now focuses on the essential backend operations that keep our firm running smoothly.
Outside the office, April’s competitive spirit shines. She is an accomplished paddler, having completed the Na Wahine O Ke Kai channel crossing, one of the most prestigious and grueling outrigger canoe races in the world, both as a solo paddler and as part of a 6-man crew. This drive and finisher mentality translate directly into her work, where she tackles challenges with the same grit and determination.
When she’s not keeping our compliance on point, April enjoys coaching high school paddling, fishing, and spending time at the Kaneohe Sandbar, where she finds balance and inspiration in the open water.
Ethan Ho
Chief Executive Officer
EthanHo@kalacapitalpartners.com
Born and raised on Oʻahu, Ethan Ho is the visionary leader behind Kala Capital. After graduating from Punahou School, he earned his degree from Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business, setting the foundation for a career dedicated to helping others achieve financial clarity and freedom.
With over a decade of experience as a Hawaii-based CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ serving clients nationwide, Ethan blends technical expertise with the principles of integrity, discipline, and service he developed as an Eagle Scout. His approach to financial planning is deeply personal, rooted in a commitment to building meaningful, long-term relationships with clients and empowering them to achieve generational wealth.
Outside the office, Ethan finds balance in the ocean, on the mats, and at home. He’s an avid surfer, Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, and devoted family man, enjoying life with his partner, Marissa, their two daughters, two cats, and their loyal dog, Luna.
Chris Bueno
Chief Financial Officer
ChrisBueno@kalacapitalpartners.com
As Chief Financial Officer, Chris leads our firm’s approach to investment management, financial systems, and growth strategy. He ensures Kala Capital clients — in Oʻahu and across the country — benefit from streamlined portfolio planning. Chris graduated from ʻIolani School and went on to earn a degree in Business with a minor in Chinese from the University of Puget Sound. His commitment to financial education is evident in his pursuit of the CFA designation, where he continues to deepen his understanding of global markets and investment strategies.
Chris's approach to financial planning is driven by a passion for helping clients achieve generational wealth, blending technical expertise with a deep understanding of his clients' long-term goals.
Outside of work, Chris finds balance through physical and mental challenges, whether he’s in the gym, competing on the chessboard, or coaching ʻIolani’s chess team. His strategic mindset and disciplined approach make him a valuable asset to both our team and our clients.
WHO WE TRUST
Our partners
Carl Choy
Founding Principal of CKW & Key Advisor to Kālā Capital Partners
We collaborate with trusted partners who bring decades of expertise in wealth management, portfolio construction, and financial planning for high-net-worth individuals.
Carl Choy is a co-founding principal of CKW Financial Group, a GIPS-compliant RIA offering discretionary asset allocation portfolios to help individuals and organizations achieve stronger financial outcomes.
Before launching CKW in Honolulu, Carl held senior investment roles at Morgan Stanley and Merrill Lynch and taught manager due diligence courses for IMCA at the Wharton School and the College for Financial Planning. He has spoken at major industry events hosted by Institutional Investor, IMCA, and the National Captive Insurance Association.
Alongside Lynne Kinney, Carl co-manages CKW’s Opportunistic Global Balanced Portfolio—an actively managed strategy with a 19-year audited track record, over $750M in AUM, and a Top 5% Morningstar ranking. The portfolio is available on Envestnet, Fidelity SAN, and Cetera platforms.
