Curtis James got Bear Market Financial Services up and running in 2022, and the Plymouth-based company has since been recognized as a top independent financial firm. Bear Market has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, and the Minnesota Star Tribune named it a “Best of MN” finalist this year, the company notes. As owner and president, James has also earned Allianz Life’s “elite advisor” status. Colleagues say he is known for simplifying retirement-plan complexities for Twin Cities families as well as for giving back, financially supporting local and national charities such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Second Harvest Heartland.