MEET THE FOUNDER

Farris Refai

Finance and Equity Analyst | Valuations Expert | Strategic Financial Advisor

With a passion for empowering small businesses and startups, I founded Rawt to bridge the gap between enterprise-level financial expertise and accessible services for growing companies. My mission is to help you route your business to financial success.

Farris Refai, Founder of Rawt Financial Services

The Story Behind Rawt

After graduating from Texas A&M University with a degree in Economics, I was driven by a deep passion for finance and a keen interest in helping businesses thrive. My journey took me through diverse experiences - from conducting equity research at Stanton Research Group to working on high-stakes valuations at PwC in Dubai.

Currently serving as a Finance and Equity Analyst at Carta, I work daily with startups and growing companies on valuations, venture fund tax matters, and providing strategic C-suite support. This experience showed me a critical gap in the market: small businesses desperately need the same caliber of financial expertise that large corporations enjoy, but at an accessible price point.

That's why I founded Rawt. The name represents our core mission - to help businesses find their "route" to financial success. Whether you're a startup needing foundational bookkeeping or an established business seeking strategic CFO guidance, we're here to be your trusted financial partner on that journey.

Education

Texas A&M University

Bachelor's Degree in Economics

2021 - 2024 | College Station, Texas

Activities & Leadership:

  • International Club - President
  • TAMU Economics Society
  • TAMU AOTW

Professional Experience

Finance and Equity Analyst

Carta

Leading valuations work, providing C-suite support, managing venture fund tax matters, and advising on QSBS qualifications for high-growth startups.

Mar 2025 - Present

Seattle, Washington

Equity Research Analyst

Stanton Research Group

Conducted in-depth equity research and market analysis, developing investment recommendations and financial models.

Aug 2024 - Dec 2024

New Brunswick, New Jersey

Deals Advisory Intern - Transaction Services (Valuations)

PwC

Supported M&A valuation engagements at one of the Big Four, gaining exposure to international transactions and valuation methodologies.

Jul 2023 - Aug 2023

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Data Analyst Intern

IMI

Developed data analysis capabilities and research skills working with large datasets to drive business insights and operational improvements.

Dec 2021 - Jul 2023

California

M&A Research Analyst Intern

Virginia Institute of Finance & Management

Gained foundational experience in mergers and acquisitions research, financial modeling, and due diligence processes.

Jul 2021 - Aug 2021

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Areas of Expertise

Valuations & Analysis

Expert in business valuations, 409A assessments, and comprehensive financial analysis for startups and growing companies.

C-Suite Support

Experienced in providing executive-level financial guidance and strategic support to leadership teams.

Client Partnership

Dedicated to building long-term relationships and understanding each client's unique business needs.

Continuous Learning

Committed to staying current with industry trends, regulations, and best practices in finance.

Ready to Work Together?

Let's discuss how Rawt can help route your business to financial success. Whether you need bookkeeping support, strategic planning, or CFO-level guidance, I'm here to help.

Rawt Assistant

Ask about our services

Hi! I'm the Rawt assistant. Ask me anything about our bookkeeping, financial planning, or CFO services.