We believe that the key factors which govern our clients’ investment returns are an asset allocation approach combined with low charges and high diversification.

Risk vs Return Balance

There is no such thing as a free lunch and higher returns are only available with higher risk. We ensure that our clients understand the risk versus return relationship.

Our portfolios have given consistently positive returns over time, however we want our clients to understand the possible effects of market downturns.

Behavioural Coaching

Research for over 20 years has shown consistently that the biggest effect on an investor’s return is their behaviour. They have a natural tendency to sell after markets have gone down and buy after they have gone up.

Our understanding of behavioural finance ensures that our clients get the correct advice at critical times so they do not make the wrong decisions.

We believe that the key factors which govern our clients’ investment returns are an asset allocation approach combined with low charges and high diversification.

Markets go up and down

We also tell our clients that the markets will go down as well as up and we ensure that our clients invest in accordance with their personal risk tolerance and their personal capacity for loss.

Using our cash flow forecasting tools, we show them what effect successive major market downturns would have on their cash flow and how it might affect their lifestyle.

As independent financial advisers we have access to all investment options, but we encourage our clients to use responsible and ethical investment. We offer a range of ESG Portfolios which is an investment strategy that evaluates companies based on three core areas: Environmental, Social, & Governance

This strategy helps people put their money into businesses that care about the planet, treat people fairly, and run their operations honestly.

Environmental (E):

Looks at how a company impacts nature. This includes carbon emissions, energy use, waste, and water conservation. Positive screening favours companies working on clean energy and sustainability.

Social (S):

Examines how a business treats people. This covers workplace safety, fair wages, employee diversity, and community work.

Governance (G):

Focuses on leadership and management. This includes fair pay for executives, honest accounting, and board diversity. Positively screening for companies with good habits helps to avoid major scandals or fines and it avoids holding investments in companies engaged in risky or unethical practices.

When our clients opt for ethical investing, it means choosing funds that match their personal values by supporting good causes and avoiding harmful industries. We have recommended an ESG strategy to our clients for many years, and our they have told us that it provides them with a ‘feel-good’ factor about where they are investing.

There is also a belief that responsible companies will perform better over time because companies with strong ESG practices often experience less volatility, lower regulatory penalties, and better crisis resilience. Furthermore, highly rated ESG firms frequently enjoy a lower cost of borrowing, which supports long-term financial stability.

Alan’s Credentials

Alan is one of the most highly qualified financial advisors in the UK. He is continually attending seminars and conferences to enhance his reputation as an expert in wealth management and investing.

• Chartered Financial Planner
• Chartered FCSI
• Certified Financial Planner
• IMC Certificate holder
• CFA UK member