2019 RANKING & REVIEWS
TOP UK FINANCIAL ADVISERS
Rating 2019’s Best U.K. Independent Financial Advisors (UK IFAs)
While UK lifestyles may differ whether you’re living in Glastonbury, Birmingham, or London, something that most people have in common is the desire for a stable financial future and to achieve certain goals in life.
Whether it’s saving for an active retirement, investing wisely to grow family wealth, or achieving financial freedom from debt, you don’t have to go it alone when it comes to putting together a successful financial plan.
Working with a UK Independent Financial Advisor (IFA) can mean gaining financial peace of mind from working with professionals that can create a sound plan for your finances and help you achieve your future dreams.
An important first step before you select an independent financial advisor in the UK or London is to evaluate several firms so you can select the one that best fits your wealth management and financial planning needs.
It can seem like a daunting and time-consuming task, especially if you’re not familiar with some of the financial industry terms like “fee-only” or “fee-based”, but the initial time put in upfront will help ensure you choose a UK IFA that can best help you preserve and grow your money.
AdvisoryHQ has made the task slightly easier by ranking the top 11 London and UK financial advisors based upon criteria such as their reputation for putting the client’s needs first, depth of financial services they offer, and specialties they provide.
This list of the top UK and London IFAs provides a jumping-off point for you to begin your search and is designed to help you more easily locate the best wealth management firm to partner for long-term financial health and well-being.
Award Emblem:Â Top 11Â Best Independent Financial Advisers in the UK
11Â Best UK Independent Financial Advisers | Brief Comparison & Ranking
| Best Independent Financial Advisers in the UK | 2019 Ratings |
| Alexander House Financial Services Ltd. | 5 |
| Almary Green | 5 |
| Anstee & Co. | 5 |
| Ashlea Financial Planning Limited | 5 |
| Critchleys | 5 |
| Equilibrium Asset Management | 5 |
| Paradigm Norton | 5 |
| Partridge Muir & Warren | 5 |
| Russell Ulvatt | 5 |
| Serenity Financial | 5 |
| Chetwood Wealth Management | 3 |
Table: Top 11 Independent Financial Advisors in the UK for 2019 | Above list is sorted by rating
Tips for Selecting the Best UK Financial Advisers
As you’re reviewing this ranking of the best financial planning firms in the UK and London, you’ll want to look for certain factors that can help you differentiate between them to find the perfect advisor for your needs.
While at first glance, many of these UK financial advisory firms may seem very similar, as you drill down into a few details, the things that make each unique will begin to stand out.
Here are some questions to ask as you’re reviewing the London & UK IFAs below.
Do they have an account minimum?
Certain advisors will only work with high-net-worth clients and have a minimum level for investable assets. Other UK/London wealth management firms work with people at all income levels. This factor can be an initial differentiator to decide if they’re a good fit.
What are their specialties?
If you’re a small business owner, then you want to look for firms that specialize in working with people that have the same financial needs as you do. Likewise, if your family has generational wealth that you’re trying to manage, you’ll want a firm that notes family office services as a specialty.
What is their fee structure?
While not all UK financial planning firms note the specific fee structure they use, knowing whether they’re fee-only or fee-based can make a big difference in the type of advice you receive.
Fee-Only means that the UK or London financial advisor does not accept outside commissions from third parties that sell financial products. This fee structure promotes a more open and unbiased relationship, as they have no incentives other than your needs.
Fee-based means that a UK IFA does accept commissions from 3rd parties in addition to being compensated by client fees. Because this can create a conflict of interest, many fee-based advisors are also fiduciaries, which requires they act in their clients’ best interests, regardless.
Top-Rated Independent Financial Advisors in the UK
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2019 AdvisoryHQ’s Selection Methodology
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Please click here “AdvisoryHQ’s Ranking Methodologies” for a detailed review of AdvisoryHQ’s selection methodologies for ranking top-rated credit cards, financial accounts, firms, products, and services.
Detailed Review – Best Financial Advisors in the UK
Below, please find the detailed review of each firm on our list of 2019 best financial planners in the UK. We have highlighted some of the factors that allowed these UK wealth management firms to score so high in our selection ranking.
Click on any of the names below to go directly to the review section for that firm.   Â
- Alexander House Financial Services
- Almary Green
- Anstee & Co.
- Ashlea Financial Planning Limited
- Critchleys
- Equilibrium Asset Management
- Paradigm Norton
- Partridge Muir & Warren
- Russell Ulyatt
- Serenity Financial
- Chetwood Wealth Management
Click below for previous years’ rankings:
- 2018 Review: Top 11 Best Financial Advisers in the UK
- 2017 Review: Top 13 Best Financial Advisers in the UK
- 2016 Review: Top 12 Best Independent Financial Advisers in the UK
Alexander House Financial Services Ltd. Review
Delivering high-quality services to those in need of a sound and trusted advice, Alexander House Financial Services Ltd (AHFS) is a top-rated independent UK investment advisory firm based in West Yorkshire, with advisors throughout the UK.
AHFS does not explicitly say whether they are a fee-only or fee-based UK financial planning firm but does make mention of a “fee by commission from the product provider”, which would point to them being fee-based.
As always, we recommend verifying compensation structure before partnering with any UK IFA.
Key Factors That Enabled Alexander House Financial Services Ltd. to Rank as One of the Top Wealth Management Firms in the UK
Flexible, Upfront Fee Structure
A refreshing benefit of working with AHFS is that fees are clearly communicated upfront, including the detail of services for which you’re paying. As described by AHFS, their fee structure entails:
Our fees are based wholly upon the provision of our qualified and professional expertise; the time taken to analyse your circumstances and devise an appropriate strategy going forward; the design of an appropriate summary report to communicate this strategy to you; and takes into account our firms exposure to regulatory, commercial and financial risk.
While this UK wealth management firm does not note whether they are fee-only or fee-based, they are completely transparent about their fees for different services, representing a strong, client-facing commitment.
2019’s Best Wealth Management Firms in the UK
Advice for Buying a Home
A specialty of this UK financial advisory firm is that they offer assistance and expert advice when it comes to purchasing property. Whether you have multiple properties or are purchasing a new residence or commercial property, their expert advice can save you time and money.
The UK financial advisors at AHFS can help individuals approach buying property strategically by addressing questions like:
- What will my costs be after I buy this property?
- Do I want to repay this mortgage on a month by month basis, or simply pay the interest and save on my own?
- Should I opt for a fixed or variable rate?
- Should I pay my mortgage off over a shorter or longer period of time?
Acquiring the services of a financial planner in the UK can help you answer these questions in a way that will offer you the most financial benefits for your future.Â
Rating Summary
Alexander House Financial Services offers a combination of traditional values and modern innovation in their approach to wealth management. They additionally offer a wide range of individual, corporate, and specialist financial services.
With a dedicated team that can assist people throughout the country and a completely transparent approach Alexander House Financial Services solidifies a 5-star rating as one of the best UK financial advisers to consider partnering with this year. Â
See Also: Top Financial Advisers (IFAs) in Manchester and Cheshire, United Kingdom
Almary Green Review
With an aim to build long term relationships based in trust and honesty, Almary Green is a top UK independent financial advisory firm founded in 2001 and based in Norwich.
This UK wealth management firm does not specify whether they are a fee-only or fee-based, however, they do state that “our advisers are not paid according to sales targets,” which helps ensure truly impartial advice.
As always, we recommend verifying compensation structure before partnering with any financial advisor in the UK.
Key Factors That Enabled Almary Green to Rank as One of the Top Financial Advisors in the UK
Money Coaching Services
A unique offering from Almary Green is Money Coaching, a service designed to assist clients with identifying and adjusting any negative behaviours and patterns related to their money.
This behavioural approach allows clients to separate emotional responses from logical ones, in order to better manage their money and plan for long-term success and improved financial health.
Instances where Money Coaching may be particularly useful include:
- Receiving an inheritance
- Planning for retirement
- Life transitions like bereavement, divorce, or a career change
- Planning for future goals and aspirations
Wide Range of Financial Capabilities
UK financial planning firms that offer multiple services, make life more convenient for their clients and also help assure different areas of their financial life are working towards the same objectives.
Financial goals and needs are subject to change over time, stressing the importance of finding a UK IFA that has the ability to handle a variety of financial challenges. Almary Green maintains a wide range of capabilities, including:
- Investments
- Retirement Planning
- Managed Portfolio Services
- Tax Planning
- Protection
- Care Fee Planning
- Equity Release
- Business/Workplace
- Money Coaching
Rating Summary
The team at Almary Green offers high-quality financial advice and relationships founded in transparency, honesty, and trust. They are additionally supported by a strong team of para-planners and administrators all working together to help you achieve success.
With a fully tailored experience and a belief in continually refreshing knowledge and skills, Almary Green earns 5-stars as one of the best financial advisors in the UK to consider partnering with in 2019. Â
Anstee & Co. Review
Offering a new concept in financial design and friendly, efficient service, Anstee & Co. is a top-rated financial advisor in London and the UK. They have offices in Kettering, London, Stamford, and Birmingham and advisors that serve multiple UK towns.
While the firm doesn’t note whether they are fee-only or fee-based, it’s likely that Anstee & Co. is a fee-based financial advisor in London, as they may earn compensation from insurance or mortgage sales.
As always, we recommend verifying compensation structure before partnering with any UK IFA.
Key Factors That Enabled Anstee & Co. to Rank as One of the Top Financial Advisors in the UK
Wide Range of Financial Capabilities
For many clients, finding the best UK financial adviser for them means finding a firm that offers enough services to sustain a long-term financial planning relationship and that can make their life easier.
Individual objectives and needs are subject to change over time, and to meet the evolving financial needs of their clients, Anstee & Co. offers assistance with:
- Investments: Five-step process to uncover each client’s unique preference, needs, and objectives
- Pensions: Helps clients understand the complex tax considerations of a pension
- Later Life: Addresses funding for long-term care
- Inheritance Tax Planning: Helps clients plan for taxes on assets that will be passed on through inheritance
- Wills: While these UK IFAs do not write wills, they can introduce clients to skilled industry professionals
- Insurance: Life, family income benefit, critical illness, private medical, and more
- Mortgages: First time home buyer, remortgage, equity release, and more
- Business: Advice to business owners and employees on investments, retirement planning, tax and redundancy
Experienced Team
Anstee & Co. boasts a large, experienced team of advisors, planners, and support staff, ensuring clients that this UK wealth management firm can handle a variety of financial situations.
With a collective experience spanning nearly two centuries, these UK Independent Financial Designers hold the following industry certifications:
- Chartered Financial Planner
- Diploma in Financial Planning
- Member of the Personal Finance Society
- Member of the Chartered Insurance Institute
- Lifetime Mortgage & Equity Release specialist
- Diploma in Financial Services
- Certificate in Mortgage Advice & Practice (CeMAP)
- Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning
- Certificate in Mortgage Planning
London & UK Top Financial Advisory Firms
Rating Summary
Anstee & Co. is proud to have many team members with them since the beginning, which offers continuity for their clients. Their professional advice is customized for each client’s needs whether they are just starting out or working to preserve hard-earned wealth.
With a friendly and attentive team and a broad range of financial planning and wealth management services, Anstee & Co. scores a 5-star rating as one of the best UK financial advisers to consider partnering with this year.Â
Don’t Miss: Top Financial Advisers in Leeds, UK
Ashlea Financial Planning Limited Review
Offering focused and understandable financial advice, Ashlea Financial Planning Limited is a UK independent financial adviser that’s based in Cheltenham and serves clients across Cotswolds and beyond.
The firm does not definitively state whether they use a fee-only or fee-based compensation structure. As always, we recommend verifying fees before contracting with any financial advisor in the UK.
Key Factors That Enabled Ashlea Financial Planning Limited to Rank as a Top Financial Advisor in the UK
Detailed Financial Guides
For those clients looking for more detailed information on things like investing and retirement planning, they will appreciate the resources offered by this top-rated UK financial planning firm.
Ashlea offers multi-page, in-depth financial guides that explain both their process and services in detail and illustrate their commitment to helping clients become fully educated so they can positively participate in their financial future.
Their resource guides include subject such as:
- Retirement Planning
- Pension Freedom
- Inheritance Tax
- Life After Work
- Investing
- Later Life Care
Client-Centric Process
For each financial planning relationship, the UK IFAs at Ashlea take a thorough approach when getting to know each client’s unique requirements and goals. This includes:
- Discovery Meeting: Complimentary meeting to discuss current circumstances, future plans, financial services, and fees
- Production of the Plan: Your UK financial advisor will create a comprehensive financial plan based on information received in the Discovery Meeting
- Presenting Your Plan: Includes current evaluations and future projections for income, expenditure, and net worth
- Implementation: Once approved, your UK financial advisor will put your financial strategy in action
- On-Going Review: Regular review meetings provide the opportunity for updates and evaluations
Rating Summary
The boutique structure of this top UK financial advisory firm offers clients the opportunity for one-on-one advice and attention that isn’t always available at larger firms.
With a comprehensive approach and an emphasis on financial education, Ashlea Financial Planning Limited solidifies a 5-star rating as one of the best financial advisors in the UK to consider partnering with in 2019.  Â
Critchleys Review
Helping their clients prosper for over a hundred years, Critchleys is a full-service financial firm that offers a combination of wealth management services, accounting, and tax planning. They are based in Oxford and serve clients throughout the UK.
While Critchleys does not specify whether they are a fee-based or fee-only UK IFA, they are likely fee-based because they note, “Commissions or other benefits may sometimes become payable to us in respect of introductions to other professionals or transactions we arrange for you”.
As always, we recommend verifying fee structure before partnering with any financial advisor in the UK.
Key Factors That Enabled Critchleys to Rank as a Top Financial Advisor in the UK
Range of Clients Served
As one of the top-rated UK wealth management firms, Critchleys offers customised financial services tailored to unique client needs. This includes serving the following broad range of clients:
- Business Owners: Includes accounting, payroll, tax planning, HR advice, and more
- Private Clients: Financial planning and tax services
- Large Businesses: Audit services, VAT consultancy, tax planning, payroll services, and more
- Charities and Non-Profits: Accounting, auditing, HR, taxation, assurance, and more
- Academies and Schools: Financial statements, audits, taxation, VAT, and more
- Oxford and Cambridge Colleges: Audit partner for 19 Oxford colleges and one Cambridge college
- Business Recovery and Insolvency: Cash flow, business turnaround, investigations, monitoring, and more
Large Team of Experts
An advantage of working with Critchleys as a top UK financial advisor is their dedication to maintaining a solid team of experts.
Spanning a broad range of financial industries, clients can easily partner with experts that are best suited to address any number of needs, including:
- Business Experts
- Personal Tax Experts
- Personal Financial Planning Experts
- Corporate Experts
- Charity Experts
- Academies and Schools Experts
- College Experts
- Business Recovery and Insolvency Experts
For potential clients that aren’t quite sure what type of expert they may need to speak with or what kinds of financial services they may require, Critchleys provides an interactive search to help you learn more about each financial expert and their specialties.
Rating Summary
Whether you’re a business, individual, or educational institution, the experts at Critchleys can offer you financial expertise in a number of areas. Their full-service approach adds to the convenience and integration of your financial planning.      Â
With a large array of financial experts and fully customised approach, Critcheys earns 5-stars as one of the best financial advisors in the UK to consider working with this year.
Equilibrium Asset Management Review
As an award-winning Chartered wealth management company, Equilibrium Asset Management specializes in creating long-term financial plans that help clients live life to the fullest. Founded in 1995, they serve UK clients from offices in Wilmslow and Chester.
Equilibrium does not explicitly call itself fee-only or fee-based, however, the compensation structure they mention, which notes that they will be completely transparent about “fees we have received and any commissions we have been paid”.
This points to this top UK IFA being fee-based. As always, we recommend that readers verify a UK wealth management firm’s fee structure before beginning a working relationship.Â
Key Factors That Enabled Equilibrium Asset Management to Rank as a Top Wealth Management Firm in the UK
Comprehensive Financial Services
As one of the best financial advisers in the UK, Equilibrium takes a holistic approach to financial security. Clients benefit from a broad array of comprehensive and integrated financial services, including:
- Financial Planning: Custom approach to common financial concerns based on age, life circumstances, and future goals
- Inheritance Tax Planning: Addresses concerns like exemptions, avoidance, and gifting strategies
- Intergenerational Planning: These UK financial advisers assist families with passing gifts and property from one generation to the next
- Investments: Uses long-term strategies to balance risk, diversification, cost, and individual preferences
- Retirement Planning: Investment products, annuities, common planning objectives, gifts to children, and more
- Tax Planning: Capital gains taxes, tax-efficient investment products, AIM portfolios, and more
Top-Rated UK & London Wealth Management Firms 2019
Industry-Recognized Firm
Over the past several years, Equilibrium Asset Management has been recognized by a number of industry publications for their positive contributions to the financial advisory industry. Some of their most recent awards include:
- Named as a Top 100 Best Small Companies to Work for in 2019 by The Sunday Times
- Awarded Corporate Social Responsibility Excellence in 2019 by Greater Manchester Business Awards
- Received Mark of Excellence for Client Experience in 2019 from the independent assessment organization CX awards.
- Listed in the Top 100 wealth management firms by the New Model Adviser awards
Rating Summary
If you like to learn in detail about the potential financial services that you’ll be using, Equilibrium offers a wealth of information and detail on their website. Their long-term focus additionally ensures clients receive an excellent attention and tailored strategies.
With an experienced and recognized team and a philosophy of going above and beyond for their clients, Equilibrium Asset Management solidifies a 5-star rating as one of the best financial advisors in the UK to consider partnering with this year.  Â
Popular Article: Best Wealth Management Firms & Financial Advisers in London, UK
Paradigm Norton Review
With a goal of impacting their clients’ lives for the better, Paradigm Norton is a top UK financial advisor with offices in Bristol, London, and Torquay. Founded in 2001, their unwavering focus is on the needs of their clients.
Paradigm Norton does not specifically say whether it is a fee-only or fee-based UK wealth management firm. As always, we recommend verifying a firm’s compensation structure before contracting with any financial advisor in London or the UK.
Key Factors That Enabled Paradigm Norton to Rank as a Top Wealth Management Firm in the UK
Tax and Estate Planning
This UK wealth management firm can fully integrate your investment strategy with your tax planning to provide you with a holistic service. Clients receive assistance in the following areas:
- Comprehensive financial and cash flow planning
- Personal tax and estate planning
- Investment portfolio management
- Giving and philanthropy planning
The specialists at Paradigm Norton assist clients with answering important questions like:
- How much money should I give my children to ensure security while preserving their sense of personal motivation?
- Should I divide my assets equally between my children?
- How can I explain to my children that I will be leaving all my assets to charity?
Value-Driven Approach
As a top-rated UK independent financial advisor, Paradigm Norton fosters a value-driven approach with each client relationship. This includes:
- People matter: The firm values the importance of everyone, from clients to team members
- Actions speak louder than words: These UK financial advisors understand the impact of their actions
- Setting the bar high: As a top UK IFA, Paradigm Norton values the significance of continued improvement
- Building for the future: The firm values the importance of building a legacy
Rating Summary
Paradigm Norton’s financial advisors focus on your life rather than just your money. They believe that successful financial planning is a journey and should evolve along with your life’s needs and goals.
With a large, diverse team of financial experts, a view of the long-term journey, and a client-focused approach, Paradigm Norton scores 5-stars as a top London and UK financial advisor to consider partnering with in 2019.
Partridge Muir & Warren Review
Delivering genuinely independent financial advice since 1969, Partridge Muir & Warren (PMW) is a top-rated financial planning firm based in Esher. They serve private individuals, family trusts, and charities.
Partridge Muir & Warren does not explicitly state whether they work with a fee-only or fee-based structure. We advise all readers to verify compensation structure before starting a working relationship with any UK IFA.
Key Factors That Enabled Partridge Muir & Warren to Rank as a Top Wealth Management Firm in the UK
Independent Financial and Wealth Managers
Partridge Muir & Warren takes pride in its status as an independent financial adviser in the UK that offers an array of bespoke and objective financial and wealth management services to its clients.
As one of the best UK independent financial advisors in London and the UK, the PMW team focuses on giving clients completely independent and highly tailored services. These include:
- Wealth managementÂ
- Financial planning reviewÂ
- Investment review service
- Tax service
This UK wealth management firm’s continued dedication to maintaining its regulatory independence and corporate autonomy demonstrates Partridge Muir & Warren’s mission to serve its clients over the long term as a UK independent financial adviser.
Top Financial Planning Firms in the United Kingdom
Team-Based Service
Clients looking for a team-based approach in their UK independent financial advisor, will find Partridge Muir & Warren an excellent option.
Those using their wealth management services are assigned two professionals to assist with their needs – an account manager and an adviser. These two lead professionals are also supported by a large operations team, all bringing their experience to each client’s financial strategy.
Overall, this UK wealth management firm uses a well-structured and client-centered approach to each service it provides.
Rating Summary
With a history of transparency and diligence, this top-rated UK financial planning firm offers a welcoming atmosphere and a history of success that’s built upon loyalty and trust.
With a wide array of services that are tailored to each client and a focus on community support, Partridge Muir & Warren earns 5-stars as one of the best UK IFAs to consider partnering with this year.  Â
Read More:Â Top Financial Advisors and Best Wealth Managers in the US & UK | Top Ranking Lists
Russell Ulyatt Review
Rooted in offering independent financial advice for over 130 years, Russell Ulyatt is a top-rated UK financial adviser focusing on lasting and productive relationships. Their head office is located in Nottingham.
Russell Ulyatt describes itself as a fee-based UK wealth management firm, but their wording alludes to a fee-only compensation structure, emphasizing that their UK IFAs are under no obligation to sell financial products.
We advise all readers to confirm firm’s compensation structure before working with any UK financial advisor.
Key Factors That Enabled Russell Ulyatt to Rank as a Top Financial Advisor in the UK
Independent, Fee-Based Advisers
As an owner-managed firm, Russell Ulyatt acts as an independent UK financial advisor for clients, offering them objective and professional advice. Advisers with the firm do not engage clients in sales pitches.
This UK wealth management firm offers multiple service models for clients to choose from, with all fees and service charges discussed up-front and transparently.
Alternately, clients who do not wish to work with this UK financial advisor on a retainer basis may choose a service under the Reactive Programme, where fees are individually determined and paid as needed.
Comprehensive Financial Services
As a UK IFA, Russell Ulyatt offers three main types of services to its clients:
- Private Client Service: This service appeals to individuals and families that need ongoing advice, frequent financial check-ups, and continuing reviews of their financial portfolios and plans.
- Corporate Service: This service is ideal for corporations looking to work with an independent financial adviser in the UK that will advise them on corporate pension schemes and employee benefit plans.
- Reactive Programme: This service is geared towards clients who prefer the flexibility to pay for financial advice on an as-needed basis, rather than paying regular retainer fees.
Rating Summary
Russell Ulyatt has the expertise that’s steeped in years of experience along with an innovative nature, so clients get the best of both worlds when working with this top UK financial planning firm.
With a commitment to fostering long-term client relationships and a transparent and flexible fee structure, Russell Ulyatt scores a 5-star rating as a top UK IFA to consider working with this year.
Serenity Financial Review
Taking an approach that emphasises financial life planning, Serenity Financial is a top-rated independent financial adviser with two offices in London and one each in Lincoln, Holmfirth, and Cornwall.
Serenity Financial does not specifically state on its website whether it works with a fee-only or fee-based structure. We always advise readers to confirm the compensation structure before starting a working relationship with any UK financial advisor.Â
Key Factors That Enabled Serenity Financial to Rank as One of the Top UK Wealth Management Firms
Structured Financial Life Planning Processes
As one of the best independent financial planning firms in the UK, Serenity Financial follows a comprehensive process to address unique client financial planning needs.
Based on leading-edge financial and behavioural research, this process is uniquely client-centered and considers the goals and aspirations of a client and their family.Â
Stage 1: Getting to Know You
This stage includes a complete audit of your current financial situation, which means reviewing your income, expenses, savings, investments, pensions, employee benefits, and more.Â
Stage 2: Preparation of Your Financial Life Plan
This stage includes the following:
- Report of your income and expenditure
- Net worth
- Cashflow forecasting
- Risk profiling
- Determination of suitable tax strategy
- Recommendations on actions to take
Stage 3: Implementation of Your Financial Plan
The financial advisors at this UK wealth management firm will take the time to analyse your situation and undertake thorough research to ensure the best options are chosen for your financial plan.
They will process the paperwork, provide written confirmation of any recommendations, and manage the entire investment endeavour.Â
Stage 4: Ongoing Monitoring and Review
Included in their ongoing support activities are:
- An annual review with your UK financial advisor
- Regular access to your advisor
- Detailed progress report and action plan
- Ongoing wealth management advice
- Online access to your information
- Access to educational seminars, workshops and networking events
Rating Summary
Serenity Financial takes a hands-on approach, not just giving you a financial plan, but putting time into ongoing financial coaching and ongoing reporting to ensure you have all the support you need for a successful financial future.
With an emphasis on custom financial planning and a talented and attentive team, Serenity Financial solidifies a 5-star rating as one of the best UK financial advisers to consider partnering with this year.
Chetwood Wealth Management Review
Providing “whole of market’ independent financial advice, Chetwood Wealth Management is an IFA based in Wellington that looks after clients across the UK.
Chetwood does not distinctly state whether they are a fee-only or fee-based firm or make any mention about commissions. They do note that they will be completely upfront with clients about fees and offer fee options that suit their clients.
Key Factors That Enabled Chetwood Wealth Management to Rank as One of the Top Wealth Management Firms in the UK
Chartered Financial Planners
Clients seeking to work with a distinguished independent financial adviser in the UK will have peace of mind knowing that the Charted Insurance Institute (CII) has awarded Chetwood the Chartered Financial Planners designation.
This means that not only are these UK financial planners highly qualified to practice their profession but that the company, as a whole, also meets the high standards set out by CII for its member firms.Â
2019 Best UK Independent Financial Advisors
Structured Processes
As a top-rated independent wealth management firm serving clients in Wellington, London and other parts of the UK, Chetwood follows a highly disciplined and structured process to identify clients’ risk tolerance, current financial needs, and investment goals.
This detailed​ process ensures that investments are constantly monitored and that changes are made as needed, on an ongoing basis, to reflect each client’s evolving life circumstances.
Specific services provided by this UK wealth management firm include:
- Estate planning
- Trust planning
- School fees planningÂ
- Personal and professional protection
Rating Summary
A special talent of Chetwood is striking the perfect balance between risk and reward for their clients so they have a financial plan that fits their objectives and that they feel completely comfortable with.
While the firm excels in their commitment to independence and maintaining a highly qualified staff, our review found they were lacking in how their financial services are communicated.
Without more specific information on what each financial service entails, clients may find it challenging to fully evaluate the firm, which is the reason they’ve scored 3-stars.
By adding details about specific capabilities within each level of service, Chetwood Wealth Management could easily improve both their value proposition to clients and their rating as a top financial advisor in the UK.  Â
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Conclusion – 2019 Best Independent Financial Advisers in the UK
The UK’s independent financial advisors offer more than just investment advice, many provide additional services, for tax planning, mortgages, accounting, and more, bringing additional value and convenience to clients.
As you review these top IFAs in the UK, you’ll want to use a keen eye to identify the ones that have specific qualities that stand out to you. Once you’ve narrowed down this list to about 3 to 5 for consideration, setting up a meeting would be a good next step.
Many of the best London and UK wealth management firms will offer several options for initial consultations, including in person, by phone, or by Skype video conference. This offers you the opportunity to meet at your convenience.
For the most informative consultation, bring with you all your pertinent financial information, such as income and expenses, debts and assets, and your ideas for future life goals you’d like to achieve.
At the end of the process, you should hopefully find your best match and your new UK financial advisor can help you chart a path to a successful financial future and help you achieve your goals.
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Image sources:
- https://pixabay.com/photos/london-skyline-england-landmark-2262915/
- https://www.alexanderhousefs.co.uk/
- https://pixabay.com/photos/money-finance-business-success-2696234/
- https://www.eqllp.co.uk/
- https://www.pmw.co.uk/our-team/
- https://www.chetwoodwm.co.uk/about
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