Background
A couple approached me for advice, as they wondered if their current lifestyle was sustainable, or if they needed to make some changes to their expenditure and/or work.They also had a considerable amount of capital and wanted it invested in a way that was more in harmony with their values and concerns and wondered what impact if any this might have on the returns and therefore their lifestyle.
Challenges
One set of challenges in this situation related to obtaining accurate information from the clients about their income and expenditure and assets and liabilities on which to base any answers about the sustainability of their desired lifestyle. Having obtained the information there was then the challenge of being able to use it to set their minds at rest.The other set of challenges revolved around being able to supply accurate information relating to the performance of portfolios when ethical concerns had been integrated into the investment decisions; and making sure that the ethical criteria applied were consistent with the clients values and concerns.
How were the challenges overcome?
Using a very comprehensive financial questionnaire and then clarifying any outstanding points directly with the clients, we were able to obtain the information, from which, once input into, and expertly managed within, the most sophisticated and up date “Financial Planning Software”, we were able to objectively and accurately address their concerns about the sustainability of their desired lifestyle.The second set of challenges was addressed by the extremely rigorous approach we take to creating investment portfolios. We have created a document explaining our approach to ethical investing that is designed to guide clients through the decision making process as it relates to risk, performance and ethical criteria
We also are able to go the “extra mile” in terms of matching values and concerns to investments as one of the team, Barry Brown, is passionately concerned about Global Warming and Climate Change and is always on the look out for interesting investments that are commercially sound solutions to these problems.
We also reorganised the ownership of assets between husband and wife to minimise tax and therefore increase their income.
Outcome
The clients are now living their desired lifestyle without worrying about whether they have enough or not. Their money is invested in ways that match their values and concerns without detriment to the returns.We meet every year to monitor the situation and to ensure that investment returns mean that their desired lifestyle can continue to be led.
Finally we are constantly on the look out for new investment opportunities that match their concerns and keep them informed about these as they arise.
For further information or to arrange a meeting please contact Barry Brown on 0207 614 1024 or emailLast Updated
