Financial Planning FAQs
1
Do you have a minimum portfolio size?
1
There is no minimum portfolio size as each of our services has a defined fee level, which incorporates a minimum fee. We will tell you if we believe that our minimum fee is too high to provide you with good value, relative to either the amount of capital you invest with us or the complexity of the advice you need.
2
What is a ‘Chartered Financial Planner’ and how are you different?
2
Chartered status is accepted as the gold standard for financial planners and advisers in the UK. It is used to demonstrate an achieved level of knowledge and experience and shows a continued commitment to the profession.
For an individual to achieve Chartered status they must complete approximately 14 exams in various aspects of financial services and related subjects. For a company to achieve Chartered status they must demonstrate the highest commitment to professional standards.
As a Chartered company we are dedicated to providing the highest standard of advice and are committed to ensuring our advisers work in an ethical manner, putting your best interests at the heart of the advice they give.
For an individual to achieve Chartered status they must complete approximately 14 exams in various aspects of financial services and related subjects. For a company to achieve Chartered status they must demonstrate the highest commitment to professional standards.
As a Chartered company we are dedicated to providing the highest standard of advice and are committed to ensuring our advisers work in an ethical manner, putting your best interests at the heart of the advice they give.
3
What is meant by ‘Independent’?
3
An Independent Financial Planner is a term used to describe a Financial Planner working independently for their clients rather than representing a single insurer or product provider. This means that as an Independent Financial Planner we will consider a full range of products from the whole market.
Using an Independent Financial Planner means that you can be sure we are giving you advice that is unbiased, well researched and in line with your individual requirements.
Using an Independent Financial Planner means that you can be sure we are giving you advice that is unbiased, well researched and in line with your individual requirements.
4
How much do you charge?
4
At PMW we deliver our services according to a fair and clear fee schedule. We believe it is important there are no hidden costs associated with our services. Fee rates are set independently of the type of investment arrangement deemed to be suitable to meet our clients’ needs.
5
Is it easy to gain access to my money if I need it?
5
Yes, you can request access to your money at any point, and upon receiving your request your adviser will discuss the most tax-efficient way to withdraw your funds.
6
If I hire you to manage my finances do I have to sign a long-term contract?
6
No, any agreement can be cancelled with immediate effect on receipt of your written instruction. PMW’s Service Fee will be payable until the point that the assets are transferred out of our care. We will undertake all administration necessary for the expedient transfer of the assets.
7
I have existing investments/pensions that need to be reviewed. Can you help me?
7
Yes, depending on the size of your existing portfolio we can review your current investments/pensions as part of our Wealth Management, Financial Planning or Investment Management Services.
8
Entry Fees
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In most cases, no entry fees apply to capital entering one of our ongoing advice services.
9
Annual Fees
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We charge an annual service fee calculated as a percentage of funds invested and tapered to reduce the rate of charge as portfolios grow in value. We will not apply fees to investment transactions when implementing recommended portfolio changes. It is considered that the cost of advising on and implementing such changes is covered by the service fee. This means we can demonstrate that any changes to the portfolio are made with our client’s best interests at heart.
10
Exit Fees
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There are no exit fees or indeed any other penalties on leaving a PMW service. We believe it is important to earn client loyalty rather than achieve it contractually.