Professional Financial Planning Exceptional service that you and your clients can trust
Disclaimer: this document is intended solely for use by professional advisors and is not to be relied upon by retail investors. Nothing in this document constitutes financial advice, nor should it be construed as an offer or solicitation to engage in investment activity. Past performance is no guarantee of future performance. The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise and investors may get back less than they invested. This document is not for use with the general public. The levels, bases and reliefs from taxation are subject to change and their value depends on the individual circumstances of the investor. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate taxation and trust advice.
Clarion Wealth Planning Limited Marble Arch, King Street, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 6HD Tel: 01565 653804 • Fax: 01565 653832 • Email: enquiries@clarionwealth.co.uk • www.clarionwealth.co.uk
clarion wealth planning EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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Executive Summary When your clients require specialist investment or financial planning advice you need a professional partner that can deliver that advice in a manner that will enhance your client relationship. Clarion Wealth Planning Limited is that partner. Clarion Wealth Planning is a firm of Chartered Financial Planners which has, over more than a quarter of a century, delivered a model of comprehensive long-term financial planning that puts an in-depth appraisal of clients’ circumstances, needs and aspirations at the heart of its advice. Clarion Wealth Planning has a proven business model and a loyal long-term clientele. Our commitment to staff training and development is reflected in levels of qualification among fee earners and support staff that are the envy of our profession. When developing our business we particularly value referrals by existing clients and our network of contacts in other professions. This document is designed to answer many of the questions you may have about joining that network. Both Clarion Wealth Planning Limited and its sister company Clarion Investment Management Limited are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Clarion Investment Management has full discretionary investment management permissions. We provide fully independent financial advice. Please read on to discover how you and your clients can benefit from working with Clarion Wealth Planning.
“My Accountants recommended Clarion Wealth Planning to me in 2006, shortly after I sold my London-based brand design business. I was looking for a financial advisor who fully understood the complex personal financial affairs that tend to accumulate over many years of running your own business. “Ron Walker clearly ‘knows his stuff’ and is never afraid to give an opinion. The lifelong cashflow forecast Ron has created and updates annually sets out clearly how my financial life is likely to pan out over the long term and has become the ‘bible’ Ron and I consult before making any major financial decisions. “I trust Ron implicitly and his experience and willingness to help consistently saves me a lot of the time and hassle associated with today’s complicated financial World.” Mr A Cami, London
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clarion wealth planning CLIENT PROPOSITION
The Clarion Wealth Planning Client Proposition “Clarion Wealth Planning are very friendly, efficient and professional. They were recommended to me and I haven’t been disappointed” Mrs Oliver, Epsom, Surrey
The Clarion Wealth Planning philosophy is centred around an all-encompassing, lifelong financial plan that enables us to devise and implement long-term strategies for clients. World-class investment returns play their part but these – along with a range of tax-efficient structures and vehicles – are marshalled in support of a bespoke, dynamic plan designed to provide clients and their families with long-term financial security.
Our services have been carefully designed to relieve the burdens that clients may experience when dealing with their affairs. We offer timely and considered action, flexibility and a personally tailored strategy that aims to deliver the best possible outcomes. While we are able to deliver a full suite of financial planning services we will, in each case, only recommend those elements that we believe the client actually needs, thus ensuring optimum value for money. We keep the affairs of clients who sign a long-term service agreement under regular review and meet them face-to-face at least once a year for a formal reappraisal of their financial plan. Those clients who take advantage of Clarion Investment Management’s discretionary investment management offering also benefit from ongoing monitoring of their assets, with their holdings adjusted as appropriate and necessary. We are also, for an agreed fee, able to provide one-off advice for clients who do not feel able to commit to a continuing service – for example those planning a business sale or experiencing a complex divorce. Clarion Wealth Planning is able to charge for its services on any of three models: time-ledger, fixed fees, or a percentage of assets under advice/ management, either paid direct or recovered from a client’s investments.
clarion wealth planning PROFESSIONAL NETWORK
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Clarion Wealth Planning: The Professional Connection When your clients also become ours they do business with a firm that would like to retain them over the long term. We can only do this by delivering a consistently high level of service. Beyond this we are able to provide other professions with Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) accredited structured CPD seminars on a range of key financial planning topics. We also perform mutual knowledge assessments to share the latest developments across professions. We will also provide a range of electronic and print communications to keep you up-to-date with global stock markets and economic developments, as well as our analysis of the latest developments in financial planning. Our advice to your clients very often involves referring them back to you for further instructions. Working closely with you enables us to gain a fuller understanding of your practice, enhancing our ability to refer other clients to you. The majority of our professional fee-earners are Chartered and all have extensive experience in a range of specialist areas. Senior support staff hold or are supported in achieving the highest technical financial planning qualifications. If we engage in working together one of our professional fee-earners will be designated as your principal point of contact. He or she will be responsible for maintaining regular communication and ensuring that the most appropriate specialist in the firm deals with each matter.
“When we were faced, as trustees of an existing Trust, with horrendous investment losses arising out of inappropriate third party advice previously given, we appointed Stephen Jackson to manage the process of litigation and recovery through the courts as the case was too large to be taken meaningfully via the Financial Ombudsman. “Stephen managed the whole process of appointing and assisting lawyers, calculating losses and justifying the remedies sought. We successfully made a claim for investment loss which amounted to a figure in excess of £0.5m and needless to say we and the beneficiaries were delighted with the outcome. “It is no exaggeration to say that we probably would not, and could not, have carried this out without Stephen’s dedication, commitment and technical knowledge.” Trustees of a Family Trust, Wilmslow, Cheshire
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clarion wealth planning HISTORY
Our History and Values “Following the recent sale of my business, I was approached by several well-known wealth management companies but wasn’t quite comfortable with any of them, I sensed they were really only interested in selling me products. My corporate advisor recommended Ron Walker of Clarion Wealth Planning to me and I soon realised I had found an advisor who was interested in giving advice without pushing products. “As a result of the Financial Life Plan Ron has modelled for me, I feel confident that I can actually afford to spend more of my hardearned wealth without fearing one day I will run out of money. “Ron listens carefully to what my partner and I want out of life and has the technical skills and experience to create a plan that will help us to enjoy our wealth to the maximum. For example, at our last meeting, Ron showed us how a cash management facility can be used to increase deposit returns at the same time as reducing exposure to risk of bank failure. This kind of advice could make a big difference to us, as having achieved success in business and capitalised on this, we don’t now want to take too much risk with our investments.” Mr P Garside, Lytham St Annes, Lancashire
Ron Walker, Founder
Clarion Wealth Planning Limited can trace its history back to 1984 when its founder and managing director Ron Walker established his first wealth management business. He did so with a vision to provide client-focused long-term financial planning – a vision in which the primary emphasis is always on creating, implementing and maintaining a long-term financial strategy. The firm has remained true to that developing vision and has for many years operated as fee-based, reinforcing our commitment to the provision of independent advice that is solely in a client’s interests. We have carefully chosen a team of highly qualified advisors who share our commitment to long-term, client-centric financial planning. The expertise of our staff is underpinned by a set of rigorously tested procedures and compliance systems that ensure the highest standards. We have developed a well-funded business that has a level of capital adequacy well in excess of that stipulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). In accordance with UK financial regulations Clarion Wealth Planning Limited and its sister company Clarion Investment Management Limited naturally file full audited accounts with Companies House every year. Both Clarion Wealth Planning Limited and Clarion Investment Management Limited are authorised and regulated by the FCA, with the respective FCA reference numbers 518813 and 584493. The FCA maintains an online register of authorised companies and individuals which is always open to public inspection.
clarion wealth planning SPECIALIST AREAS
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Specialist Areas Financial and tax planning form the heart of Clarion Wealth Planning’s activities. While these can clearly be applied to enhance any clients’ affairs our approach has enjoyed notable success in the following circumstances: Business Owners and Partners Clarion Wealth Planning provides advice upon all aspects of the financial affairs of both business owners and partners in professional firms. These include Income and Corporation Tax mitigation, preparation for business disposals and planning for retirement. The cashflow forecast element of our financial planning can be invaluable when devising a business exit strategy. And, following disposal, we have extensive experience of advising former business owners on the management of their wealth. This includes developing and maintaining investment strategies, retaining wealth within families and mitigating potential Inheritance Tax liabilities. Our clients include the directors and owners of manufacturing and service companies, accountants, solicitors, other professionals and retired people of substance. Contacts: Stephen Jackson, Ron Walker, Steven Walker, Andrew Elsden Matrimonial Good financial advice is essential in producing a clear understanding of what a divorce settlement will mean to a client and to give them confidence that they will be provided for adequately or, alternatively, a full
understanding of the impact of their obligations. In order to provide a complete picture we can generate a lifelong cashflow forecast incorporating every aspect of a client’s affairs. This provides information about a client’s potential future circumstances under a wide range of possible conditions. Our services for clients who are in the process of divorce also include the valuation of assets and, where appropriate, assistance with the preparation and implementation of Pension Sharing Orders. We can also advise on ways in which assets can be held for the benefit of clients’ children while shielding them from claims by former spouses and other family members. Because divorce means the removal of the transferable Inheritance Tax Nil Rate Band, we offer clients appropriate advice following divorce to minimise their likely future tax liabilities upon death. Contacts: Steven Walker, Andrew Elsden
“Andrew Elsden has advised us since 1990, handling our family’s investment and pension portfolios including regular review & planning meetings. He has also advised upon several specific tax areas, including Inheritance Tax (IHT) in relation to our general assets & the various IHT & Capital Gains Tax (CGT) considerations relating to assets held within a family trust. “Throughout the period Andrew has handled complex matters and offered advice which has greatly enhanced our family’s financial position. We are very happy and reassured that his knowledge and expertise is continually applied to our finances. He is able to present complex matters in a clear and straightforward manner.” Mr & Mrs Kemp, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
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clarion wealth planning SPECIALIST AREAS
Trustees and Court of Protection Deputies
Our strategies may include the application of:
We deal sensitively and expertly in advising clients who have experienced serious personal injury or clinical negligence. We also advise upon Mental Incapacity Trusts.
• Statutory allowances and reliefs, incorporating the IHT Nil Rate Band • Trusts • Offshore investment arrangements • Enterprise Investment Schemes • Venture Capital Trusts • Business Property Relief • Agricultural Property Relief • Pension schemes – contributions and beneficiaries • Lifetime gifts
We either act directly for clients or, where more appropriate, work with their Attorneys, Trustees or Court of Protection Deputies to ensure that funds arising from awards made by the courts are managed appropriately. Our approach to detailed financial planning is particularly beneficial in cases where settlements are agreed by instalments. Our advanced cashflow forecasting capabilities enable us to assist in assessing what level of claim may be appropriate to fund a client’s future requirements.
“For peace of mind in planning financial matters, engaging Clarion Wealth Planning has been the best thing I have ever done.” Mr Mellor, Hyde, Cheshire
We are used to advising under the terms of the Trustee Act 2000 and the Charities Act 2011. We have experience in devising strategies that operate within statutory investment risk limits but are nevertheless fully appropriate to the circumstances of clients, notably younger ones with many years of life expectancy. Contacts: Andrew Elsden, Ron Walker Tax and Estate Planning Clarion Wealth Planning advises upon the full range of means and ways through which clients can minimise their potential liabilities to tax, including Inheritance Tax (IHT).
Our lifelong cashflow forecasting and financial planning skills are vital in determining the most appropriate structures. Contacts: Andrew Elsden, Ron Walker, Stephen Jackson Pensions and retirement Clarion Wealth Planning provides detailed, expert advice on all aspects of pensions and retirement planning. These include, but are not limited to: • Directors’ pensions • SIPPs and SSASs • Pension transfers (including, where necessary and appropriate, final salary/defined benefit) • Retirement planning – whether imminent or many years away • Retirement income options and strategies • Lifetime allowance • Benefit crystallisation events – pitfalls and opportunities • Maximising survivors’ benefits/ minimising tax liabilities upon death Contacts: Michael Brooke, Steven Walker
clarion wealth planning INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
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Clarion Investment Management Limited
Clarion Investment Management Limited has full FCA Discretionary Investment Management authorisation and can, where appropriate, directly manage clients’ investments. Clarion Investment Management takes continuing responsibility for selecting, buying, selling and reviewing the many funds that may comprise a diversified portfolio. Operating with full discretion enables Clarion Investment Management to adapt clients’ portfolios rapidly to changing market conditions. At all times these changes are designed to relate back to the agreed mandate and investment objectives. Clarion Investment Management researches the universe of available investment funds and from these maintains a range of differing risk-rated portfolios. It is able to invest client portfolios via segregated accounts or via three sub-funds of an open-ended investment company (OEIC), which can in some circumstances be a more appropriate or tax-efficient option. The Funds were established in January 2008. Important information The information on this page is intended to provide information only and should not be interpreted as advice or as an inducement to purchase units. Past performance is no guarantee of future performance. The value of an investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise and investors may get back less than they invested.
“I have found Clarion Wealth Planning to offer me professional advice that is both honest and easy to understand. It’s refreshing to have both the upside and the possible downside explained in detail before making an investment.” Mr Darnell, Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire
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clarion wealth planning PEOPLE
Key Contacts Board Ron Walker • Managing Director
Ron Walker is one of the pioneers of the UK financial planning profession. He established his first wealth management business in 1984 and is a founder member of the Institute of Financial Planning. Over the course of a career that spans more than three decades he has helped a host of successful individuals and families to manage their wealth effectively and maximise their enjoyment of it. Today, Ron’s service-focused ethos, attention to detail and strong belief in the discipline of financial planning permeate Clarion Wealth Planning’s culture and processes. rwalker@clarionwealth.co.uk
Steven Walker • Chartered Financial Planner • Matrimonial expert and pension specialist Steven is a director of Clarion Wealth Planning Limited and Clarion Investment Management Limited. He is an expert in both cashflow forecasting & planning and pension matters. Steven has a notable and deep understanding of divorcing couples’ financial affairs. He is also regularly instructed by solicitors to manage and lead their clients’ complaints through the Financial Ombudsman Service. These most frequently arise as a result of alleged poor or incorrect advice.
swalker@clarionwealth.co.uk
Mark Mills • Non-Executive Chairman • Business development specialist Mark is one of the most highly respected and best-known entrepreneurs in the North West of England, who rose to prominence as founder of the cash machines network Cardpoint. He floated Cardpoint on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) in 2002 and retired from the business in 2006. Mark now sits on the boards of a number of successful businesses in a non-executive capacity and is a sought-after business advisor.
mmills@clarionwealth.co.uk
Financial Planners Stephen Jackson • Chartered and Certified Financial Planner • Investment expert and exiting shareholder specialist Stephen has many years’ experience delivering financial consulting to senior employees of major PLCs such as GSK, Boots, Reader’s Digest, Pfizer and BAT. This has included taxation advice on share option schemes, Inheritance Tax, will and trust planning and tailored investment management as a qualified investment professional. Stephen also has significant experience and success as an expert witness in investment performance and advice disputes where he has been instructed to act on behalf of both defendant and plaintiff. sjackson@clarionwealth.co.uk
Andrew Elsden • Chartered Financial Planner • Taxation and trust expert
Andrew is highly experienced and has in-depth specialist knowledge of the many complex issues that surround taxation and trusts. He is an expert in the mitigation of Inheritance & Capital Gains Tax and also specialises in will, estate and investment planning. Andrew advises many wealthy individuals upon their affairs, offering comprehensive planning. He previously practised in partnership with a firm of Chartered Accountants and leads Clarion Wealth Planning’s Professional Connections Programme. aelsden@clarionwealth.co.uk
Michael Brooke • Pensions expert
Michael specialises in retirement planning and has over 30 years’ practical experience of guiding clients through the complexities of pensions legislation. He holds every pensions qualification offered by the Chartered Insurance Institute. Michael provides expert guidance on all of the many options available at or near retirement. He also has in-depth knowledge and extensive experience of defined benefit pension transfers and is able to advise on such cases where they are deemed to be appropriate. mbrooke@clarionwealth.co.uk
www.clarionwealth.co.uk Clarion Wealth Planning Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Company registered in England no. 6372977