When the Upturn Comes

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Any sort of long-term recovery in equities looks a long way off but stockmarkets look forward and are therefore likely to move before economic growth has resumed. That said, theories on the type of stocks that will lead the recovery are varied.

Regionally, the US has historically been the first to recover but the problems it faces at the moment are unprecedented. It is likely to emerge with a huge budget deficit that will act as a headwind to economic growth for some time. Similarly, our own debt burden is likely to hold back recovery in the UK.

Instead, countries with lower debt levels, whether that be at an individual, corporate or government level, such as the emerging markets, Japan and some bigger economies in Europe are likely to do better as the environment improves. As for sectors, more economically sensitive stocks have traditionally done well in a recovery phase. In addition, areas that have been particularly beaten up also tend to show stronger performance. This could be the stronger stocks in unfavoured sectors, such as financials - but there are also plenty of quality large stocks now trading on high yields, which bodes well for equity income funds.

While there remains a big question mark over whether commodity stocks can continue to perform, stocks such as airlines and rail companies may bounce back on waning oil prices.

Moving into 2012

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0000

As we bid farewell to an eventful yet successful year for Frasers we particularly remember those we have lost, welcome those we have met for the first time in 2011, thank our loyal clients and colleagues for their continued presence and invite everyone to join us in making 2012 a year to be remembered!

We have returned to work, a little wiser, a little more rotund and armed with goals and resolutions. On the first day back we were faced with an onslaught of "fitness-improvement" war stories - Iain Mackie limping following a football related injury (we keep telling him he's too old for such acitivity!), Kerry Taylor on crutches after a jogging incident and Lesley Beattie performing a Richard III-type stance around the office due to a back spasm after falling off her bike! So much for the healthy resolution and not much competition for the Olympic Challenge! Kevin and Paul, however, (now known as the iPad 2 twins) didn't even notice as they 'out app'ed' each other with their techno-Christmas presents.

We look forward to hearing your New Year resolutions as we catch up in the coming weeks.

At the end of December, we wished a fond farewell to Shirley Davies, one of our administrators, who has happily moved on in her life following a difficult year, and we wish her every success in the future. This month, we welcome Luke Crowther into the Fraser Family, joining us an IT apprentice, with a view to a permanent position later in the year. We believe in doing our part to help out young people at this most difficult of economic times, and we are sure Luke will prove to be a good addition to our staff.

Finally, a very important date in your New Year calender - 24 February 2012. The annual Fraser Wealth Bake Off in aid of Macmillan Cancer Research will take place once again! Each of the Fraser team will be competing for 'Brilliant Baker' and you are all invited to come along, sample the wares (for a small donation to charity) and cast your vote - yet anotherreason to shed some pounds in readiness for a mammoth tasting session!

Charity Bake Off

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0000

We all returned to work on 4 January, raring to go in 2011, with a few having to wear our Santa Dash suits for the extra room provided around the middle! The Charity Run has raised £655, plus the gift aid of £135, to date and we would like to thank everyone for their generosity and support to the Princes Trust.

There is only a short break to regain some fitness and less fatness, before we embark on our next event, which is sure to pile on the pounds. As part of the World’s largest coffee morning initiative, we are staging a Charity Bake-off for Macmillan Cancer Support on Friday 4th February. Each member of Fraser Wealth Management will be dusting off their cookery books and delving into family recipes to prepare a cake. You are cordially invited to come along, have a coffee and gorge on the prepared offerings.

We look forward to seeing you on the day and request that you cast a vote as to whose cake has that ‘Mr Kipling’ quality!

Some of the contenders so far:

Kevin ‘Anthony Worrall Thompson’ Gillibrand – Chocolate Cake

Ian ‘Gordon Ramsey’ Paginton – Chocolate Crunch Surprise

Irene ‘Nigella Lawson’ Parry – Butterfly cakes

Nick ‘Ainsley Harriot’ Grogan – Flapjacks

Lesley ‘Fanny Craddock’ Beattie – Key Lime Pie

Paul ‘Hairy Biker’ Bocking – is keeping his secret recipe under wraps .

* Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by
cancer. They provide practical, medical and financial support and push for
better cancer care. Cancer affects us all. We can all help.

Diploma in Financial Planning

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Steve Avann has received some wonderful news, he has passed a Chartered Insurance Institute examination which relates to Pension Funding Options(JO4) This means he has now obtained his Diploma in financial Planning. The FSA propose that current practising advisers must obtain a Diploma in Financial Planning, by the end of 2012 as standard.

Well done Steve.

Fraser Wealth Management Helping to Push Industry Standards Even Higher

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Training consultant Brian Sweeney has upped the ante in the pursuit of higher professional qualifications by developing a level seven financial planning Masters degree with Manchester Metropolitan University.

Sweeney, elected last week to the board of the Institute of Financial Planning, claims this will be the only qualification to bring financial planning in line with other professions.

The MSc Financial Planning and Management – which Sweeney believes to be a world first – will be open to advisers with a level six chartered or certified financial planner (CFP) qualification and a minimum of four years’ financial planning experience.

The qualification, which takes 18 months to complete and will cost between £12,000 and £15,000, will focus not on technical competence but on the psychology of money.

The first stage – called 3rd Generation Financial Planning – will require advisers to complete four 2,500 word assignments, keep a reflective log of their personal and professional development and film three videos showing the adviser interacting with a client. The recordings will be of a client discovery meeting, a recommendations meeting and an annual review.

The course will be a mixture of distance learning and classes to be held in locations convenient to the students.

‘The content is not to test people’s technical competence but to demonstrate that you can apply it when working with clients – it’s about client relationship management,’ said Sweeney, who runs the Financial Planning Training Company and is a consultant for AXA Winterthur’s Professional Edge team.

‘It’s about the emotional involvement in financial planning, behavioural finance and the psychology of money.’

The second stage is a dissertation on a topic of the adviser’s choice.

‘You can bring your own topic or research a topic on behalf of Institute of Financial Planning (IFP), Chartered Insurance Institute or Financial Services Planning Board. The benefits of [the latter] are you are contributing to a body of knowledge which is also a mark of professionalism,’ said Sweeney.

The Masters will be a true sign of professionalism, argues Sweeney, who added that it will be the ‘antithesis of those advisers who are being dragged to level four.’

‘Professional qualifications in academia are measured as level seven so to be professional we have to go up one step – we are still some way below the level of accountants and solicitors,’ he said.

‘The retail distribution review is encouraging the move to professionalism and we have to have qualifications at level seven to be considered professional.’

The degree is currently being piloted by three firms in the North East and Sweeney is planning to take on a maximum of 12 students when the course starts in January.

Fraser Wealth Management – the first firm to become chartered in Liverpool – is involved. Directors Paul Bocking and Kevin Gillibrand found out about the Masters after approaching Sweeney to be their business mentor.

Bocking is a CFP and Gillibrand is chartered but both are currently studying to get the other’s qualification.

Gillibrand said: ‘Being exposed to the world of academia was a bit of a culture shock. It was alien to me; to be critical and give critical feedback.

‘Our biggest worry is fitting the course around trying to run a business and be financial planners.’

Both are confident that furthering their education will not just benefit clients but also their business.

‘We have found there is a direct correlation between profitability and personal development,’ said Gillibrand.

Based in Liverpool, as well as having offices in London, Fraser Wealth Management offers expert advice in a range of areas, with particular expertise in retirement, investment and inheritance tax planning. They operate a fee-based service, as opposed to one based solely on commission taken from investments, creating more efficient financial planning that is transparent, specialised and client centred.

This article has been co-opted from the citiwire website

Honest advice and a personal approach drives ex-motor dealer's investments

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 +0000

In these exasperating ‘credit crunch’ times, the temptation may be to resort to that old chestnut of keeping your money under your bed – but it doesn’t have to be that way, says Merseyside businessman and satisfied Fraser Wealth Management client Chris Smith.

Pick your financial advisers wisely, spread your risk widely and take a long term view, advises the 45-year-old Wirral man, who enjoyed a share of the proceeds when family firm the Robert Smith Group sold its six Mercedes-Benz dealerships – including Liverpool – to Inchcape in 2005.

Together with his father and sister, Chris was one-third of a family trio that had built up the successful business over 20 years. Finding himself with a substantial cash sum ‘burning a hole’ in his pocket, he set about looking for the best way to protect his new-found wealth for the future – and soon found himself bamboozled!

Chris, who retained a property role with Inchcape and also acts as a consultant to another of his family’s thriving businesses, Welding Units, in Rainford, which makes pipe connectors for the oil and gas industry, explains: “Normal advice when selling a business would be to plan your exit strategy well in advance and already have your own personal investment strategy in place. However, the nature of our Mercedes-Benz franchise and rules governing its sale meant we couldn’t discuss our plans with anyone beforehand.

“So, once the sale was complete I found myself with money to invest and no idea where to invest it for the best. I found myself sitting in front of a succession of advisers from big-name companies but quickly realised that all they were really interested in was my cash. Nobody took the time to get to know me personally and find out what made me tick or what I really wanted to do. I didn’t feel comfortable signing over my money to any of them.”

Fortunately at that point Chris remembered an old associate, Kevin Gillibrand, who had previously acted for him and had recently set up a new business venture with fellow financial adviser Paul Bocking. Between them, Kevin and Paul run Fraser Wealth Management, based in Cheapside, Liverpool; the first firm of independent financial planners in the city to achieve Chartered status from the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII).

Chris continues: “Kevin had arranged a couple of mortgages for me and we got on well. I’d become more and more exasperated with people trying to place my money here, there and everywhere – mostly in hedge funds, which have had their share of bad publicity of late – and the approach that Kevin and Paul took was a breath of fresh air.

“Firstly they took time to get to know me as a person, my hopes and aspirations for the future, and to find out whether I was a risk taker or a more cautious investor. Once they’d established this they were able to come up with an investment strategy that wasn’t necessary the most dramatic but it suited my profile by spreading the risk and building in a series of ‘safety nets’ in case the stock market fell. I’m extremely grateful to them for their help given what is happening in today’s money markets.”

Chris has continued to take Fraser’s advice with other personal investments, including property deals, and he says they will be closely involved when he fulfils his next ambition to invest in a business that complements his love of gardening: “I’ve investigated a number of options, including a garden centre and a business importing mature trees from all over the world. Whatever I choose to do, I know that Fraser Wealth Management will provide me with carefully thought out, honest and, above all, appropriate advice that is tailored to my needs.”

Based in Liverpool, as well as having offices in London, Fraser Wealth Management offers expert advice in a range of areas, with particular expertise in retirement, investment and inheritance tax planning. They operate a fee-based service, as opposed to one based solely on commission taken from investments, creating more efficient financial planning that is transparent, specialised and client centred.

Further information: www.fraserwm.co.uk or call 0845 456 4404.

Leading the way

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Chartered financial planners, Fraser Wealth Management, stay yet another step ahead with their new fee-based service.

As the first financial planning firm in Liverpool to attain corporate Chartered status, which reinforces professionalism in the fast-moving and competitive market of investment, it’s no wonder that Fraser Wealth Management have taken the innovative step of introducing a fee-based service for existing and new clients.

The company says its fee-based service, as opposed to one based solely on commission taken from investments, offers the prospect of more efficient financial planning that is transparent, specialised and client centred.

Kevin Gillibrand, director of Fraser Wealth Management, who has also achieved individual Chartered status, explains:

"Our focus is our client, we aim to provide holistic financial advice and be clear in our dealings on their behalf, so they know how we get paid, what we can do and what we are hoping to achieve – all of which will be explained in plain English - for a client agreed remuneration."

The introduction of a fee-based service further emphasises how progressive Fraser Wealth Management is as a company.

The Financial Services Authority (FSA), which is expected to recommend fee-based services for independent financial advisors as an industry standard in October this year, as part of its ongoing Retail Distribution Review, hail it as the way to improve market efficiency and lead to better outcomes for consumers.

Kevin says: "By becoming fee based ahead of the FSA’s anticipated recommendations we’re presenting our clients with a greater level of advantage and reassurance. It makes our dealings with clients clearer so that they know where, how and when their money is being invested. "

"It enables them to freely engage in dialogue with us over their investments and enables us to offer tailor made financial planning and investment advice that is constantly reviewed. A system that regularly reviews a person’s investments within a fee paying structure rather than a system that relies on commission from the sale of new products, better distinguishes our role as that of advisors, rather than sales people."

Formed in 2004 by Kevin Gillibrand and Paul Bocking, Fraser Wealth Management has always sought to lead the field. Its company philosophy is to build professional relationships with clients based on the ethos of mutual like, "trust and respect”. And, with a client-centred, consistently innovative approach, the company has proven itself a trustworthy and valuable addition to an industry that has lately been beset with uncertainty.

Fraser Wealth Management will take a percentage of funds under management, normally charging three per cent up front for initial investments, then 0.5 per cent per year. Where this creates an income of £1,000 per year, clients will automatically qualify for an annual review. For those clients not generating £1,000 per annum of recurring fees, a top-up fee will be implemented. Clients with substantially higher investment portfolios will be entitled to more frequent reviews.

As well as being the first independent financial planners in Liverpool to get Chartered status from the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) last summer, Fraser Wealth Management has also held Investors in People since November 2005.

Introduced by the CII in 2007, Chartered status is designed to reinforce the importance of professionalism in a fast-moving and competitive market and to help place firms of advisers on a par with other professional practices, such as accountants and solicitors. Strict qualifying criteria apply.

Based on Liverpool’s Cheapside, Fraser Wealth Management specialise in giving advice to clients on a wide range of subjects to assist with personal financial planning, with particular emphasis on retirement, investment and inheritance tax planning.

For more information, or to arrange a free one hour consultation, call Fraser Wealth Management on 0845 456 4404 or log on to www.fraserwm.co.uk.

Note: hi-res images are available upon request

Issued for & on behalf of Fraser Wealth Management by Active PR.
Press information from Kara Byers, tel: 0151 243 8814 or email: kara@activepr.co.uk or contact Linda Bright tel: 0151 236 2120 - email linda@activepr.co.uk

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Liverpool Financial Firm Adds To Its Wealth Of Experience

Sat, 19 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A relationship manager for Liverpool-based Chartered financial planners, Fraser Wealth Management, has become a member of the Personal Finance Society at diploma level.

Paul Welsh successfully completed the ‘J04’ module in pension funding options to achieve the Chartered Insurance Institute’s (CII) diploma in financial planning and attain membership to the society at the higher level.

He is also celebrating after being nominated for The Insurance Institute of Liverpool’s Young Achiever of the Year Award after passing the diploma. He is shortlisted along with four other people, who all work in financial services in the region. The winner will be announced at the institute’s annual dinner on January 23.

Having worked in the financial planning services sector since 2002, Paul, 30, joined Fraser as relationship manager in 2006. And with proposals by the Financial Service Authority (FSA) to introduce the level-four qualification as a minimum requirement for practising advisers by 2012, Paul is ahead of the game to progress his career aspirations and Fraser is well-placed for the proposed changes.

Paul applies his research skills and attention to detail to provide planning support to the firm’s directors and conducts case analyses. He then carries out relevant research in order to produce financial planning reports for clients.

Paul, of Waterloo, said: “In the financial sector it is vital to constantly improve your skills base in order to provide clients with the highest level of service possible. The career of a financial planner is a continuous learning curve and there are always new skills to be sought.

“Should the proposed changes to the minimum requirements for financial advisers go ahead, I’m pleased to have already attained diploma level to ensure a seamless transition for the company. My ultimate aim is to achieve Chartered status on a personal level, which is reserved for the only a small percentage of experienced advisers.”

Fraser Wealth Management was the first firm of independent financial planners in Liverpool to get Chartered status from the CII in 2007. Introduced that same year, Chartered status is designed to reinforce the importance of professionalism in a fast-moving and competitive market and to help place firms of advisers on a par with other professional practices, such as accountants and solicitors. Strict qualifying criteria apply.

Based on Liverpool’s Cheapside, Fraser specialise in giving advice to clients on a wide range of subjects to assist with personal financial planning, with particular emphasis on retirement, investment and inheritance tax planning. They employ 12 people and also hold the Investors in People standard.

For Further information: Call 0845 456 4404 or visit www.fraserwm.co.uk.

Liverpool Firm Offers Financial Reassurance

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

LEADING Independent financial adviser Fraser Wealth Management offers its reaction and advice following Scottish Equitable closing its doors to withdrawals.

Potential and current investors need to take heed of the fear mounting that Scottish Equitable, which was forced to halt withdrawals yesterday, may be headed for a Northern Rock-style run on billions of pounds invested by savers who saw it as a pension safe haven.

The investment company was prompted to freeze withdrawals after a slump in commercial prices, which is forecast to continue and triggered panic selling by small investors.

But the message from Fraser Wealth Management, the first independent financial planners in Liverpool to gain chartered status, is ‘don’t panic.’

Kevin Gillibrand, director of Fraser Wealth Management, said:

“This story confirms the benefits of diversification in an investment portfolio. There are two important messages here, firstly never have the bulk of your wealth in any one asset class, be it cash, property or shares. Secondly, diversification spreads risk; the saying: ‘don’t put all of your eggs in one basket’ is true and this story illustrates this.”

For those clients invested in commercial property, our advice is not to panic. Commercial property is a good long term investment, the problem is that the sector overheated and a correction was needed.

“However, as interest rates fall over 2008 the yields achieved from property will become attractive again to investors because you will be able to receive a yield of 6% from commercial property, compared to bank deposit rates of 4.5% by the end of the year.”

Based on Liverpool’s Cheapside, Fraser Wealth Management specialise in giving advice to clients on a wide range of subjects to assist with personal financial planning. Offering clear, no-jargon advice on the most appropriate financial products for a client’s personal circumstances, their key philosophy is to provide secure, intelligent investments with minimal risk.

For more information on Fraser Wealth Management call 0845 456 4404 or log on to www.fraserwm.co.uk

Issued for & on behalf of Fraser Wealth Management by Active PR.
Press information from Kara byers 0151 243 8814 kara@activepr.co.uk or contact Linda Bright tel: 0151 243 8812 - email: Linda@activepr.co.uk

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Liverpool Legend Chips In To Help Raise £5,000 For Alder Hey

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Former Liverpool soccer legend David Fairclough swapped the boots for spikes as he took part in Fraser Wealth Management’s golf day in aid of Alder Hey hospital’s Imagine appeal.

Fairclough, who scored 34 goals in 98 appearances for the Reds between 1974 and 1983, was in one of 15 teams who helped raise over £5,000 for the appeal.
Also taking part in the event held at Hurlston Hall Golf Club in Ormskirk, was chairman of the Imagine appeal, Jim Davies, of DWF Solicitors, who joined clients, staff and business associates of Fraser Wealth Management to tee-off in the event.

Paul Bocking, one of Fraser’s founding directors, said: “The Imagine appeal does some truly inspiring work to develop facilities and offer the highest standards of care to young patients at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital. Our golf day was a fun way to treat our clients and introducers of business, and along way help raise funds for this great cause.”

Fraser’s latest charity effort is just one example of their commitment to being a responsible and good corporate citizen.

They were one of the first firms in the north west to sign up to the Prince’s Trust North West Leadership Group, which aims to encourage and mentor entrepreneurial spirit among young people, and director Kevin Gillibrand recently took part in the three peaks challenge to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Based in Cheapside, Liverpool, Fraser Wealth Management offer expert advice on a wide range of subjects, with particular emphasis on retirement, investment and inheritance tax planning. For further information go to www.fraserwm.co.uk.

For details of the Imagine appeal and how to support the hospital’s fundraising, visit www.imagineappeal.com.

Major Investment in Staff

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 +0000

LIVERPOOL’S leading lights in the financial field prove their commitment to their people by providing the best in training and support

Among the latest to benefit from the people focused approach at city centre based Fraser Wealth Management is Steve Avann, one of their independent financial advisers.

Steve has recently gained two key Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) incremental qualifications, JO1 and JO2, which cover the key advisory areas of personal tax and trusts.

Steve, 47, has been with Fraser Wealth Management for the past three years after 18 years in the industry. He says he enjoys working at Fraser because of its modern management principles, which allow him to independently direct his time and work closely with clients to help them achieve their goals.

Delighted with his new qualifications, the busy father of two, who lives in Maghull, said:

"I felt it was a good achievement to pass these exams in the same year. It’s hard to find the study time with work and family commitments, but the support I got from Fraser and its directors was great and it’s been a good confidence boost.

I’ll be taking my JO4 exam next which is all about pensions. When I pass this one I’ll have reached diploma level, which is just a stop on the way to full chartered status - a few more exams away that is!”

Paul Bocking, director of Fraser Wealth Management, said:

“We’re really proud of Steve and very pleased he has gained these extra qualifications. His achievement illustrates our commitment to our staff and to providing the highest quality financial services. We were the first independent financial planners in Liverpool to get Chartered status from the CII last year and we’ve also held Investor in People status for over two years.”

“Steve’s success and our team’s dedication to self improvement are important because they provide reassurance to our clients and evidence that we take our profession and professionalism seriously.”

Fraser Wealth Management has held Investors in People since November 2005. This national quality standard shows that an organisation is working to improve performance and realise objectives through investment in the training and development of their people

Introduced by the CII in 2007, Chartered status is designed to reinforce the importance of professionalism in a fast-moving and competitive market and to help place firms of advisers on a par with other professional practices, such as accountants and solicitors. Strict qualifying criteria apply.

Based on Liverpool’s Cheapside, Fraser Wealth Management specialise in giving advice to clients on a wide range of subjects to assist with personal financial planning, with particular emphasis on retirement, investment and inheritance tax planning.

For more information, or to arrange a free one hour consultation, call Fraser Wealth Management on 0845 456 4404 or log on to www.fraserwm.co.uk.

Caption: Steve Avann, from Fraser Wealth Management, who has recently gained two key Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) incremental qualifications, JO1 and JO2.

Issued for & on behalf of Fraser Wealth Management by Active PR. Press information from Kara Byers tel: 0151 243 8814 or email: kara@activepr.co.uk or contact Linda Bright tel: 0151 243 8812 - email linda@activepr.co.uk

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Our Open Evening

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

On the 10th of December 2009, Fraser Wealth Management held it's open evening in their brand new offices.

Photos of the highly enjoyable evening can be found here.

Recommendations for Ethical Investment

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:00 +0000

WITH the new tax year fast approaching, the clock is ticking for people who haven’t yet used up this year’s ISA quota and, for smart investors who want to feel good about their savings as well as hopefully show some profit, an ethical investment could be just the thing.

They’ll have to be quick though, as they only have until April 5th to put up to £7,000 into a Maxi ISA, which can combine cash with stocks and shares.

From recycling plastic bottles and bags to buying Fair Trade coffee, we’re all making more ethical choices in our everyday lives – so why not do the same with our investments?
One of the ethical investment opportunities Liverpool-based Fraser Wealth Management currently offer is the Africa Invest Fund (AIF) – which offers a capital-protected exposure to farming in Malawi, Africa, with a promise of at least your money back after seven years.

Paul Bocking, director of Fraser Wealth Management, said: “Ethical investment is rising in popularity and people are placing even more importance on knowing exactly how their money is being invested.
“Ethical funds have performed well over the years and as legislation from the World Trade Organisation further regulates and reforms companies exploiting people, animals or the environment, companies tainted by fines and negative press may start to under-perform.
“Well-run companies with strong ethical principles will not be tarnished by future problems. In fact, they are more likely to be tomorrow's top performers, along with the many companies producing sustainable energy products that will shape the way we live in the future.”
Since January 2005, AIF has been establishing itself as a commercial agricultural business in Malawi to see if investment could generate a profit and tackle poverty. To date, Cardiff-based Cru Investment Management, who own AIF, have invested £2 million of its own money in the project demonstrating its confidence.

Its financial forecast for 2008 for return on the pilot scheme is between 30 per cent and 40 per cent. AIF focuses on investing in an ‘out-grower’ scheme, which involves families taking seeds and fertiliser, growing a high-value crop such as paprika and bird's eye chillies on their own land and selling the harvest back to AIF.

Paul added: “Ethical investment is a good way to add to a widely diversified portfolio. We want to give our clients an opportunity to invest alternatively, rather than encouraging them to merely donate. A clear advantage of the Africa Invest Fund is that it can be held as part of an ISA.

"Setting up farms and growing crops in Africa may sound like an unusual investment for your ISA, but it is a viable investment not least due to the world-wide increase in food prices. Making money from farming can be as simple as applying modern agricultural techniques to transform the output of previously unproductive land. And there is plenty of that in Africa.”
Going ‘ethical’ offers investors both the potential for healthy returns and a feel good factor. After all, how many other investments offer capital protection and unlimited upside potential with a guarantee that their money will also be making a difference to other people’s lives?
Based on Liverpool’s Cheapside, Fraser Wealth Management specialise in giving advice to clients on a wide range of subjects to assist with personal financial planning, with particular emphasis on retirement, investment and inheritance tax planning.

For more information, or to arrange a free one hour consultation, call Fraser Wealth Management on 0845 456 4404 or log on to www.fraserwm.co.uk.

Issued for & on behalf of Fraser Wealth Management by Active PR. Press information from Kara Byers, tel: 0151 243 8814 or email: kara@activepr.co.uk or contact Linda Bright tel: 0151 236 2120 - email linda@activepr.co.uk

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Success for Liverpool Santa Dash!

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The team here at Fraser Wealth Management took part in the Liverpool Santa Dash as part of the Going for Gold Sports Fundraising Challenge earlier this month and boy was it a challenge! Thank you to everyone who kindly donated and you will be pleased to know we reached our target! so far we've raised more than £820- money which will go direct to The Prince's Trust.

There's still time to donate if you haven't done so already. We would love the opportunity to win the Going for Gold Trophy and that means raising as much money as possible.

Simply visit our Just Giving page here and donate online. Any support would be greatly appreciated and of course we will keep you updated on our fundraising progress!

The Prince's Trust is the UK's leading youth charity and helps over 40,000 young people each year. Around one in five young people in the UK are not in work, education or training. Youth unemployment costs the UK economy £10 million a day in lost productivity, while youth crime costs £1 billion pounds every year.

The Budget Summary March 2011

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0000

The Chancellor presented his first budget since the autumn's spending review, which outlined the Government's cuts programme on Wednesday, 23rd March 2011.

From the outset we knew that this budget was aimed at reflecting the Government's stated priorities of a strong stable economy, growth and fairness. It provided an opportunity for the Government to outline how it is implementing its fiscal consolidation plans, aimed at eliminating the current deficit and ensuring economic stability.

Times remain challenging for the economy; this was reflected in the Government reducing its forecasts for economic growth from 2.1% to 1.7% for 2011 and from 2.6% to 2.5% for 2012.

This Government sees the private sector as being the catalyst for economic recovery and the budget reflects this, with a number of announcements supporting business investment and entrepreneurship. In the budget, Mr Osborne highlighted his intentions to make the UK the best place in Europe to start, finance and grow a business, whilst setting out a number of proposals to help small businesses.

On the face of it, the budget looks attractive to the majority of individuals with the increase in personal allowance and reductions in motoring costs. However, the sting in the tail this year looks to have come in the form of switching the increases in a number of allowances from RPI to CPI, a generally lower inflationary measure. This has already been labelled a stealth tax by commentators.

The Finance Bill 2011, due to be published on March 31st 2011, comes hot on the heels of this year’s budget. We already know a lot about what it will contain because the Draft Finance Bill 2011 clauses were published for consultation in December last year.

Over the coming weeks and months, updates and further information on budget proposals, including consultations, will be announced. We will keep you updated on any change in legislation which may affect you.

If you have any questions or queries arising from this budget, then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Tax Overview

From the outset, the Government pledged its commitment to improving the way that tax policy is developed, communicated and legislated.

It is now known that the current tax system will be simplified, responding to the work of the Office of Tax Simplification (OTS), abolishing 43 tax reliefs with the exception of the community investment tax.

In addition, a much more significant piece of work will be undertaken to look at merging income tax and national insurance. Any investigation and implementation of such radical change will take years to come to fruition but would be welcomed by many who believe the UK has an outdated tax system.

Income Tax

What

Proposed increases in the personal allowance for under 65s by £630 to £8,105 for 2012-13. The Government has a stated aim of increasing the personal allowance to £10,000 by the end of this Parliament.

When

From April 2012

Comment

Basic rate tax payers will be up to £126 better off.

No change for higher rate tax payers as the increased allowance is offset by the reduction in the basic rate limit.

More people will find themselves paying higher rate tax as the basic rate tax limit is not increasing in line with growth in earnings.

What

50% tax rate. Mr Osborne revealed that he considers the 50% tax rate for high earners necessary but temporary. He said the time is not right to cut the levy but revealed HMRC will examine how much extra money it is bringing in.

When

Unknown

Comment

Likely to be too politically sensitive to remove the 50% tax rate at this time. A review of this at some point in the future looks certain.

What

Non domiciles who have lived in the UK for 12 years will be charged a fee of £50,000, previously £30,000, to avoid paying tax on overseas income. The £30,000 charge for non-doms who have been here for seven years will remain.

When

From April 2012

Comment

The tax position of non domiciles has been cause for media publicity in recent months. Non domiciles will be breathing a sign of relief as many were expecting a much firmer crackdown.

National Insurance

What

Consumer Price Index (CPI) of National Insurance Contributions rates, limits and thresholds. CPI is to replace the Retail Price Index (RPI) as the default indexation for all National Insurance (NI) contribution rates, limits and thresholds. This does not apply to employer NI contributions.

When

April 2012

Comment

Both CPI and RPI are measures of inflation. The difference is that the CPI does not include housing costs, such as mortgage interest payments. CPI traditionally rises at a slower rate than RPI, so in effect the Chancellor is securing an increase in future tax income by slowing down the rate at which the NI threshold increases.

Savings, Pensions and Investments

Savers got a small boost when the budget was announced. The Government's saving organisation announced it would bring back a savings account that rises in line with inflation. NS&I expects to bring the savings certificates back on general sale in 2011/12.

What

Legislation will be introduced in the Finance Bill 2012, making the following changes to the Enterprise Investment Schemes (EIS) and Venture Capital Trusts (VCT):

An increase in the threshold for the size of a qualifying company for both EIS and VCTs to fewer than 250 employees. In addition the company should have no more than £15million of gross assets before investing.
An increase in the annual amount that can be invested through both EIS and VCTs in an individual company, to £10million.
An increase in the annual amount that an individual can invest through an EIS, to £1million.
An increase in the tax relief available under an EIS from 20% to 30% with effect from April 2011.

When

On or after April 2012

* Increase in tax relief under an EIS from April 2011

Comment

This is policy that further encourages investment in the private sector. The broadening of investment opportunities will be a welcome boost to those looking to invest through these particular vehicles and may result in them appealing to a wider market.

As with all investments, investing through VCT and EIS schemes carry an element of risk and professional advice should be sought before investing.

What

Individual Savings Accounts (ISA) limits to increase by CPI not RPI.

When

April 2012

Comment

The ISA limit is currently £10,680 and would expect to increase next year by nearly £600, based on the most recent RPI figure. The allowance increasing in line with CPI will mean that people will be able to invest less money in an ISA in the future compared to investment under previous rules.

What

The Hutton recommendations on public sector pensions have been accepted.

When

n/a

Comment

This will mean significant changes to public sector pensions over the coming years and one that will generate plenty of interest from the media, public and unions. We certainly haven’t heard the last of this reform.

What

The Chancellor has proposed the introduction of a flat rate state pension, eradicating the state second pension and pension credit. He stated that this would not apply to current pensioners.

When

No date set yet but could take years to come to fruition.

Comment

The state pension has become increasingly complex over recent years. Any changes aimed at simplifying the current system without disadvantaging those that have worked hard all their lives would be a welcome move.

What

Government to align state pension age to increases in longevity.

When

TBC

Comment

This is a stated intention to find a ‘more automatic mechanism’ linking life expectancy with the state pension age. As we all live longer there is no surprise that the Government is worried about the cost of funding an increased number of people in retirement.

Capital Gains Tax

What

The annual exempt amount for capital gains tax will increase in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Previously this was the Retail Price Index (RPI).

When

From April 2012

Comment

Inheritance Tax

What

Encouraging charitable giving. A proposed reduction of the rate of inheritance tax from 40% to 36%. This applies only to estates leaving 10 per cent or more to charity.

When

From April 2012

Comment

A move by the Chancellor to turn us into a nation of philanthropists perhaps. No beneficiaries will be better off, only the charities receiving the donations.

What

Inheritance tax has been frozen at its current rate of 40% on estates over £325,000 until 2015.

When

Until 2015

Comment

The rate being set until 2015 will inevitably mean more people will be liable to pay inheritance tax. There are ways to mitigate your IHT liability and action taken earlier rather than later could reduce any potential IHT liability on death.

Corporation Tax

What

The main rate of corporation tax is to be cut by 2% to 26% from April this year and 1% in each of the following three years. This is an additional 1% than was expected.

When

From April 2011

Comment

As the main rate is currently at 28%, for profits over £1.5m, the main rate reduction is significant and a welcome boost for larger businesses. It may prove to be attractive for businesses looking to base themselves in the UK.

For smaller businesses the tax rates are 21% (reducing to 20% see below) for profits of up to £300,000 with a 'marginal rate' of 29.75% on profits between £300,001 to £1.5m.

What

The small profits rate of corporation tax will reduce to 20% as previously announced.

When

From April 2011

Comment

This was announced last year and is a welcome boost to small businesses.

Business Tax

What

Research and Development tax relief provisions for SMEs will increase from 175% to 200%. There are also proposals to increase this further from April 2012 to 225%.

When

From April 2011

Comment

These changes remain subject to EU approval but go some way to delivering the Government’s stated intention of supporting business growth.

What

An increase in the amount that can be claimed where employees use their own cars for business. This change is from the current rate of 40p to 45p per mile for the first 10,000 miles and 25p per mile thereafter.

When

From April 2011

Comment

Good news for many business motorists who will have been feeling the pinch of rising fuel prices.

What

Employees and directors who are provided with a car and also receive free fuel, will see an increase in the taxable benefit, as the figure which the calculations are based on will increase from £18,000 to £18,800.

When

From April 2011

Comment

An expected increase which will mean that individuals will continue to question whether or not to opt out of a company car scheme.

Housing

What

Profits from the bank levy will fund a new £250m shared equity scheme for first-time buyers, which will help 10,000 families get onto the housing ladder. Buyers will have to put up a 5% deposit. The government and home builder will cover 10% each and the remainder will be covered by a loan.

When

TBC

Comment

The news comes less than a week after a UK bank announced it had teamed up with local councils to help first time buyers raise a deposit for a house, the 'Local Lend a Hand' scheme.

Getting on the property ladder is a big decision and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are fears that this may be an artificial stimulant to the housing market that allows house builders to sell property at over inflated prices - ‘buyers beware’ comes to mind.

What

Support for mortgage interest schemes with concessions being extended one year. Under the scheme, jobless home owners can claim up to 100% of their interest payments after 13 weeks of unemployment and for mortgages worth up to £200,000. This was due to revert back to a 39 week waiting time in January 2012.

When

Extended until January 2013

Comment

The Government recognises the financial difficulty that many people face, especially with regard to mortgage loans where significant borrowing during the good years has left many with loans they can’t afford to pay back.

Other

No new regulations on firms with fewer than ten staff for three years.
New planning rules that will require planners to prioritise growth and jobs.
The main fuel duty rate will be reduced by 1p per litre and the intended 4p per litre rise due to come in the next month has been postponed.
A fair fuel stabiliser will be introduced to help prevent spikes in fuel costs.
£350 million worth of regulation on businesses to be removed.
Bank levy to be adjusted so banks do not pay less tax as a result.
43 tax reliefs to be scrapped as part of a simplification of tax coding.
Rate relief holiday for small businesses to be extended until October 2012.
Further measures were announced as part of the crackdown on tax avoidance. These include new moves to address the abuse of stamp duty land tax rules, which come into effect from Thursday. It was also reported that it will be closing down three forms of stamp duty land tax avoidance schemes.
David Cameron had already announced that ten new enterprise zones will be created at the cost of £100 million over four years, each of which will be given tailored tax breaks and incentivised to drive economic growth. In the budget, it was confirmed that this would be extended to 21.
Funding for up to 50,000 additional apprenticeship places over the next four years.
Funding for an additional 80,000 work experience places for young people, ensuring up to 100,000 places will be available over the next two years.
Holidaymakers will benefit from a freeze on the planned increase in air passenger duty. Air passenger charges currently range from around £12 for a short trip in economy class to up to £170 for business class flights for long haul destinations such as Australia.
There will be help for families who do pay their taxes but who struggle with the daily cost of living. The Government will outline measures such as council tax freezes, more child tax credit for lower income families and a "pay lift" for public servants on less than £21,000.
Green taxes will increase as a proportion of total tax revenue. The Chancellor has also committed an extra £2bn to the Green Investment Bank, which will start work earlier than planned, in 2012.

*SOURCE – HM Treasury Budget 2011

We Have Moved Offices

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0000

On 16th of November 2009, Fraser Wealth Management relocated to their new purpose built office on Tithebarn Street in Liverpool City Centre, which they view as a ‘launch pad’ to future success.

Whilst only a short distance from the previous office on Cheapside, the Directors feel that the acquisition and refurbishment of the new premises will further enhance the long term commitment to providing quality advice and service to their clients.

When the Upturn Comes

Moving into 2012

Charity Bake Off

Diploma in Financial Planning

Fraser Wealth Management Helping to Push Industry Standards Even Higher

Gillibrand said: ‘Being exposed to the world of academia was a bit of a culture shock. It was alien to me; to be critical and give critical feedback.

‘Our biggest worry is fitting the course around trying to run a business and be financial planners.’

Both are confident that furthering their education will not just benefit clients but also their business.

‘We have found there is a direct correlation between profitability and personal development,’ said Gillibrand.

Honest advice and a personal approach drives ex-motor dealer's investments

Leading the way

"Our focus is our client, we aim to provide holistic financial advice and be clear in our dealings on their behalf, so they know how we get paid, what we can do and what we are hoping to achieve – all of which will be explained in plain English - for a client agreed remuneration."

Kevin says: "By becoming fee based ahead of the FSA’s anticipated recommendations we’re presenting our clients with a greater level of advantage and reassurance. It makes our dealings with clients clearer so that they know where, how and when their money is being invested. "

Issued for & on behalf of Fraser Wealth Management by Active PR. Press information from Kara Byers, tel: 0151 243 8814 or email: kara@activepr.co.uk or contact Linda Bright tel: 0151 236 2120 - email linda@activepr.co.uk

Ref: apr2008/FraserWM/releases/Fee_Based_wealth_management2401KB

Liverpool Financial Firm Adds To Its Wealth Of Experience

Liverpool Firm Offers Financial Reassurance

“However, as interest rates fall over 2008 the yields achieved from property will become attractive again to investors because you will be able to receive a yield of 6% from commercial property, compared to bank deposit rates of 4.5% by the end of the year.”

Issued for & on behalf of Fraser Wealth Management by Active PR. Press information from Kara byers 0151 243 8814 kara@activepr.co.uk or contact Linda Bright tel: 0151 243 8812 - email: Linda@activepr.co.uk

Ref: apr2007/FraserWM/releases/Fraser_WMreactiontoScottishEquitable1801KB

Liverpool Legend Chips In To Help Raise £5,000 For Alder Hey

Major Investment in Staff

"I felt it was a good achievement to pass these exams in the same year. It’s hard to find the study time with work and family commitments, but the support I got from Fraser and its directors was great and it’s been a good confidence boost.

I’ll be taking my JO4 exam next which is all about pensions. When I pass this one I’ll have reached diploma level, which is just a stop on the way to full chartered status - a few more exams away that is!”

“Steve’s success and our team’s dedication to self improvement are important because they provide reassurance to our clients and evidence that we take our profession and professionalism seriously.”

Issued for & on behalf of Fraser Wealth Management by Active PR. Press information from Kara Byers tel: 0151 243 8814 or email: kara@activepr.co.uk or contact Linda Bright tel: 0151 243 8812 - email linda@activepr.co.uk

Ref: apr2008/FraserWM/releases/SteveAvannquals2502KB

Our Open Evening

Recommendations for Ethical Investment

WITH the new tax year fast approaching, the clock is ticking for people who haven’t yet used up this year’s ISA quota and, for smart investors who want to feel good about their savings as well as hopefully show some profit, an ethical investment could be just the thing.

Issued for & on behalf of Fraser Wealth Management by Active PR. Press information from Kara Byers, tel: 0151 243 8814 or email: kara@activepr.co.uk or contact Linda Bright tel: 0151 236 2120 - email linda@activepr.co.uk

Ref: apr2008/FraserWealthManagement/releases/ethicalinvestments2503KB

Success for Liverpool Santa Dash!

The Budget Summary March 2011

The Chancellor presented his first budget since the autumn's spending review, which outlined the Government's cuts programme on Wednesday, 23rd March 2011.

Tax Overview

Income Tax

National Insurance

Savings, Pensions and Investments

Capital Gains Tax

Inheritance Tax

Corporation Tax

Business Tax

Housing

Other

We Have Moved Offices

Issued for & on behalf of Fraser Wealth Management by Active PR.
Press information from Kara Byers, tel: 0151 243 8814 or email: kara@activepr.co.uk or contact Linda Bright tel: 0151 236 2120 - email linda@activepr.co.uk

Issued for & on behalf of Fraser Wealth Management by Active PR.
Press information from Kara byers 0151 243 8814 kara@activepr.co.uk or contact Linda Bright tel: 0151 243 8812 - email: Linda@activepr.co.uk