malvern hills
FAQs

There’s no such thing as a silly question

Questions and answers

I understand that making informed decisions about your finances can be a daunting task. That's why I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions designed to help you gain a better understanding of our services, financial products, and industry-specific terms.

Do you charge for an initial meeting?

Our initial meeting, which typically lasts around an hour, will not be charged. There’s no time limit, just feel free to talk and we can see if I can help you.

How do you charge for your services?

You can find our Terms of Business here which includes an overview of our fees.  Fees specific to you will be issued via a personalised Engagement Letter before any chargeable work commences.

What happens in the initial meeting?

The initial meeting is a chance to discuss you, your situation, your family (if applicable) and your goals over the short, medium, and long term. We’ll also establish details about your current circumstances in order to build a comprehensive picture of your situation and how best to move forward. I will explain our various service offerings as appropriate to your needs and go over how the fees work.
A key focus of the discussion will be clarifying exactly what you want from financial advice.

If you’re a couple, it is highly preferable that you both attend the meeting.

After the meeting, I will send you a planning document and formal quote for any advice work agreed upon in the meeting.

It’s important to note that there is no obligation to work with me based on this meeting. This is your chance to ask questions and I encourage you to take time to think it over.

How do I book an initial meeting?

To book an initial meeting, simply get in touch at 01684 869179 or eugenie@malvernfp.co.uk or feel free to book a time straight into my calendar here.

Where are meetings held?

Meetings can be held in person in my office in central Malvern, over Zoom, or on the phone. I prefer the first meeting to be held in person, but I understand that this may not always be possible. I have a flexible approach to holding meetings to ensure we can work around your schedule.

Are you independent?

Yes, I am very much independent. I do not work for a particular financial institution or product provider and so I’m not limited to selling specific financial products or services. I act in the best interests of my clients and aim to provide unbiased, objective advice based on your financial goals and objectives.

What does it mean to be Chartered?

Being a Chartered Financial Planner means that I’ve achieved the highest level of professional qualifications and standards in financial planning.

To become Chartered, an individual must first obtain the Certificate in Financial Planning and the Diploma in Financial Planning from the Chartered Insurance Institute. They must then complete the Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning, which is a comprehensive course covering a wide range of financial planning topics, including investment planning, retirement planning, tax planning, and estate planning.

In addition to these qualifications, a Chartered Financial Planner must also have several years of experience in the financial services industry and must adhere to a strict code of ethics and conduct. They must demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development and participate in continuing education programs to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices.

What's the difference between a financial planner and a financial adviser?

Eugénie is both a financial planner and an independent financial adviser. The terms ‘financial planner’ and ‘financial adviser’ are often used interchangeably, but there are some differences between the two.

A financial planner is a professional who helps individuals and families create a comprehensive financial plan to achieve their financial goals. On the other hand, a financial adviser is a broader term that can refer to any professional who provides financial advice to clients.

In general, financial planners tend to provide more comprehensive and personalised financial advice and are focused on helping clients achieve their long-term aspirations. Financial advisers, on the other hand, may be more focused on specific financial products or services and may not offer the same level of comprehensive planning services as a financial planner.

Do I have to be wealthy to work with you?

My clients are usually business owners, working age professionals, senior executives, or people planning or in retirement. I also have vast experience working with trustee and corporate investors, widows, and small business directors.

I usually work with clients who have from £100,000 upwards to invest or already saved in their pensions, however I know that life is not always that straightforward. Financial Planning covers a wide range of situations and it may be that you do not fit into any one particular category. I urge you to speak to me to see if there is any value in us working together.

What makes you different?

I operate a deliberately small, independent, and female-run financial advising firm. I’m not a faceless corporation who will treat you like a number to maximise their profits. I build personal relationships with each of my clients and provide bespoke advice to suit your needs. I focus on providing a friendly, professional service to the local community.

Are there any services you do not provide?

Yes, I do not provide advice on mortgages or debt management of any kind, equity release, defined benefit (final salary) pension transfers, and large employee benefit schemes.

Are you regulated?

Yes, I am regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. You can find my FCA registration here.

How am I protected when receiving advice?

When receiving regulated financial advice, you are protected by the Financial Ombudsman Service if things go wrong. I only recommend products and investments that are UK and Isle of Man based, that are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. All products and investment funds are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme unless specifically stated.

Do you charge VAT?

VAT is not applicable to most financial planning services. I will let you know in advance if VAT will be applicable to any fees you pay.

To discuss how I can help you, please get in touch.

Or complete a contact form here:
Contact me
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