Difficult to gauge from the guidance given, but the shopper felt that the adviser held back knowledge of the matter. 3/5
Email/web presence:
No email given.
www.grapebenefits.co.uk 3/5
Verdict:
The adviser was notably terse upon hearing the amount the shopper was looking to invest, but he should be recognised for his transparency in relation to fees.
28/35
Adviser (Independent):
Intelligent Wealth Management Partnership Ltd
One Victoria Square, Birmingham, B1 1BD
Speed of response: Time of call: 2.40pm. Answered after five rings. 5/5
Telephone manner:
Polite and friendly. 5/5
Relevant qualifications:
Chartered financial planner. 5/5
Payment method:
Varies – on a case-by-case basis. 3/5
Guidance given:
The adviser explained that ethical investments have become more popular and there has been a proliferation of these products recently. She said she would not be able to assist the shopper because of the firm’s minimum investment requirement of £100,000. The adviser asked him to contact another advice firm.
3/5
Knowledge:
The adviser appeared to have a good understanding of the demand for ethical investments in recent years.
3/5
Email/web presence:
No email given.
www.iwmp.net
3/5
Verdict:
Although the adviser dished out somewhat insignificant guidance, she should be commended for her friendly approach to the conversation.
27/35
Provider
F&C Investments
Speed of response: Time of call: 2.46pm. The call was answered by an automated machine. The shopper was transferred to a representative within 30 seconds. 4/5
Telephone manner:
Professional and helpful. 5/5
Relevant qualifications:
The representative said she was not qualified to offer advice. 0/5
Payment method:
Varies – on a case-by-case basis. 3/5
Guidance given:
The representative said the firm offers three ethically invested open-ended funds. She outlined the company’s investment screening process and details of what the firm deems ethical and said it was available more comprehensively on its website. 3/5
Knowledge:
The representative demonstrated comprehensive knowledge in the firm’s ethical options. 3/5
Email/web presence:
No email given.
www.fandc.com 3/5
Verdict:
Good. The representative handled herself well and gave useful information.
21/35
