Arun Cooke

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2018

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

I had an appointment booked but I’ve had to cancel. I intend to rearrange another appointment. His telephone information was very clear.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2017

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Punctual, professional, knowledgeable.

Review from verified client

December, 2017

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Divorce.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

He has been amazing. Explaining everything in great detail to me and doing the best job to get the best return.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have yes.

What could they have done better?

I don’t have anything to say regarding this. Any time I need to ask him anything it is dealt with immediately.

Review from verified client

December, 2017

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Too many pension pots to manage separately so I was looking for a consolidating plan.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

He outlined the rules on investment, the risk factors involved ang getting a balanced plan.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes the plan suited my needs and has been worthwhile.

What could they have done better?

As Arun covered all the aspects involved and answered all my enquiries, even the dum questions, I don’t think anything required better service.

Review from verified client

December, 2017

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

House sale, together with other monies to invest.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Was very informative and knowledgeable in respect of my options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Set up face to face meeting for the end of the month.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

It had been several year's since our last investment review with another adviser plus required advice re new pension contributions.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun accessed our needs. He gave us clear explanation of the options available and associated risks. He was very professional and did not rush us to make decisions which we appreciated.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. We are confident that our investments are now best placed to match our future needs thanks to the advice received from Arun.

What could they have done better?

During this our initial review that Arun has undertaken for us we have no suggestions to make.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We were looking for a combination of capital investment and pension planning that optimised our return and ensured we were tax efficient, whilst minimising inheritance tax for our children, when the time comes.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Initially Arun spent a lot of time understanding our own thoughts on risk as well as helping to clarify our lifestyle expectations. Once this was completed and we understood what could be achieved, Arun spent a lot more time organising our savings and pension funds to ensure financial tax efficiency. We were happy to appoint Arun based upon initial discussions as his extensive knowledge and flexible approach was precisely what we needed. Although we are relatively young, Arun has also provided within the financial planning advice a route for provision for our children. This is another tick in the box.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Having made the commitment in March 2016, we knew that we were potentially entering into a period of market volatility. To date our investments have performed far in excess of expectations (although we appreciate that this is not guaranteed). We are also pleased with being able to access and view our portfolio on line at any time. This gives us a direct window to our investment without having to go via a third party.

What could they have done better?

Honestly; Arun covered off all our requirements and is helping us to generate wealth from our investments. We appreciate that we are in this for the long term and again, Arun explained clearly that market performance is based over time and not for dipping in and out of and we allocated funds on this basis, leaving ourselves sufficient for "rainy days" in the first year or so. As outsiders we find the financial market is full of jargon that is unfamiliar to those not in the industry. Without wishing to appear nieve of such terminology it may be useful for both parties to have a summary jargon-buster (for the industry outsiders, to understand and refer back to, for the industry professionals, not having to repeat themselves so often, which must get frustrating).

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Arun was very helpful. He got back to me really quickly and gave me good, solid and honest advice.

Review from verified client

February, 2016

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

It had become apparent that I had significant funds that were not generating income. I felt it was advisable to do something about this. I also wanted to advice on whether an early retirement would be financially viable.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun arranged for a number of "risky" equity ISA to be transfers into a single "safer" fund from which a retirement income could be taken when appropriate. We also had discussions regarding the divestment of directly held stocks and shares to reduce the expose to stock market fluctuations.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I believe it is too early at this point to say whether the conversion has been successful, although I agree with the underlying reasons.

Review from verified client

February, 2016

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Utilisation of severance payment and pension advice.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun provided clear and practical advice in a supportive, friendly atmosphere.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The Stock Market suffered a downturn at the beginning of this year so my investments showed a 4% loss when taking into account the initial set-up charges. However, I am confident that recovery on the market should demonstrate positive results later in the year.

What could they have done better?

Arun cannot be faulted in terms of support and advice. Naturally I am anxious to see some positive returns on my investments but realise that the financial market is subject to fluctuation so will remain patient for the time-being.

Review from verified client

February, 2016

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Primarily to look at my separate personal and company pensions built over the last 30 years and to garage options for any change ( consolidation, for example).

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun reviewed my pension and financial status and proposed changes for the future / things to consider.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes and we are now reviewing my wife's pensions and also insurance / protection as my job status has changed over last year ( perm employee to own ltd co).

What could they have done better?

Honestly, Arun's approach, availability and proposals were all excellent and therefore I feel there was nothing missing from the process.

Review from verified client

February, 2016

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was due to retire and needed financial advise in understanding which was the best option available to me.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun explained the various options , and went in detail as to the benefits of each option.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It's early days yet, the markets will pick up in the future when I should see the benefits of the pension I chose.

What could they have done better?

Not really I am happy with my chose of pension

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Arun was very helpful, knowledgeable and patient. I will definitely be using him again in the future

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Arun was very informative and answered all the questions we had. Nothing was too much trouble and he spent as much time as needed to guide us through various options at a provisional stage.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2015

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Arun seems thorough on a topic that I know little about.

Review from verified client

July, 2015

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

pending early retirement.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun was extremely helpful in helping to explain the options we had and advising on a clear strategy for the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We have completed the transfers without and problems, it is a little early to tell how our investments will preform but if they do a well as the track record over the last few years then we will be very pleased.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

July, 2015

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We originally looked for advise from an inheritance advise company. We were not at all happy with the advise or the cost we received from the original comany and during the process of receiving the first part of advise we contacted an independant adviser, Mr Cook.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

He came to our house for several face to face meetings over an extended period to determine our particular circumstances. He gave us progressive advise based on our wants and needs in a professional and informed way, but explained the ooptions in plain language.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Mr Cook is in the process of setting up the recomendations he suggested, some of which are currently complete.

What could they have done better?

None that we can think of. If Mr Cook continues in the same manner as in our meetings I believe he and his company will deliver a very good financial servise to his clients.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2015

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Our meeting was very helpful Arun explained everything well and allowed us to make informed decisions.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

June, 2015

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Very helpful & freely giving of his time to cover all matters being discussed.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was looking for advice regarding my stakeholder and work pension, and ISA.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

We discussed my incoming and outgoing finances, my situation with regard to impending retirement, and how best to consolidate my investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am about to leave my employment having taken early retirement, so am still receiving my salary at present. It will be a month or so before I know whether this is sufficient to cover my needs.

What could they have done better?

Arun was very helpful, I can't think of anything that he could have done better.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Retirement planning.

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Pension advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

May, 2015

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun was polite, friendly & knowledgeable and provided a high level of advice. He made a difficult subject (financial markets & investments) fairly easy to understand, and he clearly displays in depth expertise in his chosen field. We appreciated his patience, & his recommendations were sensible and appropriate for our needs, particularly in regard to my imminent retirement. Overall, a positive experience, & we look forward to enjoying a professional & rewarding experience with Arun over the coming years.

Review from verified client

May, 2015

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

I found Arun very helpful indeed. He went through all the options making sure I understood the implications of my decisions.

What could they have done better?

I don't have anything to add here at this time.

Review from verified client

May, 2015

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

First class knowledge; great attention to detail; explained the options very clearly.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun is the first financial adviser I have used. I now wish that I had found him earlier. He has helped me considerably in finding suitable investments for my personal pensions and ISA's and in taking some initial steps in inheritance planning. I now feel much happier about my financial strategy for the future. I have always found his advice to be useful and I am confident that he puts his clients interest first.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun is straightforward in explaining the investments that are most suitable for me, he clearly outlines the benefits and disadvantages of speciflic markets. I trust Arun, my portfolio returns have met and exceeded my expectations.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun dedicated an afternoon to really understanding our attitude to money, our individual circumstances and our wishes and plans for the future before offering any advice, which we were very impressed with. He also left us with some longer term questions to consider. We did not feel pressurised in any way and the advice given feels right for us. Arun is always available to answer questions.

What could they have done better?

We are very happy with the service provided by Arun. Some of the advice relates to medium/long term investments, so more time is needed before we could comment on their performance.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

On all 4 occasions Arun came to our house. He was very friendly, approachable and reassuring. He knew his subject well and answered all our questions. He took time to answer our questions and did not give any sense of being in a hurry. I was assuming one hour but he was OK to carry on. He says we can phone anytime. This is a much better service than a one hour meeting or phone call per year with my previous provider. He had put our funds and aspirations in financial planning software which was helpful.

What could they have done better?

The four visits were within 6 months. This was a start up visit for me plus a visit to sign papers. The same two for my wife. Though his fees are lower than my previous provider, I still need to understand the level of fees against the governments attempts to make fees more transparent and financial papers continually warning that fund management fees are too high.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun always responds quickly to email or telephone. He is always well prepared for our meetings and explains subjects clearly and is very knowledgeable and able to translate complex and detailed financial detail in an easy to understand way. His communication skills are excellent he listens well is patient in answering queries and has a very calm manner which gives confidence and trust in his advice. His qualifications and experience clearly comes through his ability to answer our questions and explain subjects very well.

What could they have done better?

We feel lucky to have found Arun and the time he has given us to set up income draw down pensions. The arrangement is to review our plans annually. Whilst he is always available on email or phone maybe he could ensure he proactively contacts us during the year to just see how we feel the investments are performing....We are struggling to come up with anything as a constructive suggestion.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun provides comprehensive and detailed advice on all pension options. He advises on tax implications and spouse benefits. He provides detailed financial examples of all the options and spends time discussing in depth the option which may be most suitable dependant on circumstances.

What could they have done better?

Difficult to find anything which Arun could do better. Communication is always timely. Information provided cuts through the jargon and enables internet research to be more understandable and relevant.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun explains things very clearly, keeps in regular contact. Is very punctual for any meetings we have. And we trust his advice.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2015

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Very informative. Discussed various options. Waiting for written proposal.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2014

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Did not offer a free 1 hr consultation

Arun's reply

Dear Elaine Thanks for taking the time to leave feedback. I am quite surprised by the feedback however, based on our conversation. When I asked how I could help, you explained that you thought you had made an enquiry via the Government's free guidance service. I explained that this service hadn't yet launched and that VouchedFor is a service to help consumers select a Financial Adviser. You explained that you already had a Financial Adviser and that you were very happy with him. I spent 20 minutes on the phone with you and explained the pros and cons of savings versus pension contributions but explained that I could not provide full advice without having full information regarding your overall financial circumstances. We both agreed that as your existing Financial Adviser has this information (and you want to remain with him) that you would seek advice from him. I am therefore quite surprised that you have given me 2/5 as I gave you lots of information (that you thanked me for) and seemed very happy with our conversation. I feel that I provided as much help as was possible in the circumstances and thought you were very happy (you certainly did not give any negative feedback at the time.) I did not charge anything for my time so feel it is slightly unfair that I can be marked down for not giving transparent costs. Kind Regards Arun

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2014

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Arun provided a thorough appraisal and listened to our thoughts and gave a detailed ananysis.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2014

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Very informative and gave explained everything clearly.

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

With my retirement looming I was overwhelmed at the prospect of having to find the best deal available. I tip toed onto a site offering advice and struck gold when contacted by Arun. He was incredibly patient and knowledgable about the different options and talked me through everything. I never felt under pressure and now have a much better deal than was offered by other companies.

What could they have done better?

I honestly can't think of anything

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun took time and effort to explain pros and cons of pension investment in an easily understandable way, all charges were explained at initial meeting and after the first years trading came through as agreed, pension investment performed well and being able to view it online at any time is very useful. All in all very pleased with service provided by Arun .

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

I intended to sort my own pension, but Arun was able to get a better deal even allowing for his expenses

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Prompt responses. Good listener. Clear and helpful advice.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2013

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

I was impressed by Arun but in the end decided to use someone else's services

Review from verified client

August, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun was very patient and took the time to make sure all requirements were covered, both in the short and long term. He made the necessary appointments in a timely manner and was extremely good with follow up information. I would highly recommend him.

What could they have done better?

I really cannot think of anything

Review from verified client

July, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

This man takes the time to understand what your needs are and then provides the appropriate advice. (Very much unlike previous bank employed advisers.) I have been 100% satisfied with Arun's service, and look forward to the next stage of our planning in the autumn. Highly recommended; no pressure just sensible advice. Ray Topple 07445 333621

What could they have done better?

1005 happy with the advice and the service.

Review from verified client

July, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Very responsive and both during visit and on the telphone took time to explain carefully. Ensured I was aware of the decisions I was taking. Whole process worked seemlessly. I would recommend Arun.

What could they have done better?

The fee felt expensiive on finding a better deal for my annuity but in reality may have reflected the market rate. Certainly if you attempt to check the market yourself you may risk not finding the best deal and there are exit and joining fees which mitigate the cost of employing an advisor. If you factor in the comfort of the whole process being taken off your shoulders together with the resultant enhanced rate then the cost is justified.

Review from verified client

July, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun is a very good communicator listens well and able to explain information with clarity Our first meeting Arun had already sent me background information on Fairey Associates and explained his role and the company clearly Arun is very responsive to calls and emails Arun is clearly very knowledgeable on Income drawdown options the subject I was seeking advice on Arun provides good examples to back up his explanations Arun is very thorough and good at running through all the necessary processes and completing forms etc Arun demonstrates he has up to date knowledge of markets rules and procedures and communciates these clearly and ease to understand

What could they have done better?

Overall difficult to come up with much!....keep doing the same Arun recognises he is providing a service to customers in the complex financial services market...just needs to ensure he keeps up to date and finger on the pulse...but he and Fairey seem to achieve this very well already

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

June, 2013

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Arun was very proffessional, had certain experience in enhanced anuities

Review from verified client

June, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

After trying to deal direct with companies to arrange an annuty ,I contacted Arun and received a far better deal.

Review from verified client

June, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

I received full and comprehensive advice on all matters concerning my private pension plan. The final arrangements were most satisfactory and I am more than happy with the service provided.

What could they have done better?

Nothing to suggest.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2013

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Arun was very friendly and on time for appointment also clear about his charges. He took time to explain everything making sure he had a good background knowledge of our personal circumstances in order to make sure he could tailor the right pension advice

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2013

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Arun

Review from verified client

April, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun kept his appointments, fulfilled his timescales and adequately explained the transfer of my pension fund from Aviva to Transact, together with the consequences of doing so.

What could they have done better?

N/A

Review from verified client

April, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Very quick to respond to emails and messages. Very helpful in making suggestions beyond what I have requested.

Review from verified client

April, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Explains in detail with no pressure. Very helpful and informative. Prompt and very professional.

Review from verified client

April, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

I had been anxious about the impending reams of paperwork you expect from the personal pension company as I was approaching my 60th birthday. I thought I'd have a try at going online and see what's best. Fairey Associates looked favouraite and in no time at all Arun gave me a call. I was impressed by his manner in explaining the choices I had. He was prompt in informing me of the options in monitery terms and advised me accordingly for my particular circumstances. When he visited my home he was punctual, smartly dressed and went through the appropriate paperwork in a patient manner so that I fully understood his advice.

What could they have done better?

My dealings with Arun have been to a highly professional level and I can't think of any advise to the better.

Review from verified client

March, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun has advised us for approximately 10 years now and he has continued to advise us even after our move to Shropshire. His advice and planning allowed us to retire earlier than expected and his knowledge of investments and financial markets is excellent. Arun always responds very quickly to our queries and has guided us through some pretty tough ups and downs in the markets.

What could they have done better?

Can`t think of any areas for improvement. We are very pleased with all he has done for us.

Review from verified client

March, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Responded to all our enquiries efficiently and with clear, easy to understand explanations. Able to communicte in a friendly but informative way. We did not feel rushed in any of our appointment sessions. Reliable and punctual for appointments. Demonstrated a very good knowledge of current financial markets and showed a diligent commitment to his role as financial advisor without being in any way patronising.

What could they have done better?

In order to identify any improvements needed, we need to allow more time for further dealings and evaluate the future performances of our inivestments. In the relatively short time we have worked with Arun, we have been extremely satisfied.

Review from verified client

March, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

As a complete novice to planning for retirement and also being in a poor financial situation, Arun showed patience and politeness in explaining the initially complex structure of a pension portfolio. I also felt trust, a very important aspect of not just his professionalism but his overall personal touch. He showed clarity of guidance.

What could they have done better?

Predict the future? To be honest I am ignorant of the world of financial planning and therefore could not give an accurate answer.

Review from verified client

March, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

I found the advice given to me was Clear, friendly and useful from the start leading to better pension for myself.

What could they have done better?

Slightly faster in getting the final statements

Review from verified client

March, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun offered ideas for meeting venues, we decided on my home this was very good. After a prelimary interview he followed up quickly with a range of different relevant financial choices with concise pros and cons for solution outcomes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of, but I will be a returning customer - so maybe something will show up then.

Review from verified client

March, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Understood our needs and concerns about our finances as a newly retired couple. Took us through our options without any pressure and explained what was likely to be the best way forward for us. Was happy to answer all our question no matter how naive.

Review from verified client

March, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

I have only been with Arun for about 6 months, so cannot evaluate 'value' yet. I have had the confidence to ask Arun to deal with my wife's finances, who is new to this arena, and has different criteria to mine. Both my wife and I find Arun very explanatory, gentle in his approach and is clearly willing to spend time to make sure that we have no questions unanswered, and has been helpful with other matters not directly related to the immediate subject. At no time have we felt preasured in any way, but Arun's responses have been quick and good. We hope to continue with Arun.

What could they have done better?

A better photo on this page !

Review from verified client

March, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Discussed my alternatives, highlighted pro's and con's, established my attitude to risk, searched or the most favourable Annuity quotes in the marketplace, guided me to an "enhanced" annuity baed on health record. Remained in contact without being "pushy" , frequent enough, but not too much so.

What could they have done better?

For my requirements, the approach and execution of the transaction was just right, I am irritated by over zealous "sales pitches", but never felt pressurised in any way.

Review from verified client

March, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Find Arun very professional, helpful and efficient in handling my queries. I wouldn't hesitate to contact him should I need advice on any other finanical situation that might arise in the future

Review from verified client

March, 2013

How has Arun Cooke helped you?

Arun is approachable, makes himself available, is well informed and doesn't mind me asking questions he may already have answered! I haved found his advice to be understandable and explanations are well paced.

What could they have done better?

It is early days for me to have development points for Arun. At the moment I have no issues to report.