Aled Phillips

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Increasingly complex personal and business finances. A desire to organise and plan robustly for the future of myself and my family.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled has taken great care to fully understand my financial position and the needs of my family. Having really understood this, he has sensitively handled effective planning around my goals.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcome i am looking for will develop over time and i feel confident that, with Aled and his team's help, my objectives will be met.

What could they have done better?

Very little! Aled and his team are personable, professional, efficient and sensitive to their clients' needs. They execute the job of financial planning and advice with great humanity, which is a real difference to others i have worked with in the past.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Planning to take early retirement

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Help and advice throughout the process

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I am completely satisfied with the service that Aled has provided

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

We were introduced to Aled during the sale of our business

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled has given us continual support since we met at the start of 2022. He offered support prior to the sale of our business regarding appropriate financial investments and has been on hand ever since to answer any questions that we may have.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely

What could they have done better?

We’re happy as things are, and wouldn’t change anything

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

As a family, we were looking for some one who would be able to bridge the generations and would be able to help educate my children in the ways of financial planning.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled has been excellent at looking at each of our circumstances and needs now and going forward. He took time to really get to know us and get under the skin of our financial positions, he has really listened to what we are saying. Aled has given each of us bespoke options in future financial planning and has helped execute these options quickly and efficiently.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We are still in the early days of our planning, I am confident that we will achieve what we are hoping for, this is due to the excellent planning and modelling that Aled has done for us.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Previously a client of St James’s Place but was disappointed with their performance and very high charges.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Was introduced to Aled through a third party and he was very helpful in explaining the differences between how his company works compared to SJP. I was impressed at how he was happy to spend as much time with us as we wanted without being at all pushy. He introduced us to Tatton who now look after our investments and also introduced us to a very good solicitors who are helping us update our wills. Aled and his associate Chloe are always available and very quick to answer any queries.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. The financial market has been difficult but our investments seem to be performing better than most.

What could they have done better?

N/A

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

I had retired & had a financial adviser but for various reasons I was looking to change advisers to help me in making financial decisions and to understand all aspects of pensions & investments.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

I have received clear and timely advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have.

What could they have done better?

Not much!

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

I had been disappointed with the service provided by a number of advisers over the years. I wanted an adviser who would listen to my needs and wishes and would put a structure in place to reflect them rather than push me down one of their standard investment pathways. Aled was recommended to me by someone I trust.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He has structured my investments in a more logical manner. He has introduced me to new investment ideas which have helped to get me to where I want to be.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

I wanted an independent financial advisor to advise on Pension planning but also more generally across all areas of wealth management. There are a number of reasons I chose Aled, he is independent and therefore can advise across a large range of products without bias, has significant experience in working with high-net-worth individuals, is extremely knowledgeable and well qualified, focuses on the financial planning aspects and outsources investment management to experts in this field and has a reasonable charging structure which is based on an annual fee, not a percentage fee.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled has advised me both on pension planning and overall wealth management strategies.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am in my second year of working with Aled, and yes already starting to see the strategy deliver.

What could they have done better?

Very little, Aled has always been extremely responsive to any queries I have had and I always feel satisfied and informed with his replys

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

I needed help with my pensions any a friend who a senior executive in weath management, recommended Aled

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled has help consolidate and organise my pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes absolutely

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

As I moved closer to retirement I wanted the benefit of more expertise as I had historically made my own financial decisions in relation to my pension portfolio.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He has provided clear advice on my situation and given greater confidence on my long term financial status.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes despite a clearly turbulent market.

What could they have done better?

Nothing...Aled and his team are very attentive and make the complicated understandable.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Looking for a house and to resolve some business cash transfers

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Personal advice, modelling and general help

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Wanting to get our affairs in order for inheritance tax planning and future proofing.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Advice and implementation. He’s been brilliant.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes and we continue to see it.

What could they have done better?

Nothing as yet

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Aled

I found to this point in time October 2022, very professional and honest.

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

Even as a chartered accountant (so hopefully I am pretty okay with numbers etc ) and several poor experiences with so called "Financial Advisors" and their respective employers I decided to manage my funds and investment strategy myself .I succeeded in doing this for many years ,however, as one gets older estate and financial planning ,pensions and IHT become more of a necessity and with the changing legislation etc I felt it would be more appropriate to consider alternative specialist expertise.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

I am confident based on "Actions" not corporate client rhetoric I believe Aled and his team are demonstrating their expertise and I am pleased that I made the change. Based upon my experience and recommendation I have introduced Aled to my family and in due course friends for their consideration and engagement

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

At the moment I would say Yes.

What could they have done better?

There is always room for continuous improvement for us all .I believe these basic principles are reflected with the syce of Niche and Aled as part of their respective development and growth.

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

I decided to sell my final salary pension for a lump sum amount which has been invested into the stock market

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He has advised me along the way and determined where is the best place to invest the money

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is very early days so no specific outcomes are apparent yet

What could they have done better?

There is nothing that they could have done better

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

I am a professional deputy and manage the financial affairs of a number of individuals who are unable to make decisions for themselves. Aled was recommended

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He has advised in connection with investments and financial planning for several of my clients where the funds where cash flow and long-term planning has been essential

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - the service i have recieved has been exceptional and the advice sound and cost effective

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

Mortgage requirements and investment advice

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled has provided invaluable assistance in connection with the investment of my pension, ISAs and mortgage requirements.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

N/A

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

For a more personal and proactive approach

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Streamlined investments in a tax efficient way.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Due to uk and global circumstances no.

What could they have done better?

Under current circumstances, nothing.

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

I found myself in a position where I was in control of some sums of money and didn't really know what the best thing was to do. Aled and his team took me through step by step of the the whole process, nothing was too much to ask.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

he has helped me a variety of different ways throughout this process, sometimes just explaining things to me and other times by showing me the process be it remotely and or in person.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I think in this current volatile climate yes.

What could they have done better?

nothing

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

We had quite a single market investment portfolio Aled helped us spread it over a number of different areas of investment

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He explains everything perfectly and his knowledge is second to none . He not just helps us but also our clients

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Not at this stage

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

I work in the personal injury sector with seriously injured people who need their funds to last them for life. I had been looking for an independent ethical advisor for some time as I was disappointed with previous advisers that I had dealt with. I was put in touch with him via a financial deputy I work with and I haven’t looked back since !!

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He had made my working life a lot easier and of course, I now use him personally in all my financial dealings.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

He has taken the mystery out of finances and convinced my husband to invest ( as he would have easily left his lump sum pension under his bed if he could ). We are financially much better off because of Aled. I wish I had met him sooner !

What could they have done better?

Nothing! He is personable and you just know when you’re with a safe pair of hands

Review from verified client

August, 2022

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

Sold business in July 2021.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Cashflow planning. Tax efficient investments, general advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

November, 2021

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

Our family's portfolio is diverse and quite complicated and we are looking for an income to be produced from this portfolio and without the right advice this is very difficult to do without getting swamped in fees, not to mention the know-how needed to do so. We have had several financial advisors but we have never been as happy with any of them as we are with Aled. We are also looking for a solution where the fees were manageable and fixed, which Aled has delivered.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Whilst he worked with my Dad and I for a couple of years, Aled helped us through a traumatic time after his sudden passing in 2020. On top of the family's grief, the situation was very complicated and overwhelming, as we are not from a financial background and Dad kept his affairs very much to himself and had all kinds of trusts and things of that nature that we did not understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Quite frankly, I'm not sure how we would have got through it without Aled.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Wanted to transfer an old pension and release some cash, my usual financial advisor wasn’t licenced to do this and recommended Aled to us

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He helped me to decide if transferring the pension was the best thing to do and explained all the options. He then arranged the transfer and the reinvestment of the capital

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing, they’ve been excellent and very helpful at every step

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Planning for retirement.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Clarified my future financial pension planning, centralised my savings and investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Retirement

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Good advice about how to take an income from my DC pensions. Consolidated various pensions into a single fund and set up regular payments. Ongoing reviews and advice on fund performance, one off payments etc.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Wanted someone to help me understand what I would have when I retire and keep an eye on my investments.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Produced a life time cashflow to help understand how my cash position would change over time and when I could choose to retire. He is also now managing the investments in my pension.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I am happy with the returns to date and have more piece of mind having confidence in my financial position when I retire.

What could they have done better?

Nothing so far

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Considered that I was not receiving sufficient advice and guidance from previous financial adviser for the charges levied and further my previous pension policy was performing badly compared with other schemes.Aled came to me with strong recommendations

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Helped to find a suitable place for my pension pot and spent much time reviewing my objectives once retired and how they could be best achieved.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The investments appear well placed,but will need further time to review performance based on regular financial reviews

What could they have done better?

Nothing further at this stage

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

I was approaching retirement age.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled set out a range of plausible cash flow scenarios/ retirement income outcomes and aligned my pension portfolio to deliver the preferred outcome.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The portfolio is performing in line with expectations.

What could they have done better?

Nothing springs to mind. The team, not just Aled, are helpful and responsive.

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Poverty

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Great advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Early days

What could they have done better?

Dyed his hair grey to give him an older more authoritative look.

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

I switched from another IFA. I was concerned about fees at the investor Charles Stanley and the percentage cut my IFA was taking. Aled was recommended and I was attracted by the modern approach, fixed annual fee and use of technology.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled transferred funds from my previous provider seamlessly. He transferred funds from another pension fund to my main account. He introduced me and my wife to the fund manager and ensured we fully understood our options. He reacted swiftly to my input and requests while advising about possible outcomes.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have been with Aled for a short period of time. I expect the fund to outperform my previous provider, but if it performs the same the fund will still be better off by several hundred thousand pounds due to lower fees.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Both personally and professionally I have a need for financial advice around pensions, savings and mortgages.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled was able to advise me personally and he has worked with a number of my clients to provide financial planning advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Two years ago I had to work out if it suited my aspirations to cash in my British Gas pension or not

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled and his team provided comprehensive information on the pros and cons so that I could make an informed decision.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I have been very pleased with the outcome and the ongoing support

What could they have done better?

A hard one, I am completely satisfied with the service provided

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Coming up to retirement age

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He reviewed my existing pension which was managed by myself with Hargreaves Lansdown and decided this was not the way forward. My son works for Sarasin a private bank and investment house who works with Aled .

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - all my investments have gone up in value

What could they have done better?

Nothing - everything is going according to plan

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Decision to take pension CETV or not

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Clear, balanced presentation of options to allow decision making

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes so far

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of anything other than I would like cost of advice to be lower but I’m not sure that would be fair given current financial turmoil

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

After 30 years of managing my portfolio I wanted to look at less risk options and my pension

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

We discussed the volatility of my portfolio, what my aspirations were for the future ,investment options, my defined benefit pension options and long term tax planning .

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet

What could they have done better?

Nothing really Niche were an excellent team.

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Long term planning of asset allocation to provide for income on eventual retirement

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled has been very helpful guiding me through alternative scenarios and different investment strategies

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Early days yet but looking promising

What could they have done better?

Nothing really

Review from verified client

June, 2021

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

Wanting to group various pension plans into one

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Advised me on how to do this, helped me understand my risk appetite, gave me various options for different providers and helped me decide which was the best one for my circumstances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely! I now have clarity on where my money is invested, how it is performing on a daily basis, total transparency with all charges and I have a person I can talk to and discuss matters.

What could they have done better?

Advised me that the phasing in could take some time.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Aled

Polite and clear information provided.

Review from verified client

January, 2021

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

Retirement planning and windfall investment planning.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled was particularly helpful in guiding me through the complexities of investment planning in clear, easy-to-understand language. Aled is a very good listener!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far, very happy.

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

Repatriating from 10 Years Overseas, and needing to consolidate pensions/investments; long-term financial planning.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled provided advice on consolidating pensions, VCTs, investing into pensions out of my Ltd Co, and setting up a portfolio to support my future financial goals; alongside the Niche team Aled continues to provide ongoing support, investment advice and tax-efficient investment strategies.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Despite the obvious market turmoil my investments have performed strongly against the market benchmark and cost of advice has been competitive and reasonable (compared to previous [well-known] financial advisors and other industry players.

What could they have done better?

At this stage Aled/Niche has more than met expectations; genuinely nothing to complain about at this stage of our relationship.

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

A full review of my finances

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Long term financial planning, consolidated my pension and ISA accounts into a secure platform with 24/7 viewing access.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

All funds have now been fully invested into a pension and ISA portfolios, good return on investments until the covid 19 pandemic, thankfully the current investments are slowly showing signs of returning to pre covid returns.

What could they have done better?

Aled and Niche kept me informed all the way through the investment transfer process.

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

Having sold our business in 2009 and retired after a three year tie in up to 2012 and after living off savings until 2019 it was time to seek specialist advice regarding my three separate pension funds, my personal investments and remaining savings with a view to structuring a plan to consolidate my pensions and commence some draw-down income strategy. I decided that I wanted to commence dialogue with a proven, Chartered Financial Adviser about my financial future and although I had meetings with a few such advisers, Aled shone above the rest both in terms of his knowledge and industriousness together with his holistic vision of all financial considerations, and a very amiable professional that was able to explain things in great detail. I am additionally comforted by the fact that Niche Financial Planning are a successful, dynamic operation that engage with their clients on a regular and extremely well informed basis.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled presented my wife and I with a full summary of our financial standing as it was today and a forward strategy of transferring pensions and savings into a chosen platform. This plan then demonstrated where, after a draw-down income being taken, how the remaining invested funds would continue to create the required yield to sustain future requirements and in so doing, gave us a full Drawings v Yield Cash Flow analysis over the short, medium and longer term.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Along comes Covid 19 and the gains enjoyed from the middle of 2019 were completely erased and indeed, the initial investments took a hard hit early on in March 2020. Aled and Niche's recommendation along with Lothar Mentel from Tatton gave sound advice to sit tight and today the investments have now regained their initial value and are showing a modest increase which I think is particularly commendable given the voracity a pandemic can create on financial markets. Although still early days in terms of the future, I have every confidence in the fact that my financial standing is safe and secure in extremely capable hands.

What could they have done better?

Aled has been superb throughout. An early hiccup with Aviva where reviewing investments online was, shall we say, intermittent, Aled took up the challenge and sorted the situation to our full satisfaction. My interaction with Aled is always good and I would have to say, he could not have done anything better.

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

A relatively large sum of money became available from the sale of a house.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled was able to outline the process he would use to support our investment and gave us excellent recommendations for where our money should be allocated. He always responds to queries very quickly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Although the money has only been invested for a short period, the investment has made a modest profit overall in difficult times.

What could they have done better?

The Aviva platform that is used can be difficult to access.

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

I was approaching retirement and needed advice on a number of matters, mainly: Pension Transfer, Business Disposal and CGT, investment advice and in the long term, IHT planning

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

The long term financial planning has been helpful and has introduced me to strategies and tax planning concepts that I hadn't considered before. What has added particular value is the introduction to Niche's DFM solution and the expertise that this offers. This is sourced at reasonable cost and from firms who offer expertise in the traditional sense but also fresh thinking.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

From a planning point of view yes. Its too early on the investment side of things as I'm yet to complete my pension transfer and other investments but I'm optimistic of the long term outcome.

What could they have done better?

Aled and Niche's success has led to a growing client base. So, my only suggestion is to make sure resources keep pace with this growth, and preferably get ahead of the curve, to make sure client service standards are kept at a high level.

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

I was unhappy with the service and performance I received under my previous adviser/fund manager

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled advised on my options and then assisted in transferring my funds to a secure platform with high performing fund managers.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Due to the COVID pandemic, it is hard to judge, however, I am confident that my funds have been managed in such a way to reduce any negative impact

What could they have done better?

Nothing in particular

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

The lead up to retirement and inheritance planning.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled provided a cashflow forecast for the next 30 years, allowing us to decide at what point we can retire, and how to use our monies available being mindful of inheritance tax planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

We are very happy with Aled's approach, and are only sorry that due to Covid we could not hold our meetings in person. Once we got our heads around the jargon, all was well. But Aled was available readily to answer our questions fully and we really appreciated it.

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

My portfolios getting larger,& spending more & more time researching, investing with mixed results

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Understanding what I was looking for,(steady growth) & tax efficient,with acceptable risk

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Under the present circumstances,with the volatile stock market /Fluctuating currencies & low interest rates,I feel we’ve held our own & possibly made a small gain

What could they have done better?

Of course in these unprecedentedly times some decisions in hindsight will (as I suspect with most advisers) feel wrong, but generally I feel my adviser has given good & unbiased advise & we’ve certainly held our own & have even made a slight gain

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

The sale of our business.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He put an investment plan together that provided for our tax-efficient financial security.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

The sale of my business and impending retirement

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled advised on all aspects of investing a significant lump sum as well as dealing with IHT matters, pension arrangements and via Aled advise on wills, probate and tax.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Definitely - everything has been extremely well managed and the early returns (6 months in) are in line with expectations in a volatile market

What could they have done better?

The distribution of cash funds across multiple accounts was probably not worth it as it puts too much work on the client, but we have successflly navigated this with Aled's help

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

Redundancy

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

By managing my DB pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing . He is 100%

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Aled

Professional, user friendly and honest.

Review from verified client

January, 2020

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

Transfer pension from employer defined benefit scheme to SIPP.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled provided a comprehensive suitability assessment and advised on SIPP provider / fund managers.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Funds fully invested without incident or delay. Acceptable performance to date.

What could they have done better?

A more critical comparison of potential fund managers would have been helpful. Manager fees were on the high end of expectations but my priority was flexibility to move, based on overall performance. We are reviewing this together now.

Review from verified client

January, 2020

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

I had surplus income and needed some investment advice.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

I had been a client of SJP’s where I was comfortable with their model or charges so Aled helped me review my existing portfolio and advised where to reinvest. He has also helped with my business profit extraction and financial planning for retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It’s early days but so far I have been very impressed.

What could they have done better?

N/A

Review from verified client

January, 2020

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

Exploring the opportunity to transfer my final salary pension to a SIPP

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Initial advice and then looked after the pension transfer process

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes my pension fund is steadily increasing

What could they have done better?

I’m happy with all services provided to date

Review from verified client

January, 2020

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

We needed to seriously start thinking about what retirement could look like for us.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Our objective was to establish our current financial position by bringing everthing into one review. This was to enable us to access our retirement options and potential income. Plus also to give us great visibility and control over our investments. All of this has been achieved with the help and advice provided by Aled. We have also been able to access investment platforms that we did not know existed that have already provided improved growth. We have also benefited from significantly reduced management charges which is a very welcome bonus. We now feel we have a clear financial plan backed up with expert & flexibile financial planning support.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. We now have greater visibility of our investments and we are able to monitor developments and make decisions far more easily and with more appropriate information and understanding of the information we are being provided. We also have the security of knowing our position will be reviewed far more regulary enabling us to react to market conditions.

What could they have done better?

We have been very pleased with the service and support provided and look forward positively to the future knowing we have a strong & well thoughtout financial plan in place.

Review from verified client

January, 2020

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

Pension Transfer

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He gave me unbiased advice and let me plan for my retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, a turbulent first year has been followed by the expected results.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2019

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Aled

Met with Aled and Matthew who gave more time than expected at our first meeting which was excellent allowing my wife and I time to consider our options. They made us feel very comfortable due to their informal style while being extremely efficient at presenting various scenarios using some very useful software. We are both very grateful for their time and will definitely be following up with their services.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2019

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Aled

I met with Aled to discuss pension and investment options. I found him friendly, knowledgeable and extremely professional. He gave impartial advice and was absolutely transparent about Niche, himself and the services they could provide. I have no hesitation in recommending Aled to anyone seeking a Financial Adviser

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2019

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Aled

Aled was very prompt in making contact, I felt at ease immediately not only with his professional & open approach, but also his ability to explain in a transparent manner, the process in regard to my requirements for expert pension advice.

Review from verified client

August, 2019

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

Early retirement

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

As a result of a few health issues and the opportunity for a change in lifestyle I researched the opportunity for early retirement. The contact at our Company pension provider had recently moved on so I looked online for alternatives. Having made initial contact with Aled making it clear I was in enquiry mode, we arranged an initial meeting. Aled was extremely relaxed and willing to discuss my situation without any pressure or obligation. Aled was among two or three I had contacted and outlined our situation and plans for the future, I was impressed with Aled`s approach and initial discussions at this enquiry stage, he was prompt with his follow up information and impressed me with his genuine interest in understanding our needs considering our intentions to retire early. Having been more than comfortable with his approach during those initial conversations we chose Aled to provide us with more in depth information based on a more detailed assessment of our circumstances and the costs involved. Aled asked detailed questions on our appetite to risk, clarified a number of points before providing more detailed information and we felt he was working at a pace we could both understand and digest in order to make effective decisions on our future. Aled assisted us through the final documentary process and our Pension provision were in place within a few weeks allowing us to concentrate on our lifestyle change. The manner in which Aled conducted himself throughout the process, the pace at which he worked and the detailed information he provided enabling us to make critical financial decisions for our future, we would have no hesitation recommending Aled to other clients looking to make similar decisions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is still work in progress.

What could they have done better?

Aled was upfront & informative, we continue to have ongoing communication as part of the lifestyle planning process.

Review from verified client

August, 2019

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

I was hoping to take early retirement and needed professional help to look at my portfolio and help me determine if I could achieve my goal.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled was recommended to me by a good friend. I needed an IFA to assist me with retirement and pensions planning. I was immediately impressed with Aled's professionalism, he is also a very affable individual who makes you feel at ease and gives you confidence through his obvious knowledge and thorough, but easy to understand, explanations of the best options available to you. He appears very honest and open and I feel he has my best interests at heart and I would thoroughly recommend him.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely. I am currently working my notice, have reduced to part-time working to get me ready for retirement within the next few months.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really.......Aled was available whenever I contacted him, kept me informed all the way through the initial process and made life easy for me !

Review from verified client

May, 2019

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

I had recently been recommended to Aled after being dissatisfied with previous financial advisors due to feeling that I was being overcharged for poor performing funds.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled spent a considerable time assessing my financial position and finding out what I was hoping to achieve and then explaining to me the different options available and the reasons why these could be of benefit . Aled instantly put me at ease with his courteous and polite manner and did not put me under any pressure to invest in any particular portfolio. Aled was extremely organised and punctual always contacting me on time in order to up-date me with developments. If I had any queries or needed any further advice Aled always responded very quickly to my telephone calls/e-mails.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have not been invested for a full year in a portfolio since my intial contact with Aled last summer, but I can say that to this present time, I am very satisfied with the service being given. I feel that my investments are well managed and I look to the future with confidence that they will achieve the financial stability that I am hoping for.

Review from verified client

May, 2019

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

Review of my pensions

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Reinvesting two pensions on a better platform.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Still going through the process but absolutely seemless so far.

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of one thing.

Review from verified client

May, 2019

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

Pending early retirement. Investment planning Tax efficiency

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

I spent a long time researching for a chartered company that could advise me on my very specific retirement and investment needs. having spent 30+yrs in banking as Director for Wales, I am well aware of the pitfalls of poor advice. If you think paying for a professional is expensive....try using an amateur!!!! Great advice, good service, customer centric, compliant, and easy to deal with.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Most definitely

What could they have done better?

Being a busy professional, Aled is not always able to answer the phone immediately. He never fails to return my calls however. Always same day

Review from verified client

May, 2019

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

My investments were with a large national firm. I found that the return on my investments were poor and the charges made by them were very high. Mr Philips was recommended to me.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

We are 80 and 79 years old. We have a son who will need to have his future finances and housing planned for him. Aled Phillips looked at the investments in place and found them contrary to our future requirements. he explained the situation every step of the way.He re arranged the whole strategy.At our request is in contact with our other son, who will be looking out for his brothers finances when we are no longer able to do so.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is early days yet but yes we are happy with the portfolio set up.

What could they have done better?

At this stage we are happy with the way that Mr Phillips has handled our business.

Review from verified client

May, 2019

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

Had to seek advice on investing my Tata steel pension

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He gave me the information on what risks were involved, options available and I felt confident in his ability to help me in this important financial decision I was having to resolve.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Due to market issues and timing of my investment not really , but it is a long term investment after all

Review from verified client

May, 2019

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

I was with a different financial adviser with St James Place. I contacted Yodelar to review the performance of my portfolio as I was concerned about the charging structure. Yodelar recommended Aled Phillips.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled reviewed both my wife’s and my investments, are income needs, are inheritance planning particularly with respect to our disabled son. Aled identified a number of better performing ‘passive’ investments with lower charges. He also identified investments which would be free from IHT, to help facilitate the financial security of our son. Ives investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It’s still early days and we have only started to sell down ISA’s currently with St James Place, to place in the funds recommended. But we are confident with the proposed strategy, which we believe will meet our current and future financial plans, and at a lower cost.

What could they have done better?

At this stage we are very happy with the services we have received.

Review from verified client

May, 2019

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

Needed advice over my pension options.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He listened carefully to my situation and objectives and explained my options clearly and thoroughly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Early to judge financial results but Aled and his colleagues worked quickly to meet deadlines and kept me informed every step of the way. He inspired confidence.

What could they have done better?

Very happy with service so far. Looking forward to the reassurance of a long financial relationship.

Review from verified client

May, 2019

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

I was unhappy with the fees, qualit of service, response time, and attention to my account as regards appropriate investments from my current pension provider and having checked their advice online with Yodelar realised the whole package was truly as bad as I had envisaged. I was put in touch with Aled who has been a breath of fresh air.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled and his team have provided me with a very well researched financial appraisal of our income and expenditure which we thought we had been fairly well on top of until we received his own analysis and slept properly for the first time in a long time! Aled discussed our pension plans and the portfolio we had and agreed we needed an entirely reappraised portfolio. One of the key investments was into a fund run by one of the investment groups I had seen on the Yodelar website and another was of Aled's recommendations.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is shaping up that way yes, although Aled pointed out the immediate future is looking rocky post-Brexit or whatever we call the current hiatus but that we are well provided for going forwards.

What could they have done better?

Compared to Smith & Williamson Nichae are a God-send and I literally cannot find fault to any degree in what Aled and his team have done for us. If I was to write a review of Smith & Williamson it would take a month and I would not recommend them to my dog.

Review from verified client

May, 2019

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

Planning for early retirement.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled was recommended to me by a good friend. I needed an IFA to assist me with retirement and pensions planning. I was immediately impressed with Aled's professionalism, he is also a very affable individual who makes you feel at ease and gives you confidence through his obvious knowledge and thorough, but easy to understand, explanations of the best options available to you. He appears very honest and open and I feel he has my best interests at heart and I would thoroughly recommend him.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, so far so good. Everything is running in line with the plan Aled prepared. I am in regular contact with Aled and his support team.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really, Aled was recommended to me and has totally lived up to the recommendation.

Review from verified client

May, 2019

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

Inherited a large sum from relative & needed advise for long term financial planning.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Aled advised me to find the right investment strategy for the future and advised me on ongoing investments as well as ongoing financial planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I’ve been very happy with the outcome of Aled’s advise and have seen a significant dividend on my investments.

What could they have done better?

I spent months researching the market, and indeed saw many other advisers,some independent some some not. In the end Aled proved to be way and above the best, in terms of advise, care and professionalism.

Review from verified client

March, 2019

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

Recently widowed

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He has advised me with my husbands pension and Isa savings

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I have no suggestions as I am impressed by Aleds approach and care since meeting him

Review from verified client

March, 2019

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

Nearing retirement, investment advice.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

Excellent advice on long term financial planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Too early to tell.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

February, 2019

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

We needed advice before making a decision on retirement.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

He was very patient in explaining the issues to consider and then helped us to see the options so that my wife and I could make the right decisions about our future financial provision.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. We have been very satisfied to date and have every reason to believe that what has been set up for us will provide the level of support we will need into our retirement.

What could they have done better?

It is hard to think of anything that Aled could have done better for us. He was very thorough in dealing with some tricky issues arising from the pensions and investments.

Review from verified client

February, 2019

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

My husband and I were considering retirement from our employment. We contacted the website unbiased.com and Aled promptly responded to our request to meet him for an initial meeting.

How has Aled Phillips helped you?

At the first meeting, Aled listened carefully to our circumstances and explained how he might be able to help. We were given an understanding of how he could help us with financial planning and he reassured us that he would not consider taking us on as clients unless it was to our benefit. He made it clear that he was not selling a product to us. At no point did we feel he was trying to ‘get business’ from us. Rather he was there to serve us and to help if he could. After the initial meeting, Aled met with us on several occasions in order to have a clear view of our circumstances. He then offered suggestions that we felt had been considered with care. At no point were we rushed or pressured to make a decision. Aled made sure that we understood the choices we had and explained his advice carefully. In the initial stages there were considerable details that needed to be ironed out with the pension provider. Aled helped us to move through the process step by step. We have been very impressed with his honest, trustworthy and considerate manner.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We have now retired and we are delighted that Aled is our financial advisor. He is always available if we have queries. I don’t think we could have found a better advisor. We have been so pleased with the careful work that he has done for us. Aled genuinely cares for his clients and seeks the best for them

What could they have done better?

I don’t think he could have done anything better. He is very professional and efficient, but also personable and kind. He takes his role as an advisor seriously and acts with integrity and honesty. We feel very fortunate to have him as our financial advisor.

Review from verified client

October, 2018