Chris Brennan

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Needed to manage pensions and savings

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Converted work pension into sipp and given advice on how to manage savings

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Broadly

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Chris's reply

Thank you, Ron, I appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback. It's pleasing to know that the transition of your work pension into a SIPP and the management of your savings have aligned with your expectations, even amidst the complex nature of financial planning. Thank you for your continued confidence in our work together. I'm here to assist with any further questions or needs, for you and your family, as we strive to keep your financial goals on track.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Change of job role and personal circumstances

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Chris has provided informative, professional advice for me on my various pensions and general financial matters

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing, very happy

Chris's reply

Thank you for sharing your positive experience. It's great to hear that the advice on your pensions and financial matters has been beneficial and met your needs, especially during significant life changes like a job transition. Please feel free to reach out anytime you have questions or need further assistance. I look forward to our continued partnership and ensuring your financial goals are achieved.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Looking at taking early retirement

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Chris was excellent in sorting out and advising on my works & personal pension issues as I reviewed it before I took early retirement

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes satisfied with everything that he has helped me with up to date

What could they have done better?

Nothing really

Chris's reply

Thank you for your review and for trusting me to guide you through your early retirement planning Lee. It's wonderful to hear that you are satisfied with the advice and assistance provided regarding your work and personal pensions. If there are any further questions or areas you'd like to explore as you enjoy your early retirement, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

I have been with Chris Brennan for many following a recommendation from my previous advisor who was retiring.

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

He has constantly overseen my portfolio , regularly reviewing it and meeting with me to discuss my changing requirements.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Chris's reply

Thank you, Adrienne, I'm glad to have been your chosen advisor for many years and it’s heartening to know that the regular reviews and updates to your portfolio have been in line with your evolving needs. If there are any areas where you or your family need further assistance in preparing for the future, I'm more than ready to help. Ensuring that you're on track to meet your financial goals is my top priority. All the best!

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Family bereavement

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Chris tells me the best way to invest and goes through things i dont understand

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Chris's reply

Thank you Samantha for sharing your experience with us. I understand that seeking financial advice following a family bereavement can be challenging, and I’m glad I could provide the guidance you needed during this time. It’s reassuring to hear that you find the investment advice clear and helpful, especially when navigating areas that are new or complex to you. Your confidence in the outcomes we’re achieving together is of utmost importance to me. Thanks again!

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

I was advised by one of my clients of the excellent service Chris had provided and decided some 12 years ago to ask him to look after my pension/ investments. Over these years he has always been available to help and I would have no hesitation in recommending him

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

See above

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Not a lot bearing mind the turmoil of the last 12 months

Chris's reply

I'm truly grateful for your review and the trust you've placed in me over the past 12 years. It’s always been my goal to be readily available and supportive, especially through the recent challenging times. Knowing that you've achieved the outcomes you hoped for with your pension and investments is immensely rewarding. I look forward to our next catch-up.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Needed trustworthy organisation

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Clear and concise advice. Easy to understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, initial investment has increased considerably.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Chris's reply

Hi Steve, Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I'm glad to hear that you found the advice clear, concise, and easy to understand. It's great to know that your initial investment has seen considerable growth - that's exactly the kind of outcome we aim for. Looking forward to our continued collaboration and seeing more positive outcomes.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Many years ago I was recommended to Chris for financial planning and investments for my children. I have used and recommended Chris many times since then and have been delighted with the services received.

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Chris has helped me with inheritance planning, pensions, life insurance and savings schemes for my children.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

The service received from Chris and the team at Blackstone has been exemplary.

Chris's reply

It's always a pleasure to read such positive feedback, and I'm grateful for the time you took to share your experiences, Rob. Your long-standing trust in me for your financial planning, especially for matters as crucial as inheritance, pensions, and life insurance, is truly valued. I'm thrilled to know that you've felt comfortable discussing sensitive information and that the solutions offered have been closely tailored to your unique circumstances. Ensuring that you understand the impact of these circumstances on your policies is a top priority, so your confidence in this area is particularly reassuring. I look forward to our next review and to continuing to support you and your family's financial goals.

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

The need for an advisor to look after savings

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

helped me access funds and manage visas

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Work in progress

What could they have done better?

Would like better annual statements, identifying better fund performance after withdraws and investments have been made

Chris's reply

Hi Andrew, thank you for the review. We have noted your requirement for more in-depth analysis and will address this in our next review meeting.

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

I had reached a really important milestone in my life when my retirement pensions planning and the correct savings investment type of accounts decisions were very important inorder for me to be comfortable entering my retirement years.

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Chris, with hos vast experience amd knowledge, along with his client interface skills made my decisions so much easier and removed a lot of my concerns. He also made me aware in more of what legal entitlements I was able to pursue and in some cases help my final pension and investment decisions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I'm only in the first 12 moths of everything we changed and put in place but I do believe I will see the outcome over the longer term.

What could they have done better?

Without sounding bias. I can't really think of anything. Chris himself is extremely professional , knowledgeable in all financial Manahement, with and excellent client approach. And all of his support are just as professional. Especially the back office support. Some of the girls I spoke to throughput the process couldn't have been more helpful.

Chris's reply

Hi Paul, Hope you're keeping well and thank you for your review. I fully appreciate it can be challenging as you approach your retirement but it is good to hear that myself and the team have helped your through period and I look forward to catching up soon.

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

Retirement

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Sorted all my pensions and invested to get the best returns

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Most definitely, monthly income and confidence my investments are being looked after

What could they have done better?

Nothing that comes to mind

Chris's reply

Hi John, Thank you for your time in leaving a review. It is good to hear that my retirement advice has enabled you both to have a relaxing life with the confidence that your finances are under control.

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

I is a long time ago now, that with approaching retirement, inheritance as well as sundry finacial considerations I approached Chris who had been recommended to me

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

With very good advice on the earlier mentioned subjects

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I did

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of.

Chris's reply

Hi Manfred, Thank you very much for your review. It's good to hear that my historic retirement advice has enabled you both to enjoy a fulfilling retirement.

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

Chris was originally the adviser for our companies - mainly company pensions (many years ago!). He became our personal adviser at much the same time as I was impressed with his knowledge.

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

He helped us find the right products for our savings so that we could "draw down" on retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, we are now retired and have an income from our savings which is tax efficient.

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything.

Chris's reply

Hi Caroline, Thank you for the kind words. I'm pleased that you feel that the tax efficient products we recommended are working for you. I look forward to catching up with you both soon.

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2023

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

Yes he has helped me with discussions concerning a mortgage as mine comes up for renewal December 24

Chris's reply

Thank you for your thoughtful review, Breck. I'm glad to hear that you're confident in the mortgage advice and services provided. Your trust in sharing personal challenges and involving me in your long-term financial planning means a lot. I look forward to our continued partnership.

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2023

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

As previous :- Everything good, simple & easy to understand

Chris's reply

Hi Howard, Thank you for your thoughtful feedback. It's great to hear you feel on track with your financial goals and that our regular chats are a mix of finance and life – that balance is important to me too. Looking forward to our next catch-up!

Review from verified client

February, 2023

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

Divorce

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Advised sensibly and sympathetically throughout and provided an extremely professional service.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing under recent and current conditions.

Chris's reply

Hi Jill, thank you for taking the time to leave a review! I am pleased to hear that my advice and time have been supportive and beneficial to you. I hope you've booked that big holiday for next year.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

I needed someone more skilled than me to give me long term financial advice

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Yes always

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Mostly yes

What could they have done better?

Not sure he could

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2022

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

I needed quick income from my pension pot and further advice regarding the long term finacial positions concerning me and my wife and the effects on the death of either one.

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2022

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

Due to changes in my circumstances there has been little changes in my investments. Chris keeps me updated on market trends and recommendations

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2022

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

Chris has helped in transferring my pension from a SSAPS to a SIPP, which remains an ongoing process. It is a wading through treacle exercise but Chris and his team have provided first rate advice and support.

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2022

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

Everything as previous. Good and regular contact which is always speedy and to the point. Has advised on current situations in a straight forward manner

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2022

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

Stocktons Retail Furniture Site is in the process of being purchased.Chris has been there for us every step of the way.Recommending specialist Tax Accounting advice , discussing best ways of utilising the funds of the Sale when monies come through. Phoning regularly for updates on Sale and being generally extremely helpful. Also has been in discussions with me as to what action to take when my mortgage term finishes in the near future. Wouldnt dream of making any financial decisions without him as we value his council

Repeat review from verified client

December, 2021

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

Always at the end of the phone if I need him. Any requests I make are dealt with efficiently.

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2021

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

HE IS ALWAYS THERE WHEN I NEED HIM AND WHEN ASKED GIVES SOUND UNDERSTANDABLE ADVICE

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2021

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

As retirement has got closer Chris has been a great sounding board in terms of ensuring that I will have a comfortable retirement meaning I could focus on the important issues away from the financial ones.

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2021

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

Chris has helped us as a company and also as individuals he has a very easy to understand way of discussing financial matters

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2021

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

Chris has helped with investment planning which has proved to productive, albeit is early days.

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2021

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

Everything has been excellent and regular contact even just for advice is superb and always with a super prompt response. We have recommended Chris to a few friends who I believe feel similar

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2021

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

He has helped find me a very large mortgage for the property I have just purchased.He has discussed equity release with me.Retirement income.Sale of our business.Amazing adviser I wouldn't make a financial move without him.He even answers my queries when he is on holiday.Always goes above and beyond service wise

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2021

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

continued with the same level of customer advice and support when needed

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2021

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Chris Brennan helped you since your last review?

In ensuring that the assets of my late father's estate under his management were optimised .In particular, advice to transfer a considerable sum to AIM investments preserved them during the pandemic crash.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

Investing my divorce settlement, pension and savings

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Provided sensible advice at a time when I was perhaps not functioning properly and may have made some rather rash decisions without his guidance.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes considering the turmoil in the markets. I asked for low risk investment.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. He is always available on the phone to chat and it is extremely easy to make an appointment to come in to the office and talk face to face if necessary.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

Needed advise on all business and investments.

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Chris has been amazing with myself and my family, he has guided us though on all aspects,Chris and his team have been excellent.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we have.

What could they have done better?

We have been given 100% support in every in Everything. The advice in all aspects has been great. Would recommend Chris and all his team.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

On the assumption that their field of experience was greater than mine.

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Sound advice on all matters I asked his help on

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Not sure that I expected more of him. To my mind he has always been honest even if as is inevitable his predictions didn't always materialise.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

Chris Brennan has been my adviser for over 15 years and was recommended by my previous adviser when he retired.

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

His advice is well researched for for changing needs and he explains everything thoroughly. He is always available to answer any queries no matter how small.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

He could not do any more , I am totally satisfied with his service. Reliable and trustworthy.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

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

Wanted a more thoughtful approach to saving for retirement and don’t have the time or expertise to do this myself

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Made me think about what I wanted from retirement and planned a strategy to allow me to achieve this

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Pretty much in a very uncertain environment

What could they have done better?

Not much that I can think of

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

I retired and it was fairly obvious that my pension and my partner's pension were in need of some professional advice. Our accountant had recommended Chris to us at this stage.

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

He advised with no pressure what we should do with our pensions and investments giving many alternatives that he felt were suitable. In my case he identified a serious case of malpractice and resolved the issue to a most satisfactory conclusion. The work was difficult and I felt it was carried out at a very high professional level.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so - the pensions and investments are working well for us and are kept under constant review with at least annual adjustments if necessary.

What could they have done better?

Nothing could have been done better in my mind - I am 100% happy. I have now recommended many others including family and friends to speak with Chris.

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

Whilst running a business we were encouraged to set up a Small self administered pension scheme. Chris has worked very successfully on this project for many years.

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

By providing sound advice and a number of appropriate options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we have been very satisfied with the outcome.

What could they have done better?

We always received a very personal and reliable service.

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

a financial adviser is a necessity and not a luxury

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

Chris has helped us as a company and also as individuals he has a very easy to understand way of discussing financial matters

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

pretty much yes and the variance has been down to volatile markets

What could they have done better?

i don`t see that Chris could have done much more in all honesty ..he was proactive and i personally found Chris very easy to talk to

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

I had never been involved with managing financial affairs as my husband had previously taken complete control in that area, he passed away very suddenly and i was thrown into many difficult situations which i felt ill prepared to deal with.

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

He was reassuring and incredibly helpful at a very difficult time.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes, definitely.

What could they have done better?

nothing

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

Chris was recommended to my father by my brother-in -law.

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

I worked with Chris to take over the management of my parents' estate when they became elderly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The investments that Chris made on my parents behalf proved more than adequate to fund the cost of care in their old age.My parents and our family were extremely grateful that therefore none of us needed to worry when these costs needed to be met.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

Our Furniture Company Stocktons was doing incredibly well and my parents suggested I talk to their Financial adviser as I had just got married had a child and one on the way

How has Chris Brennan helped you?

He put all my affairs in order.He made very helpful financial suggestions.Wasn’t pushy at all just laid out all the ideas out and gently suggested what would work best in my circumstances

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes totally in fact I wont make a financial decision without consulting him first.Also recommended him to all my family and friends who are of the same opinion. He is a fabulous financial adviser. I call him Guru

What could they have done better?

Nothing really he always replies to my Financial questions extremely fast even when he is on holiday