Gary Youssef

Review from verified client

April, 2024

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

We recently returned from working overseas and sold a buy to let property. We also have 3 children and wanted to plan for their costs at university

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary helped us move our previously unmanaged company pensions to a single plan that is regularly managed

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for your feedback

Review from verified client

March, 2024

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

After my partner death, I faced a financial future on my own and it seemed important to get the right advise for the long term planning.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He has taken a very personal approach to my needs and has tried to answer all the questions that I had about my financial planning. He has always followed through on every discussions with providing the necessary information in writing and has offered to be available to answer my concerns at any time needed to reassure my anxieties. You can feel he is very invested in giving you complete satisfaction.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Only at the start of the process

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I can formalise at this point

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for your feedback

Repeat review from verified client

December, 2023

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

How has Gary Youssef helped you since your last review?

Gary has continued to send us regular updates and reminders of the steps we'd agreed on to ensure we meet deadlines for investments and decisions. He has set up periodic review meetings and answered all the questions we have. The longer term modelling he has shared with us has helped us think more long term about our financial decisions.

Gary's reply

thanks so much for your feedback Sally

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gary

Gary has proven to be diligent and caring while providing professional advice and being readily available.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

I wanted to invest money in a fund rather than leaving it in the bank.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He has been helpful in suggesting ways to diversify my savings - pension, investments and savings.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is a long term investment and the markets have been tough in the last 2-3 years.

What could they have done better?

I don't know.

Gary's reply

Nicki thanks so much for the feedback.

Repeat review from verified client

December, 2023

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

How has Gary Youssef helped you since your last review?

Always provides clear advice so that I can make an informed decision.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gary

Initial meeting with Gary was helpful and he came across as very knowledgeable. Helped me formulate a much clearer view of my financial plans over the next few years.

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for the feedback. I look forward to working with you in the future.

Review from verified client

September, 2023

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

I was looking for someone to help me manage my assets.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary helped me to create a long-term financial plan that also took into consideration my short term spending habits and goals.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far so good.

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for the feedback Ben

Review from verified client

September, 2023

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

Gary was recommended by a friend whose finances he’d put in order - she knew I didn’t have the time to spend that my finances needed and that he could help

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary’s been a great source of detailed, sensible and astute advice about how to organise my finances, sort out problem areas and plan strategically for the future

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I’m now on top of my money and know what decisions to make for me and my family. My investments are performing well.

What could they have done better?

Gary has been faultless

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for the feedback. It's a pleasure working with you.

Review from verified client

August, 2023

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

Pensions advice

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Yes absolutely

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Repeat review from verified client

June, 2023

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

How has Gary Youssef helped you since your last review?

He has explained statements straight forward and precise which is what you need

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gary

Gary provided a really wonderful overview of how to view my finances and pragmatic, actionable recommendations for how to best sort out my finances and save for my first house. I've already recommended him to friends and colleagues because of how well he listens and adjusts his advice to my circumstances.

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for your feedback. I look forward to hearing from you in due course.

Review from verified client

February, 2023

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

I had been a member of 3 employer pension schemes and on retirement needed advice on how to invest these funds.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary explained very clearly the options, went through my current and possible income requirements and advised accordingly. He has also assisted in ensuring that I have made a will and that I understandhe can advise on inheritance planning. Also advised on better investment of my savings. I have been kept fully informed at all times and Garry has been very patient when I have been dilatory in making decisions, gently nudging me into action.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, feel confident that I have made decisions that I am comfortable with.

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything!

Gary's reply

thanks so much for your feedback Judith

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

We didn't have one and knew we needed advice to help us manage pensions and plan for the future

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He has taken a holistic approach to the role finance plays in our lives, what our goals are and worked with us to find solutions for shares and pension investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes in the first few years. More recently the markets have made it challenging to see returns but we are investing in the long term. Gary has made us more aware about the daily and annual choices we are making so we are more financially astute.

What could they have done better?

Nothing comes to mind. Gary gets the balance right between being professional and friendly, providing regular updates / reminders and giving us time when we are too busy.

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for the feedback. It's a pleasure working with you.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gary

Excellent, a good conversation.

Gary's reply

Hi Claude thanks so much for the feedback. Enjoy your time away. Regards Gary

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Self employment.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Very professional, and easy going. Definitely recommend. Helps you understand and explain the information presented to you.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for the feedback

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

We were searching for someone to help us plan for the future after we had our first child.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He has set up pensions for both myself and my wife, as well as helping us organise life insurance and set up a trust for our daughter. He has also put us in touch with other great people who have helped advise us on our small business.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, we are very happy and feel much more confident about our financial future.

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all up to this point.

Gary's reply

Thanks for the feedback. It’s a pleasure working with you

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gary

Gary has been exceptionally helpful to me in approaching the world of financial advice for the first time. He has always been promptly available to answer my questions and talk through available options. He has a kind yet professional style of communication.

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for the feedback

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gary

I have had several meeting with Gary to discuss financial matters for myself and my company. On every occasion he has been well prepared and attentive - and considered, thorough and constructive in his follow up advice. I highly recommend him for his professionalism and the quality and tailored nature of his advice.

Gary's reply

Thanks for the feedback

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Returning back to the UK and needing advice on investments

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Very helpful in ensuring I am clear on my needs, the options available and the risks associated

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Gary's reply

Thanks so much. It’s a pleasure working with you

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Needing to combine my various employment pensions into one, high-performing pension pot.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He explained the options available clearly and resented my with his recommendation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Overall (notwithstanding economic turmoil outside of his control!), yes.

What could they have done better?

N/a

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for your feedback. I look forward to working with you more closely going forward

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

We wanted to get pension

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary has been amazing, so much more than a financial advisor. He has supported us with financial planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for the feedback and I look forward to continuing to work with you and your family over the years to come.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

I had been negligent about my financial planning for retirement (as I had bad experiences with other advisors who wanted me to change to their products, rather than sourcing products for my circumstances).

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary truly listened to my unique circumstances, the tapered retirement appropriate to my career sector, my lifestyle and priorities to advise me earnestly (hard goals) and comfortably (with realisable approaches). He is the only financial advisor who spoke WITH me (not to me) and listened with respect (no man-splaining or fear-peddling).

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

He has delivered to our plan, with deep interest and knowledge in market performance) and been pro-active in securing better performance out of existing products. He is transparent and thorough in explaining all terms, options and realistic delivery and asks questions along the way to ensure that he has interpreted my interests correctly.

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for the feedback. I look forward to working with you going forward :-)

Repeat review from verified client

June, 2022

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

How has Gary Youssef helped you since your last review?

Over the past year, I was awaiting a planning permission decision to enable home improvements. Gary has helped by identifying the best financial option.

Review from verified client

June, 2022

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

I came into some money due to the sell of a property and I needed to find out about using the money's to work for future reasons retirement.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He has explained through projections and charts how I will be financially when I wish to retire and through his advise and guidance feel I can breath easier about my financial situation when I retire.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes most definitely

What could they have done better?

I'm not sure anything could be done differently as he was very clear and precise and didn't rush for decisions, Gary let me come to my own conclusions on my terms and speed,which makes a difference in this fast paced world we live in today

Review from verified client

April, 2022

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

i needed to pot my dormant private pensions into one pot

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

guided me thru the minefield of transferring dormant private pensions into one active & profit making one in addition to my current company pension & state pension. Gave me a great insight into my financial position when i retire

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes & more

What could they have done better?

nothing really, an all round good presentation in laymans language

Gary's reply

Sean thanks so much for the feedback. I look forward to continuing to work with you

Review from verified client

March, 2022

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

Gary contacted me after noting our pension invested in St James Place funds

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary provided pension investment advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I am happy with the growth of my pension funds

What could they have done better?

Not much

Review from verified client

January, 2022

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

Had recently retired with 3 pension pots from employer schemes which I had no idea what to do with.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

After making sure he understood my financial situation and my plans for retirement Gary explained the options to me very clearly and patiently. At all times I felt that I was being advised and guided but not pressured at all.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Am a recent client so still early days, but so far definitely yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Gary's reply

Thanks for the feedback Judith. It’s a pleasure working with you

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

I have my own small company and I was looking to set up a company funded pension.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He advised me on setting up a company pension but also ended up helping me set up other benefits such as life insurance and income protection.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I now have want I want in place and feel more secure financially for me and my family.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gary

Gary has been absolutely amazing from the start, responding to my initial enquiry within hours and offering to set up a meeting despite the fact he was going on holiday in a day or two. He was extremely welcoming and during the initial consultation I was impressed by his knowledge, efficiency, resourcefulness and honesty - he was very clear about what I can expect and he explained everything in detail. I will definitely work with him following our meeting and can highly recommend him.

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for the feedback Steven. Look forward to speaking soon.

Repeat review from verified client

July, 2021

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

How has Gary Youssef helped you since your last review?

We have made further plans for my retirement and discussed the cost of early equity release.

Repeat review from verified client

June, 2021

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

How has Gary Youssef helped you since your last review?

Gary has continued to provide excellent short and long term financial advice.

Review from verified client

June, 2021

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

I became self employed and needed advice regarding pension and long term investment planning

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary was very clear and set out a long term road map for wealth planning

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far so good.

Review from verified client

May, 2021

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

Had been putting sorting out my retirement off for ages but finally went to see Gary on the recommendation of a friend

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary was the first person that actually helped me understand what I needed to do and put in place for my own retirement - he was very patient and explained everything very clearly and thoroughly. I could not recommend him enough!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

Gary's reply

Thanks for the feedback. I'm really pleased I was able to help you.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gary

Extremely personable and very knowledgeable. Gary explained cleary and concisely what our options are without doing any „hard sale“.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gary

Charges were not discussed as not relevant to this meeting. Gary gave me useful info on how best to get the most from my current pensions. He gave some good money saving tips. I came away with a very clear understanding of what we discussed I felt elevated & empowered by his explanations to my questions. Thank you Gary ?

Review from verified client

March, 2021

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

Finally getting around to planning for the long-time.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary's provided advice on how to plan for retirement, including choosing the most tax-efficient and value-generating options according to my circumstances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It's a 20 year plan so a little early to say either way. However, the short-term impact is the feeling of confidence in having the right plans in place.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really.

Gary's reply

Thanks for the feedback. Much appreciated ;-)

Review from verified client

March, 2021

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

I had a financial advisor who was not giving me any advice.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He has given me the expert advice I was looking for. I have also valued is proactive (rather than reactive) approach of advising me of potential issues (eg changes to pension rules)

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - as explained above.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of.

Review from verified client

January, 2021

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

As a new business owner, I wanted to fully understand the options available, with regard to making the most of financial planning for the future.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He provided in-depth knowledge and understanding with regard to pensions and financial planning ahead of retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, his knowledge has helped.

What could they have done better?

Honestly nothing. Professional advise, continued support and guidance.

Gary's reply

Thanks so much for your review. It’s great to get feedback :-)

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

Planning for the future

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Comprehensive advice on pensions and savings planning, and active help and advice with getting income protection and critical illness.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Within the circumstances yes

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gary

Gary Youssef is very pleasant in person and provided a great service. He was extremely helpful and answered all my questions and enquiries. He was very clear about my options during our discussions.

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

Management of investment portfolio Moving back to the UK

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He provide clear and insightful advice. Always responsive and if he did not know the answer would indicate other credible advisors.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

N.A.

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

I wanted to pool my various pension schemes into one overall scheme.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary helped me to identify these various schemes and worked diligently to centralise them all.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely. I now have a one-stop-shop.

What could they have done better?

I have never really has a financial adviser before so it is difficult to know what Gary could have done better.

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

I needed advice to setup a pension fund though my limited company

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary has helped with setting long term goals towards retirement. He has given great advice on insurance, investment and the level of risk we should take. He assisted in directing us to a provider with making our wills, something we would not have thought of.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we have, we just need to be more proactive in setting aside money towards my pension. Going forward, Gary is going to chart our progress on where we are and where we should be if we want to reach our goals at retirement.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gary

He only deals with one pension provider, so unfortunately, he couldn't assist me further, but he was helpful.

Review from verified client

June, 2020

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

As a consultant I wanted to find a Provider for my pension plan and transfer existing pensions

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He really took the time to explain in detail and with patience each step we we’re going through.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

June, 2020

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

Looking to setup a private pension and consolidate

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Provided expert advice and guidance on options. Facilitated process and chased through transfers until complete

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - now have cleaner pensions portfolio

What could they have done better?

Nothing - Gary is very diligent and professional

Review from verified client

June, 2020

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

I was looking for a consolidation of pensions and review of existing pension services after leaving them for past 5+yrs

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gave some good sound advice across more than one option. Didn’t put me under any pressure or make me fee obliged to take on his services whatsoever.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

June, 2020

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

Running my own business

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Setting up my pension and explained everything in plain english

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

June, 2020

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

I held a range of pensions in different pension funds and wanted a single gun with good management.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary recommended the funds and provided detailed advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Recently joined.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Excellent service from start to finish - thanks Gary.

Review from verified client

June, 2020

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

Neglected pension funds

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He reviewed all my different pensions and gave me independent advice about which to amalgamate. He also considered my wider finances and gave me food for thought about what to look at going forward - with no pressure to do anything.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes for now.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

June, 2020

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

I had several pensions that I wanted to roll into one and I needed financial advice after leaving full time employment.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He planned out my financial requirements for the coming years and helped organise my finances so I would know exactly what I had available for my retirement needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I have a clear picture of my finances now, as well as getting quarterly updates.

What could they have done better?

I find it difficult to think what could have been done better. My finances were in a real muddle and now they are perfectly organised. Their guide to Defined Benefit Pension Transfers was a rare example of clear, jargon-free financial advice, written for those outside the industry.

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

Switching my DB pension to DC

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Good understanding of Trust regulations and SJP accepting my DB pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I very happy with the service that Gary provides, I do feel that the website could be modernized

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

After making the move to setup my own limited company, I needed financial advice and guidance in matters such as pensions, savings/investments, critical illness cover, relevant life policies and income protection

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Provided guidance that was detailed, well informed, easy to understand and tailored to my own specific requirements and needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I now have the required policies, pensions and other investments in place to support my family and I

What could they have done better?

nothing to add at this time

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

I wanted specialist advice on Investments and Savings and Pensions Management.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Reviewed my existing position, assisted me to design the future desired state.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, definitely moving in the right direction.

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

I finding handling my financial affairs difficult as I get older.He spent

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

He spent time explaining everything to me which instilled confidence in his ability to manage my investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes even during this difficult time.No

What could they have done better?

Nothing. I couldn’t ask for more.

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

I did not have a decent advisor that provided a personal service.

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary has taken the time to fully understand my financial circumstances (especially as they change) and offered tailored options, from which I could then make informed decisions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes- he has been professional, personal, and knowledgeable while also delivering favourable financial results, esp in these challenging times.

What could they have done better?

He has been open to my needs and provided helpful, knowledgeable advice at all times; therefore there is not a lot of change I’d request.

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

General investment advice

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gave me advice on pension contributions, ISA, VCT and EIS

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing really, everything was very clear and he had information that I had not considered.

Gary's reply

Thanks for the feedback

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

Investments

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Expert, impartial advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

Setting up a Pension Scheme

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary guided me through the option available

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

I'm happy with the information and advisement I got.

Gary's reply

Thanks for your feedback. Much appreciated

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

needed to provide my own pension due to self employment

How has Gary Youssef helped you?

Gary and Martin have helped over the years to set it up and then do an annual review to ensure that the contributions were in line with changes in circumstances and retirement goals.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes, my pension has been going up year on year.