Matthew Porter

Review from verified client

April, 2024

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

To prepare for my retirement. To make sure that my various pension plans were used to their maximum value, either by taking them all, or partially, as tax-free cash, transferring into my main scheme, or taking a regular pension payment from them. I also needed to ensure that pension payments from the various plans were adjusted (if necessary) when my State Pension became due.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matthew has provided sound advice, with detailed supporting documentation, on each of the circumstances noted above.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

I'm not sure that I could have asked for a better service. I fully understood the advice given. I didn't want the advice to be too complicated that I would have had difficulty understanding. My questions were always answered in a straightforward way

Review from verified client

April, 2024

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

Matthew has been my pension adviser but we have also discussed other financial matters

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Mainly with my company pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My pension is doing ok but external circumstances have had an effect

What could they have done better?

There is nothing Matthew could have advised better

Review from verified client

March, 2024

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

Due to inheriting a sum of money that needed to be invested. We were recommended AE Financial Services who subsequently amalgamated with Argentis/IMS and we were moved to the care of Matthew Porter.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Our annual meeting with Matthew is helpful and informative.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Our only expectation was for our investment not to disappear.

What could they have done better?

No idea.

Review from verified client

March, 2024

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

My pension ateangements

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Yes… we are getting to know Matthew, who has been i troduced to us following the retirement of our previous financial advisor. Matthew has supported us in understanding our financial needs, future planning and mechanisms to implement robust, structured and aligned income plans

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing to add at this stage.

Review from verified client

March, 2024

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

This was set up through work

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

A very knowledgeable and pleasant chap with a nice demeanour making the whole pension process relatively easy to understand

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes my pension is doing well despite difficult time in the markets

What could they have done better?

Not sure they could

Review from verified client

February, 2024

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

Advice from solicitor on death of husband.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matthew has helped me feel confident in my ongoing financial situation and has patiently explained things clearly to help me understand them.

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?

On going management of my occupational pension fund.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matthew has given me valuable advice on managing my pension fund, savings and investments, inheritance tax and registering lasting power of attorney.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Largely yes but tempered by the detrimental effects of global events in recent years.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

We have an element of our investments that need monitoring regularly to ensure that we get good returns and that they are medium to low risk. I also have one pension that I am not currently drawing down and is intended for my daughter when i pass and I need this optimized..

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

He has been very supportive and looked at suitable options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We're still working on it

What could they have done better?

The system behind him is a little slow so we have not yet come to a final decision. Matthew does keep chasing but is limited in what he can do.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

It was to set up my pension and investment.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matthew has been a great help, he made sure he had my best interest in mind, He is very professional in what he does and truly clear explaining things to me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes it is all as explained to me with the investment's, I was told they would go up and down I did not have a problem with that.

What could they have done better?

There is not a lot they could do.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Pension

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Excellent Professional Financial Advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

Adviser through work pension

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

He reviewed all my options and advised on possible changes due to my change in circumstances

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

October, 2023

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

To help manage my Company pension pot

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matthew has give helpful advice about Fund investment, Inheritance issues, including Inheritance tax reduction

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing that i am aware of

Review from verified client

October, 2023

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

My previous employer employed him and I asked him to continue with me on retirement.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Yes

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes thank you albeit it is ongoing.

What could they have done better?

Many of his issues stem from the fact that we do not respond to him in as timely manner as we should

Review from verified client

October, 2023

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

Taking early retirement and wanted Matthew's advice on drawing a sum from pension fund.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

His advice is always appreciated and considered. He doesn't let me jump into making a decision which may be wrong or me; he helps me take time to consider my actions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing - no complaints at all!

Review from verified client

October, 2023

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

I received an in inheritance and needed advise on investments and advise on my personal pensions

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

He has financial knowledge and expertise...he understands my situation and i respect his judgement and advise

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My inheritance fund has fluctuated to due to world events and the current economic global conditions. Mathew is currently reviewing my personal pension situation and will advise in due course.

What could they have done better?

N/A

Review from verified client

October, 2023

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

I had an inheritance from my parents and i needed advise as to the best way to invest these funds.I had previously been in consultation with Mathews colleagues regarding a company pension scheme and when my previous contact retired Mathew became my contact and he now looks after my affairs. I have also recently started discussions with Mathew regarding my personal pensions and he is advising me on this matter.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Mathew has financial knowledge...he has the time and expertise...he understands my personal circumstances and in return i accept his judgement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

With regard to my inheritance the returns have fluctuated in light of recent events and the current global economic climate...all of these events are out of our control. Mathew has kept me updated on the current trends and market conditions and i accept that the market is still very buoyant and unstable. Mathew is currently reviewing my personal pensions and i await his conclusions.

What could they have done better?

I am happy with the way Mathew looks after my financial affairs.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

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

Retirement and selling a business

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Yes

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

October, 2023

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

Needed to consolidate pensions

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Explained the advantages and disadvantages of certain packages and what I could expect to achieve.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Some of the notes from the last session on personal circumstances weren't correct - but nothing hugely important

Review from verified client

October, 2023

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

It is related to our companys' group pension scheme

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

He has been responsive to the needs of the company and to myself personally in planning for the future and retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I believe i will see the outcome in the long term as the pension investment are based on a long term outlook.

What could they have done better?

I don't see how he can do better as the market is very unpredictable currently. Ultimately, the decision to invest and my appetite for risk versus reward remains with me.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

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

I have had an adviser for 12 years since the loss of a family member

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matt is reliable and explains in an easy to understand manner

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not.always but that is not the fault of the adviser

What could they have done better?

Nothing

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

It is extremely important as “a lady of mature years”,that I feel completely confident in an advisor- Matthew,,and that advice given is understandable , competently given and then organised well.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Annual review is normally conducted via Teams which is more convenient and easier to fit around work hours, clearly explains the options open to me, the advantages and disadvantages, understands and appreciates my position with regard to risk.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Friendly, helpful advice

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Matthew is attentive and thorough when I meet him

Review from verified client

September, 2023

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

Part of our compnay pension scheme

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matthew has offered very clear and concise advice. He understands my attitude to risk and has developed my plan to reflect this.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

September, 2023

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

Pension fund investments

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Annual review of pension fund investments and advice on the sustainability of level of drawdown

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

August, 2023

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

Looking for help with my savings and pensions

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matthew has given me good financial advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes been able to retire early

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

August, 2023

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

My husband died

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Supportive advises

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Variable

Review from verified client

August, 2023

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

To manage investments, to provide a good retirement income.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Obtained information when required, in order for us to make decisions, and dealt with any withdrawals that we requested.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

In view of the current market, it is what we expected. Prior to 2019 our capital increased.

What could they have done better?

All satisfactory.

Review from verified client

August, 2023

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

To provide the best professional advice to deal with our financial investments

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

YES

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Somewhat, subject to market fluctuations

What could they have done better?

Nothing under the global financial position

Review from verified client

April, 2020

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

I wanted to understand what action I should take with my pension planning due to changes in the tax environment

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matthew undertook a full review of my situation and recommended a course of action for me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

February, 2020

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

Matthew has recently been appointed my husband's and my advisor and made the effort to come and see us both at home to get to know us better and talk about our pension requirements, specifically in terms of my husband's requirement to draw down a lump sum during the coming months.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

He was extremely helpful in answering a couple of outstanding questions and in discussing with my husband his requirements during the coming years. We both felt assured that he will be acting in our best interests and trusted his knowledge and advice without any hesitation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My personal pension fund is growing even after allowing for the charges for the service.

What could they have done better?

Nothing on this occasion.

Review from verified client

December, 2019

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

My wife and I are at an age where we need to understand our assets and how best to use them. Our risk profile needs to be reflected in our decision-making and we felt an independent expert could help us with this.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matthew is very approachable and initially provided a general review following us filling fact-finding forms about our personal circumstances and financial assets. We proceeded to ask for a more in-depth review with recommendations based on our early contacts and then engaged him to implement recommendations. Matthew took time to understand our requirements and at no time did we feel that he had anything other than our best interests in mind in suggesting courses of action for us to follow.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is a little too early to see results of Matthew's recommendations if this is the measure of 'outcome' referred to, however, in respect of streamlining assets and consolidation, Matthew's suggestions are in line with what we were hoping for.

What could they have done better?

I honestly can't think of anything! Matthew was very patient, even when I was delayed in getting some information to him and very personable. In this age of computers and apps we are old-fashioned enough to believe the foundations of any relationship depends on how well you get on with your advisor. Of course, we appreciate the use of technology as a means to achieve our aims but confidence in your advisor must be at the heart of any advice you receive.

Matthew's reply

Hi Dilip, Thank you very much for your kinds words. I look forward to a long lasting relationship. Matthew

Review from verified client

December, 2019

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

Requiring specialist pensions advice

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

He found a way to bring my overseas pension back to the UK

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2019

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

I found Matthew to be a very polite person. He is very knowledgeable, thorough and professional. He was extremely helpful and explained everything I asked in detail. I would no hesitation in recommending Matthew to others.

Review from verified client

October, 2019

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

My previous financial adviser passed my details over to Matthew Porter at bdhSterling about the possibility of them looking after my financial planning needs.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matthew took the time to come to my place of work and spent the time getting to know me and how he could advise me going forward.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

At present, things are all fine.

What could they have done better?

Very happy with the service provided by Matthew.

Review from verified client

October, 2019

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

Offshore pension

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Gave me advice on best solution to invest pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet

What could they have done better?

Advise me to invest earlier from cash when it was obvious that the pension would remain in clutches of Concept

Review from verified client

September, 2019

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

My wife and I had not had a financial review for a number of years and were interested in learning whether our pension provision was likely to be adequate and whether there was any other savings to be had from our insurances etc.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Matthew reviewed all of our finances first by asking us to complete a comprehensive assessment form and secondly by helping us to determine what our appetite for financial risk was. With this information Matthew then sat down with us to talk through what we wanted to achieve with our finances. Following this conversation he produced a comprehensive review report which also outlined our options for transferring some of our pensions and how we could reclaim tax relief from our pension contributions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Matthew helped me to realise that I could reclaim the higher rate tax relief on my private pension but I have found dealing with the HMRC quite difficult. Help to format a letter and put in the appropriate figures so that it was resolved through 1 or 2 interactions would have been very helpful, however to be fair when I have dealt with HMRC previously it has always been challenging and I did not ask Matthew to help me with this as I foolishly thought it might be relatively straight forward!

Review from verified client

September, 2019

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

I had to change financial advisor and Mr Porter was recommended to me.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Mr Porter has helped me in rearranging my finances. He took his time and showed great patience when dealing with my portfolio.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Only been with Mr Porter for a short while but have the upmost confidence in him and BDH.

What could they have done better?

Cannot comment as only been with BDH for a little while.

Review from verified client

August, 2019

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

Planning for retirement pension income

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Analysed all our existing pension saving schemes, our savings, income and outgoings and gave a forecast and advice based on this.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, all my pension plans are in one place with user friendly access and returns on these investments have improved compared to previous plans

Review from verified client

August, 2019

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

I came across bdhSterling at a retirement planning seminar organised by my employer and was impressed by the bdhSterling presentation and the way they look into all aspects of retirement and the future beyond retirement in order to assess and best advise the investment strategies and decisions to be made. I asked them to contact me again several months later when I would be ready to start sorting out my retirement.

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Mathew Porter DipPFS, Financial Planner, at bdhSterling contacted me at that point and I was impressed how he listened to all my financial needs and the issues I faced in deciding what to do with some older pension funds and some investment funds. In particular the need for an advisor I could trust, who had the patience to listen to my needs, could explain to me all the new financial terms with respect to ‘wrappers’ and the variety of investment options related to those older pension funds. Matthew took into account all my needs and then visited and presented the plan to myself and my wife. I was very impressed how thorough this was, how it covered the full life span, and importantly it was about my needs and my wife’s financial needs throughout our retirement. I liked the modelling of the finances over the full life span which again assured me that the decisions were correct for both the near term and the full life term. Any question I have or clarification I needed were responded to quickly, by phone or by email. I also had contact with the customer Admin Team, and I like the fact they were knowledgeable and fully able to access information and advise correctly, if I were not able to contact Mathew for any reason. All too often in the past I have met advisers who advise once and are never there again in the future. Not in this case, this is a company and advisers that are there for the long term.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

bdhSterling use a variety of investment platform providers, and in my case the investment portfolio was lodged with Transact. I must say I am impressed with the ease of access to my accounts and the ease of commutation when I had any questions and in particular all those involved were able to resolve those issues. Both Matthew and bdhSterling and Transact dealt with any issues in the transfer of funds and were able to explain why any delay was occurring, this is important as it installs confidence of the process. As of now, I am retired, and I am very happy that my finances are in order and the correct amount are in long term savings, the correct amount are there to cover my short term spending needs and my pension income covers my day to day expenditure for the rest of my life and my wife’s life. bdhSterling recently expanded their operation to cover the need of UK investors and I am happy they have successfully achieved this.

What could they have done better?

To be honest he did every thing excellent, and met my needs, he explained everything and was patient.

Review from verified client

July, 2019

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

Checking finances

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

With good advice in a friendly manner, most competent

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet but hopeful, early to say at moment

What could they have done better?

Nothing really all discussions were good and advice clear

Review from verified client

July, 2019

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

My money was in Halifax and simply not earning enough neither were they able to offer me advice

How has Matthew Porter helped you?

Firstly Matthew listened to my concerns. I am not acquainted with financial matters and was unable to seek advice or help from my bank. Matthew always sent me a review of our meetings which helped me to better understand his suggestions. I never felt pressured or hurried and was given ample time to understand, ask questions and get answers I understood.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not applicable at this time d full transfer had not taken place

What could they have done better?

At this moment I am very satisfied as any queries were handled at the time of raising.