Ray Duke

Review from verified client

February, 2022

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

I had 6 occupational pensions that I needed to combine for a pension income. This was too complicated to process myself, I needed specialist advice.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray & Adam explained all the options open to me clearly & honestly. They took the time to understand me, my circumstances & my aversion to risk-taking. At no time did I feel any pressure to go for an option that I was not totally comfortable with.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

They have more than exceeded my expectations & achieved this under difficult circumstances as the fall-out from the Covid pandemic is still causing delays & complications.

What could they have done better?

I can truly think of nothing that could have been done any better.

Review from verified client

February, 2020

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

I found myself with a pension sum after a divorce. The pension sum could not stay where it was and I needed to place it in the care of someone as I did not know what to do next.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

From the first time I met Ray I felt I could place my complete trust in him and his team to do the best that they can for me. Ray talked me through my choices in a way I was able to understand and enabled me to make informed decisions. My faith in Ray and his whole team comes from the fact that they have always been honest, transparent, supportive and knowledgeable. Their subtle confidence and strong belief in the business models and tools that they use makes me feel safe in an area where I have no expertise at all. The whole team are very professional but with added humanity, if you choose to visit Dukes Financial Planning be prepared to be warmly welcomed, treated with kindness and respect, receive the very highest standards of financial care and advice and feel valued as an important client and person (whatever your financial experience or needs).

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My financial journey with the help and guidance from Dukes Financial Planning is on going. Each year I meet with Ray and the team to discuss my current situation, and I am very happy with the feed back they give me each year and the forecast of my outcome.

What could they have done better?

Due to my lack of experience in the world of finance I sometimes get a little lost with some of the discussion at my yearly reviews. The team have got to know me well and recognise my glazed expression when I am not fully understanding, they are very professional and care greatly that their clients fully understand so will reword things and go over them if needed. they always have the time to give their clients wonderful service, I would say always ask if you don't understand.

Review from verified client

December, 2019

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

I needed the services of an independent financial adviser after selling my property and needing to invest some of the proceeds of the sale. I have been an extremely satisfied client of Dukes Financial Planning for some fifteen years during which time their assistance and advice has been excellent.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray Duke has been of great help to me in arranging my investments over many years. He has always maintained regular contact, by interim phone calls and emails and in annual review consultations.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcome over the many years of Ray's help and advice has surpassed my expectations.

What could they have done better?

I am unable to highlight any areas in which Dukes Financial Planning could have done any better as far as I am personally concerned.

Review from verified client

September, 2018

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

I wanted someone I could trust and build a working relationship with, Ray was honest and I felt comfortable with him. I had previously sought advice and felt as if I was just another customer and not a person.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray, explained all and although I have a financial background he was not condescending in any way. Recognised that other companies could offer the same und understood my needs and requirements. The process of retiring is a one off and needs explanation without being complicated, which might cloud issues surrounding long term decisions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

While it is too early to have a long-term view on the service provided, all my initial expectation were covered efficiently and without any problems at all. Advice on delays caused by transfers were explained and Ray and his team did all they could to help. Documentation supplied was efficient and timely both from Dukes and Standard Life. The early indications are that my needs have been met, certainly the first ten moths have all gone to according to what was described.

What could they have done better?

I have not reason to make any suggestions at this time, all that I asked for has been met during the initial process and I feel sure that things will continue as explained.

Review from verified client

August, 2018

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

Retirement.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

By looking in detail at my circumstances and having several meetings with my wife and I when he clearly explained the options and explained what he thought would be best for us given our circumstances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Early days yet as I have only recently retired but I am confident I have made the right choice.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything that he should have done better

Ray's reply

Thank you for your kind words, David. We look forward to working with you both in the years to come.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2018

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Ray

Actually met his son, from same company, who was very competent and knowledgeable.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2018

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Ray

Very polite and a complete gentleman

Review from verified client

November, 2017

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

Inheritance.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Gave me guidance on Investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Honest Opinion. Trustworthy, and to the point. Much needed guidance.

What could they have done better?

NA

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2017

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Ray

Due to Ray going on annual leave , he advised that I find another relevant IFA, that could begin work on my requirements straight away. No charges were discussed.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

To seek help on long term financial planning.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray has given extremely good advice on our portfolio.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Work in progress.

What could they have done better?

We are completely satisfied with the service received.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

Need for specialist advice.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

He has given excellent advice .He is to be trusted.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nil

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

I wanted to invest some money and Ray Duke was recommended to me by a friend who was very pleased with the service he had provided.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray gave me good advice and helped me to decide what type of invester I am, i.e low, middle or high risk invester. My husband and I have now switched some of our pensions over to Ray, as we are confident he will do his utmost to help us achieve the best outcome for our retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I still have investments with Ray and have been pleased with how they have increased over the past three plus years.

What could they have done better?

I really could not make any suggestions, Ray has always been a pleasure to do business with and I speak for both my husband and I when I say we feel confident with the advice we have received.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

I had savings in my current account and knew this was inefficient and so via a referral i made contact with Ray in the hope that he could put my savings to better use.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray immediately explained the various options available to me and once I was happy to choose to open an ISA Ray facilitated this and took over investment decisions on my behalf.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely. The results have been extremely good, albeit down to short term variance (Ray has always been upfront about this and stresses that the early returns should not be used to base expectations upon). Furthermore, the personal touch Ray delivers has been a huge positive and I have enjoyed learning more about saving options from him.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

Investments and pension fund.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

His knowledge is second to none. Having done a risk assessment we were able to see the gains and weakness. Once a year we have a meeting with Ray who talks through our investments how they have done.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Definately, we feel safe with Ray.

What could they have done better?

We have no suggestions he is doing a grand job.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

Pensions advice.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Combined several former company pensions into one scheme.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I'm happy with the outcome and continue to receive good advice and regular updates on scheme performance.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

Ray helped me out on many occasions; firstly with mortgage advise when buying my new home, then life insurance and investments when having my first born and most recently, helping me with my pension when I was made redundant from my long term employment.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray has always given me genuine and honest advise that has been in my best interest in all of the situations I have approached him for. He is personable, approachable and above all, I trust him and Katrina implicitly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am very happy so far, hence my continued return.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

I had a few pensions, of which I was looking for guidance on whether they were best positioned for growth.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray took the time, through a series of face-to-face and telephone discussions to really understand my situation, goals and attitude to risk, before providing any advice. Advice was clear and impartial, allowing me to make an informed decision on how best to position my pension and savings.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Ray's approach to keeping baseline costs down and maximising my investments based on risk attitude has helped achieve solid results, of which I'm extremely grateful. The continued commitment to reviewing my personal situation and investments, ensures a sound level of guidance that would otherwise likely lead to my investments not performing as strongly has they have.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

I was looking to invest some inheritance money for the future.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

I became a client of Ray’s a couple of years ago, and so far he has been excellent! He talks to me on a level I can understand which is essential as the annual statements I receive are very confusing! He understood my attitude to risk and I feel the products he recommended for me are appropriate to my situation. I know if I have any concerns or questions Ray will be there to help me. I trust him completely.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It’s early days as this is a 10 year plus investment for me, but so far I’m very pleased.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

Mortgages.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Mortgages.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

I was retiring and I had a substantial (for me) second pension pot to work with. Annuities did not appeal and I was recommended to see Ray for advice.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray explained all the options open to me and we worked out my attitude to risk. He then suggested that due to the change in pensions law a SIPP with drawdown capabilities would suit me very nicely as I did not need to access the pension pot immediately.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am very happy with Ray's management of my investment and have seen a very healthy capital growth since first investing. I believe Ray is good at what he does because he invests in financial intelligence to keep him on top of what is happening in financial markets and the investors get the benefit of this diligence.

What could they have done better?

I am more than happy with the service I get from Dukes Financial Planning and have no suggestions for improvements at this time.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

Securing pension saving portfolio.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Thorough explanation of options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

N/A

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

We first met Ray Duke when my husband was terminally ill, Ray gave us advise regarding my husbands pension and was a great help, he gave us confidence about our financial future.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray understood our situation and knew my husband which makes the advise he offers more personal.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, my investments are well managed and have so far performed well.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

We had received inheritances and needed help to maximise the financial return for a comfortable income. We'd both been made redundant at an age when other jobs were all but impossible to find so depended on the inheritances.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray took time to understand our goals and needs and to ensure they were met. Most importantly, he and his colleagues never rushed us, always ensured that we understood their best advice and fully addressed any concerns.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We are very happy with the service offered by Ray. On our behalf, he has invested our capital in a well-regulated fund and sorted out some previous pension arrangements to our best advantage, all for a very reasonable fee. The outcome seems in line with our hopes.

What could they have done better?

We have no concerns about continuing to be advised by Ray. He's done a very good job so far and we have no intention of seeking other advice.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

Intent to consolidate a series of pensions, and to plan practically and financially for the medium to longer-term in a prudent manner.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

With a highly considerate and personable service that understood my history, status and objectives, and also respected my risk appetite and evolving circumstances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I have been able to achieve consolidation of my pensions in an efficient and effective manner, and feel supported in proactively considering my options for the future.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

To consider a CETV on my pension. Also to get advice on the pros and cons of moving investments around. To plan for retirement and to provide some financial protection for my son and daughter.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

I met Ray through my current workplace - he was very helpful and explained things in a logical manner which made sense and was easier to understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very clear and happy with the information given - I have made a decision which is still in an administration process. Ray has been extremely supportive throughout the process - always providing clarity no matter how many times I ask questions.

What could they have done better?

More than happy at the way Ray presents himself and conducts his business.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

My company was acquired by another firm, thus changing my pension arrangements. I needed some advice on what to do.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray has given me practical and helpful advice. His experience means that he is thorough and knowledgeable.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

I don't have much to make a comparison, but I appreciate the help he has given me.

Review from verified client

April, 2017

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

I needed advice re. pension planning/investments.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray has been very helpful, he has taken the time to get to know me & my personal circumstances, an tailors his advice to fit with my investment goals and present lifestyle needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Things are going well, and I am a lot happier with my pension/investment portfolio now.

Review from verified client

October, 2016

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

My previous advisor let us down terribly.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Their professionalism and manner gave us confidence that they genuinely were providing us with the best options available to us. We got a great deal to meet our financial circumstances and can not thank them enough.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Outstanding service.

Review from verified client

September, 2016

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

Following my retirement after 43 years working in the investment industry I received a defined contribution pension. I felt that I needed further advice and guidance in transferring and investing my pension fund.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray clearly explained all the options available at our first meeting, including giving me a Risk Assessment Questionnaire to complete as well as explaining his charges in detail. I did not feel obligated to use his services at any time during our discussion. He understood my requirements exactly and recommended that future meetings should include my wife, which was extremely valuable as it gave us both a good understanding of our proposed retirement plans, as well as inheritance planning .

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have been impressed with the advice given to me and Ray has made me fully aware of all the risks and benefits of the option which I have chosen to take. As a result my pension fund has been transferred seamlessly to a plan of my choice. I am now also more aware of the relationship between my pension/retirement plan and future inheritance tax planning.

What could they have done better?

I am very happy with all the work that Dukes Financial have so far completed on my behalf.

Review from verified client

September, 2016

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

Recommendation from a trusted family friend, who we had asked for advice in investing the monies from a house property sale.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Assessed and identified the element of risk we were willing to make in agreeing to our investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we have. Preferable to leaving it siting in a bank earning insignificant interest.

What could they have done better?

So far, can't fault the advice and/or service we have been given. Our Adviser has always answered questions, which we have put to him in a timely and considered manner

Review from verified client

September, 2015

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

When selling my property many years ago I needed to seek expert advice on how best to invest soem of the proceeds of the sale.

How has Ray Duke helped you?

I have been a client of my Independent Financial Advisors, Dukes Financial Planning, for over ten years and I have always found them to be extremely efficient in arranging my portfolio. They are always accommodating whenever I have a query, always at the end of then telephone and always prepared to spend as much time as is necessary to answer any questions I may have. Although we always have an annual meeting to discuss my finances there have been occasions when they have suggested an interim meeting to discuss issues rather than using either telephone or email communications. In addition to the careful attentions they have always given me I am always assured that my finance is in extremely safe hands. Dukes Financial Planning were recommended to me, I would certainly recommend them to anyone who needed independent financial advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so; the advice I have been given over many years has enabled me to maintain a good standard of living from the income that my investments have produced.

What could they have done better?

Speaking purely from personal experience, there is nothing that my advisers could do better.

Review from verified client

November, 2014

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Ray is extremely pro active and is always available to answer any questions that I have regarding my pension or investments. I am always kept advised of any movement in the markets and given various option's with regard to my investment's. I receive a regular mail shot with up to date information relevant to my situation.

What could they have done better?

I am happy with the service recieved

Review from verified client

October, 2014

How has Ray Duke helped you?

We have received excellent service from Ray with regard to Investments and Pensions. We have been very impressed by his financial knowledge, professional conduct, clear communication, and prompt responses.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2014

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Ray

Ray contacted us promptly,and we found our initial meeting with Ray to be very informative and helpful

Review from verified client

May, 2014

How has Ray Duke helped you?

I have been a client of my Independent Financial Advisors, Dukes Financial Planning, for over ten years and I have always found them to be extremely efficient in arranging my portfolio. They are always accommodating whenever I have a query, always at the end of then telephone and always prepared to spend as much time as is necessary to answer any questions I may have. Although we always have an annual meeting to discuss my finances there have been occasions when they have suggested an interim meeting to discuss issues rather than using either telephone or email communications. In addition to the careful attentions they have always given me I am always assured that my finance is in extremely safe hands. Dukes Financial Planning were recommended to me, I would certainly recommend them to anyone who needed independent financial advice.

What could they have done better?

Speaking purely from personal experience, there is nothing that my advisers could do better.

Review from verified client

May, 2014

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Advice and Guidance received from Dukes Financial Planning has been of outstanding quality. Their knowledge, professionalism and integrity far exceed any other financial planning company I have dealt with in the past. I would not hesitate to recommend them to friends, family and any other who are seeking advice for their future.

Review from verified client

October, 2012

How has Ray Duke helped you?

As we know little regarding the money market Ray has helped with my pensions and investments. We are pleased with his advise and will continue using his services. We have been happy to recommend him to friends and family. We look forward to a long and rewarding association with Ray and his business.

Review from verified client

September, 2012

How has Ray Duke helped you?

Dukes finacial planning provides a high level finacial knowledge and service in a reassuring and professional manor. I would highly recommended them due to there extensive knowledge and client care.