Matthew Taylor

Review from verified client

June, 2017

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

As I was participating in a defined benefit scheme but had been frozen for some 9 years accruing a maximum of 5% per annum. Listening to the media and the recent changes offered by Osborn I felt I needed to further investigate if was better to leave in the current employee scheme but frozen or withdraw and transfer.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Mathew spent a considerable amount of time taking me through the minefield of investments and the opportunities that I could participate in if I was willing to take a risk but not impact on the forecasted benefits I had been forecasted by leaving my frozen Defined benefits pension with the Employment scheme and considering that I was not a million miles away from retiring with a fairly high mortgage left to pay. Importantly Mathew took the time and had the patient to take me through a very detailed plan that considered my aspirations in real terms and the various options available to me and made the time to ensure I understood the plans.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Its early days as yet 2 month since I withdrew my defined benefits pension from my employer but indeed based on Mathews plan I have since settled the mortgage and the returns thus far are better than what Matthew cautiously forecasted and indeed very happy and comfortable with the decision I made knowing that Matthew is there to keep an eye on things developing for the good of my long term financial security.

What could they have done better?

In terms of the planning stages I could not really have asked more of Mathew. Now that the plan has gone live it would be useful to have a monthly update on how the actual plan is delivering against the initial recommendations in a summary note recognising that the investment is long term.

Review from verified client

March, 2017

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

Redundancy and retirement planning.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Placed pension funds into a better performing plan.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, fund performing well.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2017

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Seemed to understand a complex situation and explain in simple terms. Advice on the outlook and moving forward very positive

Review from verified client

February, 2017

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

I wanted to know if there was any possibility of me reducing my hours a bit at age 60. I had previously been wrongly told that I was not able to use my NHS pension to take early retirement.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

He thoroughly researched finances and pension arrangements for both me and my husband, explained it all in an understandable way (which no-one has ever managed before) and showed me that my financial arrangements and pensions were quite adequate for me to retire completely immediately.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It has been life changing. I am now taking early retirement at Easter, aged 59. I expected to be working full time, or nearly full time until my 65th birthday until I took advice from Matt.

What could they have done better?

No suggestions.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Very pleasant man seemed to know his stuff got back to us very quickly after email sent .He explained very clearly fees that he would charge if we went forward with his advice

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Met with Matthew. Good meeting in which he was clear about the service he provides and the likely cost.

Review from verified client

May, 2016

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

I found myself been bogged down by the pension companies Jargon and paper work. I needed to obtain a small amount from my pensions immediately and for the remainder of my policies to be looked at ,as I was unsure of there ability to work for me long term.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matthew took all of the detail from my personal profile and worked very closely for me to understand my present requirements and future needs. He was able to unravel the different and varied policies talking directly to the companies on my behalf was able to obtain the best outcome for me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

All of Matthews recommendations were taken by me.

What could they have done better?

I honestly couldn't have faulted Matthews time with me

Review from verified client

May, 2016

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

Huge changes to my company pension scheme and turning 50 made me seek financial advice for my pension and the retirement plans for my wife and me.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matthew Taylor talked us through our situation, ambitions for retirement, economic projections and the options available. He then prepared a detailed financial plan for our retirement that was clear, comprehensive and full of options, checking on key details as he did so. He then talked us through the report, answering all our questions, making wise recommendations and taking on the responsibility to make changes to our current financial plans.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, thanks to Matthew Taylor we have a very clear idea of our options in retirement and a clear idea of how to obtain the most out of our financial planning. The report and taking with Matthew has given us peace of mind and a clear strategy for achieving the long-term outcomes that we hoped for via judicious planning and smart advice.

What could they have done better?

Matthew was very easy to talk to and his knowledge and experience was convincing. It helps if you think carefully about what you want to achieve before meeting him as this makes the whole process more focussed and lucid for everyone.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Very polite , professional, easy to talk to and understand.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Punctual Very personable Listened well Addressed all issues and added clarity Gave useful suggestions Not pressured at all Appeared very competent and clear thinking

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

I found Matt to be honest in his aproach and he came across very well at out initial meeting, he is now preparing an assesment for us to discuss in more detail with a view to coming up with a pension strategy

Review from verified client

March, 2016

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

We had too many investments and cash in the control of one of the big banks..especially with the new limits on compensation. Some of these investments were underperforming and information about them was limited.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

He led us to examine our overall finances and investment aims, advised on changes and how some bonds could be protected from tax or care home quotas.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far, so good!.

What could they have done better?

Most helpful

Review from verified client

March, 2016

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

I had quite a few pension pots in different schemes and I needed advice on what to do with them.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matthew explained to me best cause of action would be to consolidate them all and we agreed on a strategy.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not quite unfortunately it's the risk you take and that I was aware of due to market forces. I've just been unlucky from when I started with Matthew however I should start to see an improvement as we go along.

What could they have done better?

So far very happy my adviser has kept me in the loop at all times reporting on the good or the bad it might be useful for others. Use the PFP smart Alex it's very useful.

Review from verified client

March, 2016

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

After the death of my husband I was looking to secure my future. I needed help to understand the various options.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

He was very thorough in finding out about all relevant information and explained my options very well.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Matthew has helped me to select the best way forward for me.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything.

Review from verified client

February, 2016

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

Maturation of a Pension Fund which I did not want to Annualise and a desire to rearrange our savings which were in various funds.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

He carefully went through all our financial savings and holdings clearly understanding our needs and devising a comprehensive plan of action.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am very pleased with the results.

What could they have done better?

No, I cannot suggest any ways in which he could have improved the process.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Good clear explanation of company and services. More information need from myself to help assess ant future commitment.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Matthew was very friendly, approachable, enthusiastic and extremely knowledgeable.

Review from verified client

January, 2016

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

Planning for retirement, ensuring best use made of savings.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

By alerting me to inheritance tax liability, helping me to determine my priorities, undertaking discussion re LGPS options, researching available products which best met my requirements and simplifying my finances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am just working through the recommendations to achieve the outcome I want. I am clear about the reasons for each decision and feel well-supported by Matthew.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything he could have done better. We met face to face - which was very helpful - with phone calls and emails in between. He kept me abreast of his research findings, some of which led to a slight change of approach. By the time I had his comprehensive written report, there were no surprises, everything had been discussed and agreed.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2015

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Very helpful and clear so far.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2015

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matthew

Matthew was both pleasant, professional and informative.

Review from verified client

November, 2015

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

I was bamboozled by other companies.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

matthew taylor put me on the right track,visiting me at home and talking me through every aspect of my finances,he did,nt complicate things and I found him very easy to talk to and understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes!,matthew helped me with my private pension and advised me how to reinvest 75% of the money I have paid in.

What could they have done better?

I found matthew by chance after being worried about other advisors,he has helped me no end and my mind is at rest,no one could have done better,i recommend him to anyone who needs advice

Review from verified client

October, 2015

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

I needed a financial advisor to deal with money that was part of a pension transfer being made by the courts as part of divorce proceedings.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matthew replied promptly, and carefully listened to my circumstances. He then went through all the choices we had, covering the pluses and minuses of all. He made sure I understood all the options provided, and was always willing to explain anything further if I requested. I was definitely involved in all the decisions made. Matthew always gave me feedback as to how things were progressing, always checking that he had done everything he could to help me. I thoroughly recommend him.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Matthew has put everything in place re investments ready for the pension share. He cannot do more until this is received. He keeps me up- dated on everything, and will also do an annual review.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Approaching retirement I wished advice on my savings, investments and pensions in view of the regulatory changes.

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

He carried out a thorough review of my investments and personal/occupational pensions and took on board my needs and circumstances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have received a detailed report - the conclusions of which I am in agreement with and are currently being acted on.

Review from verified client

May, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

I have used Matt to manage all my family's financial affairs since 2007. I have always found his technical knowledge to be spot on and always communicated concisely and clearly.

Review from verified client

April, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

I have a great respect for Matt and over time i have gained a great relationship that has been able to explain a complex subject in plain english the options and present all options. i only do business with people i like and trust and Matt more than covers both of these and is someone i have and would recommend to anyone.

What could they have done better?

Absolutely nothing. Matt took the time to fit around our busy business and personal life and was both patient and excellent in his execution of documents and options and kept us well informed all through the process.

Review from verified client

April, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matt was recommended to me by a friend. I have always approached seeking the help of a Financial Adviser with trepidation in the past over concerns of how much value they might add for the fees incurred. I can honestly say that once we had agreed on the fees, which were very clearly spelled out, the reduction in tax and ideas discussed have provided me with great confidence with my financial future, and look forward to working with Matt further.

What could they have done better?

I'm not sure Matt could have done better - he confirmed some investments as sound and gave great advice

Review from verified client

April, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matt was always very helpful when he was helping me with my pension when working for a private hospital. He always answered his phone or returned your phone call promptly.

What could they have done better?

No suggestions for improvement.

Review from verified client

April, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matt Taylor took over my financial affairs on a personal basis when I retired from The Spectator magazine in October 2014. I had known Matt in a genera way for some time as he was connected to the company responsible for handling The Spectator staff pensions scheme.. He was invariably happy and willing to explain the options available to me both within the pensions scheme and beyond it. It seemed natural to ask him to take me on as a private client with a brief to maximising investments on my savings and to ensure the provision of a good return in future years from the pensions monies that became available to me. He has done so in an entirely satisfactory manner. I am confident that I am in good hands. I am very happy to recommend his enthusiasm, care and expertise. Paul Bentley London W5

What could they have done better?

n/a

Review from verified client

April, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Mathew took over from a previous adviser from the same company 2 years ago. He always took note of our views and explained his recommendations. He was always punctual and fitted meeting in to our requirements.

What could they have done better?

Not aware of anything he could have done better.

Review from verified client

April, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

I have known Matthew for a number of years as my financial adviser. I cannot recommend him highly enough for his considered, personable and professional advice. I have dealt with him for mortgages, pensions and life cover. He has an attention to detail and ability to listen to the client, genuinely advising with your best interests at heart. Matthew can be relied on for good sound financial advice. At a pressured time during a property purchase, Matthew was, as always, pragmatic and reassuring. However, he went above and beyond normal client expectations in his willingness to go that extra mile. He delivered documents on more than one occasion, in person, in order to ensure we gained the best deal before close of business. He ensured the best outcome for me and continues to do so. Highly recommended by me!

What could they have done better?

Nothing. He was thorough, honest and professional with sound and considered advice

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matthew was my pension advisor in Jersey and I found always found his advice to be clear, concise and basically in a language that I could understand. His explanations of the products and investments available to me were clear and understandable which in turn put me in a comfortable position of being able to decide the best way forward for my future financial needs.

What could they have done better?

I was more than happy with the service and all the information Matthew provided me.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matthew explained things really well and was very thorough. He'd obviously done a lot of prep work before our meeting and it really showed in the level of technical detail I was given around pension options. He also gave excellent advice regarding my life cover. I was about to change providers but on going through the documents Matthew quickly highlighted several valid and correct reasons why I was actually better off staying with my existing policy.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Outlined all the available options and explained how our previous financial arrangements were not working for us. Was extremely thorough and clear with his explanations, ensuring that we were confident with our decisions. Kept in regular contact to maintain best ongoing management of our new portfolio, which has been extremely successful.

What could they have done better?

I honestly don't know.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matt has recently provided my wife and I with excellent advice and guidance on our personal pensions. He was very professional and good at communicating the information we needed in a timely manner. I have known Matt for some time and have and would continue to recommend him to others who require independent financial advice.

What could they have done better?

Matt couldn't have been more helpful in his approach, there is nothing he could have done more to assist us in our requirements.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matt made things really clear so my decisions were so much easier. I would definitely recommend him.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matthew took a huge bundle of assorted loans, mortgages and pensions and sorted them all out for us. We ended up paying out less money on the loans and mortgages, and earning more on our pensions. As a result of Matthew's advice and assistance, we have a far former grip on our finances.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Matthew Taylor was my designated Financial Advisor with the Company where my work pension was held. When I left employment with the Company, I needed advise on what to do with my pension along with a couple of other investments. I found Matthew's advice invaluable especially as there was some new legislation in Jersey with regards to pensions. I found Matthew easy to talk to and he explained everything in terms that I could understand rather than baffling me with jargon. I would recommend Matthew to anyone.

Review from verified client

March, 2015

How has Matthew Taylor helped you?

Excellent. Very professional, efficient and found the best deal at the right time. Would recommend highly.