Choosing a Financial Adviser
Beware of paper advisers!
The financial sections of the newspapers often give helpful guides. The financial press is definitely worth reading to give useful background and the knowledge will be useful when you deal with an independent financial adviser.
However, you should be very careful before taking any action which seems to be recommended in the press, as the journalist won't know about your individual circumstances, the advice will be very generalised, and it might not be the right thing for you. It is very difficult in limited space for journalists to cover all of the pros and cons.
Why your accountant, IFA and stockbroker may disagree
Conflicting advice on how to invest is not surprising. There is often more than one way to achieve a financial objective but you need to be comfortable that the investments you choose are right for you.
Make sure that your independent financial adviser has asked enough questions about your circumstances, needs and preferences, has considered the alternatives and can give you clear reasons for the recommendation which make sense to you.
If you're not happy, ask more questions, IFAs will always be prepared to make sure that you understand fully what it is they are telling you.
Regulation & Complaints
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