Start with your goals
Before you choose a firm to partner with, it’s important to get clear on your goals, values, ambitions, and what matters most to you. Perhaps you want to grow multi-generational wealth and would like proactive reviews and regular support. Or maybe you want to maintain and protect the wealth you’ve already established and prefer to be hands-off. Either way, getting clear on what you need can help you find a firm that aligns with you.
Understand the firm’s approach
How the firm approaches managing and growing your investments should play a key role in your decision. Look for long-term fit, not short-term performance.
For example, at SFS Private Wealth, we create personalised strategies tailored to our clients’ unique goals and circumstances. We build portfolios that match each client’s lifestyle, time horizon, and risk tolerance. There is no cookie-cutter approach.
But we don’t stop there. Some benefits of partnering with a boutique firm like SFS is proactive reviews, regular portfolio updates, and continuous oversight of your investments. This hands-on approach is great for clients who like to stay informed and in control.
What level of service do they provide?
Whether you’ve been with an investment and wealth management firm for a couple of weeks or decades, they should give their highest level of service at every point of the relationship. When researching a new firm, ensure you understand the level of service they provide to new and existing clients, how easy it is to contact an adviser, and if you get your own private adviser for the duration of the relationship.
At SFS, our boutique size allows us to be nimble and have close relationships with each client. Clients deal directly with their adviser, meaning no call centres or layers of bureaucracy. We offer institutional-grade investment solutions with the flexibility and care of a private firm.
Ensure the firm is transparent and upfront
When choosing an investment firm, look for complete transparency in fees, service, communication, and the ability to access assets. Also, evaluate whether the firm works with a selected pool of providers and banks, or is fully independent. At SFS, we are not tied to any product providers or banks, meaning our recommendations are made purely in our clients’ best interests.
Furthermore, transparency and having access to assets at any time are essential for every client. Through our partnership with Adminis, SFS Private Wealth clients have complete visibility and secure custody of their assets. This can be a significant determining factor when choosing a wealth management and investment firm. Your goals or circumstances can change, and your investment structure should provide peace of mind and flexibility that moves with you.
Wherever you’re at on your financial journey, take the time to research your options, talk with an adviser, and make the most informed decision for you. If you’re looking to partner with a private wealth and investment firm in New Zealand, contact us for a confidential chat. Our team is here to help you navigate every step of your financial journey.
