Choosing the right wealth manager is about more than just numbers; it's about trust and communication.

In this episode, Aidan Grant is joined by industry experts Martin Heale and Janette Saxer from Schroders Wealth Management to discuss the key factors in selecting a proactive and approachable wealth manager who can foster long-term relationships and weather the storm of challenging market conditions.

This episode explores the nuances of obtaining accreditation and maintaining seamless advisory relationships across the UK and US. Learn about the importance of transparency and effective communication with advisors to ensure efficient tax planning, especially for Americans making the move to the UK, and the value of assembling a cohesive advisory team that seamlessly coordinates across jurisdictions.

The role has many job titles - investment advisor, stockbroker, wealth manager, and financial planner to name a few. Discover how these professionals serve as the quarterbacks of your financial journey, orchestrating a team of specialists to ensure your diverse financial needs are met with precision and care.

Martin & Janette explain the art of selecting a wealth manager - one that not only provides value for money but also prioritizes long-term relationships and trust. They advocate personal recommendations and testimonials, bolstered by podcasts and LinkedIn, to provide a "try before you buy" experience.

Navigating cross-border considerations can be a daunting task. Whether you’re new to investing or navigating significant wealth transitions, this episode is packed with expert advice to guide your financial journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Titles like wealth manager, financial planner, or investment advisor often overlap. Pick someone who takes a holistic approach and coordinates specialists where needed.
  
  
• Don’t just ask for performance; request **annualized returns** and compare them to relevant benchmarks. Ask about the **total expense ratio** to understand full costs. Ensure they are qualified in both U.S. and UK financial systems.
  
  
• Dual-country clients need tailored advice for tax efficiency and legal compliance. Advisors must handle U.S. tax laws and UK residency rules, especially for Americans abroad or UK residents investing in the U.S.
  
  
• Your advisor should be someone you trust for long-term wealth management. Ensure they are proactive, have a strong, accessible team, and are equipped to regularly communicate during market ups and downs.
  
  
• Advisors often cater to specific asset scales (e.g., $1M+ or $5-20M+). Choose one whose client base aligns with your portfolio size. Look for testimonials, proven experience, and personal recommendations to assess their reliability.