Frequently Asked Questions
What is an independent financial adviser?
An independent financial adviser (IFA) is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and can advise on products from across the whole of the relevant UK market ~ not a restricted list. This means our recommendations are not influenced by commercial arrangements with specific providers. Blackmount Private Wealth is an independent firm.
What is the difference between independent and restricted advice?
Independent advisers assess the whole of the market and can recommend any suitable product. Restricted advisers are limited to a panel of providers or a specific range of products. The distinction matters because it affects the range of solutions available to you. We are independent.
How much does financial advice cost?
Our fees start from £1,500 for financial planning, £3,500 for at-retirement advice, and £5,000 for estate planning. Fees are agreed in writing before any work begins and are set out in our Key Facts document, which you can download here. Most clients take an ongoing service following the initial advice. Ongoing fees are agreed separately and are usually 0.79% per year of the investments we look after.
Do I need a minimum amount of money to become a client?
We do not specify a minimum investment amount. We engage based on your need for advice. If your situation would benefit from professional financial advice, we would welcome a conversation. Please note that minimum fees apply which could mean that taking advice on smaller amounts of investments does not represent value for money.
Where are you based and do you meet clients outside Glasgow?
Our office is in Glasgow city centre. We work with clients across Scotland and the UK. Our advisers can meet in person, by video call, or ~ for clients who can't do either ~ we may agree to meet at a location that suits you.
What qualifications do your advisers hold?
Both advisers hold the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning, which is the industry standard qualification for financial advisers. Alex Shairp additionally holds the CISI Certificate in Advanced Financial Planning. Both also have honours degrees in Finance, Investment & Risk and are members of professional bodies with codes of ethics. Alex is a Chartered Member of the CISI. Full details are on our About Us page.
Are you regulated by the FCA?
Yes, Blackmount Private Wealth Limited is an appointed representative of ValidPath Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). ValidPath's Firm Reference Number is 197107. Our entry on the Financial Services Register can be verified using FRN 976093.
Let's Talk
Email : email@blackmountwealth.co.uk | Phone : 0141 286 4342