Research should be an important facet in the offering of financial advice. Internationally, research is compulsory, this is not the case in New Zealand.
Does the investment adviser follow an approved asset allocation model and do they document deviations from this procedure?
Does the Financial Adviser use independent research and can back up their advice for insurances that they recommend?
You have the right to request from any investment adviser a written disclosure statement stating his, or her experience and qualifications to give advice. We recommend you ask for the secondary disclosure statement which needs to list all areas of income. That document will tell you;
You are strongly encouraged to request that statement. In accordance with the Financial Market Conduct (Regulated Financial Advice Disclosure) Amendment Regulations 2020, regulation 229C, a financial adviser must make disclosure before providing a personalised service to a retail client.
In addition it must state:
Tell the adviser what the purpose of your investment is. This is important because different investments are suitable for different purposes.
Do they belong to industry recognised organisations such as the Financial Advice New Zealand. A requirement for continuing to belong to an organisation such as this is continuing education requirements, complying with their code of ethics and professional conduct. Our advisers Richard and Alison Renfrew are members of Financial Advice New Zealand and have been awarded the "Trusted Adviser" mark.
Don't just go on the adviser's say so. Can they show that their advice is independently audited against "industry best practice standards".
Can you view your investment through an audited web site?
Do they use a trust account?
Do they give comprehensive advice covering investments, insurance, retirement, asset protection and estate planning, and taxation advice?
Your money should go directly from your bank account to the bank, financial institution, or fund manager you are saving or investing with. If an adviser tells you that your money needs to be paid to him/her, or their company, ask why. There should be few cases where an financial adviser needs to take custody of your money.
How will you get, and how often will you get, on-going advice after your initial investment?
Can you view your investment portfolio from their web site?