FAQ
How can a financial adviser help me?
Financial planning – for individuals or businesses – covers all life stages and everything from savings goals and investment strategies to insurances (personal and general) spending, budgeting, and more.
At LMS we can help families and businesses with succession plans, plan for the retirement you deserve, and help protect those you hold dear with the proper insurances.
We work collaboratively with clients recommending options that align with your investment priorities and ethics.
Still unsure? Get in touch to arrange a free, no-obligation chat
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes – get in touch to arrange a chat so that we can talk about what your financial needs are and how we might be able to help.
At LMS we will ensure that you understand the benefits and costs of all options before you make any commitment.
Get in touch with for an initial chat if you are unsure.
Do you have a minimum investment requirement?
All situations are different and at LMS we are happy to assess these on a case-by-case basis, looking at the overall scenario, not necessarily just investments.
A typical portfolio is in the order of $250k plus, however many individuals without significant accumulation of assets find they benefit from undertaking a comprehensive financial plan and it is our desire to help as many people as possible achieve this important step.
If we feel we can’t help you, we may be able to provide you with alternative contacts.
Click here to arrange an initial consultation
Financial advisor versus planner. What’s the difference?
The well-known share-broking firms (such as Forsyth Barr) focus purely on managing a client’s money according to how comfortable they are with investment risk.
Similarly, insurance brokers are also termed financial advisers. They focus on insurance, not investment or planning.
The approach that LMS takes is broader: a financial plan, encompassing why you are investing and how that fits in with your goals and any financial opportunities.
A LMS investment portfolio is also typically more internationally-focused. We believe that this reduces the risks incurred of having everything (home, salary, investment property, Kiwisaver) dependent on fortunes of the small New Zealand economy.
A proper plan would include insurance, in case the unexpected happens. LMS can also advise on personal insurance and general insurances (house & contents and so on)
Contact us today to see how we can help
Do I have to pay for financial advice?
There is no charge for the initial consultation, and you are under absolutely no obligation to proceed. If you choose to go ahead we will clearly detail if there will be any fees.
Most insurance products do not incur any charges as we get a commission from the product provider.
For investments, charges are a percentage of the assets under advice, which will be disclosed before you commit. These fees are tax deductible.
Not having a financial planner could cost far more in the long run when the money isn’t handled in the best way.
Get in touch with us here.
Are my investments and insurance held with LMS?
No. We do not hold your assets or insure you. We act as brokers dealing with companies on your behalf. Your investment or insurance is held in your name with a third party that we determine together. This would be a major institution that is also tightly regulated.
Contact Peter today to see how we can help
How often can I expect to hear from you?
For investment clients we provide annual or quarterly updates on the performance of your investment portfolio and an annual review meeting. We also post regular blogs that cover topical issues. We are of course always on hand to answer any questions, and can meet more frequently if required.
For our insurance clients we make contact before the annual renewal to check to see if any changes need to be made to the coverage. We are of course happy to help with any queries and manage any claims that you need to make.
Contact us today to see why we have so many clients.
How do I choose the right financial adviser?
A good working relationship is key. No adviser will “gel” with everyone and it’s important that you find one that you feel comfortable with.
Ask a lot of questions, and make sure that they are actually answering them in a clear and coherent manner.
Review client testimonials. This can be a very valuable way to gauge how competent the adviser is.
Manage your own expectations. If they actually knew what the future held, they would not need clients – as they’d be fabulously wealthy already! No one has a crystal ball so if they sound like they think that they do, that should be a warning sign. At the same time, they should be able to propose a well-reasoned strategy that suits your risk appetite. They should be able to explain this in plain English.
Get in touch with us today to see if we are a good fit.