Having been part of Blacktower since 2009, I have had the privilege of witnessing first-hand how a business built on strong values can evolve, grow and adapt—without losing sight of what made it successful in the first place.
As Blacktower marks its 40th anniversary, it feels like a natural moment to reflect not only on how far the business has come, but on how it has achieved sustained success across four decades of economic change, regulatory evolution and shifting client expectations.
From Strong Foundations to Global Reach
Blacktower began as a focused operation across just three jurisdictions. Over time, that footprint has expanded steadily and deliberately in response to client needs, market developments and the increasing complexity of cross-border financial planning.
Today, with a well established global footprint , Blacktower supports clients with increasingly international liveswhether that involves relocating, retiring overseas, managing assets across multiple jurisdictions, or planning for the next generation. This growth has never been about expansion for its own sake. It has been about building the right expertise, in the right places, at the right time, in response to client needs and market developments.
From my perspective overseeing Overseas, the US and the Cayman Islands, that international capability is now one of Blacktower’s defining strengths.
Adapting Through Change
Over the last 40 years, the financial services landscape has changed beyond recognition. Markets have become more interconnected, regulation more robust, and client expectations more sophisticated.
Blacktower’s ability to adapt to this environment has been fundamental to its longevity. The business has consistently invested in its people, strengthened governance and compliance frameworks, improved operational processes and embraced technology—ensuring that advice aims to remain relevant, robust and aligned with evolving regulatory standards across multiple jurisdictions.
Having joined Blacktower in 2009, I have seen this adaptability in action through periods of global financial stress, regulatory reform and geopolitical uncertainty. Each time, the focus has remained the same: act responsibly, protect clients’ interests and take a long-term view.
People, Values and Trust
What has remained constant throughout Blacktower’s growth is its commitment to core values. Trust, integrity and professionalism are not slogans—they are principles that shape how advisers operate, how decisions are made and how clients are supported.
The investment in people has been central to this. By developing experienced, well-qualified advisers and support teams across its international offices, Blacktower has built a culture that values expertise, collaboration and accountability.
In international markets such as the US and the Cayman Islands, where regulatory frameworks are well established and oversight is rigorous, maintaining a strong focus on professionalism and governance is essential. This approach helps ensure that advice is delivered within the appropriate regulatory context and supports client confidence in the experience and care brought to each relationship.
Looking Ahead
Reaching a 40-year milestone is an achievement, but it is not a destination. The needs of internationally mobile clients will continue to evolve, and so too will the regulatory and economic environments in which we operate.
What gives me confidence about Blacktower’s future is the same balance that has sustained the business for four decades: respect for its heritage combined with a willingness to evolve. By continuing to invest in people, embrace innovation and strengthen its global proposition, Blacktower is well positioned to support clients for many years to come.
For those of us who have been part of the journey for over a decade, this anniversary is both a moment of pride and a reminder of responsibility—to uphold the standards that built the business, while helping shape its future.
Ally Kerr,
Group Executive Director
This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice.
This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, investment recommendations or investment research. You should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this communication is correct, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions.