Contact

News & Insights

Blacktower MD, John Westwood, to take FEIFA forward into Brexit as Chairman

“I am looking forward to the challenges ahead, particularly as the UK faces the prospect of Brexit and all the change that this may bring about for the financial services sector.  FEIFA exists to benefit members and consumers alike,  and aims to ensure both are protected under the stringent legal and regulatory framework in place for our industry. As the UK’s withdrawal from the EU goes ahead, IFAs will be at the forefront in ensuring consumers financial dealings are secure,” John says.

FEIFA was set up in the wake of the global economic downturn which commenced in 2007. The organisation’s main aims are to bring the highest standards of professionalism to bear on an industry which has, at times, suffered in the wake of regrettable actions from a minority of individuals.

As a result, FEIFA only accepts IFAs and financial services companies following a formal and rigorous vetting and due diligence procedure which assures consumers that its members uphold legal and regulatory requirements in all day-to-day activities.

Paul Stanfield, Chief Executive of FEIFA commented “John has brought a wealth of industry and advisory sector experience to our Board in recent times and I am personally very pleased that he will be our new Chairman. Following the Brexit vote we will no doubt see significant change in our world over the next 12 months and beyond. FEIFA will ensure that our members are kept fully informed and advised during the whole process, and John’s know-how will be invaluable in this, I am sure”.

As the founder and Group Managing Director of Blacktower, John Westwood has more than 30 years’ experience in the financial services sector and has built up one of the longest standing wealth management companies in the UK, EU, and the Caribbean, and has provided a wide infrastructure which enables expats access to trusted advice on all manner of financial decisions, from pensions and tax solutions to equity investments.

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.

Other News

Brexit? What should I do about Tax and Residencia?

Spain flag and victory signBy now you are probably really fed up hearing about Brexit!  Yet, it’s important that you are prepared financially; not just for a Deal or NO Deal Brexit, but also by being ready to meet the Spanish requirements for living in the country. 

You will have, no doubt, heard lots of horror stories about what Brexit means either way for UK expats and I do not intend to go into that here. Having said that, please read on, as I explain some fundamental issues that may need your attention sooner, rather than later.

Read More

FCA Publishes Retirement Transfer Data

There are few, if any, financial decisions as important as deciding what to do with your pension. Nowadays there are so many choices, but the factors that influence the path you choose are complex and should only ever be undertaken in full knowledge of the various options available as well as their many implications.

For example, significant numbers of UK citizens abroad are likely to benefit from an expat retirement transfer, but converting a defined benefit (DB) scheme into a QROPS or SIPP should never be undertaken without reliable and impartial advice that takes full account of the retirement saver’s circumstances.

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find an expat financial adviser who understands all the regulatory and cross-border wealth planning issues at stake.

Read More

Select your country

Please select your country of residence so we can provide you with the most relevant information: