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John Westwood features on list of industry influencers

While the industry has seen much change over the 35 plus years that John has been involved, he says that Blacktower’s insistence on and adherence to a strict set of guidelines and adoption of the highest levels of transparency has helped raise standards amongst international financial advisers across markets.

John says the most significant change he has experienced during his career as part of a global wealth management firm was in 2008 when the financial collapse brought about unprecedented business challenges. The meltdown required Blacktower’s expert management of client expectations as markets and product providers failed, whilst, as Managing Director, he had to simultaneously ensure that the business remained buoyant and secure.

Kirsten Hastings, editor of International Adviser, said that the publication decided to “shine a light” on the movers and shakers who have helped quicken the pace of change in the financial services industry by forging ahead with innovation or leading by example.

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

Expats with regular savings encouraged by new buy-to-let offerings

Terraced HousesGood news for UK expats with regular savings; lenders are introducing more buy-to-let mortgages specially designed to provide for the needs and circumstances of British expats. Until now there has been a shortage of viable deals, despite the fact that demand has been, and continues to be, strong.

Surprisingly, it is not expats from traditional destinations such as France and Spain who are likely to be the main customers of the buy-to-let deals. The United Arab Emirates and Dubai are reported to be the major markets for UK expat buy-to-let mortgages.

However, the mortgages will not be available to all expats. For example, expats resident in Australia, South Africa, Kenya and 89 other countries will be ineligible to borrow from the main provider, Skipton, and as such will have to look elsewhere before using their expat regular savings to make a buy-to-let investment.

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Spotlight on … Luke Hunt – Associate Director

Luke HuntHow / why did you get into your line of work in the financial services sector?

Back in 2007, I was looking for a new challenge and saw an advertisement for a trainee financial advisor role in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Without informing my family or even my girlfriend at the time, I applied and a couple of interviews later and I was offered the job. I flew out there with my girlfriend and ultimately it turned into a lifechanging 5 years. Here I am still doing the job I love 14 years later!

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