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Spotlight On … Robert Mancera – Group Director

What is your special interest or particular field of expertise in the financial services sector right now?

Now I prefer to pass on my experience; I have been in this industry for over 30 years. I like to ‘coach’ and ‘support’ others and help them get the best from their roles. At the same time, I love being able to work at the forefront and help support the direction the business is going in.

What is the most important aspect of your work, in relation to clients, or the part of your day-to-day role which gives you the most satisfaction?

Adding value; however big or small.

What’s special about working at Blacktower?

What isn’t! It is a brand I have had the honour to support and help mould for the last 11 years. I am passionate about the Brand and our Reputation; and the principles we stand for.

Right now, what is your one piece of invaluable information for expats or anyone seeking retirement planning and wealth management advice?

Do your homework; check and double check on the firm and adviser you are dealing with. I have spent 11 years helping build and protect the brand and reputation of this business – prospective clients need to feel safe with the people that are giving them advice. We have a robust approach to business and advice.

Blacktower already has a long and successful history in the sector, how will you and your colleagues continue to offer value to clients in the next 20 years and beyond?

By being involved; by being an important part of this industry and at the forefront of change and development.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself.

I love to cook; and be creative in the kitchen!

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

AROUND THE BRANCHES: Living and Working in the Netherlands

Girl with Netherlands flagThe United Kingdom finally left the European Union on 31 January 2020. As such, the two jurisdictions are now in the process of implementing the Withdrawal Agreement, with the transition period ending at the close of 31 December 2020.

This means that in the short-term, nothing really changes for UK expats in the Netherlands – they will continue to enjoy the protections and freedoms of EU regulations, including, crucially, freedom of movement and the right to work and study in the country. Find out more about how Blacktower can help you during Brexit, here.

However, following the end of the transition period – i.e. after 31 December 2020 – UK nationals and their family members who live in the Netherlands will require a residence document. This should be arranged through the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), which, in theory, will be sending letters to all UK nationals in the Netherlands detailing how they can apply online.

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Expats a Factor in Huge Pension Withdrawals

Pile of CoinsExpat pension needs are one of the major reasons behind the £15.3 billion the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) say was was taken from pensions during 2016/17.

The high level of withdrawals is no doubt attributable to the increased flexibility afforded UK pension savers by the introduction of landmark reforms over the past few years.

The £15.3 billion figure was disclosed following a Freedom Of Information request to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and is a massive 173% increase on the £5.6bn that was withdrawn in 2012/13.

In fact, the second quarter of 2017 saw the highest quarterly level of pension withdrawals in five years – no doubt including many expat pensions withdrawals – with more than 40,000 people withdrawing £4.3bn from their pensions.

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