Investment Consulting

We only recommend investments that we’ve used ourselves. That’s one of the Chatfield differences, we put our money where our mouth is!

Considering investing in capital markets? Chatfield offer a fee-only investment advice, once we understand your current position and your goals for investment we can provide appropriate recommendations.

Why invest at all?

Good question. Whilst it is appropriate for most people to have some sort of exposure to capital markets, this is not always the case. Some may be better to focus on inheritance tax planning whereas others should concentrate on reducing their debts.

By being fee based and independent, we are able to objectively advise you on the best approach for your particular circumstances.

Asset allocation

At its simplest level there are four different types of investment (or asset class) available to construct your portfolio.

Asset allocation is the division of your capital between these main asset classes by deciding how much should be invested in each.

Risk and return are closely related so we establish how much risk you are comfortable taking, how much risk you need to take, your goals and their time frame in order to agree your asset allocation.

Successive academic studies have shown asset allocation is the most important investment decision you make.

Does investment pay?

The short answer is “yes”, history shows the investor has always been rewarded. Of course nobody knows which way the stock market is heading next. As Warren Buffett said:“The only value of stock forecasters is to make fortune-tellers look good.” (Warren Buffett,1992 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Report)

Careful design and monitoring of your portfolio is therefore an essential part of Chatfield’s service to ensure you have the peace of mind to achieve your goals. An exposure to the capital markets though, to a greater or lesser extent, is often essential to avoid the silent erosion of your assets by inflation.

Investment education

It’s important that all clients understand how investments work, first and foremost we identify the investment return you need and assess the investment risk you’re comfortable with. We work with you to regularly review and monitor investments and also keep a close eye on the costs associated with various platforms, investment managers and so on. Whilst it’s not possible to beat the market consistently, keeping costs down puts the odds of success in your favour alongside regular reviews to make sure your investment strategy is aligned to your goals.

If you would like to receive further information about our investment philosophy, please contact us.