Our approach

Four stages, each ending in a written record.

We set up and run every portfolio in the same order: understand, structure, allocate, monitor. We do not allocate until the structure is agreed, and we do not structure until we understand your position.

  1. Stage 1: Understand

    We establish the objectives the portfolio serves, the obligations it has to fund and when they fall due, how long the capital can stay invested, how much must remain accessible, and how much loss you can tolerate.

    Where you already work with an accountant, lawyer or other advisers, we work alongside them.

    Your part
    Describe your position and obligations, and tell us about existing advisers and holdings.
    Output
    Written investment policy

  2. Stage 2: Structure

    We design the allocation framework: which services to use, the target weight for each asset class, and the limits the portfolio must stay within.

    Oversight arrangements and reporting frequency are agreed at the same time. Together these form the written mandate, which you agree before any capital is invested.

    Your part
    Review the proposal and agree the written mandate, including the services it uses.
    Output
    Target allocation and agreed written mandate

  3. Stage 3: Allocate

    We build the portfolio toward the target allocation at a measured pace. Because the arrangement is discretionary, you are not asked to approve routine trades.

    Where there is no good reason to trade, we do not. Every trade has a cost to you.

    Your part
    None day to day. The written mandate sets the limits of our authority.
    Output
    Constructed portfolio

  4. Stage 4: Monitor

    Holdings are checked against the agreed limits between reporting dates as well as at them. You receive regular reports on holdings, activity and exposures, and we rebalance when allocations move outside those limits.

    Oversight checks are carried out separately from day-to-day portfolio decisions, and decisions are recorded so they can be audited.

    Your part
    Read the reports, and tell us when your circumstances change.
    Output
    Regular reports and governance records

When your circumstances change

A significant change, such as a sale, an inheritance or a new spending requirement, returns the process to stage 01. We revisit the investment policy with you, and change the structure only once the revised policy is agreed.