Are you tired of constantly Googling “how to adult” when it comes to your finances? Well, fear not, my fellow Singaporeans, because an independent financial advisor can help you navigate the confusing world of finance with ease. Let’s take a look at why having an independent financial advisor matters and how to find one that suits your needs in the Singapore context.
Why Having an Independent Financial Advisor Matters
Unbiased Advice
Unlike your know-it-all friend who keeps insisting that you invest in the latest cryptocurrency, independent financial advisors provide unbiased advice that’s tailored to your financial needs. They’re not influenced by any conflicts of interest and can help you make informed decisions based on your specific financial goals.
Personalised Service
Unlike your favourite Fast-food joint, where items bought are generally pre-packaged and comes in a fixed set, independent financial advisors offer a personalised service that’s tailored to your specific needs and goals. They take the time to understand your financial situation and work with you to create a customised plan that fits your needs. And no, they won’t charge you extra for pearls.
Access to a Wide Range of Financial Products
Independent financial advisors have access to a wide range of financial products from different providers. This allows them to select the best products that fit your financial goals, rather than being limited to a particular financial institution’s offerings. Think of them as your personal shopper, but for your finances.
Ongoing Support
An independent financial advisor provides ongoing support to help you stay on track with your financial goals. They offer regular reviews of your financial plan, provide updates on market conditions, and make recommendations as necessary. They’re like your personal cheerleaders, but for your finances.
How to Find an Independent Financial Advisor That Suits Your Needs
Ask for Recommendations
Ask your friends, family, or colleagues if they have any recommendations for an independent financial advisor. If they’ve had a good experience, chances are you will too. And if they haven’t, well, at least you’ll have a good story to tell at your next gathering.
Check for Credentials
When looking for an independent financial advisor, it’s important to check for their credentials. In Singapore, financial advisors must be licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to provide financial advice. Not only that, advisors who have been accredited with Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) or similar accreditations have put themselves through the rigour, training and testing to obtain their certification, and are constantly updating their knowledge to stay on top of the latest financial trends. Think of them as the superheroes of finance, but without the capes (although we think they would look pretty cool in them).
Consider their Specialisations/ Personality
Different independent financial advisors may have different specialisations, so it’s important to find one that has experience in the areas you need help with. For example, if you need help with retirement planning, look for an advisor who specialises in retirement planning. Also, finding an independent financial advisor with the right personality can make all the difference. You want someone who’s approachable, easy to talk to, and doesn’t use jargon that makes you feel like you’re back in math class. You want someone who’s like your favourite auntie, but for your finances.
Schedule a Consultation
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential advisors, schedule a consultation to meet with them in person. This will give you the opportunity to ask questions, discuss your financial goals, and see if they are a good fit for you. And if all goes well, the conversation will carry on over a nice cup of kopi/ tea in-person!
In conclusion, having an independent financial advisor can be beneficial in helping you achieve your financial goals in Singapore. By doing your research, checking their credentials, considering their specializations, and scheduling a consultation, you can find an independent financial advisor that suits your needs and helps you achieve your financial goals. And who knows, maybe they’ll even help you become a finance guru yourself!
Important: The information and opinions in this article are for general information purposes only. They should not be relied on as professional financial advice. Readers should seek independent financial advice that is customised to their specific financial objectives, situations & needs. This advertisement or publication has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
To make simple, that which is complicated;
For I will move at the pace most comfortable for you, walking alongside life’s celebrations and milestones in the many seasons ahead.
With over 10 years of experience, armed with disciplines in Banking and Finance, as well as being a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), I seek to guide and navigate my clients towards achieving their Financial Dreams and Goals within their Lifetime. Over the years servicing a wide variety of clients, I have developed a multitude of unique pathways for young couples and clients in identifying opportunities, and how to capitalise on them in order ensure that their goals are easily achievable.
Growing up in single parent family, I personally understand the pains of failing to mitigate financial risks, and the importance that couples adequately cover themselves especially when they are young parents with children or planning to do so in the near future.
Over a decade of service dedicated to planning for my clients’ financial success, I have adopted a specialised approached to assisting his clients with developing strategies to tackle tough financial decisions needed for starting a family. My key insights have assisted many clients in making optimal decisions for their finances, having developed a keen eye for spotting financial potholes that most would have missed out.
My goal for everyone is to be prepared for what life throws at us, rain or shine. I aim to help clients achieve financial independence early so that we can live life worry free knowing that we have a plan for everything.
