AS an investment advisor, I have had the privilege of working with clients from all walks of life and helping them to make informed decisions about their finances. My experiences have been both challenging and rewarding, and over the years I have learned valuable lessons about the importance of financial planning, risk management, and building strong relationships with clients.

As the first point of contact for my company, I embrace the bold and sometimes critical questions posed to me, particularly during turbulent times. It is especially during these times that the advisor-client relationship really deepens and cements. My preferred style of communication utilises simple language to explain what our research team and I have discussed during our many informative meetings. The information coming from these meetings usually serves to provide growth opportunities and we strive to provide the best guidance for our clients. Here are a few lessons I have learned over the years:

Heightened market volatility caused by inflation, high interest rates, global shocks, geopolitical tensions, and technological advancements can all contribute to market fluctuations. As an advisor, anticipating and reacting to these changes becomes crucial to protect clients’ investments and achieve their financial goals. This rapidly changing investment landscape requires continuous monitoring and analysis of market trends, industry sectors, and individual companies. Awareness of upcoming events, geopolitical shifts, and advancements in technology are essential for making informed investment decisions.

How do I guard against panicked decisions by my clients? The secret weapon is continually educating clients about the potential risks and rewards of different investment options which becomes paramount in ensuring they maintain a long-term perspective and avoid emotional reactions to short-term fluctuations.

I find that while most of my clients have an idea of where they want to be, for those who don’t, I can guide them on the path to financial independence. Some clients may be focused on building wealth for retirement, while others may be more concerned with paying down debt or saving for their children’s education. It’s my job as an advisor to listen carefully to their needs and to create a plan that reflects their goals and values.

By helping them define their objectives and assess their current financial situation, I am able to create a plan that is tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. You and your advisor should work together to do this assessment as it forms an important foundation on which your investment decisions will be made. This exercise should be repeated periodically, at least annually since your circumstances can change.

I’ve also learned that building strong relationships with clients is essential to being an effective investment advisor. Trust is a foundational element of any successful client-advisor relationship, and it’s important to take the time to listen to clients, understand their concerns, and communicate honestly and transparently. Giving advice and guiding my clients is important to me because making well-informed decisions is particularly important during uncertain times. Make sure that you trust your advisor.

Overall, my experiences as an investment advisor have taught me the importance of financial planning, risk management, and building strong relationships. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to help people achieve their financial goals, and I look forward to many more years of helping clients navigate the complex world of investments.

Lisa Minto is the assistant vice-president, Personal financial planning at Sterling Asset Management. Sterling provides financial advice and instruments in US dollars and other hard currencies to the corporate, individual and institutional investor. Visit our website at www.sterling.com.jm

Feedback: If you wish to have Sterling address your investment questions in upcoming articles, e-mail us at: info@sterlingasset.net.jm