For us, awards means a nice night out and a pat on the back, but for our existing clients and for those thinking of getting in touch, it’s a reminder that every day of every year, we’re working hard to stay in front.

We came to the conclusion that we could use ESG funds in our model portfolios and there should be no downside for our clients – either from a risk or a return point of view.

The financial markets have faced challenges over the first quarter. While the pandemic and its impact on the economy continued to wane as the year began, increasing inflationary pressures, and the prospects of increasing interest rates, weighed on investors’ minds. In the background were growing tensions in Eastern Europe, as Russian troops amassed on Ukraine’s borders.

Richard joined Fortitude Financial Planning in 2016 and has just been approved as a Director of Fortitude Financial Planning.

Once we start speaking to a client, it becomes clear that there are actually more significant concerns driving the need for advice. It’s often something they didn’t realise before they walked in the door – something much more personal, and often not financial at all.

As 2021 began, inflationary pressures started to rise but economic growth was deemed to be more important than the threat posed by inflation. It was only as the year came to an end, that central banks looked ready to address the inflationary pressures.

Some advisers may call themselves financial planners, and while the terms are often used interchangeably, they’re really not the same. When you’re looking for guidance, it’s important to understand the differences and know what you’re getting for your time and money.

Depending on what goes on your shopping list and how often you buy it, your personal experience of inflation could also be vastly different from the next person.

In times of stress, it can be helpful to have a mental list of several things you can do to bring back a sense of calm. It’s always better to be proactive rather than reactive, so we recommend making these a regular habit. Here are a few suggestions.

Economic recovery and the ‘Great Vaccination Divide’. You can read and download the full Q3 Market Commentary from our Investment Committee here.

Making the most of life means actively pursuing the things you enjoy and spending time with the people that matter. What you don’t want is to look back on your life with regret. If “all the world’s a stage”, you need to make sure yours has the right scenery, cast and script for your preferred play, today and in the future.