How to Pick the Right Financial Adviser

Your financial adviser should act as a trusted partner, providing advice tailored to your specific goals and circumstances. They should take time to understand what matters most to you, whether that’s building wealth, planning for retirement, managing cross-border finances, or protecting your family’s future. 

But this goes far beyond technical knowledge (which should be a given), and the relationship you have with your adviser should be based on clear communication, transparency, and trust. If you’re not receiving proactive advice, it might be time to reconsider. 

There are several clear signs that it may be time to look for a new adviser. One common issue is a lack of communication. If your adviser is slow to respond to queries or only contacts you when prompted, you may feel left in the dark. 

Another red flag is receiving advice that feels impersonal or outdated. Your financial plan should evolve as your circumstances (and tax rules) change, and an adviser who doesn’t adapt their strategy is unlikely to be delivering the best results. 

You should also question whether your adviser has the specific expertise to handle your financial needs. For non-residents, cross-border tax planning, currency management, and international investments require specialist knowledge. If your adviser lacks experience in these areas, you could be missing out on valuable opportunities. 

Good financial advice is about more than managing investments, it’s about creating a clear, actionable plan that supports every aspect of your life both now and into the future. A supporting adviser will: 

• Regularly review your plan and adjust it when necessary. 

• Offer solutions tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and location. 

• Communicate clearly and consistently. 

• Provide transparency on fees, performance, and decision-making.  

If you’re unsure whether your adviser ticks all these boxes, it may be time to explore alternatives. 

Making the decision to switch advisers can bring fresh perspective and renewed focus to your financial strategy. A new adviser may spot opportunities or risks that your current adviser has overlooked. They may offer a more personalised approach, taking time to understand your goals in greater detail. 

Switching can also improve communication. If you’re tired of chasing responses or struggling to get clear explanations, finding an adviser who prioritises regular updates and open conversations can make all the difference. 

For non-residents in particular, working with an adviser who understands the challenges of cross-border financial planning is essential. Whether it’s tax planning, currency diversification, or estate planning, the right adviser ensures nothing slips through the cracks. 

When selecting a new adviser, focus on finding someone who offers a personalised approach. You should feel like you’re getting advice that’s specific to you, rather than being lumped into one of a small number of cookie-cutter categories. 

Look for experience in areas relevant to your situation, whether that’s non-resident financial planning, tax efficiency, or retirement planning. 

A good adviser will take time to listen to your priorities and craft a financial plan that reflects your lifestyle. Ask about their communication style, how often they review your plan, and how they measure success. 

Lifestyle financial planning is another important consideration. It’s not just about numbers, it’s also about making sure that your financial strategy supports the life you want to live. An adviser who understands this can help you align your wealth with your personal ambitions. 

Switching financial advisers is easier than you might think. Most of the process is handled by your new adviser, who will liaise with your current provider to transfer your accounts and investments. The key is to ensure there’s no disruption to your financial plan during the transition. 

At Hoxton Wealth, we make the process simple. From initial conversations to a seamless handover, our team ensures your financial affairs are managed smoothly and efficiently.

If you’re questioning whether your current financial adviser is the right fit, it may be worth having a conversation with someone new. The right adviser should offer proactive, personalised strategies that reflect your unique situation, especially if you’re managing wealth across borders. 

At Hoxton Wealth, we focus on providing tailored financial advice for individuals and non-resident who want more from their financial planning. Our team offers clear communication, informed guidance, industry insight and a commitment to helping you achieve your long-term goals. 

If you're ready to take a fresh look at your financial strategy, contact us today to find out how we can help. 

Disclaimer: Service availability may vary by location – please contact us to be directed to the appropriate entity based on the services offered in your region.