Charles Stanley’s Exeter office marks 10-year milestone with over £700m under management
Wealth manager Charles Stanley is celebrating a successful first decade in Exeter, with total funds managed by the branch rising to over £700m for the first time.
The firm, which can trace its history back to 1792, established a presence in the city with the acquisition of the Exeter office of Gerrard in 2007. The office is still based in Broadwalk House, Southernhay West.
Staff celebrated the 10th anniversary by hosting events for clients and intermediaries at the Deer Park Hotel, near Honiton, on Tuesday, September 19. The guest speaker was John Redwood, Charles Stanley’s chief global strategist.
Exeter has become one of the top performing teams in Charles Stanley’s network of 24 regional offices across England and Scotland. The 23-strong team at the branch now looks after the investments of more than 1,500 clients. During the past 10 years, funds under management have grown by almost 100 per cent.
This success has been partly put down to a high level of referrals from clients and professional advisers in and around the city. Low interest rates since the financial crisis have also encouraged more people to turn to wealth managers to generate a return on their savings and investments.
The growth of the firm’s client base has reflected the economic success of Exeter over the past decade.
Philip Greenman, senior branch director of Charles Stanley’s Exeter office, said: “We have seen Exeter really thrive over the past 10 years, with the redevelopment of Princesshay, the ongoing growth of the university and new businesses being established in the city.
“Our team is active in the local business community and we have fostered strong relationships with both clients and intermediaries. As a result, we see a great deal of business referred to us.
“To reach the £700m mark is a significant milestone for the team and we are thrilled that so many individuals, families, companies and charities in the region have put their trust in us to manage their assets.
“With interest rates remaining at historic lows, the past decade has been a challenging time for those relying on their savings for income, leading to greater interest in other investments. Stock markets have performed well but the inherent risks involved mean experienced investment managers are always in demand.
“Everybody’s circumstances are unique, and that’s why we enjoy getting to know our clients and spend a lot of time understanding their appetite for risk so we can help to achieve their financial objectives.
“With the benefit of Charles Stanley’s extensive research expertise, our investment managers are experienced at seeking out opportunities for growth and advising clients on the right portfolio of investments for them.”
Charles Stanley is actively looking to recruit new members of staff in Exeter following this substantial growth in the assets managed by the team.
During its 10th anniversary year, the office will be raising funds for the Friends of Exeter Cathedral.
Philip added: “We are optimistic about the economic outlook for Exeter, having seen significant investment in the city over the past ten years. We remain committed to providing high quality investment management to all our clients and we are looking to grow the business even further over the coming years.”
