Brittany Wheeler and Paul Hearnden, Hearnden Associates
“The portfolio reporting tool generates a bespoke report for clients to show the aggregate impact of the whole portfolio in a clear and visual way. Our clients really like it, plus it saves us time and sets us apart.”
Brittany Wheeler and Paul Hearnden, Hearnden Associates
Independent financial advisers, Hearnden Associates, have been partnered with Worthstone since June 2021. The Surrey-based firm faced some initial challenges when they first set out on their sustainable investing journey. Financial planners Paul Hearnden and Brittany Wheeler explain how Worthstone’s Impact Portal helped the company overcome these hurdles.
We’ve been pleased to see ESG and impact investing gaining more traction over the past year. When discussing their investment objectives, clients are now far more interested in finding out about different options and approaches in terms of positive impact. Additionally, new regulation is encouraging the industry to review its investment strategies and stewardship. For us, it felt important (and timely) to get ahead of the curve.
We initially tried to conduct our own research to unearth true ESG and positive impact funds. However, we quickly found ourselves banging our heads against the wall. The lack of transparency and consistency in the market meant it was difficult finding funds we really had conviction in. Every fund house seemed to have ESG embedded in its processes, but often without any tangible, digestible evidence.
Worthstone helps us cut through the greenwash. The service allows us to establish relevant investment options and compare funds for inclusion in our Generation portfolio range. As Worthstone doesn’t invite fund houses to pay for ratings, we have complete confidence the research is independent and impartial, allowing us to offer portfolios we have conviction in.
In addition, the portfolio reporting tool generates a bespoke report for clients to show the aggregate impact of the whole portfolio in a clear and visual way. Our clients really like it, plus it saves us time and sets us apart.
The sustainable investing industry is constantly evolving. Worthstone understands this and is always happy to take the time to discuss any queries or suggestions that we have; from how the research and fund rating is carried out to the potential impact of new regulations.
Having Worthstone’s expertise and knowledge is invaluable. It helps us provide our clients with thoroughly analysed and researched portfolios we’re proud of.