How We Work

Many people have goals and dreams, but a goal without a plan is just a wish... an achievable goal is a dream with a deadline ...

Here's how we formulate the plan towards your goals:

Phase 1 - Knowing you, Knowing us...

Sharing history. New clients are drawn to Ethical Investors for a number of reasons, but the big questions we get: How did the firm start in 1989, and what motivates our staff. The answer: We are endlessly fascinated by how investors make the connection between their money and their morals

Phase 2 - What motivates you?

What issues motivate you? What makes you cross? When we started, ethical investment was driven by avoidance - if a company was doing no harm, it was deemed acceptable (the opportunity to invest for positive outcomes in 1989 was limited). Now, there are a range of sustainability areas into which capital can be directed. But what matters most to you?

Phase 3 - Sustainable choices vs Risk

Sometimes, there is a tension between investment aspirations, and the risk. As investors, we understand that this is not a simple binary decision. Some of the most appealing investments in the positive sphere, whether that be social, environmental or any other form, have a higher risk profile. Our role is to make sure that the implications are clear, to avoid financial and sustainable disappointment

Phase 4 - What do you hope to achieve?

Most clients have a specific financial objective in mind, whether that be “I want someone to look at my pensions” or “I have inherited a portfolio of shares and want to invest in line with my principles.” We collect sufficient information to address the financial issue that the investor may have identified from the outset, but we also highlight areas requiring attention

Phase 5 - Can we work together?

This is quite simple; we need to work together, and trust each other. Is this partnership going to flourish

Phase 6 - And finally, the money!

The vulgar subject of money. How much have you got, and what do we charge?