Steven Hotham

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Help with our financial planning.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Advising on all aspects of our financial needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

most definitely.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Approaching oension age without a plan or advisor

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Both investment and pension advice and planning. Including combining several different pension pots. Regular updates to ensure future financial requirements are met.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcomes exceeded my expectations

What could they have done better?

Not sure anything could have been bettered.

Steven's reply

Thanks Clive. It has been a pleasure working with you both and seeing you enjoy retirement.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Required help in future planning

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Handles all my financial situations

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Steven's reply

Thanks Ira, I always enjoy the time we spend working together.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My accountant advised I needed guidance on how to plan for a secure financial future

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

With strategic planning, sound investment advice based on a professional risk assessment level to understand our level of loss tolerance against long term gain. Steve uses sophisticated software to explain how the advice he is giving will achieve our long term goals. That is providing sufficient annual income to live a life style with which we are comfortable.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, in conjunction with our accountant Steve has operated a strategy that has minimised short term recent world wide downturns. Our strategic spread investment advice over all financial options has secured our long term needs.

What could they have done better?

Not much. I have learnt a lot from Steve about how to spend money, after working hard to safe it, in order to enjoy the rewards of his wise investment strategy. I’m reminded that shrouds have no pockets.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Dissatisfaction with the advice being given by the Company's Accountants

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

He has provided a one to one service tailored to our requirements and expectations for both our retirement and future interests of the family

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Within reason - Yes. We live in a somewhat volatile world and having been associated with Strategic and its predecessors for some 40 years we have encountered several down turns in the market, but experience has taught us that recovery is sometimes a very gradual process. The research and graphics that are made available to us at our review meetings with Steven offer us some assurance that patience is preferable to panic.

What could they have done better?

As far as we are concerned - nothing

Steven's reply

Thanks David, it has been a pleasure working with you both and look forward to continuing our work together.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My business was going from strength to strength My accountant used Steven, found him to be exceptional and recommended him without hesitation.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

By giving advice in terms that I can understand

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

N/A

Steven's reply

Thanks Martin. It has been a pleasure working with you both.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Steve has been dealing with our family over several years. On initial contact he gave us confidence in his advice, was professional and had a good understanding of a variety of approaches. We felt he was also friendly and not pushing any agenda. Steve answered our questions at a level we understood and allowed me to challenge and questioned until we came up with a strategy.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

With a variety of financial planning, investment strategies and, more recently, with transfer of assets to the next generation. Steve understands our personal risk profiles to investments, finds solutions and supports the discussion on the way to make them happen. I believe the investment strategies selected have allowed use to out perform the market, at an acceptable risk level. In times of my stress, during the sad loss of my mother, he has been willing to reach out and assist, on a timely manner, when I needed information and assistance. I am always grateful for his support.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. The plans put in place over 15 years ago for IHT planning, and those more recently, have given us today the structure and security we were striving for. But it is not just the longer term benefits, it is also the advise on short term approaches / diversity of portfolio, taking into account our personal preferences. I ask a lot of questions and Steve is technical competent to answer and advice.

What could they have done better?

Not all the investments made the returns we might have hoped, but Covid affected many things in unexpected way. In market turmoil at that time, Steve was able to give us professional advices and we were able to act, knowing the risks, making informed decisions. No one can predict the future but being informed well, as Steve did, settled our minds, etc.

Steven's reply

Thanks Daryl, it has been a pleasure working with you.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Following my retirement I needed a financial advisor to handle my financial options.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Following our retirement, Steve gave both my wife and myself a comprehensive appraisal of our financial situation, advising of a range of options available for our future investments. This included Pension transfer outlining fully the degree of risk with each option. Steve and his colleagues supply regular reviews to investment performance and are always available to help with any queries however small. The advice we have received since using Steve as our financial advisor has been second to none and has left us confident with our future finances

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, Couldn't have wished for anything better.

What could they have done better?

In my opinion nothing could have been done better.

Steven's reply

Thanks Chris, it has been great working with you both.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Transferring pension fund and long term financial retirement planning

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

6 years plus

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Everything is totally satisfactory.

Steven's reply

Thanks Mark, its been great working with you through this transition.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We engaged a Steve as our financial adviser in response to a significant change in our financial circumstances, including a business sale, retirement preparations, property ownership, and inheritance planning. We acknowledged the necessity for expert guidance to navigate intricate financial decisions and secure a well-informed and stable financial future.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steven Hotham has been instrumental in improving my financial well-being. His expertise in investment strategies and financial planning has allowed me to make informed decisions that align with my long-term goals. He has provided valuable insights on asset allocation, tax planning, and risk management, resulting in improved financial stability and growth. With Steven's guidance, I've gained a deeper understanding of my financial options and a greater sense of security in my financial future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely. The outcome has exceeded my expectations. With Steve’s expert advice and strategic planning, my financial objectives have been not only met but surpassed. His guidance has been invaluable in achieving financial security, growth, and peace of mind. We’re grateful for the positive impact he has had on our financial well-being.

What could they have done better?

We are content with their excellent services and commitment to our financial well-being. The recent update to the Personal Finance Portal has been a positive step, further enhancing our satisfaction. It's reassuring to know they continually strive to deliver top-tier service.

Steven's reply

Thanks Andrew. It has been a pleasure working with you both.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Retirement planning

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steve has helped with financial planning regular reviews updates and professional advise he explains clearly our plan .Steve and his team are always very helpful and available to discuss any help we need.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we are both very pleased

What could they have done better?

We have no problems

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Pension Planning

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Friendly ,professional approach to understanding the changes in our financial , family and life situation. Advice with options and explanation of that advice and the options ,allowing us to make informed decisions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The strategy adopted is longer term ,so immediate results in the current economic situation, were not expected.

What could they have done better?

We are very satisfied with all aspects of our contact with Steve Hotham, and the advice given.

Steven's reply

Thanks Mark, it has been a pleasure working with you both. Speak soon. Steve

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We had a number of pension and investments that needed consideration. We needed a plan for our retirement so we could achieve what we wanted to do without worry.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Excellent advice on consolidation. A detailed plan going forward was put into operation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes We have now both retired and starting to live the plan, doing what we have always wanted to do knowing it is achievable.

What could they have done better?

Them nothing. Us - yes. Should have gone to Steve earlier in life.

Steven's reply

Thanks Dee, it has been a pleasure working with you and Bill and I too wish we had met sooner. Speak soon. Steve

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

A close friend introduced me to Steve. At the time my financial situation was precarious because it had become apparent that my late husband’s SSAS pension had changed over the years in a way that was not going to benefit our family – as was his intention when he first signed up for it. Steve worked tirelessly and managed, against all the odds and before it was too late, to convert the SSAS pension to a SIPP.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steve was generous with his time getting to know my financial situation and that of my family. He has given us invaluable advice and, above all, he has given us peace of mind. An added bonus with Steve is that he has a great team working with him – always helpful and quick to respond to queries.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcome has been truly life-changing for our family. I shall be forever grateful to my friend for recommending Steve, and of course to Steve too for his unfailing support.

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all.

Steven's reply

Thanks Priya, it has been a pleasure working with you and your family. So pleased to have made a difference. Speak soon. Steve

Review from verified client

October, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

The need to look at my financial welfare following early retirement.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steven has helped in identifying my family needs and requirements in planning for my future wealth and happiness and in aligning my potential income streams to the lifestyle that I wish to enjoy.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Steven's professional knowledge, advice and support has enabled myself and my family to enjoy my early retirement without fears. Whilst there are acknowledged risks with any investments he was able to pitch any that I had with a rational and balanced approach.

What could they have done better?

No issues. Always found the setvice exemplary. He and his colleagues leave us alone really to enjoy our retirement, barring a regular review, which is prudent bearing in mind potential changes to our requirements, but is always available if needed to discuss.

Steven's reply

Thanks Neil and Liz, its been a pleasure working with you. Speak soon. Steve

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Steven

My wife and I have had three meetings with Steven. The first was introductory/exploratory. The second followed information gathering and analysed our present circumstances and expectations. The third finalised recommendations and how we might proceed together. All were conducted in a relaxed and professional manner.

Steven's reply

Thanks Derek and Kay. It was lovely to work through things with you and hope it puts you in a good position to move forward. Steve

Review from verified client

July, 2019

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was in a corporate pension scheme where I felt not in control of my future and wanted to take control of my future to Taylor a solution for use which is what Strategic Wealth Management has help be achieve

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steve has help us to understand our option, arrange our pension in a tax efficient way, set up a pension for my wife who previously did not have one, help us to understand our future finance options and plan accordingly. All of which has greatly relived the worry of retirement by understanding our options,

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we now feel in control of our own destiny

What could they have done better?

I have no suggestions for improvement, the only think which would have improved the situation as if I had sort advise earlier.

Review from verified client

October, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I have dad a financial adviser for many years mainly for pension advice.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steve has an excellent understanding of my financial goals and needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes i believe that i now have a good understanding of my financial needs for later life.

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of any areas currently that have not been covered in our meetings and communications.

Review from verified client

September, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was co director of my now ex parter business. I was teceiving a yearly bonus and want advice on pensions My ex was already seeing Steven so made sense for me too.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

He arranged a saving/pension plan for me. My circumstance changed. I went to see Steven as needed further advice. He suggested I draw down some of my to help get a mortgage. Steven, without doubt, has saved me from a grim retirement. I will always be grateful for his support and advise.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcome is better than I could have ever imagine.

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all.

Review from verified client

August, 2018

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Approaching retirement needed to rationalise pensions I had and plan for the future.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Discussed the current financial position, what plans I had for the future, what money I hoped/needed for the future, how much risk I wanted to take with investments, discussed various options and combinations thereof and the pros and cons.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

The discussions were in depth and good but perhaps a summary of the salient points that needed to be actioned/ considered and the timing there of would be helpful for reference. When preparing for retirement the timing and opportunities that evolve often change quickly and making sure the options available on the finances are taken at the correct time is so important.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

FOLLOWING THE DEATH OF MY WIFE IN 2009 I REALISED THAT I NEEDED PROFESSIONAL ADVICE TO ASSIST ME IN THE FUTURE MANAGEMENT OF MY FINANCIAL ASSETS FOR THE BENEFIT OF MY BENEFICIARIES.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

STEVE HAS ALWAYS NEVER HAS BEEN ONE FOR THE HARD SALE AND HAS ALWAYS TAILORED HIS ADVICE TO MEET MY REQUIREMENTS WHICH ARE REVIEWED REGULARLY. HE HAS CLEARLY EXPLAINED ANY PROPOSALS WHICH HE RECOMM.</span>S AND THE REASONS FOR THEM. THIS HAS PROVIDED ME WITH A PEACE OF MIND IN THESE PAST TROUBLED FINANCIAL YEARS.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

THE DOCUMENTATION I HAVE RECEIVED HAS BEEN VERY INFORMATIVE AND EASY TO UNDERSTAND. THE PRODUCTS RECOMM.ED HAVE SUITED MY NEEDS ESPECIALLY INVESTMENTS IN EIS. WE ARE IN ALL IN THE HANDS OF POLITICIANS REGRADING IHT AND STEVE IS EVER VIGILANT TO MONITOR ANY CHANGES WHICH COULD AFEECT THIS.

What could they have done better?

I AM ENTIRELY SATISFIED WITH THE ADVICE I HAVE BEEN GIVEN.

Review from verified client

March, 2017

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We had numerous pensions, saving accounts and a property portfolio but did not know how to maximise the pensions and consolidate the savings in a tax efficient way. We also wanted to know how we would stand when we retired and through our retirement years.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

He was able to advise us and action the consolidation of pensions and savings, where necessary. Show us where we would be on retirement and throughout our estimated lifespan. He explained with great patience the different options we would have and how we would achieve what we wanted to do, We saw a number of people before we decided on Steve- he listened to what we wanted, learnt about us, was easy to deal with and was not pushy - just what we needed!.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. We are happy with how things are going and now that our retirement is only about 12 months away we feel we can go forward with confidence.

What could they have done better?

We are happy with things as they are

Review from verified client

March, 2017

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We felt that our existing Financial Advisor was not giving adequate attention to our needs and reviews were very infrequent.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Our initial meeting with Steven gave us the confidence that he would be acting completely in our interests. Our annual review meetings have been very informative and we now feel that our investments and future planning are in safe and proficient hands.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We are very happy with the pension arrangements that Steve has recommended for us and although it is relatively early days, we are seeing a growth and are confident that the outcome will be right for us.

Review from verified client

February, 2017

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Planning retirement and needing assistance with the 2016 LTA changes.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

He was able to organise fixed protection for the LTA, potentially saving me from a six-figure tax bill. He (and his very capable staff) are also helping me and my wife make optimal use of the various tax allowances available.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely.

What could they have done better?

That's a difficult question. I have worked in financial services all my adult life, and my wife never has been involved in financial matters. So it was always going to be difficult for Steve to strike a balance when meeting us. Even so, I think both of us may have felt that on a couple of occasions we saw too many graphs.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2015

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Steven

We have a very pleasant and thought provoking meeting but are not at a point where we feel qualified to make a meaningful comment.

Review from verified client

September, 2015

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was wanting sound advice about inheritance planning.

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

I found Steven was friendly and patient. He was generous with his time and also thorough with information gathering. He wrote a comprehensive Financial Planning Suitability Report detailing information about his recommendations. I am very relieved to benefit from his expertise and experience.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is too soon to evaluate the outcome I am hoping for.

What could they have done better?

A suggestion: at the beginning of a meeting, for people like me, it would be helpful to have the items (to be covered) printed like an agenda, and perhaps with spaces for note taking.

Review from verified client

November, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steve spends a lot of time finding out about us as clients and then offers a tailored and personal solution to our needs. This is reviewed regularly and updated as required.

What could they have done better?

No suggestions

Review from verified client

October, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Overall very well from initial understanding and interest in all important relevant personal and family requirements for present and future wellbeing. Good and understandable presentation of historical and future financial needs with sound consideration for risk and rewards well considered and set out. Very personable and develops confidence through knowledge, expertise and by presenting proposals in detail and understandable clarity having considered and explained financial plans to suite your requirements.

What could they have done better?

At this time we are happy with the approach and advice put forward which has created our confidence in him for us to adapt and move forward at our pace and which has been lacking in some previous advisors.

Review from verified client

October, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steven Hotham of Stratigic Wealth Management has provided an excellent service dealing with my financial affairs for many years. Naturally I had concerns during the recent global downfall, but during this time felt confident in the advice and action he has given. I would have no hesitation in recommending him and his team.

Review from verified client

October, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

We get together regularly (annually) and I am kept informed of the latest state of my finances, and we plan what I need for current projects, then we plan measures to be taken both in the year to come and long term. I feel Steve takes a personal view of my finances and suggests ideas that are taylor made to my needs. All my schemes seemed to be reviewed regularly

What could they have done better?

I am happy with the way I am looked after - I don't have sufficient knowledge to be aware if Steve could be doing his job any better!

Review from verified client

October, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

listens well, and then responds in plain English.

What could they have done better?

To be honest, even the coffee was ok.

Review from verified client

October, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steve has a very, warm and engaging manner. He speaks confidently and professionally and takes the time to really understand your specific circumstances. He is very open about his area of expertise and delegates to colleagues, where appropriate eg Cliff. He has given us the confidence and support to make some major lifestyle decisions, enabling us to maximise our finances and achieve a good work/life balance.

What could they have done better?

Based on our profile, he made recomendations as appropriate. Perhaps he could have challenged us to think a little differently - or at least consider it momentarily?!

Review from verified client

September, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Explains in layman's terms exactly what is involved in risk profiling. Asks detailed questions to understand ones financial objectives. Offers clear and straightforward advice with professionally produced charted examples of cause and effect of varying possible decisions. Conducts meetings in an informal but informed manner, listens carefully to needs and wants of client, and gives sound guidance and advice even, if sometimes it may not always be what the client wants to hear. Provides a detailed report of discussions and agreements following meetings. Exactly what one wants from an informed and professional adviser.

What could they have done better?

Not a lot. He has a good team of people who respond promptly to queries and communicate well.

Review from verified client

September, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Makes a genuine attempt to understand not only the financial issues themselves, but what goes on around them and maintains a focus on how to shape them for the future life you plan.

Review from verified client

September, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

I was comfortable speaking to Steve and liked the way he spent time finding out about my concerns, my life in general and how I felt about risk.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I am more than happy with the advice I have been given.

Review from verified client

September, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steve and the team at Strategic Wealth Management offer a truly refreshing approach to financial planning. The emphasis is on planning in its purest form as a means to help goal achievement rather than as opportunity to sell products.

Review from verified client

February, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steve and his staff have helped me through a very difficult time in my life in the past eighteen months . He has been very supportive with my finances ensuring me for a safe secure future , I feel as though I can ring him for advice no matter how small or greater the problem he is their to reassure me ,I have every confidence in him as a advisor. Frances EAST SUSSEX

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

The results have shown that our confidence and trust in Steve have been well placed.

What could they have done better?

Provide more biscuits at our meetings!

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steve is a good listener and excellent communicator. His use of software to present projections of future income are easy to understand and Steve is able to present complicated financial statements into everyday language. If asked something beyond his expertise he has always been able to recommend other advisers. Steve is always available and responds promptly to telephone/email requests for meetings/information. He is reliable,friendly and trustworthy all I want from a financial adviser.

What could they have done better?

I have yet to find something Steve needs to do better

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

friendly professional servive

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Provides knowledge and experience and advice to suit my requirements

What could they have done better?

I am pleased with the services provided and do not seek changes

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Keeps me up to date with the financial markets and constantly changes any underperforming investments to those showing better returns.

What could they have done better?

Better layout of portfolio in quarterly reports

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

I have been with Strategic Wealth Management for over 20 years and their help and advice during this time has been excellent. Steve takes a genuine interest in his clients and he and the company are and have been very proactive with my pension and investments. We have regular meetings when our future needs are looked at and where our funds should be for our future requirements. All costs and charges have been very reasonable and transparent and for what I pay the rewards are worth it especially over the last few difficult years for investors. I would have no hesitation in recommendig Steve and Strategic Wealth Management to anyone who needs an advisor especially over a long time scale. Tony Thripp

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Steven Hotham helped you?

Steve is easy to talk to; he listens and understands, and is constructive and positive. The approach that what we need is to be comfortable that we will not "run out of money" coupled with an investment philosophy that asset allocation is far more important than "picking winners" is great. The initial exercise of setting out assets, liabilities, income and expenditure (including estimates over the longer term) was not easy but very instructive and well worthwhile. Steve has held my hand and guided me through my move into drawdown and his support has been brilliant.

What could they have done better?

All financial advisers need to be much more up front and clearer about the costs. Small percentages look like small numbers but applied to big sums of money they are much bigger numbers. There are also often more than one entity involved (advisers, fund managers, platforms, etc.) and thus more then one "small percentage". Having said that Steve has always been much more upfront on this than others that I have dealt with.