Finance specialist says results will match market expectations

Salford-based Frenkel Topping said its full year results to December 31, 2018, are in line with market expectations, today.

The specialist independent financial advisor and asset manager focused on asset protection for vulnerable issued a pre-close trading update.

It said it has performed well with assets added in 2018 having increased by 43% over those added in 2017 and, as a result, assets under management (AUM) at December 31, 2018, increased to £778m.

This represents an increase on the prior year, despite continued political uncertainty and volatile equity markets.

Frenkel Topping’s Expert Witness area is a key driver to building a pipeline for future AUM growth.

2018 Expert Witness instructions increased by 30% over 2017, which has resulted in a solid start to the company’s 2019 financial year.

The company’s 2018 AUM growth reflects the significant investments made in its HR, marketing and IT systems in 2018, including the Frenkel Topping Academy.

The Academy is committed to the training and development of specialist consultants, with the requisite skills to understand and manage the complex financial affairs of vulnerable clients.

The graduation of the first tranche of consultants in 2019 will be an important milestone for Frenkel Topping in building its talent pool and future prospects.

Chief executive Richard Fraser said: “I am pleased to report our full-year results will be in line with market expectations, and the new financial year has started positively.

“Our recent investments in training and development have delivered solid growth and a strong platform for the future.

“Our business model remains robust, supported by a conservative investment approach that ensures we look after the complex needs of our clients throughout the investment cycle and look to the future with optimism.”

A comprehensive update and review will be provided with the company’s annual results, which are expected to be announced on April 10.