Huddersfield-based financial advisory firm Simpson Wood Financial Services Ltd has been ranked among the UK’s leading financial advice firms in the prestigious FT Adviser Top 100 list. The firm secured the 11th position, surpassing major financial institutions such as NatWest, Barclays Group, and Quilter Financial Planning. This recognition highlights Simpson Wood’s expertise in wealth management and its commitment to delivering exceptional financial solutions.
A Prestigious Recognition
The FT Adviser Top 100 is an annual ranking that evaluates the country’s top financial advisory firms based on a specialist data-driven methodology. The criteria include factors such as client satisfaction, investment performance, and business growth. Simpson Wood’s high placement is a testament to its innovative approach to asset management and its ability to provide tailored financial strategies that yield strong results.
Shaun Wood, Managing Director of Simpson Wood, expressed his delight at the firm’s recognition, stating: “We are honoured to receive this recognition, which we believe is a direct result of the discretionary asset management model we have introduced. Unlike traditional firms, our approach allows us to be more dynamic and responsive, ensuring better financial outcomes for our clients.”
This ranking further reinforces Simpson Wood’s position as a leader in independent financial advice, providing individuals and businesses with trustworthy and forward-thinking financial solutions.
A Game-Changing Investment Model
In July 2023, Simpson Wood launched its discretionary asset management model, fundamentally reshaping how client assets are managed. This approach allows for greater agility in responding to market changes, setting it apart from conventional portfolio management methods.
Unlike traditional investment firms, which often follow fixed strategies, Simpson Wood’s model groups and manages assets in a way that allows for quicker decision-making. This means that market trends, economic shifts, and geopolitical events can be accounted for in real-time, ensuring that clients’ portfolios remain resilient and high-performing.
Shaun Wood further explained the importance of this strategy: “Our goal has always been to build an asset management model focused on sustainable growth against key benchmarks. The success of our discretionary wealth portfolios speaks for itself, demonstrating the advantages of a more responsive and strategic investment approach.”
Outperforming Industry Giants
Simpson Wood’s investment strategies have consistently delivered superior returns compared to major financial institutions, including Brown Shipley and Blackfinch Asset Management.
Shaun Wood highlighted the limitations of traditional asset management models, which often restrict decision-making and reduce responsiveness to economic and political fluctuations. “Many investors miss out on better returns simply because traditional models don’t allow asset managers to act quickly. Our approach prioritises agility and expert decision-making, ensuring our clients make the most of every opportunity.”
Over 140 Years of Financial Excellence
Established in 1880 by Fred Lockwood, Simpson Wood has been a cornerstone of Huddersfield’s financial landscape for over a century. The firm has operated from its historic Market Street offices—the former site of the Huddersfield Stock Exchange since 1913.
With a strong legacy in supporting Yorkshire businesses, Simpson Wood combines generations of financial expertise with forward-thinking investment strategies. The firm has helped thousands of clients navigate complex financial landscapes, ensuring strong returns and long-term financial security.
Shaun Wood emphasised the significance of this latest achievement: “This recognition from the Financial Times reaffirms that success isn’t about size it’s about strategy. We are committed to delivering outstanding results for our clients through innovation and expert financial planning. Being named in the FT Adviser Top 100 is a fantastic way to start what promises to be a great 2025!”
Simpson Wood’s recognition in this prestigious ranking reflects its dedication to continuous improvement, client satisfaction, and industry-leading financial management.