Can fixed income be both sustainable and high performing? Or is it just another corner of the market vulnerable to greenwashing? In this eye-opening episode of the Money Wise UK podcast, host George is joined by Samantha Lamb, Head of Fixed Income at GIB Asset Management, to break down what sustainability really means in the world of bonds — and why it’s time to challenge some long-held assumptions. Drawing on decades of experience in ESG and credit markets, Samantha reveals: Why GIB doesn’t rely on bond labels like “green” or“sustainable” — and why these can mislead investorsThe difference between ESG risk management and truly sustainable investingHow fixed income can deliver strong risk-adjusted returns without compromising valuesThe power of a multi-thematic framework in building resilient portfolios for real-world problemsWhy certain sectors, like fossil fuels and tobacco, are ruled out — regardless of their ESG scoresHow to balance performance with purpose in a volatile and fast-evolving landscape Whether you're a fund selector, financial planner, or simply curious about the future of sustainable investing, this episode offers clarity, insight, and real-world thinking that cuts through the jargon. "There’s no performance penalty for investing responsibly — not if you do it right." — Samantha Lamb Follow, share, comment, rate and subscribe to Money Wise UK for thoughtful, independent conversations on the future of investing. Learn more at www.gibam.com Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns; investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation. #SustainableInvesting #FixedIncome #GreenBonds #ESG #ImpactInvesting#InvestmentPodcast #MoneyWiseUK
In this insightful episode from Money Wise UK, host George is joined by Lawrence Cook, CEO of Mabel Insights, to unpack how retirement planning is evolving — and why it’s more important (and complex) than ever before.What to Expect:Why the traditional view of retirement is outdatedThe emotional and financial challenges of today’s retirement landscapeThe importance of cashflow modelling (and why many advisers still aren’t using it)How to manage conflicts around drawdown vs. annuitiesThe value of a Withdrawal Policy Statement in giving clients clarity and controlFCA's Thematic Review and why it’s an opportunity, not a threatLawrence’s take on the natural income debate — and why "bonkers" might sum it up! That's natural income, not his take! How better technology and planning tools (like Mabel) are reshaping adviser-client conversations🎧 Whether you're a financial planner or someone thinking about retirement, this episode is packed with real-world stories, practical insights, and future-focused thinking.Listen now to discover how to turn uncertainty into confidence — and why having a plan is the real power move.🔗 Learn more: mabelinsights.comMoney Wise UK Centralised Retirement Proposition templates for financial planning firms.Resources: Abraham Okusanya, Beyond The 4% Rule: The science of retirement portfolios that last a lifetimeBehavior GapRetirement Researcher BasecampEnjoyed this episode?Follow the podcast to stay updated on new episodesRate & review to help others discover insightful content.Leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts!Share with family, friends, and colleagues.Listen now on Spotify and join the conversation.Please note that this podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend consulting a financial advisor. Past performance does not guarantee future returns; investments can fluctuate in value. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation.
In this episode of the MoneyWise UK & QuantQual Podcast, George sits down with Keith Balmer from Columbia Threadneedle to explore why the debate between active and passive investing might be missing the point.Keith shares his career journey — from hedge funds at Man Group to launching a low-cost multi-asset franchise at Columbia Threadneedle — and explains why it’s not about choosing sides but blending investment styles for better client outcomes.They cover:Why passive isn’t always the winner — and how 94% of top managers beat the MSCI World Index over rolling five yearsThe three sources of added value in Columbia Threadneedle’s Universal Range: strategic asset allocation, stock selection, and tactical movesHow the franchise keeps fees at 0.29% while delivering institutional-grade returnsThe real-world case for sustainable investing and why a long-term view mattersWhy consumer duty supports blending investment styles — not chasing the "best fund"If you’re looking to rethink how you deliver returns, manage risk, and build long-term value, this one’s for you.Enjoyed this episode?Follow the podcast to stay updated on new episodesRate & review to help others discover insightful content.Leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts!Share with friends, colleagues, and fellow investors who care about sustainable finance.Listen now on Spotify and be part of the conversation on thoughtful investing!Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns; investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation.
In this episode of the Money Wise UK podcast, host George Ladds speaks with Ben Yearsley, a financial expert with a rich history in the industry. They discuss Ben's journey from his early aspirations of becoming a stockbroker to his extensive career at Hargreaves Lansdown and his current role in consultancy and investment. The conversation delves into the importance of asking questions, the balance between work and life, and the definition of success and happiness in one's career. Ben shares insights on investing in startups and the lessons from successes and failures. The episode concludes with Ben's advice on the significance of absorbing knowledge and the value of personal connections in the financial world.Key takeawaysBen Yearsley has a long history in financial services, starting at Hargreaves Lansdown.He was always interested in finance, inspired by his father's banking career.Ben's career at Hargreaves was marked by innovation and personal growth.He left Hargreaves in 2012, feeling he was coasting and needed a change.Investing in startups has been a significant part of Ben's career post-Hargreaves.He emphasises the importance of asking questions to absorb knowledge.Ben believes in maintaining a work-life balance, especially with family commitments.For Ben, success is defined as doing what you enjoy and having the freedom to choose.He advocates for a lifestyle business approach rather than aggressive growth.Ben reflects on the cultural tendency to knock down success in the UK.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ben Yearsley and His Career Journey03:09 The Evolution of Hargreaves Lansdown06:14 Transitioning from Hargreaves to Fairview Investing09:15 Investing in Startups and Private Companies12:05 The Nature of Entrepreneurship vs. Business Ownership15:15 Lessons Learned from Investing and Business Experiences26:35 Building a Sustainable Business32:02 Defining Success and Happiness34:08 Balancing Work and Family Life39:14 The Importance of Learning and Asking QuestionsFairview InvestingBook: In for a Penny by Peter Hargreaves
In this episode of the Money Wise UK podcast, host George Ladds speaks with Henry Rossiter of Belmont Estate about the estate's commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and the challenges of balancing business with environmental values. Henry shares his journey from a family background in agriculture to leading Belmont's transformation into a venue that connects people with nature. The conversation explores the importance of community involvement, the need for a reconnection with nature, and the pressing environmental challenges we face today. Henry emphasises the role of biodiversity and sustainable practices in ensuring a better future for both the estate and the planet.TakeawaysBelmont Estate focuses on sustainability, community, and education.Henry Rossiter's journey began with a childhood interest in agriculture.The estate has evolved from a simple venue to a community hub.Financial sustainability is crucial for running Belmont Estate.Community engagement is key to nature connection and education.Nature connection programs have seen significant volunteer involvement.Reconnecting with nature can improve mental and physical well-being.Environmental challenges require innovative solutions and community action.Biodiversity net gain is essential for future developments.The future of Belmont Estate aims for growth through partnerships.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Belmont Estate and Its Vision03:08 Henry Rossiter's Journey to Belmont Estate05:52 Transforming Belmont: Challenges and Opportunities09:15 Balancing Business and Environmental Values12:10 Community Engagement and Volunteering Initiatives15:15 Reconnecting with Nature: The Importance of Community20:58 The Impact of Nature on Wellbeing27:11 Environmental Challenges and Solutions36:00 Future Aspirations for Belmont EstateLinks: Belmont Estate Money Wise UKThe Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative - Florence Williams🎧Don’t forget to subscribe for future episodes, leave a review, and share your thoughts.📢Disclaimer: This podcast does not provide financial advice. Please consult a financial adviser for personalised guidance. Investments can rise and fall, and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. Any company mentions are for discussion purposes only and do not constitute recommendations.
In this candid episode, George speaks with entrepreneur Hugo Morrissey about his bold leap from a career in finance at Neptune Investment Management to launching Nuisance Drinks in 2020. Hugo opens up about the highs and lows of starting a business during the pandemic, from foraging nettles to hand-labeling 5,500 bottles.The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Hugo shares his struggles with mental health while running the business solo—and how therapy and antidepressants helped him find his footing again.He also reflects on his decision to exit the brand in 2024, touching on sunk cost fallacy and the tough realities of scaling an FMCG startup. Finally, Hugo introduces his new venture, Blackbook Design Collective, a creative agency bridging South African talent with UK clients.This episode is a powerful story of resilience, reinvention, and redefining what success really means.Blackbook Design Collective: https://www.blackbookdc.com/Money Wise UK: https://www.money-wise.uk/🎧Don’t forget to subscribe for future episodes, leave a review, and share your thoughts. 📢 Disclaimer: This podcast does not provide financial advice. Please consult a financial adviser for personalized guidance. Investments can rise and fall, and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. Any company mentions are for discussion purposes only and do not constitute recommendations.
In this episode of Money Wise UK Podcast, we welcome back Richard Parkin, Head of Retirement at BNY Investments. Following the October Budget and his latest research with NextWealth on Retirement Advice, Richard shares key insights shaping the future of retirement planning.Key findings from the research include:🔹 47% of advisers feel compliance with the thematic review limits their ability to meet client demand.🔹 28% of advisers have no plans to adopt a standardized retirement advice model.🔹 40% of advisers continue using the same portfolios for decumulation as they do for accumulation.We dive into these findings, discussing the role of annual reviews, industry trends, and what the future holds for retirement advice. Whether you're an adviser or an individual planning your retirement, this episode offers valuable perspectives from both sides of the conversation.💡 Resources:For retirement insights, visit BNY Investments.Advisers can explore the Money Wise UK Centralised Retirement Proposition®.If you're seeking retirement advice, check out unbiased.co.uk.🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe for future episodes, leave a review, and share your thoughts. Join us on this journey as we navigate the evolving world of retirement planning.📢 Disclaimer: This podcast does not provide financial advice. Please consult a financial adviser for personalized guidance. Investments can rise and fall, and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. Any company mentions are for discussion purposes only and do not constitute recommendations.
Thoughtful Investing with Castlefield Investment PartnersIf you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the jargon surrounding ESG, sustainable investing, responsible investing, impact investing, and ethical investing, this episode is a must-listen.In this episode of the Money Wise UK Podcast, host George talks with Callum Wells of Castlefield Investment Partners to discuss the complexities of sustainable finance.Key topics include:Understanding the differences between ESG, responsible, impact, and ethical investingHow to navigate the latest FCA sustainable investment labelsCastlefield’s unique approach to engaged and transparent investingThe role of regulatory frameworks and governance in sustainable financeWhat thoughtful investing truly means in today’s evolving marketJoin us as we explore how investors can align their portfolios with their values while ensuring long-term financial sustainability. Enjoyed this episode?Follow the podcast to stay updated on new episodesRate & review to help others discover insightful content.Leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts!Share with friends, colleagues, and fellow investors who care about sustainable finance.Listen now on Spotify and be part of the conversation on thoughtful investing!Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns; investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation.
In the Money Wise UK Podcast episode, host George speaks with David McNeil of Castlebay as the firm celebrates its 10th anniversary. David shares his journey into investment management, from an early fascination with stockbroking to co-founding Castlebay in 2013. He discusses the firm’s unique approach to quality value investing, maintaining a low turnover strategy (10% annually) and a long-term perspective.The conversation explores the challenges of running an independent investment firm, including regulation, technology adoption, and industry consolidation. David highlights Castlebay’s commitment to transparency, independence, and building long-term relationships with investors, contrasting trends in larger asset management firms.Please tune in for insights into Castlebay’s investment philosophy, approach to ESG integration, and vision for the future.Visit my website money-wise.uk for more details, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share to help spread the message!Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns, and investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation. Castlebay WebsiteOther websites:Monday.comsaturnAI
With poverty and inequality in the UK remaining among the highest in the developed world, impact investing offers a way to address these challenges while delivering financial returns.George and Hermina break down the world of investment trusts, explaining how they work and uncovering the unique opportunities in the social impact sector. They also discuss risk management, investor safeguards, and what sets the Schroder BSC Social Impact Trust apart from others in the ESG space.This conversation features real-world case studies of how the trust has created a measurable social impact, the transparency provided through impact reporting, and what the FCA sustainability label means for investors. We also look at the additional oversight required to ensure authenticity in ESG investing.This is a must-listen episode if you’re interested in sustainable investing, ESG principles, or understanding how investment trusts work.🎧 Listen now and subscribe to stay updated on the latest in financial markets, investment opportunities, and sustainable finance.📌 Visit my website money-wise.uk for more insights on investing, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share to help spread the message!Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns, and investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation.Investment Trust Discounts: Winterfloods research: The current investment trust sector discount is 14.5%, compared to an investment trust sector 30-year average discount of 8.8%. This highlights the potential for a reversion to mean over time or potentially greater upside should the sector revert to trading close to NAV, as has been much of the case in recent years (this was data as of December, and discounts have widened a bit further since).AIC statement: ‘Investment trusts have now traded at double-digit discounts for the longest sustained period on record’.
Join George as he sits down with Andrew Cain of GSI for a deep dive into factor investing and its role in global investment strategies. This episode unpacks key investment concepts, including:✅ How factor investing works and its potential benefits for portfolio diversification and risk management✅ The differences between index investing and active strategies—and whether our approach to them should evolve✅ The FCA’s sustainable investment labels and their impact on fund selection✅ The intersection of factor investing and ESG, exploring engagement strategies and what sustainability means for investorsWith global markets shifting, understanding how to optimize investment strategies using factors like value, momentum, and quality is more important than ever. Whether you’re interested in factor investing, sustainable finance, or new approaches to asset allocation, this is a must-listen episode.🎧 Listen now and stay ahead in investments, financial markets, and sustainable investing.📌 Visit my website money-wise.uk for more insights, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share to help spread the message!Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. We recommend speaking to a financial adviser if you have any questions. Past performance does not guide future returns, and investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation. For more details on GSI, visit gsillp.com.
In this episode, George sits down with Mikhail Zverev and Graeme Bencke of Amati Global Investors for an in-depth discussion on global investing and the role of active management in today’s markets.We explore key themes, including:✅ The complexities of modern financial markets and what they mean for investors✅ The ongoing debate between active vs. passive investing—does active management add value?✅ The risks of avoiding the "Magnificent Seven" and the challenges of holding large, index-heavy stocks✅ The differences between working at a major investment house vs. a specialist fund managerFor investors looking at opportunities beyond the index, this episode provides valuable insights into how active management can work as a standalone strategy or complement passive investing.🎧 Listen now to stay ahead in global markets, investment trends, and portfolio management strategies.📌 Visit my website money-wise.uk for more insights, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share to help spread the message!Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. We recommend speaking to a financial adviser if you have any questions. Past performance does not guide future returns, and investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation. For more details on Amati, visit amatiglobal.com.
Join George in this special two-part series, where the focus shifts from investments to real-life businesses. In this episode, George sits down with Brad Askew, founder of Bristol Spring (formerly Spring Incubator), to explore his entrepreneurial journey—from launching an online legal services company to successfully selling it to a multinational legal insurance firm.Key topics include:✅ What happens after selling a business? The transition, challenges, and opportunities in the next chapter✅ The mindset of successful entrepreneurs—key qualities that define business leadership✅ Lessons from building, scaling, and exiting a company✅ The more profound question: What does success truly mean?This engaging discussion is packed with insights for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone navigating the world of startups, acquisitions, and business growth.🔗 Check out the new website for Bristol Spring: bristolspring.co.uk🎧 Listen now to gain valuable business insights, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share!📌 Visit my website money-wise.uk for more details.Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns, and investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation.
Join George in this special two-part series, where the focus shifts from investments to real-life businesses. In this episode, George sits down with Sam Gee of Manning Gee Investments to explore the challenges and opportunities of launching and scaling a financial planning firm.Key topics include:✅ Starting a financial planning business – Overcoming early hurdles and finding the right strategy for growth✅ Navigating regulatory challenges – Understanding compliance, industry regulations, and the impact on financial advice firms✅ Industry consolidation and competition – How to stand out and build a sustainable business in a rapidly changing landscape✅ Lessons in business ownership – The realities of running a firm, from client relationships to operational efficiencyFor financial advisers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in financial planning, this episode provides valuable insights into building a successful practice.🎧 Listen now for expert perspectives on entrepreneurship in financial services!📌 Visit my website money-wise.uk for more details, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share!Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns, and investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation.
Join George as he sits down with Premier Miton's Emma Mogford for an insightful and thought-provoking conversation on key investment themes. In this episode, they explore:✅ How confirmation bias shapes investment decisions – Are we making objective choices or just reinforcing existing beliefs?✅ Income vs. growth investing – The pros, cons, and which strategy suits different market conditions.✅ Active vs. passive management – When does each approach work best, and what are the key considerations for investors?Packed with expert insights and actionable takeaways, this episode is a must-listen for investors, financial planners, and anyone navigating today’s evolving markets.🎧 Listen now to sharpen your investment thinking!📌 Visit my website money-wise.uk for more details, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share to help spread the message!Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns, and investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation.
In this episode, George is joined by Joe Bunting and Christoph Weidebach of Tellsons Investors for an in-depth discussion on the evolving landscape of fund management. As industry consolidation reshapes the investment world, specialist fund managers must find ways to deliver value and stay competitive.Key topics include:✅ Active vs. passive investing – Which approach is best in today’s market?✅ Value vs. cost – The trade-offs investors need to consider.✅ The future of independent fund management – How smaller firms can compete in a world of increasing scale and regulation.✅ Long-term thinking in investment management – Why a disciplined approach still matters.With expert insights and practical takeaways, this episode is a must-listen for investors, financial advisers, and anyone interested in the shifting dynamics of the fund management industry.🎧 Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on the future of investing!📌 Visit my website money-wise.uk for more details, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share to help spread the message!Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns, and investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation.
In this episode, George sits down with David Jane, a leading income manager at Premier Miton, to explore how natural income strategies can support a more sustainable retirement.As retirees seek stable cash flow without depleting their capital, income-generating assets offer an alternative to traditional drawdown approaches. David shares his insights on:✅ How natural income works – The key assets that generate steady income.✅ The risks and rewards – What investors need to consider.✅ Building a resilient retirement plan – Strategies for long-term financial security.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in enhancing financial stability in retirement.🎧 Tune in now for expert insights on creating a sustainable income strategy!📌 Visit my website money-wise.uk for more details, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share to help spread the message!Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns; investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation.
In this episode, George sits down with Richard Parkin, Head of Retirement at BNY Mellon, to unpack the FCA’s latest thematic review and its implications for retirement planning.As regulatory scrutiny intensifies, financial planners must evolve their centralised retirement strategies to meet changing expectations. Richard shares expert insights on:✅ Key takeaways from the FCA review – What advisers need to know.✅ The impact on retirement income planning – Ensuring sustainability and client security.✅ Adapting to regulatory change – Strategies for firms to stay ahead.This episode provides practical guidance and forward-thinking insights for financial planners navigating today’s complex retirement landscape.🎧 Tune in now to stay informed on the future of retirement planning!📌 Visit my website money-wise.uk for more details, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share to help spread the message!Please note: This podcast does not provide financial advice. If you have any questions, we recommend speaking to a financial adviser. Past performance does not guide future returns; investments can fall and rise. Any mention of a company is not a recommendation.
In this episode, George Ladds is joined by Gervais Williams, veteran fund manager, author, and long-standing advocate for UK equities. Gervais shares his journey from engineering into investment management and reflects on over three decades of navigating market cycles.We discuss:Why today’s markets differ from past cycles – and the risks of assuming “buy the dip” always worksThe retreat of globalisation, the rise of nationalism, and what this means for investorsWhy equity income and cash-generative businesses could define the next 20 yearsThe overlooked potential of UK small and micro-caps (including AIM)How active management can help avoid “zombie companies” and uncover future winnersGervais also reflects on conviction, resilience, and why diversification across industries and company sizes is critical in a more uncertain world.👉 A thoughtful and candid conversation on building resilient portfolios and rediscovering opportunities in the UK market.Book: The Retreat of GlobalisationPremier Miton Disclaimer: This conversation is for information only and isn’t investment advice. Past performance is not a guide to future returns. Investing involves risk, including loss of capital.
In this episode, George Ladds sits down with Benji Dawes, co-manager of the Premier Miton UK Growth Fund, to explore why UK equities, particularly small and mid-caps, may offer one of the most compelling opportunities for long-term investors.Benji shares his unique journey from studying anthropology to becoming a fund manager, explains the fund’s three investment pillars —quality, valuation, and growth —and discusses how his holistic perspective helps him assess businesses in context.We dive into:Why UK companies remain undervalued despite strong fundamentalsThe importance of understanding management teams and incentivesHow small & mid-caps can generate alpha over timeReal examples from holdings such as Cranswick, Wise, and M&SWhat makes London a hub for AI and fintech innovationBenji also reflects on the importance of process, partnership, and keeping an open mind as an investor.👉 Tune in for an honest, insightful look at UK equities and where opportunities lie today.Book: The Opposable Mind - Roger L MartinDisclaimer: This conversation is for information only and isn’t investment advice. Past performance is not a guide to future returns. Investing involves risk, including loss of capital.