Research

Analysis

Reports

Knowledge and experience

Argonaut was established in 2011. Before that, we worked as employed paraplanners at various firms. We’ve taken all that experience and designed a ‘best of breed’ approach for our research and reports.

About

Input and ideas

We work in a complex profession, which is why it’s important to have a second pair of eyes on each case. We don’t churn out reports like a factory – we’ll give you our thoughts on the advice and make suggestions if we think we can help create a better client outcome. We’ve got your back.

What we do

Right first time

We know your time is precious. That’s why every report is checked by a second qualified paraplanner before you receive it, because we want it to be right first time, every time.

How we do it

Reliable

Our office in central Reading is open weekdays from 9-5.30, so we’re always available when you need us. We confirm receipt of all cases within 24 hours, so nothing slips through the net, and we’ll keep you posted on our progress.

How it works

Integrated and efficient

We only work with advisers on an ongoing basis, because we get to know how you work and what you like. That way, the research and reports you receive from us are ‘ready to go’, so you don’t have to spend your time making changes. It’s a system that works – most of our clients have been working with us for many years.

How we charge

Simple and secure

We use an online system for transferring documents and discussing cases. This is more secure than using email and it means there is a full audit trail, which is important in any regulated profession. It’s easy to get started if you think we might be a good fit for your needs.

Getting started

Where we can help

Client engagement

Gathering information

Argonaut
can help

Analysis & assessment

Argonaut
can help

Solutions & recommendations

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Implementation

Review

Argonaut
can help

Find out more

Research and analysis

We’ll provide you with the research needed to support your recommendations, including product and provider research that’s specific to each client. We’ll also provide evidence of any other research we’ve completed, including calculations, to keep on your client file. Read more

Reports

Our reports are designed to be easy to read and each one is highly personalised to the individual client. We use clear headings and plain English so that the reports are easy to read. Our reports are split into three main parts: The report summary, the main 'body' and the appendices, so the information is presented in bite sized chunks. If you don’t want to use our templates, we’re happy to discuss using yours. Read more

Input into the advice process

Our clients tell us that one of the things they value most is our input into the advice process. This might be a suggestion of a change to the advice, for example, for tax-efficiency or to reduce the overall charges. Or it might be because we’ve noticed something about an existing plan, such as additional benefits or features that could easily be overlooked. We’re here to help ensure the best client outcomes. Read more

Technical help

We’re always on hand if you need technical help. If we don’t know the answer, we’ll certainly know where to find it. Read more

Our charges

We work on a retainer basis with all our clients. This means we get to know you and how you work, helping to make the outsourcing process as efficient as possible. It also helps us maintain service levels. We’ll agree the level of the retainer with you in advance, and it can be changed later on if you decide to use us more or less than expected. Read more

About

Argonaut Paraplanning was set up in 2011 by Alan Gow DipPFS, APP, ACSI. Alan is a CISI Accredited Paraplanner and he aims to become Chartered in 2020. He previously worked as a financial complaints investigator. He organises and hosts regular paraplanner events in London, sits on the Personal Finance Society’s paraplanner advisory panel and has spoken at national events, including the IFP (now CISI) conference and PFS Paraplanner conference. Members of the team regularly contribute to the Financial Services press, including New Model Adviser, Professional Paraplanner, Financial Planning Today, IFA Magazine and the PFS Quarterly. Read more

The work that they have produced shows their detailed knowledge and expertise in financial services. They are true professionals and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend their services.
Lighthouse London, Client since 2012
They provide a high quality service which is tailored to our needs. Most importantly, we see them as a totally integrated and critical part of our team, with the same ethos and philosophy.
Mike Robertson Associates Ltd, Client since 2012
Dedicated, knowledgeable and highly professional paraplanners. The service has allowed me to focus on providing face to face advice to a growing client practice.
Hadleigh Chase Ltd, Client since 2011
You provided a comprehensive suitability report, but written in a way that was clear and concise. I know my client will understand it. Thank you, your input is invaluable.
Whitman Fry Wealth Management, Client since 2018