– Equity markets mixed with the US underperforming
– Bond markets showing strength amidst policy uncertainty
– Trade policy and geopolitical uncertainty adding to worries
February was another month of shifting dynamics in global markets, shaped by a mix of trade tensions, geopolitical uncertainty, and evolving policy expectations. Investor sentiment remained cautious as fresh U.S. tariffs targeted China, Canada, and Mexico, while diplomatic and political developments added to the complexity of the broader macroeconomic landscape.
Equity markets navigated these uncertainties with resilience in some cases, though performance varied by region. In the UK, stocks edged higher, supported by a more stable currency environment and strength in defensive sectors like consumer staples and utilities. Large-cap stocks outperformed their smaller counterparts as investors continued to favour established companies with strong balance sheets in a period of uncertainty. Across the Atlantic, U.S. markets carried their post-election momentum forward, though small caps struggled here too as concerns around tariffs and trade-sensitive sectors took hold.
Elsewhere, Chinese equities were by far the strongest performers over the month, driven higher by improved sentiment following more government pronouncements of support, and positivity following last month’s Deepseek announcement:
Source: Bloomberg Finance L.P.
The bond market had its share of volatility, with government yields rising early in the month before stabilising as economic data came in softer than expected. In the U.S., concerns over higher spending and potential inflation pressures initially pushed yields higher, but by the latter half of February, those fears eased somewhat. Meanwhile, European bonds held firm, as investors sought safety amid political uncertainty in Germany, where the incumbent government was swept aside in elections. Credit markets remained relatively calm, with investment-grade corporate bonds attracting demand.
Source: Bloomberg Finance L.P
Currency markets reflected the broader themes playing out across economies. The U.S. dollar weakened as global trade risks grew, driven by President Trump’s wayward policy announcements. The Euro had a more mixed month, gaining against USD but weakening against GBP, as UK GDP data surprised to the upside. The Japanese yen also gained, vs EUR, as we saw hawkish comments from the Bank of Japan around interest rate rises, some very strong consumer spending & wages data, and some risk aversion coming back into market, for which the yen is a classic haven.
Bloomberg Finance L.P.
Trade remained a major point of focus, with the U.S. administration pushing forward with its plans to increase tariffs. A new 10% levy on Chinese imports, effective from early March, added to supply chain concerns, while additional tariffs on industrial metals are set to follow later in the month. Canada and Mexico were also hit with fresh trade restrictions, and there is growing speculation that European exports may soon face similar treatment. Investors will be watching closely to see if these measures escalate into broader retaliatory actions, particularly from China and the EU.
Beyond trade, geopolitical tensions showed no signs of easing. The Russia-Ukraine peace talks stalled, and with the risk of the U.S. withdrawing some level of support, uncertainty around the region deepened. In Europe, Germany’s elections reshaped the political landscape, and while coalition negotiations are ongoing, early signals point to a shift toward higher government spending and more pragmatic economic policies. Markets have so far reacted cautiously, waiting for further clarity.
Against this backdrop, as always, avoiding knee-jerk reactions to short-term market noise remains critical, and our portfolio positioning remains focused on stability, and long-term resilience through diversification.
At Fairstone, we specialise in providing tailored investment planning advice to help clients achieve their financial goals. Our experienced advisors offer personalised strategies designed to optimise growth, manage risks, and ensure diversification across a wide range of assets. By working with Fairstone, you can have confidence that your investment decisions are guided by expertise, adaptability, and a commitment to your long-term success.
Contact us today to schedule a no-obligation investment consultation and start planning for a secure financial future.
This publication was prepared by Oliver Stone, Head of Portfolio Management and edited by Imogen Hambly CFA, Portfolio Manager for Fairstone Private Wealth Ltd (United Kingdom).Fairstone Private Wealth Ltd. is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 457558).
This publication is for general information purposes and is not an invitation to deal or address your specific requirements. The information is believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed. Any expressions of opinions are subject to change without notice. This publication is not to be reproduced in whole or in part without prior permission. Articles should not be relied upon in their entirety and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute, advice. Although endeavours have been made to provide accurate and timely information of the various source material, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No individual or company should act upon such information without receiving appropriate professional investment advice after a thorough examination of their particular circumstances. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss due to acts or omissions taken in respect of the information contained within the articles. Thresholds, percentage rates and tax may be amended due to future legislative changes.
Information as of the date of publication 27/02/2025
– Equity markets start the year well, led by Europe and the UK
– DeepSeek and Trump tariff policy causes volatility in US equities
– Broad strength across bond markets, ECB cuts rates and Fed holds
Global equity markets started the year on a positive note, recovering from the headwinds experienced towards the end of 2024. European equities rebounded sharply, posting gains of 6.8% in January, following a challenging December driven by concerns around tariffs and weakness in key sectors. The FTSE 100 was another standout performer, rising 4.5% and reaching an all-time high, marking its best monthly performance since November 2022.
Despite ending well, U.S. equities exhibited significant volatility, particularly in the final week of January, driven by a combination of earnings reports from major technology firms and a significant market shakeup caused by DeepSeek’s AI breakthrough. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq saw substantial swings, reflecting the uncertainty around AI-related investments and potential disruptions to the current semiconductor landscape.
Emerging Markets and Asian equities underperformed relative to developed markets, despite exhibiting lower volatility levels. The FTSE 250 also struggled to keep pace with the broader market rally, highlighting continued economic uncertainty in the UK’s domestic economy.
Bonds had a steadier and more positive month, as compared to late 2024, with corporate bonds outperforming government bonds. High-yield bonds led the way, reflecting continued investor appetite for risk in a more stable market environment.
Inflation-linked bonds also performed well, supported by concerns over inflation persistence, particularly in the U.S., where upcoming policy decisions and geopolitical risks weighed on sentiment. Market expectations for rate cuts in 2025 have moderated, with fewer cuts now priced in compared to earlier forecasts, leading to upward pressure on bond yields across major developed markets.
Notably, European government bonds were the weakest performer in the bond space, reflecting ongoing economic stagnation and political uncertainty. The European Central Bank (ECB) moved to cut rates to 2.75%, as expected, with markets anticipating similar action from the Bank of England in their February meeting. In contrast, the Federal Reserve opted to hold rates steady, reinforcing expectations of a “higher-for-longer” stance on U.S. interest rates.
In currency markets, the Euro had a mixed month, gaining against the pound and the dollar, but falling against most emerging market currencies.
A major event impacting markets in January was the unexpected impact of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI company that launched a highly competitive AI model at, reportedly, a fraction of the cost of its Western counterparts. This triggered widespread concern among investors regarding the sustainability of the heavy capital investments made by major technology firms in AI infrastructure.
The revelation that DeepSeek had trained its model using older and cheaper semiconductor chips sent shockwaves through the semiconductor sector, with Nvidia, in particular, losing nearly $600 billion in market capitalisation in a single session. To put the size of this move into context, only 14 listed companies in the world have a market capitalisation higher than the amount that Nvidia lost.
Despite this disruption, broader equity markets demonstrated resilience, with around 300 S&P 500 stocks remaining flat or positive despite the index’s overall decline, as shown in the chart below. This supports the view that equity market leadership is gradually broadening beyond the “Magnificent 7” tech stocks, a trend that may continue through 2025.
January also marked the beginning of President Trump’s second term, bringing with it immediate policy shifts that impacted market sentiment. His administration moved swiftly to implement tariffs, initially suggesting a postponement on Mexico and Canada before abruptly reversing course and imposing 25% tariffs on both nations. Additionally, a 10% tariff was levied on Chinese goods, with the possibility of further increases in the future.
These tariff measures have raised concerns over inflation, as the cost of imported goods will rise and consumers may feel the brunt of these increases. Early estimates suggest that tariffs on Canada and Mexico will have a more significant inflationary impact than those on China, given the changing trade flows since Trump’s first term.
Alongside tariffs, stricter immigration controls were introduced, further tightening an already constrained U.S. labour market. With unemployment at historically low levels, these policies risk exacerbating labour shortages, which could drive wage inflation higher and impact the broader economy. Bond markets have already reacted to these developments, with yields rising in anticipation of prolonged inflationary pressures.
The unpredictability of Trump’s policies, particularly in trade and labour markets, has introduced a new layer of volatility to financial markets. Investors will need to remain adaptable as more clarity emerges on the administration’s long-term economic strategy.
January provided investors with a stark reminder of the importance of diversification and caution in navigating an increasingly complex global economic landscape. While equity markets started the year strong, volatility remains a key theme, particularly in the technology sector.
The bond market’s response to shifting inflation expectations and central bank policy decisions will continue to be a focal point, as investors weigh the impact of higher-for-longer interest rates against slowing global economic growth. Additionally, geopolitical risks, trade policy shifts, and evolving AI investment dynamics will be key factors influencing market direction in the coming months.
As we move further into 2025, maintaining a well-diversified approach and adapting to changing market conditions will be essential for investors seeking to manage risk while capitalising on the available opportunities.
At Fairstone, we specialise in providing tailored investment planning advice to help clients achieve their financial goals. Our experienced advisors offer personalised strategies designed to optimise growth, manage risks, and ensure diversification across a wide range of assets. By working with Fairstone, you can have confidence that your investment decisions are guided by expertise, adaptability, and a commitment to your long-term success.
Contact us today to schedule a no-obligation investment consultation and start planning for a secure financial future.
This publication was prepared by Henry Scargill CFA, Portfolio Manager for Fairstone Private Wealth Ltd (United Kingdom).Fairstone Private Wealth Ltd. is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 457558)
This publication is for general information purposes and is not an invitation to deal or address your specific requirements. The information is believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed. Any expressions of opinions are subject to change without notice. This publication is not to be reproduced in whole or in part without prior permission. Articles should not be relied upon in their entirety and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute, advice. Although endeavours have been made to provide accurate and timely information of the various source material, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No individual or company should act upon such information without receiving appropriate professional investment advice after a thorough examination of their particular circumstances. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss due to acts or omissions taken in respect of the information contained within the articles. Thresholds, percentage rates and tax may be amended due to future legislative changes.
Information as of the date of publication 27/01/2025
Bond and equity markets fell through December, with the MSCI ACWI closing the month down -1.4%, in euro terms, while the Bloomberg Global Aggregate Bond Index fell -1.1%, driven by an upward repricing of bond yields.
Although December’s Federal Reserve meeting saw Chairman Powell meet market expectations and deliver a 0.25% cut to the U.S. policy rate, the central bank’s supporting narrative shifted, with projections for 2025 moving to reflect just two further cuts through the year, in contrast to the four that were hinted at previously. From a market perspective, this shift towards a higher-for-longer U.S. interest rates scenario puts pay to the perfect backdrop of strong growth plus rate cuts that had been helping support prices through prior months, ultimately leading to losses across both bonds and equities.
From a macroeconomic perspective, however, the U.S. economy remains in good shape. Consumer spending is forecast to be on track for 3% annualised growth in Q4, while healthy consumer balance sheets and strong wage growth continue to provide support. Across the corporate sector, manufacturing activity beat expectations through December, increasing to its highest level since March – a positive sign as we move into the new year.
Elsewhere, Chinese equities offered a ray of holiday cheer to markets, with the MSCI China Index closing the month up 3.1%, in EUR. Despite mounting deflationary pressures across the region and ongoing weakness in economic activity, broadening conviction that 2025 will bring interest rate cuts and significant further stimulus helped bolster Chinese equities through the year end.
In local currency terms, Japanese equities also performed well, gaining 2.8%, as policy normalisation and a moderate resurgence of inflation continued to support the region’s growth outlook and boost broad sentiment. However, for European investors, an appreciation of the euro versus the yen weighed heavily on translated returns, with the MSCI Japan Index falling -1.0% in EUR.
Closer to home, following a 0.3% increase in CPI inflation to 2.6%, the Bank of England (BoE) opted to hold U.K. rates at 4.75% at their December meeting, with officials stating the bank will maintain its “gradual approach” to cuts as we move through 2025. While the BoE’s action, or lack thereof, was largely priced into markets, it did not stop U.K. government bonds selling off as we progressed through the month.
Losses were also felt across other major global bond indices, with government bonds generally underperforming their corporate counterparts, as changing interest rate expectations pushed up yields. Once again, it was the Global High Yield Index that outperformed, benefitting from an element of spread compression as well as its shorter duration and lower sensitivity to nominal interest rate movements.
Looking back at 2024 as a whole, although markets were disappointed with the level of cuts that were made in some regions, developed market central banks were clear in their intention to begin bringing down policy rates, as illustrated in the chart below.
There was, however, a large disparity between those rates cuts that were made and those that had been priced into markets as we came into 2024, which as the year progressed, led to elevated levels of market volatility, and in the U.K., caused the Gilt Index to post another year of losses, closing down -4.4%.
Other major bond indices fared slightly better, with falling interest rates and continued economic resilience proving particularly constructive for credit markets. The Global Aggregate Credit Index eked out an annual return of 2.2%. It was the Global High Yield Index that again gave bond investors the greatest returns though, adding 9.3% and exhibiting low levels of volatility through periods of changing interest rate expectations.
As we look towards 2025, bond markets undoubtedly offer good opportunity for both growth and income, but we need to view the year with an element of caution and continue to be selective in where we allocate capital within the fixed income universe. Further cuts to policy rates will certainly help boost returns, however, should economic resilience begin to wane, or inflation surprise to the upside, we will likely see further volatility.
Within equity markets, the picture through 2024 was more positive, driven by exceptional performance from the U.S. ‘Magnificent 7’. From an index perspective, the Nasdaq, shown below in pink, was the standout leader, closing the year up 38.4% in EUR, while the broader U.S. S&P 500 also benefitted from the ramp up in technology valuations, gaining 31.2%.
While outperformance from U.S. markets has been very well publicised, a number of other good performing areas have flown a little more under the radar. Chinese equities in particular exhibited strength through latter months of 2024, following announcements from Beijing in September that stimulus measures would be put in place to help shore up the region’s ailing property market and get its economy back on track. While equity returns from the region were choppy, low starting valuations and improving investor sentiment allowed the MSCI China Index to gain 24.3%, in EUR.
Japanese equities also performed well, with ongoing corporate reforms helping drive optimism about the economy’s shift towards growth, away from deflation and towards monetary policy normalisation. In March, this saw the Bank of Japan raise interest rates for the first time in 17 years, putting an end to the country’s historic era of negative rates. However, with subsequent hikes bringing the Japanese policy rate to just 0.25%, the yen remains deeply undervalued versus other currencies, a factor that weighed on translated equity returns through the year. In EUR, the MSCI Japan Index, in blue below, returned 14.7%.
Across the U.K., in what was hoped would trigger an economic and market revival, the summer election provided equities with a small mid-year boost of optimism – a feeling that was swiftly reversed following the autumn budget. With higher corporate taxes and higher government spending now expected to put pressure on private sector growth and create stickier inflation, the trajectory of U.K. interest rates is less clear. Come year end, this lack of clarity contributed to the FTSE 100 returning a more modest 11.0%.
European equities fared somewhat worse, as growth across the region continued to slow, while political issues mounted. German manufacturing activity, which was once the powerhouse of European growth, still sits deep within contractionary territory – under pressure from high energy costs, mounting levels of regulation and growing overseas competition. While political resolution, more stable inflation and falling interest rates should help revive the European economy as we move through 2025, it remains difficult to see any clear drivers of growth.
As we move through the new year, we see reason for optimism, as global economies begin to absorb lower interest rates. Research indicates that corporate earnings are expected to pick up across developed markets, driving GDP growth. Furthermore, where 2024 saw returns concentrated within a small subset of mega cap U.S. technology stocks, it is thought 2025 will bring a broadening in equity market returns, both within the U.S. and globally, with investors much for focused on underlying earnings growth.
But, while the overall picture speaks to positivity, markets have a tendency to surprise, and with a new president about to enter the White House, both the U.S. and wider global economy face a lot of uncertainties.
2024 once again showed us that diversification across portfolios does benefit. There is no question that U.S. technology was exceptional through the year, however it was not the only area to have surprised to the upside. Diversified investors will have seen allocations to China and Japan both add notable levels of value, while fixed income and alternative assets – global high yield, global credit and gold – also benefitted.
Looking forward, retaining this level of diversification will be key to navigating the changing economic and political backdrop, while the ability to adapt will ensure opportunities are taken, if and when they arise.
At Fairstone, we specialise in providing tailored investment planning advice to help clients achieve their financial goals. Our experienced advisors offer personalised strategies designed to optimise growth, manage risks, and ensure diversification across a wide range of assets. By working with Fairstone, you can have confidence that your investment decisions are guided by expertise, adaptability, and a commitment to your long-term success.
Contact us today to schedule a no-obligation investment consultation and start planning for a secure financial future.
This publication was prepared by Imogen Hambly CFA, Portfolio Manager for Fairstone Private Wealth Ltd (United Kingdom). Fairstone Private Wealth Ltd. is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 457558)
This publication is for general information purposes and is not an invitation to deal or address your specific requirements. The information is believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed. Any expressions of opinions are subject to change without notice. This publication is not to be reproduced in whole or in part without prior permission. Articles should not be relied upon in their entirety and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute, advice. Although endeavours have been made to provide accurate and timely information of the various source material, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No individual or company should act upon such information without receiving appropriate professional investment advice after a thorough examination of their particular circumstances. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss due to acts or omissions taken in respect of the information contained within the articles. Thresholds, percentage rates and tax may be amended due to future legislative changes.
Information as of the date of publication 21/01/2025
Fairstone Ireland, a leader in financial planning & wealth management, celebrates a significant milestone with the establishment of its fifth strategic partnership in Ireland with Killeen Financial Services Ltd trading as Cleere Life & Pensions. This achievement not only highlights Fairstone Ireland’s relentless pursuit of innovative financial solutions but also marks a significant leap forward in its growth trajectory as Fairstone Ireland surpasses €1 Billion of assets under management (AUM) since entering the market in 2022.
Under the leadership of CEO Paul Merriman, Fairstone Ireland now have four additional Financial Brokerages into their Irish operation, Carey Financial, Murray & Spelman Financial Services, Premier Financial as well as Cleere Life & Pensions.
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, commented “Our partnership with Cleere Life & Pensions not only exemplifies our commitment to become the leading wealth management firm in Ireland but also accelerates our growth momentum. Together, we aim to enhance our capabilities, foster mutual growth, and set a new benchmark of partnership excellence in wealth management, building stronger relationships with Financial Brokerages across Ireland. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with Gearoid and the entire team at Cleere Life & Pensions.”
Cleere Life & Pensions, a reputable financial planning firm headquartered in Kilkenny since 2015, is renowned for its client-centric approach and comprehensive range of financial services. The partnership with Fairstone opens up exciting prospects for Cleere Life & Pensions and their clients, to utilise Fairstone’s vast resources, expertise, and cutting-edge solutions.
Gearoid Cleere, Managing Director of Cleere Life & Pensions expressed excitement about the partnership: “Our partnership with Fairstone Ireland marks an exciting new chapter for Cleere Life & Pensions. Fairstone’s innovative model ensures that we can uphold our commitment to delivering top-tier financial services whilst leveraging Fairstone’s scale and expertise. This strategic move positions us for sustained growth and innovation in the dynamic financial landscape.”
Anthony O’Driscoll, Head of Mergers & Acquisitions at Fairstone Ireland added “We are very excited to partner with Cleere Life & Pensions via our unique Downstream Buy Out (DBO) model which allows the owners of ambitious financial advisory and wealth management firms to secure a liquidity event for themselves, whilst continuing to grow their business and benefit from the resulting upside”.
Fairstone remains dedicated to offering high-quality financial advice and exceptional service, perfectly aligning with Cleere Life & Pensions ethos. The partnership reaffirms Fairstone Ireland’s commitment to revolutionising the financial services sector and serves as a beacon of a new era of partnerships, emphasising teamwork, innovation, and a shared focus on client success. Fairstone Ireland are actively seeking to partner with other growing firms.
Fairstone Ireland, a leading player in the wealth management domain, proudly announces its fourth strategic partnership in Ireland with Galway & Kildare-based broker Murray & Spelman Financial Services. This acquisition highlights the acceleration of Fairstone Ireland’s partnership model which is changing the face of the financial planning industry in Ireland.
Continuing to set high standards for the financial services industry under the leadership of CEO Paul Merriman, Fairstone Ireland’s partnership with Murray & Spelman Financial Services highlights its dedication to establishing a new standard of excellence in wealth management through strategic partnerships.
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, remarked, “Fairstone remains resolute in its mission to challenge conventional norms. Our strategic partnership with Murray & Spelman Financial Services not only underscores this commitment but also catapults our momentum towards achieving market leading position. Together, we aspire to bolster our capabilities, ignite growth, and set a precedent for collaborative excellence in wealth management, fostering deeper partnerships with brokers across Ireland. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with Joe McKeogh, Andriu Mac Lochlainn and the extended team.”
Murray & Spelman Financial Services, a distinguished financial planning firm with offices in Galway & Kildare, has garnered acclaim for its long standing client-centric approach. This synergistic partnership with Fairstone opens new horizons for Murray & Spelman and its clients, granting access to Fairstone’s vast resources, expertise, and innovative solutions.
Joe McKeogh, Director of Murray & Spelman Financial Services expressed his excitement with the partnership: “This alliance with Fairstone marks a thrilling chapter for Murray & Spelman. Fairstone’s innovative partnership model ensures that we can uphold our commitment to delivering top-tier financial services while leveraging Fairstone’s scale and expertise. This strategic manoeuvre positions us for sustained growth and innovation in the dynamic financial landscape.”
This partnership epitomises Fairstone Ireland’s drive to revolutionise the financial services sector and serves as a beacon of a new era of partnerships, emphasising teamwork, ingenuity, and a shared dedication to empowering clients towards success.
Fairstone Ireland, an industry trailblazer in wealth management, proudly announces its third strategic partnership in Ireland, with Premier Financial. This partnership signifies a groundbreaking acquisition model, ushering in a new era of financial services characterised by mutual growth and synergy. Fairstone Ireland partnership represents a significant milestone for both firms, highlighting Fairstone Ireland’s commitment to progressive, client-centric financial solutions.
Under the leadership of CEO Paul Merriman, Fairstone Ireland continues to redefine industry norms. The partnership with Premier Financial underscores Fairstone’s dedication to innovative strategic partnerships, setting a new standard for excellence in the wealth management sector.
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, emphasised, “Fairstone remains steadfast in its dedication to challenging traditional norms. Our strategic partnership with Premier Financial not only reflects this commitment but also propels the momentum in our growth initiatives. Together, we aim to enhance our capabilities, stimulate growth, and set a new standard for collaborative excellence in wealth management, fostering stronger partnerships with brokers across Ireland. We look forward to working with Denis, Mark, Philip and the extended team’.
Premier Financial, a distinguished financial planning firm headquartered in Tralee Co. Kerry, has garnered acclaim for its client-focused approach and comprehensive financial services. This collaboration with Fairstone opens up new avenues for Premier Financial and its clients, providing access to Fairstone’s extensive resources, expertise, and innovative solutions.
Denis Murphy of Premier Financial, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership:
“This collaboration with Fairstone marks an exciting chapter for Premier Financial. Fairstone’s innovative partnership model ensures that we can maintain our commitment to delivering top-notch financial services while benefiting from Fairstone’s scale and expertise. This strategic move positions us for sustained growth and innovation in the evolving financial landscape.”
The partnership model emphasises collaboration, leveraging the strengths and values of each organisation. Fairstone remains committed to providing independent, high-quality financial advice and excellent service, aligning seamlessly with Premier Financial’s ethos. This partnership underscores Fairstone Ireland’s dedication to transforming the financial services sector and serves as an exemplar of a new era of partnerships, emphasising teamwork, creativity, and a shared commitment to helping clients succeed.
Fairstone Ireland, a forward-thinking leader in the wealth management industry, proudly announces a strategic partnership with Carey Financial Planning, signalling a new era in financial services through a groundbreaking acquisition model. This innovative approach focuses on mutual growth and synergies, marking a significant milestone for both firms.
Under the leadership of CEO Paul Merriman, Fairstone Ireland continues to redefine industry norms. The partnership with Carey Financial reflects Fairstone’s commitment to progressive, client-centric financial solutions and represents a novel approach to strategic partnership.
Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland, “Fairstone is committed to pushing the boundaries of conventional practices, and our strategic partnership with Carey Financial Planning is a testament to this dedication. By joining forces, we aim to elevate our capabilities, foster growth, and set a new standard for broker partnerships in the wealth management sector. I would like to welcome Conor and his team to the Fairstone Ireland family”
Carey Financial Planning, a distinguished financial planning firm based in Headford, Co. Galway, has earned acclaim for its client-focused approach and comprehensive range of financial services. The partnership with Fairstone opens up new opportunities for Carey Financial Planning and its clients, offering access to Fairstone’s extensive resources, expertise, and innovative solutions.
Conor Carey, Managing Director of Carey Financial, expressed excitement about the partnership: “This partnership with Fairstone Ireland marks an exciting chapter for Carey Financial Planning. Fairstone’s innovative partnership model ensures that we can uphold our commitment to delivering top-notch financial services to our clients while benefiting from Fairstone’s scale and expertise, allowing our team to spend more time on client facing activities. This strategic move positions us for sustained growth and innovation in the evolving financial landscape, we look forward to working closely with Paul and his growing team at Fairstone Ireland into the future.”
The partnership model focuses on working together and combining each firm’s strengths and values. Fairstone is committed to giving good financial advice independently, and offering excellent service, which matches well with Carey Financial’s ethos. This partnership shows Fairstone Ireland’s commitment to changing the financial services sector. The partnership between Fairstone and Carey Financial is a good example of a new kind of partnership, stressing teamwork, creativity, and a joint dedication to helping clients succeed.
