Deciding which investment management and advisory firm to choose is obviously one of the most important investment decisions to make.

You should be considering the following points before entering into an agreement with a firm:

1. Is the firm registered with the Financial Services Board of SA (FSB)? 
2. Does the firm have a compliance officer (ideally an external person)?
3. Is the firm managed by knowledgeable, experienced managers with professional qualifications? 
4. Does the firm have qualified actuaries, accountants, and CFA charter holder that are able to assist you with making the correct investment decisions?
5. Are these investment professionals independent from any other financial services provider?
6. Does the firm have an excellent track record in managing clients’ investments?
7. Does the firm make use of credible custodians to ensure safe keeping of your assets?
8. Is the firm reporting back to you on a monthly basis?
9. Is the firm completely transparent with their fees?
10. Does the firm’s investment philosophy and process make sense when it comes to investing?
11. Will your portfolio be managed on an ongoing basis and will you have contact to a key person at the firm?
12. Are you comfortable dealing with the firm's employees?