Independent Financial Advisers Sandy de Bruyn and Susan Mercer have a lot in common, foremost being their dedication to educating their clients about financial wellbeing, thus helping to change their future
Pictures Ivor Hamilton Photography
We never get emotional about money, but we can get very emotional about our clients,” says Sandy de Bruyn, who is well-known on the local and international financial scene. “Financial planning is personal and we tend to be called first when something big happens in our clients’ lives. They turn to us for advice on a wide range of topics and we take that responsibility very seriously.”
Over the years, Sandy has developed a loyal following with a vast client base. “It is for this reason that I am delighted to announce my merger with Susan Mercer of SM Wealth Coaching (Pty) Ltd,” Sandy says. “There is no one I trust more for financial advice! Susan combines a refreshing take on current legislation with the experience to back up her extensive knowledge. These attributes will be an invaluable asset to our business.”
Susan is a sought-after wealth coach with various post graduate qualifications in the financial industry, working across South Africa with both corporate and private clients. “I offer an holistic approach to financial planning, translating what can sometimes be daunting jargon to help my clients see the benefits of careful planning. In today’s uncertain times, it can be tempting to take advice doled out over the braai, but that can lead to a knee-jerk reaction and, ultimately, a poor decision.”
“That’s where we come in,” Sandy continues. “We are here to protect our clients’ interests and to ensure that they keep their long-term goals in mind. It’s vital for the client to develop a relationship with the person he or she will be in 10 or 20 years’ time, and forward plan to create the lifestyle they want to live.”
“Wealth coaching” is not a flippant term and sees Sandy, Susan and their staff guide their clients through different life stages, helping them navigate from the first days of employment through career changes, unemployment, illness, divorce, retirement and death (with a fair share of counselling thrown in). “It’s at these times that you realise the value of well-written contracts, from marriage and business contracts to that all-important will,” Susan says. “Money gives you options and allows you to focus on what is really important, whether that be getting well or grieving a lost loved one.”
As licensed independent financial service providers, Sandy and Susan guarantee their clients objective advice, based on a thorough understanding of every circumstance and broad research by independent analysts to achieve the best possible outcomes. Sandy goes on: “We are not beholden to any financial institution and are, therefore, committed to achieving the best results for our clients.” The teams’ experience and knowledge are always underpinned by good governance and advanced analysis systems.
Sandy, Susan and their team are constantly researching the local and international factors that may have an impact on their clients’ financial wellbeing. “Fear of the unknown can make decision-making difficult,” Susan says. “It’s our job to block out the noise and assure our clients’ of the best path for their desired outcome, be it risk, retirement, investment or healthcare. They don’t always like what we have to say, but it is vital that every client understands the delicate balance of what they have, what they need and what they desire for the future.”
“We cannot over-stress the importance of adequate retirement planning. South Africa is not a socialist country and, as such, each of us will retire on the decisions we have made from our first pay cheque. With high lifestyle costs and medical aid rates increasing at well above inflation, this gives extra weight to every choice.”
Both Sandy and Susan have maintained a healthy relationship with their clients over the years as their clients trust that they will always tell them the truth, while keeping their and their family’s wellbeing in mind. “Financial planning takes commitment, but the rewards are worth it. There is nothing as satisfying as helping a client through a difficult period or seeing them achieve their financial goals.”
Sandy Wingfield-Turner and Associates (Pty) Ltd
22 On Main, Gillitts 3610
031 765 3204
