International and domestic markets have continued to buffet our investment portfolios over the past three to four months. Many of our clients will have met or spoken with their advisers over this time and our advice will have consistently been - hold tight and stick with our original investment plan. Income is what pays the bills and leads eventually to capital growth. The latest down turn in the sharemarket has occurred without any significant deterioration in company profits, hence the recovery, when it occurs, is likely to be more rapid than we have experienced in the past.

On an entirely different note, I want to congratulate Erin Touzell and Warner Leung on their progression last month from Trainees to full Paraplanners. Both Erin and Warner have been with us for over 2 years now and make a great contribution to our paraplanning team. Many of you will already be familiar with Erin or Warner, but to get to know them both a little better, see their profiles.

As a professional organisation operating for nearly 60 years in Newcastle, Forsythes understands the importance of having highly qualified professional staff to achieve consistent quality client advice. We maintain a strict professional educational regime within Forsythes Financial Services - Our paraplanners must hold a relevant University Degree and the Diploma of Financial Services. In addition to these, our Advisers must also hold the Advanced Diploma of Financial Services with a view to progressing to a CFP (Certified Financial Planner). All Advisers and Paraplanners also participate in regular ongoing professional education, to ensure they stay up-to-date with investment markets, changes in legislation and new strategies. We trust that this discipline is reflected in the advice provided to our valued clients.

John O'Connor - Partner

To view and download the full version of our Spring edition click the cover graphic at the top of the right hand column.