Planting the seeds of success

Stephen Layfield (Financial Foundations), Ted Turner (Ashfords) and Ty Cockle, John Kestopoulos and Eddy See, all from Financial Foundations. 187278_09 Picture: GARY SISSONS

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Financial Foundations takes pride that they still advise clients who have been with them since the very start – 35 years ago.

It reflects the quality of time and information given by the firm, says chief executive Ty Cockle.

“We spend a lot of time educating our clients so that they can make informed financial decisions.”

Mr Cockle accepted the Small Business trophy at the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

Over the past five years, he’s seen FFA’s client list increase from 900 to 1300.

“It’s a very privileged position we’re in.

“We regularly are dealing with mum and dads, their mum and dad and their children.

“We know our clients in-depth and we’re all about that long-term relationship.”

Since 1983, the firm has helped individuals, small and medium-sized businesses with a range of financial needs.

Such as investment advice, strategic planning around tax, estate and Centrelink income, retirement and superannuation advice, personal and business succession insurance and aged care strategies.

With its Australian Financial Services licence, FFA is free to pursue the best financial solutions for their clients.

The firm offers a portfolio management service which is anything other than “set and forget”.

Clients’ portfolios are monitored and changes can be made in accordance with a pre-agreed risk portfolio so as to take advantage of opportunities as they arise.

The firm is rigorous in its research and compliance system analysis and has invested in the most reliable investment advisory experts which sit on their investment committee.

“Financial planning can be quite daunting,” Mr Cockle said.

“We get a kick out of seeing the anxiety wash away because we plan for this.

“We planted the seed a long time ago to create the oak tree.”

BREAKOUT

Small Business Award

Sponsor: Ashfords

Winner: Financial Foundations Australia

Nominees: Advanced Robotics Australia, Afghan Rahimi Restaurant, Dandenong Basketball Association, Financial Foundations Australia, Food Safety Labels, From Granny.