Neal Brooks, global head of product & distribution at M&G Investments

Q: What did you put in place over the past 12 months to help advisers?

A: As part of M&G plc, at M&G Investments we are continuously seeking ways to offer better value for money to you and your clients.

Last year we undertook a full review of our charges, performance, service and product range. As a result of this review, we reduced the annual charge on a range of OEIC funds.

But our improvements are not just related to the asset classes. 

We also introduced a team of dedicated regional account managers, who have provided asset management support on a range of topics, including corporate bond investing and the heightened volatility in the bonds market. 

Our M&G Investments newsletters have kept you consistently informed about the relevant topics of the moment and fund updates. We’re proud of these communications and the fact there has been an ongoing increase in the readership.

Q: Why is it important to support intermediary distribution?

A: It is important to us to understand your needs and those of your clients. We aim to offer a high level of support to form strong partnerships across the industry, delivering a broad range of thought leadership content.

One example of this is the BV Blog, delivered by the Bond Vigilantes team, who have provided independent insight since 2006.

Q: How have you helped advisers with challenges such as rising costs, hybrid working, etc?

A: At M&G Investments we have been highly responsive to the challenges facing advisers and their needs during these turbulent times.

We have been able to respond to the immediate demands of hybrid working, with technological advances and our ability to offer both virtual and face-to-face meetings and events.

Q: What are you planning to do over the next 12 months?

A: We believe successful investing requires an active approach, long-term outlook and forward thinking, not short-termism and quick wins.

Advisers must consider the long-term trends that will affect our everyday lives over the coming decades, like greater sustainability and social equality. The world is changing, and investment approaches need to change with it.

We want to make it easier for advisers to do business with us, and have actively reviewed our ability to provide relevant data to clients. Over the next 12 months we will deliver quality intermediary support via our adviser portal and ensure a closer liaison with post-event communications for both M&G and third parties.

Q: What does it mean to win the five-star award?

A: I am delighted that M&G Investments have been recognised for this award. The current investment environment is a challenging one for advisers and we are committed to providing investment solutions and client service that help them to navigate this effectively.