Financial Advisors in Reading
Patronus Partners is a leading financial advisor in Reading and London. Spear's Magazine 'Top 10 Wealth Managers in the UK’ (James Barton).
A Leading Financial Advisor in Reading
Patronus was founded in 2015 on the realisation that large financial advice companies are often sub-optimal for clients.
Patronus is an increasingly rare example of a genuinely independent, unconflicted, staff owned financial advisor in Reading.
Our clients benefit from our team’s experience working for large banks, hedge funds and investment firms but prefer a more intimate, friendly and client focused local independent financial advisor in Reading..
We prefer to stay small, independent and optimal for a limited number of clients.
What we do
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We structure our client’s investment portfolios as tax efficiently as possible.
We monitor changes in government legislation to make sure that our clients remain as tax efficient as possible and give ongoing advice on this.
We do not charge initial fees for financial advice.
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A changing investment environment requires adaptation, innovation, and focus. As a local financial advice firm in Reading we are able to offer a flexible investment style, in order to capitalise on the ever changing macroeconomic environment.
We can actively position portfolios, whatever the evolving investment landscape, and, as we are an independent financial advice firm in Reading, we are entirely free to invest in an unconflicted way, with no “in-house” products. You can read some of our latest research here.
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Some of our clients also use our execution only trading and custody service, enabling them to have all of their investments under one roof.
Our traders work on behalf of various, hedge funds and family offices. Our private clients are able to benefit from institutional quality trading, settlement and custody.
“We are all escapees from large firms and feel that clients no longer want the bland industry stereotype but prefer a smaller firm whose interests are aligned with theirs. The industry is ever- homogenising and unfortunately seems to focus more on shareholders than on clients".
— James Barton, Spear’s magazine.
The Unspoken Truth…
is that large pension advice firms are often sub-optimal for their clients.
As an independent pension advisor we are not constrained by being tied to our own in-house funds, looking after too many clients and nor are we under relentless shareholder pressure for revenue growth – all of which are detrimental to clients.
Our clients receive truly independent advice about their pensions in an unbiased way.
We only ever offer what we believe to be the best in class in order to deliver the best outcome for our clients.
"Patronus’ from the original Latin, is a person who stood as a protector to another, who was called his ‘client’. It struck a chord with us.”
— Paul Kavanagh CEO
Why invest with an independent financial advisor in Reading?
Independence
We are employee owned with no shareholder pressure to deliver ever increasing revenue targets, which are often to the detriment of the client.
Freedom
We are not constrained or conflicted by the issues many pension advice firms face such as being tied to their own ’in-house’ funds and static portfolios. We are free to invest in what we believe will give the best outcome.
Performance
Whilst we cannot guarantee that past performance will be repeated, since inception, our portfolios have performed better than the industry benchmark.
Experience
Most members of our team have over 20 years’ experience looking after the investments for private clients and working in senior positions of larger firms.
Close Relationships
We deliberately have fewer clients so that they can benefit from an intimate relationship with the firm and have direct access to our whole team in Berkshire and London.
Fees
We do not charge initial fees for our advice just a clear annual fee, only payable once you start to invest with us.
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“One of the top 10 Wealth Managers in the UK. Barton is a dichotomy... An affable bonhomie, but with a sharp, disruptive, forward-thinking mind. His preference for questioning the rules, combined with his friendly nature, is why clients seek his insightful advice and why he is regarded as one of the top practitioners in the industry"
— James Barton Investment Director Review in Spear’s
Berkshire
1650 Arlington Business Park, Reading, Berkshire. RG7 4SA
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Reading has grown into one of the UK’s most dynamic regional economies. With its blend of thriving technology companies, professional services, and strong commuter links to London, it attracts ambitious individuals and families who want their finances managed with the same energy the town itself projects. In such a fast-moving environment, working with a qualified financial advisor in Reading can make all the difference between drifting with the market and progressing towards clear financial objectives.
What Sets Financial Advice Apart from Wealth Management
While wealth management often focuses on high-level strategies for affluent families and individuals, financial advice is about day-to-day clarity and structure. A financial advisor helps you:
Define achievable objectives – from buying your first home to preparing for retirement.
Prioritise competing goals – such as reducing debt while still saving for the future.
Plan for life’s changes – children’s education, inheritance, or a career move to London.
Protect against uncertainty – ensuring your income and assets are safeguarded.
Where wealth management may take a broader view of assets, financial advice makes the big picture practical and actionable.
The Value of Local Expertise in Reading
Reading’s local economy influences the type of advice residents often require. A good financial advisor here understands:
Technology & business-driven income – stock options, bonuses, and irregular cash flows are standard in Reading’s tech and finance sectors.
Commuter economics – balancing the costs and opportunities of working in London while living in Reading.
Property concentration – for many families, homes in Reading and nearby towns represent their largest financial asset.
Retirement pressures – with rising living costs and longer life expectancies, ensuring pensions are efficient and sustainable is critical.
By factoring in these realities, financial advice in Reading becomes far more relevant and practical.
Patronus Partners: Independent Advice, Tailored to You
At Patronus Partners, we believe financial advice must be:
Independent – we are not tied to specific providers, so recommendations are based on suitability, not sales.
Transparent – fees and services are explained clearly, ensuring you know exactly what you receive.
Personal – no two clients have the same ambitions, so advice is structured around your priorities, not a standard template.
Ongoing – regular reviews ensure your strategy remains aligned as your circumstances evolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a financial advisor if I already have a pension and an ISA?
Yes. An advisor brings everything together into a coordinated plan, checking that your pension, ISA, and other investments are working efficiently towards your long-term goals.Is financial advice only for wealthy people?
No. Many clients begin seeking advice when buying their first property, starting a family, or planning for retirement. Sound financial planning benefits every stage of life.How do I choose the right financial advisor in Reading?
Check the FCA registration, ask about independence, and consider whether their approach aligns with your values. It’s also important to feel comfortable with the individual you’ll be working with in the long term.How often should I meet with my advisor?
At least once a year, though more frequent reviews may be appropriate during times of economic uncertainty or personal change.What makes Patronus Partners different?
We combine local knowledge of Reading’s unique economic drivers with the independence and professionalism of a boutique advisory firm.Useful Resources
Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – Verify an advisor’s regulatory status.
Reading Borough Council – Local developments and community updates.
MoneyHelper – Government-backed financial guidance.
Pensions Advisory Service – Support for pension and retirement planning.
Investopedia – Independent financial education.
Begin the Conversation
Your finances deserve the same careful planning as your career and family life. If you live or work in Reading and want clear, professional guidance, Patronus Partners is here to help you take control of your financial future with confidence.
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