Edgewater Associates has marked its 20th anniversary with a celebration attended by clients and friends at its new Victoria Street offices in Douglas. Guest of honour at the event, held Thursday 10th March, was Treasury Minister Eddie Teare.

Now part of Manx Financial Group, Edgewater Associates began trading as a two-man operation in 1996. Today it is one of the largest IFAs in the Island, offering services to both corporate and personal clients.

Edgewater Associates Managing Director Sandra Cardwell reflected on how far the business has come: “Twenty years is a long time in an industry which is constantly changing and our progress is an achievement of which we can all be proud. From establishing ourselves in this very competitive sector, we have since become the foremost independent financial advice company on the Island, offering a wide range of financial products and services to the local community."

Sandra added: “I believe we have claimed our rightful place in the financial services industry and much of our success is due to our wonderful team of staff. I feel honoured to lead such a fantastic group of dedicated and professional people who make Edgewater the progressive company that it is.”

A special personal thanks was given to long serving financial adviser Mark Ballantyne, who has been with the business since September 2002, “a long part of our journey”, said Sandra.

One of the key landmarks in Edgewater’s history came in 2010 when it was acquired by Manx Financial Group PLC. Sandra said this had enabled the business to advance significantly, not only by providing the financial backing of a major plc but also the technical and administrative support, professional expertise, leadership and “a real desire to grow and develop the business”.

“Our vision for the future,” said Sandra, “is in many respects, more of the same. We will continue to develop our staff; continue to strengthen our ties with our partners and regulators; and continue to consider all opportunities that will enable us to further develop our business and provide on-going attractive, viable and sustainable financial products and services for our valuable clients, for whom our business exists.”

Guest of Honour Eddie Teare commented that things had changed considerably in the finance sector over recent years. In particular, one outcome of the retail distribution review was a higher qualified, professional industry which has led to greater consumer and customer satisfaction, offering vital protection for the Island’s economy and international reputation.

“IFAs are in a unique position in that they take their clients on a full life journey: towards a mortgage, towards life assurance, child savings plans, pension planning and eventually retirement. And because an IFA works with you, over a lifetime, they understand your needs and can advise you with that depth of knowledge about your own personal affairs.

I think it fair to say that the staff at Edgewater can deliver that life journey. It is a one stop shop for financial and insurance needs for both individuals and corporates. I am impressed with the new office and the staff I have met. I wish them well for the future,” he said.

Photo -  Edgewater team (l – r) – Rob O’Connor, Caroline Callow, Sid Ludbe, Sandra Cardwell, Colin Moore, Joanne Dugdale, John Walker, Mark Ballantyne, Ian Crawford and Denise Walton.