About Absolut Wealth Management

ABSOLUT WEALTH MANAGEMENT: COMPANY PROFILE

• Business: An independent financial advisory and investment management firm.
• Foundation: Founded in January 2004 by Michael Westcott.
• Location: 1st Floor, North East Block, 5 Wessels Road, Sandton, 2128, South Africa.
• Regulation: Authorized as a Financial Services Provider (FSP # 1217) and also as a Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP).
• Mission: To empower clients to protect and grow their wealth through a holistic financial planning approach.

IDEAL CLIENT

The firm’s services are structured for “individuals, families and businesses.” In an interview, the founder, Michael Westcott, described the average client as “an engaging person or company who wants to optimise their current and future financial position and who is willing to pay for quality service and advice.”

FINANCIAL PLANNING PHILOSOPHY

Absolut Wealth Management’s philosophy is centered on empowering clients to make wise financial decisions and achieve their life vision. This is executed through three key roles:

1. Partner: To understand the client’s “life journey, dreams and objectives.”
2. Coach: To use financial expertise to develop and implement a personalized financial plan.
3. Educator: To “explain financial products or concepts in simple English, to empower your decision making.”

Based on their “Absolut Perspectives” market reports, their investment philosophy appears to be cautious, value-driven, and globally diversified. They emphasize defensive positioning to protect capital, especially in over-valued markets, and seek opportunities in various global markets, including the US, Europe, Japan, and emerging markets.

PROFESSIONALISM

The firm highlights its professionalism through a team-based, specialist approach. The “Meet the Team” page on their website lists dedicated specialists for roles including Investment Management, Tax, Estates and Trusts, and Compliance.

SERVICES

The firm offers a comprehensive and holistic range of services, including:

• Investment and Savings: Including goal-specific planning (e.g., home, education, emergency funds).
  
• Retirement Planning: Both pre-retirement planning and post-retirement income management.
  
• Offshore Investing: Diversifying investments beyond South Africa.
  
• Risk Planning: Including life insurance and risk cover.
  
• Estate and Legacy Planning: Including estate planning and trusts.
  
• Tax Consulting: Ensuring financial affairs are structured efficiently.
  
• Other Services: Medical aid, corporate services, and authorized advice on Crypto Assets.

OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION

• Key Personnel: The firm is led by founder Michael Westcott and includes a team of Wealth Managers, Investment Managers, and specialists.
• Client Base: While based in Sandton, the founder notes they service clients across South Africa (Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban) and internationally (USA, UK, Europe, Australia).
• Publications: The company publishes “Absolut Perspectives,” a detailed monthly market commentary and outlook report.
• Community: A 2017 award document noted the company’s “awareness of social responsibility” and donations to the “Wings of Care Foundation”.
• Contact: The firm’s main phone number is +27 (11) 100 7321 and its general email is info@absolutwm.co.za